Life can be sad and lonely sometimes. Other times it can be jubilant and celebratory.
Elton John once sang “Sad songs so much”. I’ve always been a fan of music that explores the melancholy side of humanity. Songwriters like Nick Drake, Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Simon and Garfunkel… these compadres have chaperoned me through many sorrowful times. They have also inspired me to write sad songs of my own.
“Melancholy” is the word I felt best captured this song’s vibe. The melody is slow and meandering; the tune seemed to conjure up sadness even before any lyrics were written. But somehow this melody also lent itself to a little twist (in the final verse), that transforms the lonely refrain into a joyful celebration.
Strange how a simple, gentle melody can evoke both sadness and happiness. But not surprising, I suppose – considering that sad songs often put a smile on our face.
Thanks to Claire Campbell for providing the “high lonesome” on the singing saw! Thanks also to Shelley Lotus for her angelic backup vocals, and to Amelia Baer for adding the uplifting “choir” vocals on the final chorus :-).
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MELANCHOLY
When I'm alone
I feel the melancholy
Under my skin
When I'm alone
I feel the melancholy creeping in
Ooh ooh ooh...
When she's away
I feel my heart start sinking
In a tailspin
When she's away
I feel the sadness creeping in
Ooh ooh ooh...
When she's around
I feel the jubilation
Under my skin
When she's around
I feel the jubilation creeping in
And it sounds like
Ooh ooh ooh...