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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

"There's A Place For Us"

Although we have that universal truth that at the end of the day, ' we are all one,' well contradictory, I have never felt more like an individual...in a good way!  No matter where I am, I know that I can look around the room and say that I am different.  I am not the typical college student by no means.  Yeah maybe by my age...but thats as far as you can take it.  I'm only a sophomore and I'm already over the typical 'college people.'  It's like from day 1, you can instantly categorize every individual you meet..I mean maybe some feel that way about me but at least I have my music.  


It's crazy but I know that I am meant for something big.

Something that's beyond my expectations because for some unknown reason, I always exceed my expectations.  I've been through a hell of a lot, but I have never been so grateful for every ounce of me that is different because I know there is a place for me and when I get there it will be like nothing I have ever imagined.

I remember waiting until this song was released on iTunes and sitting in front of our incredible, makes you feel like your one with the music, studio quality speakers and conducting this orchestra!  So what I became five again, isn't that what great music makes you become?  This song is hands down one of the best I have ever heard and one of my favorite that Hillary Lindsey has ever written.  I can't even begin to imagine the demo of this diamond, if you have it, you know who to send it to!  (I'm good at keeping secrets!)  But anyways, this song hits you on every level.  And why hasn't this song been released as an official single and shot to number 1?!?!?!?!?!?!

FM Radio:
Singer: Carrie Underwood
Songwriters: Hillary Lindsey, Carrie Underwood, Dave Hodges
Song: "There's A Place For Us"

There’s a place out there for us
More than just a prayer or anything you’ve ever dreamed of

So when you feel like giving up
Cause you don’t fit in down here
Fear is crashing in close your eyes and take my hand
We can be the kings and queens of anything if we believe.
It’s written in the stars that shine above
A world where you and I belong
Where faith and love will keep us strong
Exactly who we are is just enough
There’s a place for us there’s a place for us.
There’s a place for us there’s a place for us.
Where the water meets the sky
Where your heart is free and hope comes back to life
When these broken hands are whole again
We’ll find what we’ve been waiting for
We were made for so much more
We can be the kings and queens of anything if we believe.
It’s written in the stars that shine above
A world where you and I belong
Where faith and love will keep us strong
Exactly who we are is just enough
There’s a place for us
Now there’s a place for us
So hold on now hold on
There’s a place for us
We can be the kings and queens of anything if we believe.
It’s written in the stars that shine above
A world where you and I belong
Where faith and love will keep us strong
Exactly who we are is just enough
Exactly who we are is just enough
There’s a place for us




"Lessons Learned"

I've learned that everything comes and goes like time.  One minute you can feel like you are on a cloud, and the next you can feel as if you are being rained upon.  I don't know where or how this journey will end but I know that by the end of this blog, if there ever comes a day, I will be able to look back and see how I shaped my wings.  Apparently I'm in, what I like to call, a 'philisophical' mood, tonight.  Honestly, I feel like the more I try to understand, the more I am not meant to.  I guess we are supposed to live in the moment and leave the hard stuff up to the big guy who is above the clouds.

My word for the wise...take a nice, cleansing deep breath, close your eyes, and listen to this song.
The honesty and universal truth in this songs hits you exactly where it needs to.


FM Radio:
Singer: Carrie Underwood
Songwriter: Dianne Waren
Song: "Lessons Learned"

There's some things that I regret,
Some words I wish had gone unsaid,
Some starts,
That had some better endings,
Been some bad times I've been through,
Damage I cannot undo.
Some things,
I wish I could do all all over again,
But it don't really matter,
When life gets that much harder,
It makes you that much stronger,
Oh, some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were,
Lessons learned.

And every tear that had to fall from my eyes,
And everyday I wondered how I'd get through the night,
Every change, life has thrown me,
I'm thankful, for every break in my heart,
I'm grateful, for every scar,
Some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were lessons learned.

There's mistakes that I have made,
Some chances I just threw away,
Some roads,
I never should have taken,
Been some signs I didn't see,
Hearts that I hurt needlessly,
Some wounds,
That I wish I could have one more chance to mend,
But it don't make no difference,
The past can't be rewritten,
You get the life you're given,
Oh, some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were,
Lessons learned.

And every tear that had to fall from my eyes,
And everyday I wondered how I'd get through the night,
Every change, life has thrown me,
I'm thankful, for every break in my heart,
I'm grateful, for every scar,
Some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were lessons learned.

And all the things that break you,
Are the things that make you strong!
You can't change the past,
Cause it's gone.
And you just gotta move on,
Because it's all
Lessons learned.

And every tear that had to fall from my eyes,
From everyday I wondered how I'd get through the night,
From every change, life has thrown me.
I'm thankful, for every break in my heart,
I'm grateful, for every scar,
Some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were lessons learned,
Oh, some pages turned,
Some bridges burned,
But there were lessons learned,
Lessons learned.
Lessons learned.


Thursday, September 22, 2011

"Play On"

This is my response to life today.  I guess we all have days like this.  But on the other hand, if we didn't we would never have songs like this.

FM Radio:
Singer: Carrie Underwood
Songwriters: Carrie Underwood, Natalie Hemby, Luke Laird
Song: "Play On"


What you gonna do when the show is over
What you gonna sing when the song ends, yeah
How you gonna cope when there is no closure
Where you gonna reach when the goal gets higher
How you gonna make it through when you think you've lost your chance 

Play on
When you're losing the game, play on
'Cause you're gonna make mistakes
It's always worth the sacrifice
Even when you think you're wrong
So play on
Play on


Even when the flood gates swing wide open
Never let the currents take you down, no
Even when you're not sure where you're going
Swimming through a mess, and you can't get out
Just going through the motions, and trying not to drown

Play on
When you're losing the game, play on
'Cause you're gonna make mistakes
It's always worth the sacrifice
Even when you think you're wrong
So play on
Play On


Even through a storm on the darkest night
Don't you ever give up the fight
Even when you feel you're all alone

Play On
Play On
Play On
When you're losing the game, play on
'Cause you're gonna make mistakes
It's always worth the sacrifice
Even when you think you're wrong
So play on
Play on
Play on


Oh yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Na na na na na na
Na na na na na na


"Simple Life"

Don't you just wonder what life would be like if you could just hit the pause button.  Seriously, like remove all of the complicatedness and just rediscover the simple things.  Kind of like making yourself 4 years old in your modern-current age body.  It would be refreshing and give every single one of us a new perspective.  Well, this is Hillary Lindsey's amazing response to that.  P.S. - Her version can't even compare to this.

FM Radio:
Singer: Carolyn Dawn Johnson
Songwriters: Hillary Lindsey, Aimee Mayo, Chris Lindsey, Troy Verges
Song: "Simple Life"

I have wondered this world far and wide
I've been all around to the other side
But there's nothin' like comin' home
I wanna sit on my front porch and drink my lemonade
Cut my grass after church every Sunday
And go out on Saturday night
Live the simple life
Wake up in the morning to these fields of gold
And take a long walk down a gravel road

Spend my days in the sweet sunshine
Rock in my swing and watch my garden grow
Know that I'll always have someone to hold
Oh I-I-I wanna live the simple life

I wanna take a blanket down to the creek
And let the water sing me to sleep
Let go of time
Live the simple life
Lately I've seen too many city lights
I wanna go somewhere where I can see the stars at night

Spend my days in the sweet sunshine
Rock in my swing and watch my garden grow
Know that I'll always have someone to hold
Oh I-I-I wanna live the simple life

Spend my days in the sweet sunshine
Rock in my swing and watch my garden grow
Know that I'll always have someone to hold
Oh I-I-I wanna live the simple life





Find more artists like Carolyn Dawn Johnson at Myspace Music

"Music of My Heart"

I'll admit, it's 2AM and I am in that let's go back to the 90's, TRL, life was perfect and music was good lifestyle that I once knew.  And let me add that Gloria Estefan was a major musical influence, all before the age of 10 I had my life figured out.  The rhythm got to me alright.  Oh AND David Foster is a musical icon, genius and one my idols.  Additionally, Diane Warren...


FM Radio:
Singers: N'SYNC & Gloria Estefan
Songwriters: Diane Warren
Song: "Music of My Heart"

You'll never know
What you've done for me
What your faith in me
Has done for my soul...

You'll never know
The gift you've given me..
I'll carry it with me (yeah...yeah...)

Through the days ahead
I think of days before
You made me hope for something better (yes you did)
And made me reach for something more

You taught me to run
You taught me to fly
Helped me to free the me inside
Help me hear the music of my heart
Help me hear the music of my heart
You've opened my eyes
You've opened the door
To something I've never known before
And your love...
(love)
Is the music of my heart.. (music of my heart)

You were the one
Always on my side (always on my side)
Always standing by (always standing by)
Seeing me through

You were the song that always made me sing
I'm singing this for you (singing this for you baby)

Everywhere I go
I think of where I've been (think of where I've been)
And of the one who knew me better
Than anyone ever will again

You taught me to run
You taught me to fly
Helped me to free the me inside
Help me hear the music of my heart
Help me hear the music of my heart
You've opened my eyes
You've opened the door (you opened the door)
To something I've never known before...
And your love...(your love)
Is the music of my heart

What you taught me
Only your love could ever teach me
You got through when no one could reach me
Ohh...ohh...ohh

Cause you always saw in me
All the best that I could be
It was you who set me free...

You taught me to run
You taught me to fly
Helped me to free the me inside (me inside)
Help me hear the music of my heart
Help me hear the music of my heart

You taught me to run
You taught me to fly
Helped me to free the me inside (me inside)
Help me hear the music of my heart (music of my heart)
Help me hear the music of my heart
You've opened my eyes
You've opened the door (opened the door)
To something I've never known before (never, never, felt before)
And your love...
Is the music of my heart..

Music of my heart
Music of my heart
Is the music of my heart...




"I Could Not Ask For More"

Blame it on a commercial for a beautiful beach getaway.  Call 1-800-BEACHES for your inquiries.


Here's to a vacation.


FM Radio:
Singer: Sara Evans, Everyone and their brother.
Songwriter: Diane Warren
Song: "I Could Not Ask For More"

Lying here with you
Listening to the rain
Smile just to see the smile upon your face
These are the moments I thank God that I'm alive
And these are the moments I'll remember all my life
I've found all I've waited for
And I could not ask for more

Looking in your eyes
Seeing all I need
Everything you are is everything in me
These are the moments
I know heaven must exist
And these are the moments
I know all I need is this
I've found all I've waited for, yeah
And I could not ask for more

I could not ask for more than this time together
I could not ask for more than this time with you
And every prayer has been answered
Every dream I've had's come true
Yeah, right here in this moment
Is right where I'm meant to be
Here with you here with me
Yeah

These are the moments I thank God that I'm alive
And these are the moments I'll remember all my life
I've found all I've waited for yeah
And I could not ask for more

I could not ask for more than this time together
I could not ask for more than this time with you
And every prayer has been answered
Every dream I've had's come true
Yeah, right here in this moment
Is right where I'm meant to be
Oh, here with you here with me
No, I could not ask for more
Than this love you gave me
Cause it's all I've waited for
And I could not ask for more
No, yeah
No, I could not ask for more

"When A Man Loves A Woman"

Okay, now I'm actually a little scared of myself.  I really should just close YouTube and get on with my life, but there's something about Michael Bolton that pulls me in like a suction.  I. Can't. Get. Enough.
And come on, we all know this song, admit it.

The incredible factor of this song comes with the fact that there really is not a well-defined chorus.  Those 6 words, gave Michael Bolton a Grammy and a number one for U.S. Pop AND Adult Contemporary.  Myself and Lite 98.7 agree, this song can never be outdated.


FM Radio:
Singer: Michael Bolton
Songwriters: Percy Sledge who, like an idiot, gave up the rights to Calvin Lewis and Andrew                  Wright.
Song: "When A Man Loves A Woman"



When a man loves a womanCan't keep his mind on nothin' else
He'd trade the world
For a good thing he's found
If she is bad, he can't see it
She can do no wrong
Turn his back on his best friend
If he puts her down

When a man loves a woman
Spend his very last dime
Trying to hold on to what he needs
He'd give up all his comforts
And sleep out in the rain
If she said that's the way
It ought to be

When a man loves a woman
I give you everything i got (yeah)
Trying to hold on
To your precious love
Baby please don't treat me bad

When a man loves a woman
Deep down in his soul
She can bring him such misery
If she is playing him for a fool
He's the last one to know
Loving eyes can never see

Yes when a man loves a woman
I know exactly how he feels
'cause baby, baby, baby
I am a man
When a man loves a woman


"Said I Loved You But I Lied"

No matter how wrong or right I am, at the end of the day, forever and always, I am my mother's daughter.  I dedicate this post to my mother's new found love for Sirius XM's channel 17, the soundtrack to her life, Pop Love.


Everytime. We. Go. Somewhere. Pop. Love. Takes. Us. There.

Unfortunately, she has rubbed off on me so much so that even when I am alone, I somehow turn it to channel 17 and get lost in the incredible drum beats and ballads that are in constant rotation.  No matter where I am driving to but every single time I am alone and somehow Pop Love gets put on (shh!!) this song comes on.  Even weirder, it comes on the second I start driving on the same road.  Apparently Michael Bolton and I like to have duets, who knew I loved this song SO much, that I constantly hear it.  Don't. Judge. Me.  But, read these lyrics!  Isn't this the basis for every song that is out right now? 

This goes out to you, Nina.

FM Radio:
Singer: Michael Bolton
Songwriters: Michael Bolton, Robert John Lange
Song: "Said I Loved You But I Lied"


You are the candle, love's the flame
A fire that burns through wind and rain
Shine your light on this heart of mine
Till the end of time

You came to me like the dawn through the night
Just shinin' like the sun
Out of my dreams and into my life
You are the one, you are the one

CHORUS
Said I loved you but I lied
'Cause this is more than love I feel inside
Said I loved you but I was wrong
'Cause love could never ever feel so strong
Said I loved you but I lied



With all my soul I've tried in vain
How can mere words my heart explain
This taste of heaven so deep so true
I've found in you
So many reasons in so many ways
My life has just begun
Need you forever, I need you to stay
You are the one, you are the one


CHORUS


You came to me like the dawn through the night
Just shinin' like the sun
Out of my dreams and into my life
You are the one, you are the one


CHORUS


Said I loved you
But this is more than love I feel inside
Said I loved you....But I lied 


OMG THIS HAIR!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sunday, September 18, 2011

"Wheel of the World"

Sometimes, one day can seem like every door has been slammed in your face and your trapped within four walls.  Then, there are days when you feel like you have it.  You have a place in this world, you know exactly where you stand, and doors are OPEN.  Well, Friday, Sept. 16th, 2011, was that day for me.  Besides the fact that I had the best, most realistic horoscope I have ever had...haha, it took learning how to play this song on the piano for me to realize that I am meant for more in this life.  Apparently, I'm not the only one in the world that thinks that this semester is slowly killing me, and, that life is an uphill battle.  Well, playing this song was the equivalent of hitting pause on my life.  It made me realize that there are other people out there facing such a worse battle than I could imagine.  Learning this song came out of the clear blue, but I am so thankful that I did, after this past crazy week...truth be told, I needed perspective, desperately.

Blame it on my impecable, yet sometimes annoying, memory, in which I can never forget anything, or blame it on the fact that there is never anything better than a Hillary Lindsey written song.  I go with both.  Well, thank God, Aimee Mayo, whom I think is absolutely incredible, hasn't taken down the "Wheel of the World" demo from her...yes, you guessed it, Myspace.  Click on the link and you can hear the original version. http://www.myspace.com/littlebluetypewriter

This song is impeccably written.  There is not one of us out there that isn't in this song.  My favorite line from any song I have ever heard is in this totally underrated treasure: "God put us here on this carnival ride, we close our eyes never knowing where it will take us next."  Who writes like this?  Hillary Lindsey, Aimee Mayo, and Chris Lindsey.  If I was stranded on a desert island, Carnival Ride would be the only album I would need.  Not to mention it has my #1 all-time favorite song on there, but I will get to that later...Or 6 Hillary Lindsey written songs.

Listen & Leave a comment!

FM Radio:
Singer: Carrie Underwood/Hillary Lindsey
Songwriters: Hillary Lindsey, Aimee Mayo, Chris Lindsey
Song: "Wheel of the World"

Love goes out, out like a light
Out like a flame, and you can't find it anymore
Just when you think it's lost in the rain
It comes back knocking at your door

It's the wheel of the world turning around
It's the wheel of the world turning around
And around

God put us here on this carnival ride
We close our eyes
Never knowing where it will take us next
Babies are born and at the same time, someone's taking their last breath


It's the wheel of the world
It's the wheel of the world turning around

In the blink of an eye
It can change your life
And it never even slows down

It's the wheel of the world

I don't know what it is
I'm flying high
Then I'm wondering why I'm sinking on this ship, going down
Life keeps on moving anyway

It's the wheel of the world
It's the wheel of the world turning around
It's the wheel of the world
It's the wheel of the world turning around
It's the wheel of the world turning around
And around
And around
It's the wheel of the world turning around

It can open your heart
It can break you apart
And it never even slows down

It's the wheel of the world turning around
It's the wheel of the world turning around
It's the wheel of the world turning around
It's the wheel of the
world turning aroundAnd around

Thursday, September 15, 2011

"You Were Just Here"

Of course, the 'dream team' wrote this, of course...because no one else could.  Well, let me tell you I have witnessed in these past few days, the craziest stories and tragedies.  Every minute, every hour, every day, someone is taking their last breath while someone is taking their first.  Make your life count.  Life is too short.  Whatever you want to do, however crazy it may be...do it.   


FM Radio:
Singer: Jo Dee Messina
Songwriters: Hillary Lindsey, Troy Verges, Brett James
Song: "You Were Just Here"


I woke up at 5 a.m.
Hearing your voice again
But it was just the TV
Coming from the other room

Your half empty coffee cup
Is sitting right where it was
I almost moved it last night
But it didn't feel right
It's too soon, it's too soon
It still feels like

You were just here
You were just holding me
I was alright
I never would have believed
That you'd go away
That you could just disappear
When you were just here

The calendar on the wall
Doesn't miss you at all
It still says you'll be there
With us all on christmas eve

The picture you hung last week
Keeps staring back at me
There we are still laughin'
Like nothin' ever happened
I still feel you in the air
It's not fair, it's not fair

You were just here
You were just holding me
I was alright
I never would have believed
That you'd go away
That you could just disappear
When you were just here

I reach out and you're not there
But I still feel you everywhere
No matter how much I try
Or how hard I cry
It still feels like

You were just here
You were just holding me
I was alright
I never would have believed
That you'd go away
That you could just disappear
When you were just here


"We Owned The Night"

Yet again, more shameless promotion for Lady Antebellum's Own The Night.  However, this is basically the title track off this CD.  I always thought something was a little off about it...until I heard it live.  When I first heard it, I felt like it needed a better line for the first line of the chorus or something...just something had to be stronger.  Well, I feel like an idiot because I absolutely love it.  And I think it is the perfect way to start off their CD and they need to open every single show with this great song.  The mandolin just makes it.  Listen & leave a comment!  


FM Radio:
Singers: Lady Antebellum
Songwriters: Charles Kelley, Dave Haywood, Dallas Davidson
Song:"Own The Night"


Tell me have you ever wanted
Someone so much it hurts
Your lips keep trying to speak
But you just can't find the words
Well I had this dream once
I held you in my hands


She was the purest beauty
But not the common kind
She had a way about her
That made you feel alive
And for a moment
We made the world stand still

Yeah we own the night

You had me dim the lights
You danced just like a child
The wine spilled on your dress
And all you did was smile
Yea it was perfect
I hold it in my mind


Yeah we own the night

When the summer rolls around
And the sun starts sinking down
I still remember you
Oh I remember you
And I wonder where you are
Are you looking at those same stars again
Do you remember when

We woke under a blanket
All tangled up in skin
Not knowing in that moment
We'd never speak again
But it was perfect
I never will forget

When we owned the night
Yeah we owned the night

"Cold As Stone"

Today, I heard my professor explain how much needs to happen to water molecules before they actually boil.  And like any good songwriter, I sat in that old lecture hall and pretended like he was talking about emotions.  We all hold on so long and so hard, that our hands begin to slip.  As we begin to let go, that release stirs something within us.  That motion of holding on to something that is fading away forces us to 'boil' and ache for what used to be.  Once that water cools off, it become room temperature = We adjust to the pain and do whatever we can to try to find a normal.  After we realize that we don't want to be like everyone else, we want what we had back, we become numb.  So cold that some become bitter and jaded or put so many walls up that they appear to be frozen.  Like ice, able to melt, yet, 'Cold As Stone.'  

Maybe if you haven't been reading my blog with all the posts and promotion, or live under a 'stone,' you haven't heard that Lady Antebellum released their new CD, OWN THE NIGHT, Tuesday.  Well, this song is quite possibly my favorite song that I have ever heard.  There is something about it, as with every Hillary Lindsey song, that makes me stop dead in my tracks and rip my heart out.  The production is absolutely flawless.  The placement of the mandolin and the steel just cut you to your core.  They must release this as a single.  Oh I hear ASCAP's, BMI's, SESAC's, CMA's, ACM's and Grammy's on this one.  If this doesn't make you feel 'Cold As Stone' then you probably should altogether stop trying to listen to music...because THIS is IT!  The second verse of this song just gives me the chills...who writes like this?!?!  Between the lyrics, melody and performance, I feel like I battled a war after this song.  Oh and I forgot to mention the best 40 seconds of a song I've ever heard, that orchestra!  Ahh, I've been waiting all my life for a song like this.

P.S. - Buy Own The Night and good set of headphones.  Light some candles, turn off the lights, close your eyes, open your heart....and listen.

FM Radio:
Singer: Lady Antebellum
Songwriters: Charles Kelley, Dave Haywood, Hillary Scott, Hillary Lindsey
Song: "Cold As Stone"


She left town early on a Friday
Heading down to family in New Orleans
Said she needed to feel the sun on her face
Talk it out with herself try to get things straight


Lord all I know is I don’t want to breath

I wish I was cold as stone
Then I wouldn’t feel a thing
Wish I didn’t have this heart
Then I wouldn’t know the sting of the rain
I could stand strong and still
Watching you walk away
I wouldn’t hurt like this
I feel so all alone
I wish I was cold as stone

Almost turned around in Mississsippi
Pulled over on the shoulder along the way
Thought by now I’d be fine
But all these tears are blurring every line


And I think back to when you were mine


I wish I was cold as stone
Then I wouldn’t feel a thing
Wish I didn’t have this heart
Then I wouldn’t know the sting of the rain
I could stand on my own
Letting your memory fade
I wouldn’t hurt like this
I feel so all alone
I wish I was cold as stone

Its gonna take forever to get over you
I don’t think think this pain is gonna go away
Scars left when its said and done remain


I wish I was cold as stone
I wish I was cold as stone


I wish I was cold as stone
Then I wouldn’t feel a thing
Wish I didn’t have this heart
Then I wouldn’t know the sting of the rain
I could stand strong and still
Watching you walk away
I wouldn’t hurt like this
I feel so all alone
I wish I was cold as stone
I wish I was cold as stone 

Monday, September 12, 2011

"All By Myself"

Today I had an epiphany with myself.  I am such a headstrong person that no matter how hard you try to teach me, if I cannot physically do something myself I will never learn.  Today's post should really be 'Ms. Independent," but I'm bout 99% sure that I would rather be "All By Myself" forever and ever if it meant I couldn't be me.  Not sure if this makes any sense, but this song is the soundtrack to my day.

FM Radio:
Singer: Various...Jaime O'Neal's is my favorite
Songwriters: Eric Carmen (Who knew?  Apparently, Wikipedia did.)
Song:"All By Myself"

Consider yourself "All By Yourself" if you do not know the lyrics of this song.


"Red Dirt Road"

No matter what this world throws at you, you have to know that once you get to where you're supposed to be going, what you're supposed to be doing, and find where you belong you will find that place that sparks everything in you.  Although I have yet to get there, I think that once you do it's like releasing bottled up lightning.  Every tear, every hurt, and every pain you have ever felt becomes worth it.  When I think of what's out there to experience, I think of this boundless open field with the bluest sky you could ever imagine.  I think of space and red dirt roads.  Sounds crazy, but the second I think of what a red-dirt childhood could be like, I think of this song.  This is one of those songs that you wish you lived, well at least I do.

I could understand having a sore spot when it comes to a really twangy, forced, country sound...but for the life of me I cannot understand how anyone could not love and live country songs.  It's like then do you not like life?  Country = life.

FM Radio:
Singer: Brooks & Dunn
Songwriters: Kix Brooks, Ronnie Dunn
Song: "Red Dirt Road"

I was raised off Rural Route Three,
Out past where the black top ends.
We'd walk to Church on Sunday mornings,
Race barefoot back to Johnson's fence.
That's where I first saw Mary,
On that roadside pickin' blackberries.
That summer I turned a corner in my soul,
Down that red dirt road.

It's where I drank my first beer.
It's where I found Jesus.
Where I wrecked my first car:
I tore it all to pieces.
I learned the path to Heaven,
Is full of sinners an' believers.
Learned that happiness on earth,
Ain't just for high achievers.
I've learned; I come to know,
There's life at both ends,
Of that red dirt road.

Her Daddy didn't like me much,
In my shackled up GTO.
Oh, I'd sneak out in the middle of the night,
Throw rocks at her bedroom window.
We'd turn out the headlights,
Drive by the moonlight.
Talk about what the future might hold,
Down that red dirt road.

It's where I drank my first beer.
It's where I found Jesus.
Where I wrecked my first car:
I tore it all to pieces.
I learned the path to Heaven,
Is full of sinners an' believers.
Learned that happiness on earth,
Ain't just for high achievers.
I've learned; I come to know,
There's life at both ends,
Of that red dirt road.

I went out into the world,
An' I came back in.
I lost Mary:
Oh, I got her back again.
An' drivin' home tonight,
Feels like I've found a long-lost friend.

It's where I drank my first beer.
It's where I found Jesus.
Where I wrecked my first car:
I tore it all to pieces.
I learned the path to Heaven,
Is full of sinners an' believers.
Learned that happiness on earth,
Ain't just for high achievers.
I've learned; I come to know,
There's life at both ends,
Of that red dirt road.







Sugarland's Version...Better than the original!

Saturday, September 10, 2011

"Ready To Love Again"

Should I just title this "I Can't Make You Love Me" Part 2?  This is Lady A's response.  Coincidentally, they play the two as a medley in their live shows.

FM Radio:
Singers: Lady Antebellum
Songwriters: Hillary Scott, Charles Kelley, Dave Haywood, Mike Busbee
Song: "Ready To Love Again"


Seems I was walking in the wrong direction
I barely recognize my own reflection, no
Scared of love but scared of life alone

Seems I've been playing on the safe side, baby
Building walls around my heart to save me, oh
But it's time for me to let it go

Yeah, I'm ready to feel now
No longer am I afraid of the fall down
It must be time to move on now
Without the fear of how it might end
I guess I'm ready to love again


Just when we think that love will never find you
You've run away, but still it's right behind you, oh
It's just something that you can't control

Yeah, I'm ready to feel now
No longer am I afraid of the fall down
It must be time to move on now
Without the fear of how it might end
I guess I'm ready to love again


So come and find me
I'll be waiting up for you
I'll be holding out for you tonight

Yeah, I'm ready to feel now
No longer am I afraid of the fall down
It must be time to move on now
Without the fear of how it might end
I guess I'm ready, I'm ready to love again


Ooh, I'm ready to love again



Watch, Listen & Melt:

"I Can't Make You Love Me"

I just had a musical epiphany...I just rediscovered this song.  Everyone and their brother has done a cover of this song...can you imagine the royalties on this hit??  At least for me, this is a song I always knew but never understood.  Well, I understand it now & it is on my all-time favorite songs list!  This song is so timeless that it even has a Wikipedia page! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Can't_Make_You_Love_Me   Check it out!  In doing my research for this post, I found out that one of the unbelievable writers behind Miranda Lambert's "The House That Built Me" ALSO wrote "I Can't Make You Love Me."  I guess if you have it, you have it...and Allen Shamblin undoubtedly has it!  This song was inspired by an article about some poor broken hearted man who shot at his girlfriend's car.  Inspiration comes anywhere, anytime.  


Here's to broken hearts, lonely ballads and good music.


FM Radio:
Singers: Bonnie Raitt, George Michael, Lady Antebellum...Everyone!
Songwriters: Mike Reid, Allen Shamblin
Song: "I Can't Make You Love Me"



Turn down the lights
Turn down the bed
Turn down these voices inside my head
Lay down with me, tell me no lies
Just hold me close, don't patronize
Don't patronize me.
Cause I can't make you love me if you don't
You can't make your heart feel something it won't
Here in the dark, in these final hours
I will lay down my heart and I'll feel the power
But you won't, no you won't
Cause I can't make you love me if you don't.
I'll close my eyes, then I won't see
The love you don't feel when you're holdin me
Mornin will come and I'll do what's right
Just give me till then to give up this fight
And I will give up this fight.

Cause I can't make you love me if you don't
You can't make your heart feel something it won't
Here in the dark, in these final hours
I will lay down my heart and I'll feel the power
But you won't, no you won't
Cause I can't make you love me if you don't.

Bonnie Raitt:


Lady A's Version:

"Never Alone"

May the angels protect you...Best opening line of a song?  I love this song.  This is the pinnacle of what everyone should want for the people they care about.  Found this song years ago and I wish it became a HUGE radio hit and everyone heard it but unfortunately not many have heard this amazing version!

FM Radio:
Singers: Lady Antebellum
Songwriters: 
Song: "Never Alone"

May the angels protect you
Trouble neglect you
And heaven accept you when its time to go home

May you always have plenty
The glass never empty
Know in your belly
You're never alone

May your tears come from laughing
You find friends worth having
With every year passing
They mean more than gold
May you win but stay humble
Smile more than grumble
And know when you stumble
You're never alone

Never alone
Never alone
I'll be in every beat of your heart
When you face the unknown
Wherever you fly
This isn't goodbye
My love will follow you stay with you
Baby you're never alone


Well I have to be honest
As much as I want it
I'm not gonna promise that the cold winds won't blow
So when hard times have found you
And your fears surround you
Wrap my love around you
You're never alone

Chorus

May the angels protect you
Trouble neglect you
And heaven accept you when its time to go home
And when hard times have found you
And your fears surround you
Wrap my love around you
You're never alone

Chorus

My love will follow you stay with you
Baby you're never alone



Watch:

"Blue Sky"

No matter how much you hurt, how much you try, or what it is your going through, you will wake up one day to realize that the sun comes up and life moves on.  That's how this crazy world works.  There comes a point where you can't take one more drop of rain because you feel like your drowning, but somehow, someway, you find the strength to move on.  We've all been in that place where you feel like you're trapped, but let me tell you there is light at the end of the tunnel and somehow, I don't think time makes you forget, but it makes you stronger.  When you finally find the strength, you realize that you don't have to be someone's safe haven, you don't have to be their 'Blue Sky.'

I fell in love with Emily West years ago when I found her on, of course, Myspace.  It was back in the good days when amazing people could post their demos for the world to hear.  This song was one of the first that made me stop dead in my tracks.  I have yet to find another song that matches the emotion in this one.  I vividly remember watching her Grand Ole Opry debut with my mom, tears running down both of our faces.  I've lived this song & I cannot get enough of it & Emily West.  One of my all-time favorite singers, hands down.  Then, they release this song with Keith Urban singing bgvs!  Ahh!  And somehow, this song goes even one step further than you imagined and totally kills you.  And by the way...WHO writes a chorus like THIS!?!?!  Emily West does.  Impecable.  Indescribable.  You will cry.  Watch these videos!!!


FM Radio:
Singer: Emily West (ft. Keith Urban)
Songwriters: Emily West, Gary Burr
Song: "Blue Sky"


So your conscience finally hit you
And you’re feeling guilty
And you’re wishing I was there
So you wanna say you’re sorry
Well, please forgive me if I’m too gone to care
You can take back your goodbyes
Wipe off those sad eyes
‘Cause I’ve got some tears of my own

The weather man says it’s gonna rain tonight
The kind of storm where the basement floods and you lose the lights
Should have thought of that before
‘Cause I’m not your blue sky anymore


So you heard the pitter-patter of a lost heart beating
And learned what it was for
So you made a list of shoulders that you’d be needing
Well mine aren’t yours anymore
Come on show me your temper
Be the man I remember
So I won’t forget what you’ve done

The weather man says it’s gonna rain tonight
The kind of storm where the basement floods and you lose the lights
Should have thought of that before
‘Cause I’m not your blue sky anymore


Don’t wanna be that blue sky
I’m not your blue sky anymore




Emily's Grand Ole Opry Debut!!!!!!

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

"Tomorrow"

When I refer to the incredible, beautiful person that Mr. Chris Young is, I have the tendency to call him my 'husband.'  I'll admit, #Guilty...go trend it.  I was a fan from the Nashville Star days until I found out what kind of artist he really is.  He's not the typical beer-drinking, hat wearing, southern sweet talkin' male country singer, he has this voice that God himself crafted.  And the ability to feel like he's speaking to your soul whenever you hear it.  I haven't had the opportunity to hear him live yet, but I can only imagine what a church experience that will be like.

I don't care what side of a relationship one is in at the final moment, but I think they have to look back in reflection and think of the highest of high in that relationship, and cherish it for one tiny, or in the case, long moment.  It's in that moment of hazy/clear that you forget about all of your 'tomorrow's.'  And for the record, I had this exact same idea when I was about 13 years old...I have the proof!  I guess something's meant to be.

(On a side note):  My husband is now a CMA NOMINEE!!!  Here's to winning!!  Congrats to Chris!!!!

FM Radio:
Singer: Chris Young
Songwriters: Chris Young, Anthony Smith, Frank Myers
Song: "Tomorrow"
 
Tomorrow I'm gonna leave here
I'm gonna let you go and walk away
Like every day I said I would
And tomorrow, I'm gonna listen
To that voice of reason inside my head
Telling me that we're no good

[Chorus]

But tonight I'm gonna give in one last time
Rock you strong in these arms of mine
Forget all of the regrets that are bound to follow
We're like fire and gasoline
I'm no good for you
You're no good for me
We only bring each other tears and sorrow
But tonight, I'm gonna love you like there's no tomorrow


I'll be stronger
I'm not gonna break down and call you up
When my heart cries out for you
And tomorrow, you won't believe it,
But when I pass your house,
I won't stop no matter how bad I want to.

[Chorus]

Baby, when we’re good, you know we’re great
But there’s too much bad for us to think
That there's anything worth trying to save

[Chorus]

Tomorrow, I'm gonna leave here.
Yea, I'm gonna let you go and walk away like every day I said I would

"Paris"

There's some dignity in loving a person so much that you would go to the edge of the earth to give them everything they have ever wanted.  Sometimes, you can only go so far and find that it isn't possible to give what they want.  And that has to be the lowest of low.  Well, Gordie Sampson wrote a song, in my opinion, that is about that rupture of emotion when you can't give what that one person wants most.  I am beyond obsessed with these lyrics...who writes a song with these fine-tuned lyrics?!  In Gordie Sampson's video, he talk about how this song is about getting into a fight in the middle of Paris.  I am utterly baffled by that...so I want to hear from you, what does "Paris" mean to you?  Comment!!


FM Radio:
Singer: Gordie Sampson/Faith Hill
Songwriters: Gordie Sampson, Troy Verges, Blair Daly
Song: "Paris"
THE TRAIN PULLED INTO PARIS LIKE A ROCKET TO THE MOON
THE STATION’S LIKE A CIRCUS EVERY FACE IS A CARTOON
EVERYBODY’S STONED ON PRIDE AND DRUNK ON CHEAP CHAMPAGNE
TONIGHT THIS JOIE DE VIVRE SURE DON’T LIVE UP TO ITS NAME
AND NOW ALL THAT I CAN SAY

CHORUS:
IS I’D GIVE THIS WORLD TO YOU
EVERY ROCK AND EVERY STONE EVERY MASTERPIECE IN ROME
AND IF YOU ASKED ME TO
I’D STEAL THE MONA LISA, TEAR IT UP IN LITTLE PIECES
AND LAY THEM AT YOUR FEET
FOR ALL THE WORLD TO SEE
BUT TONIGHT I CAN’T GIVE YOU PARIS



ARISTOCRATS ARE EVERYWHERE
AND THE AIR’S AS THICK AS THIEVES
SHE’D LIKE NOTHING BETTER THAN TO STEAL THE BREATH FROM ME
THE TOWER’S LIGHTS AIN’T SHININ’ AS IT HANGS ITS HEAD IN SHAME
AT THE SIGHT OF AMERICAN BLOOD ON THE STREETS OF ST. GERMAIN
WASHIN’ UP INTO THE SEINE

(REPEAT CHORUS)

AND I’D GIVE THIS WORLD TO YOU
I’D STEAL THE CROWN AND KINGDOM FROM THE QUEEN OF ENGLAND
AND IF YOU ASKED ME TO
I’D TAKE THIS CITY IN MY HANDS, BREAK IT DOWN IN GRAINS OF SAND
AND LAY THEM AT YOUR FEET
FOR ALL THE WORLD TO SEE
BUT TONIGHT I CAN’T GIVE YOU PARIS



Gordie's Version:



Faith's Version:

"I Surrender All"

I've wanted to write about this song since I had the idea of The SongBird Project.  Being of Catholic faith, I have no idea why, but I have never, ever, heard this breathtaking song until I heard it on The Oprah Show.  I wish they would sing this in church!  If you know me, you know I believe Oprah is Gods way of being on earth.  I couldn't even begin to describe how much of an influence she has had on me.  Just put it this way, I love this woman!  There shouldn't be any presidents, there should just be an Oprah.  This woman was put on Earth to teach us how to live.  Watch her Masterclass on OWN, then you'll understand.

Anyways, sometimes we try so hard, just to get nowhere.  Once you reach that point, just send it up.  Every fear, doubt, wish, just send it up.  Today, I've had one of those days.  And today, I'm surrendering.



FM Radio:
Song: "I Surrender All"


All to Jesus I surrender
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him,
In his presence daily live.

I surrender all, to you [tag]Jesus[/tag] I surrender all, all;
All to thee, my blessed [tag]Savior[/tag],
I surrender all.

All I have I give to You (I’ll give it to You)
I surrender all to You (everything I have)
I’ll do what you want me to (what you want me do)
I’ll give You everything
I surrender all to Jesus I surrender all
I give my self to thee
Fill me with a love and power that your blessing follow me
I surrender all
To you Jesus I (I surrender all)
All to thee, my blessed Savior
I surrender all

All I have I give to You
I surrender all to You
I’ll do what you want me to
I’ll give You everything
I surrender all to Jesus

All I have I give to You (all to you Lord)
I surrender all to You (I surrender all I have to you)
I’ll do what you want me to (whatever you want from me)
I’ll give You everything
I surrender all to You
[tag]I surrender all[/tag] to You
I’ll do whatever you want me to
Nothing else I’d rather do
With my life, Lord I’ll serve you every day
Even when things don’t go my way

Lord you can trust me to never straight, oh


Sunday, September 4, 2011

"Teenage Dream"

Shocker, I'm writing about a pop song.  Not a slightly pop song, but like a really, ridiculously pop song that you cannot help but sing along to.  Well as much as I hate to admit it, in a way I've always been smitten by this song...yes I said smitten.  I have to admit when I'm wrong but my 'let's resist fake-instruments-on-the-radio thing so didn't withstand to such a catchy melody like this.  I think they could re-release this song every summer, and it would still go to #1, it's that infectious.  So infectious, that Lady A played their version the other night, and it just might be better than the original.  Check it out.

As many of you out there that may be haters of this crazy good song, at the end of the day, don't we all want to find our 'Teenage Dream."  I know I do.

(On a side note): Why does it take about 10 people to write a pop song?

FM Radio:
Singer: Katy Perry
Songwriters: Benjamin Levin, Bonnie McKee, Max Martin, Lukasz Gottwald, Katy Perry
Song: "Teenage Dream"


You think I'm pretty
Without any makeup on
You think I'm funny
When I tell the punchline wrong
I know you get me
So I let my walls come down, down

Before you met me
I was alright but things
Were kinda heavy
You brought me to life
Now every February
You'll be my Valentine, Valentine

Let's go all the way tonight
No regrets, just love
We can dance, until we die
You and I, will be young forever

[Chorus]
You make me feel
Like I'm livin' a
Teenage dream
The way you turn me on
I can't sleep
Let's run away and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back

My heart stops
When you look at me
Just one touch
Now baby I believe
This is real
So take a chance and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back

We drove to Cali
And got drunk on the beach
Got a motel and
Built a fort out of sheets
I finally found you
My missing puzzle piece
I'm complete

Let's go all the way tonight
No regrets, just love
We can dance, until we die
You and I, will be young forever

[Chorus]
You make me feel
Like I'm livin' a
Teenage dream
The way you turn me on
I can't sleep
Let's run away and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back

My heart stops
When you look at me
Just one touch
Now baby I believe
This is real
So take a chance and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back

I'mma get your heart racing
In my skin tights jeans
Be your teenage dream tonight
Let you put your hands on me
In my skin tight jeans
Be your teenage dream tonight

[Chorus]
Yoooouuu
You make me feel
Like I'm livin' a
Teenage dream
The way you turn me on
I can't sleep
Let's run away and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back
No

My heart stops
When you look at me
Just one touch
Now baby I believe
This is real
So take a chance and
Don't ever look back,
Don't ever look back

I'mma get your heart racing
In my skin tights jeans
Be your teenage dream tonight
Let you put your hands on me
In my skin tight jeans
Be your teenage dream tonight
(Tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight, tonight) 





Proof - "Stronger"

Let me just say, Lady Antebellum goes on the list of best concerts I've ever been to.  The audience reaction they got was chill-bounding, it made you speechless.  Syracuse was in love with Lady Antebellum.  Hillary Scott exploded my heart when she sang this.

Watch the video I took:

Friday, September 2, 2011

"21 Guns"

Today has not gone at all how I expected it, but for some reason this song feels right.  I have heard this song before, but it hasn't affected me like hearing it today.  If you've been reading the blog, you've read my post about Mallary Hope and how much I adore her.  Well, I have gained even more respect and idolization for her...I thought I already maximized it.

Although you read about it in the newspaper and see it on the news, unless you are connected to the ones protecting our country, you really don't have an in-depth realistic view-point of what is really going on.  However, with this flawless song, I feel connected.  Absolutely brilliant, I've never heard a more heartfelt, real war song.  This is emotion people!  "The cost of your freedom is the sound of 21 Guns." If this doesn't haunt you, nothing will.

And then keep watching...she sings "To Make You Feel My Love"!!  She needs to put this on her album & release it ASAP!!!  LOVE!

FM Radio:
Singer & Songwriter: Mallary Hope
Song: 21 Guns (Watch at 14:00)





Thursday, September 1, 2011

"A Little Bit Stronger"

We all push a littler harder, fight a little longer, and try more, until we just give up.  Every step you make, or mile-marker you pass becomes a 'small victory,' one more step away from where or who you used to be.  Well, not because three musical geniuses wrote it, but this song is that extra step.  This song = power.  This song = a hit.  (Note: I could've done without the brush my teeth part, but it works, its real, its relatable, I LOVE it!)  

Not because I am SO excited to be witnessing my 1st Lady A concert tomorrow night but because this song has inspired me.  However, although I am a big Sara Evans fan, the original version takes the cake...and the grammy.  Hillary Scott & Lady A should, undoubtedly, release this song!  I cannot wait to see them perform this tomorrow!  Ah!!!

FM Radio:
Singer: Sara Evans/HIllary Scott
Songwriters: Hillary Lindsey aka God herself, Hillary Scott, Luke Laird
Song: "A Little Bit Stronger"

Woke up late today, and I still feel the sting of the pain.
But I brushed my teeth anyway, got dressed through the mess and put a smile on my face.
I got a little bit stronger.

Riding in the car to work, and I'm trying to ignore the hurt.
So I turned on the radio, Stupid song made me think of you,
I listened to it for minute, but then I changed it.
I'm getting a little bit stronger, just a little bit stronger.

And I'm done hoping that we can work it out,
I'm done with how it feels, spinning my wheels
Letting you drag my heart around.
And ohhh
I'm done thinking, that you could ever change.
I know my heart will never be the same,
but I'm telling myself I'll be okay.
Even on my weakest days, I get a little bit stronger.

Doesn't happen over night, but you turn around and a months gone by,
And you realize you haven't cried.
I'm not giving you a hour or a second or another minute longer.
I'm busy getting stronger.

And I'm done hoping that we can work it out,
I'm done with how it feels, spinning my wheels
Letting you drag my heart around.
And ohhh
I'm done thinking, that you could ever change.
I know my heart will never be the same,
but I'm telling myself I'll be okay.
Even on my weakest days, I get a little bit stronger.
I get a little bit stronger.

Getting along without you baby,
I'm better off without you baby,
How does it feel with out me baby?
I'm getting stronger without you baby.

And I'm done hoping that we can work it out,
I'm done with how it feels, spinning my wheels
Letting you drag my heart around.
And ohhh
I'm done thinking, that you could ever change.
I know my heart will never be the same,
but I'm telling myself I'll be okay,
Even on my weakest days, I get a little bit stronger.
I get a little bit stronger.

I'm just a little bit stronger.
A little bit, a little bit, a little bit stronger.
I get a little bit stronger. 


Stronger:



Weak:



I can only imagine how many hearts Hillary Lindsey could rip out with this demo?  


I want your opinions!!!!  Who has the 'Stronger' version?
Comment!!!

"Be Careful What You Wish For"/"All We'd Ever Need"

I know, whoever you are out there reading this blog, I am sure you are sick and tired of me talking about the good ole 'Myspace' days...but this one is interesting, I swear!!  I want to say in about 2006, I came across Hillary Scott's Myspace.  Although I discovered a ton of people on there, she always stood out.  Well, on her page she had a solo version of "I Was Here," which was incredible.  I remember hearing that song and somehow, regardless of how many miles and cyberspace...I felt connected.  The power of music people.  Anyways, through following her, I remember her posting about writing for something called 'Lady Antebellum."  Yes, I googled what 'Antebellum' meant, I had never heard of it before.  Well, around 2007, through following her, I found out she created another Myspace under Lady Antebellum that had these incredible songs, unlike I had ever heard before, posted on their site.  Well, I didn't think anything of it, just that she was in a band and was a solo act.  Well, as I was getting ready to go to take a trip to Nashville, I noticed that they were playing a show at a place called 3rd & Lindsley.  Since I was following them on Myspace and this was going to be my 1st time in Nashville, I made it a priority that we go to this show!  Anyways, long story short, we never went...blame it on our 14 hour drive.  Well, little did I know that show would be the first show 3 individual songwriters played as a band called "Lady Antebellum."  I knew them when "Home Is Where The Heart Is" was "Mason Dixon Line" and was a work tape.  Crazy?!  Well, to this day, this video I saw of them playing from that show has always been one of my all time favorite songs...and of course, it's unrecorded.
Well here it: "Be Careful What You Wish For"


However, that was not the first song that I heard from them.  It was this amazing song, that I heard as work-tape, that is, in my eyes, one of the best songs they have ever recorded & NOT released as a single.  Coincidentally, this is the first song they had ever written together.  Magic?  I think so.  This song literally opened my eyes to writing a vulnerable ballad.  This melody, these lyrics...it doesn't get more raw and amazing than this!


FM Radio:
Singers: Lady Antebellum
Writers: Hillary Scott, Dave Haywood, Charles Kelley
Song: "All We'd Ever Need"
Boy it's been all this time,
and I can't get you off my mind,
and nobody knows it but me.
I stare at your photograph,
still sleep in the shirt you left,
and nobody knows it but me.
Everyday I wipe my tears away,
so many nights I've prayed for you to say.

I should have been chasing you,
I should have been trying to prove,
that you were all that mattered to me,
I should have said all the things,
that I kept inside of me and maybe,
I could have made you believe,
that what we had was all we'd ever need.


My friends think I'm moving on,
but the truth is I'm not that strong and nobody knows it but me.
I've kept all the words you said,
in a box underneath my bed,
and nobody knows it but me.

But if you're happy I'll get through somehow,
but the truth is that I've been screaming out.

(Repeat Chorus)

It was all we'd ever need.

Oh, I thought it was all we'd ever need.

I should have been chasing you,
You should have been trying to prove,
that you were all that mattered to me,
Oh, you should have said all the things,
that I kept inside of me and maybe,
You could have made me believe,
that what we had girl,
Oh, that what we had
What we had
It was all we'd ever need



My favorite performance: