Lay It Down by Roxylee
Genre: Inspirational (contemporary)
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Keywords:
Roxylee (37), Lay it down (1), acoustic (562), harmony (64), inspirational (93), encouragement (1)
Description:
Did you ever have one of those days? I must have been in the middle of something difficult when I wrote the lyrics last year. Anyway, I wrote some more verses about situations we might find ourselves in, and the chorus about the Answer I have found. I hope you enjoy. If nothing else, you will smirk and say “Oh, yeah, been there before!”
I was going to add some software instruments to round it out, but the baby grandson, the future musician, untuned my guitar. I tuned it back up, played the three guitar tracks, did three vocal tracks, then when I went to add a software instrument, I discovered the guitar tuning did not match the software notes. Live and learn! J Thanks to Feter for listening to all the takes and for mixing advice.
I was going to add some software instruments to round it out, but the baby grandson, the future musician, untuned my guitar. I tuned it back up, played the three guitar tracks, did three vocal tracks, then when I went to add a software instrument, I discovered the guitar tuning did not match the software notes. Live and learn! J Thanks to Feter for listening to all the takes and for mixing advice.
Lyrics:
When things are not going good
Don’t turn out like you think they should
When you’ve done all that you could
Lay it down
When everything feels like a trial
Just can’t go another mile
And you’ve forgotten how to smile
Lay it down
Turn your eyes to heaven
Know you’re not alone
The one who hears your heart
Will guide you home
When you watch the cutthroat get that raise
And receive the boss’ praise
And your mind is in an angry haze
Lay it down
When your teens act like they know it all
Talk down to you, like you’re one inch tall
And your pressure’s rising with their gall
Lay it down
Turn your eyes to heaven
Know you’re not alone
The one who gives you peace
Will heal your home
When friends just turn their backs on you
Don’t care what you’re going through
And there’s no one left you can talk to
Lay it down
When bills are piled up to the sky
And still, there’s things you need to buy
You’re wondering what else to try
Lay it down
Turn your eyes to heaven
Know you’re not alone
The one who understands everything
Will make all known
When you feel you just can’t take no more
getting up is like a chore
You dream of running out the door
Lay it down
You search and search and can’t find love
Beat up by peoples’ push and shove
Look up- your answer’s found above
Lay it down
Turn your eyes to heaven
Know you’re not alone
The one who gave you life
Will give you a home
Hardware:
G4, Perception 200 mic, 1968 Gibson Blue RidgeSoftware:
GB4You must be registered and logged-in to comment.
Feter
Heaven;y song and a thoughtful deep heart song ...
what a gem you brought us dear !! ...Thnx alot for sharin such gem !!!!!!
Roxylee
and thank you for listening to all the retakes. :-)
drakonis
Of all the people I've known... I happen to know EVERY line of yours is heart-felt and sung from experience... brava to such a strong, helpful, upbeat friend... I am so happy to know you, and to have you sharing such wonderful sentiments with us all.
Glad your Saffire finally got replaced, the recording sounds nice and clear. The guitar and voice are in similar ranges, so I might suggest lowering the guitar volume ever so slightly to help your singing and harmonies stand out a little more, but only slightly, this is well mixed. Great tune, and such fun bouncy guitar playing.
There will probably be quite a groundswell of people here who completely connect with your song, from every walk of life.
ttfn,
Drakonis
Roxylee
I'm sure everyone who has reached the age of 55 has been through most, if not all, of these times at least once. If not, must be nice! Thank God He is always there, and when we place our trust in Him, He always sees us through with love and forgiveness.
Thank you for listening to my vents and rants through the years- you are a most excellent friend, as everyone who knows you, knows that.:-)
I wish I could fix the guitar vols and put it back without deleting the song and comments! Mixing is not my forte, and i really want to learn. Thank you for any and all suggestions you have, so the next one will be smoother. :-)
paul f. page
... of this folksy song works beautifully: your lyrics hit home in so many ways; your guitar work is clean and unforced...simple, but effective; the vocals are clear and harmony well-placed; overall impression is one of a story well-told, a message that's sincere and powerful, a performance that feels like you've been singing this song for a very long (comfortable) time. And you even got your guitar tuned pretty well in spite of the tampering of little fingers. Really enjoyed this, Roxy. It's so great to be hearing more of your solo voice.
Peace.
Paul
Roxylee
When someone with such a discerning ear says my song was pleasing to listen to, it really makes me smile. :-) I thank you for coming by to listen. It's been busy and noisy here this summer and I hope to do more songs in the Fall, when the kids go back to school.
I must admit Roxylee I agree with what Paul wrote
it is great to hear your 'solo voice' I could hear you sing and play all day long and not get bored once.
You are brilliant. Lovely warm voice and very good song writer too.
More solo's please :)
Peace Dee.
Roxylee
Thank you! I am so glad you said you don't get bored with my songs. I try to make them short and sweet for that very reason. I was really cracking up last night, reading your forum posts on split personality- you have a delicious sense of humor- well, at least one of you does. heehee
davisamerica
You made my morning! Roxy you know I love your voice but this is like "Doublemint gum" ... twice as much fun and enjoyment. I, like Paul am glad little fingers did no permanent damage to the strings ... I love the mix from top to bottom and your vocals flow sweet and right .. and!!! KAZOOS!!! Well my day is complete now! : - ] All of us are blessed by your presence here ...
Jack
Roxylee
Your comment made my morning! you know how hard it is for me to not do harmony- it is in my blood, and while challenging, it adds a lot to a melody. Thank you for your comment and for your wonderful music, that I am blessed to be a part of sometimes.
davisamerica
well some how it looks like I double fav'd you ... dunno how ... cool
Roxylee
just following the doublemint theme..
davisamerica
I am proxy voting for Paul and Eduard :-]
Roxylee
sounds good to me! ;-)
TeresaV
I love it! It comforting to hear that we are not alone, the chorus is beautiful! As usual, the harmony is amazingly perfect. You are so talented with the guitar too.
P.s. funny about the "custom-baby" guitar tuning, lol
Roxylee
I'm so glad you liked this, because you were once a teen AHEM.. Moving right along, I'm glad that Cody likes music enough to try to tune a guitar.
TeresaV
..add, the picture you chose goes great with this song!!
Roxylee
I hope it's legal to lift them from google images.. I saw that one and thought it portrayed it all very well.:-)
RickW
that you are loved by many at MJ. And, there are some whose hearts beat with yours. And yes, the Lord who created you loves you unconditionally and for all eternity.
Wonderful song! You are definitely not alone. :-))
Love,
Rick
Roxylee
Yes, God always comes through, even if it's the 11th hour, 59th minute. Trusting Him and walking in forgiveness is the best stress beater of all time, knowing His power will deliver us. I wrote this when I was struggling with one problem or another; I don't even remember what it was, and the chorus reminded me that indeed, I am never alone. I am happy that you enjoyed this one. :-)
magnatone
I just love your voice Roxy - this is terrific and goes straight to the ipod for future enjoyment!
Roxylee
It means a lot to know you enjoyed it that much. If I had an iPod, your music would be in it. :-)
guitapick
...having "one of those days"...
:)
Thanks....
Roxylee
then I hope this one helped bring you some peace. It always helps me to see that I'm not alone, not matter how it might feel that way sometimes. When I count my blessings, the bad stuff recedes. I pray that the Lord brings you a special blessing today.
MarkHolbrook
voice! The guitar sounds perfectly live. I mean this is like I'm standing there watching you on stage!
Very very nice Roxy!!!
Roxylee
Ahh.. thank you. I was hoping it would feel like that, like I was singing directly to each person. Thank you for stopping by. :-)
blaky smith
Very nice song, I like very much what you made here, music, vocals, on all levels. A great piece, very pleasant to listen.
Just a little of work of translation for certain words, but now I understand all of your message !
Bravo et merci Roxanne...
Marc
Roxylee
I appreciate your taking the time to not only listen, but to look up the weird words. I am glad you found this pleasing to hear. :-)
Jim Bouchard
Actually, I was thinking the guitar volumes were a little soft if anything. I didn't think the vocals were being drowned out, quite the contrary, I thought they sort of dominated the song. As they should, too. I just was thinking a nice little bass part or a little more resonance in the low end (since the guitar is playing a nice little bass line) would make the song bounce along nicely. also might bring in a little variety which the song's arrangement maybe could use. But even without these suggestions I like this song, sort of old-fashioned, but really sweet. Reminds me of an early Greg Brown song. He married Iris Dement, and this sounds like her type of songwriting. It would make a good campfire song! Great harmonies on the chorus. And the kazoo is a great touch at the end!
Roxylee
Yeh, I wanted to add a bass line, or cello, or something, but don't play either, and the guitar was tuned a half note down from normal, so I couldn't add a software instrument. Oh, well, next time.
I'm glad you thought this sounded good. Did it remind you of a particular Greg Brown song? Maybe it was in my head from a long time ago! I didn't know Greg and Iris were hitched!
Thank you for listening and for leaving a comment; I appreciate that. :-)
dajama
As ever your voice is wonderful. You sing with such skill and sincerity. The lyrics are very well-crafted, with some really nice everyday occurrences woven into an uplifting and transcendent narrative. A very good song, and excellent performance. Nicely done. Thanks for sharing this, yet another demonstration of how it is possible to turn adversity into art! Peace.
Roxylee
Adversity into art... I like that! It's not me,; if left to my own devices i'd be complaining and getting revenge, It's all God's doing, to turn everything around for His glory and our benefit. I am so happy that you like this so much. Your latest has been in my head all day. Really good song you have crafted, and the mixing is great, as usual.
Your words are an ointment.... Barb and I just listened, and agreed... a wonderful song in every way. Much thanks Roxylee. Your heart and talent come through strongly.
Jack
Roxylee
I am so pleased that the song had the desired effect- to soothe and comfort. Your comments mean a great deal. thank you. :-)
A wonderful tribute to daily living,and answers to thought and concerns...much enjoyed..
Roxylee
for coming by and leaving a comment. Speaking of tributes, your song Babies Joy is amazing. i need to go listen to more of your songs. I am glad you enjoyed this. :-)
jiguma
Nice spread on the vocals, nice playing and an all round good bit of creative work.
Very Joan Baez :)
Neil
Roxylee
Heehee, I must have listened to her way too much as a teen. At least it wasn't Dylan, huh> I thank you for listening and i am glad you liked it. Any mixing or EQ advice would be great, if you hear anything that would help me mix. You are so good at that! :-)
timothy devine
very very cool.
I just love your multi layered vocals.
just so sweet of a sound.
and then just geetar strumming
no software instruments was the supreme plan.
Out of your hands.
great work
peace
tm
Roxylee
Thank you, Tim. Now I feel better that it was supposed to be all real and no software. I sometimes forget that all things work together, not just some things. Thank you for stopping by, and I'm happy that you enjoyed the harmony. :-)
for other instrumentation on this!
Use as is :) Delightful
. - Harold
Roxylee
I'm smiling that the guitar was enough. I appreciate your stopping by. :-)
Nice job Roxy! Reality saturated lyrics that everyone can relate to at one time or another, together with the only solution this man has ever found.
Love your vocal delivery as per always, and the harmonies are angelic.
Too bad about the tuning vs. software fiasco, but chin up! I think this has a great 60's coffee house flavor as a result.
Be well sis!
Roxylee
Thank you, bro. I've got new guitar strings and it's tuned to pitch again, ahh...The Lord is so good to us, and I am glad you enjoyed this song about the solid rock on which we stand.
mowguy3
I kind of came late to the party so I have nothing more to add. Just wanted to tell you that this is a very inspiring tune. Great job and thanks.
Be well, Russ
Roxylee
I am glad this inspired you. It's so easy for all of us to just see the problems and not see the answer. Thank you for having a listen, and may the Lord bless you and keep you.
peacepiano
Wonderful song. The harmonies are in just the right places to provide emphasis. The lyrics and are clever and inspirational. Enjoyed every note :)
Thanks
Bill
Roxylee
I thank you, Bill, and i am glad you liked all of the notes. :-)
rtcooper
TOP PRODUCTION
GREAT to hear straight in the midst of the Convolution Rage.
Crisp, full harmonic on the Gibson capture. Pure. Intimate.
BUT The Vocals Rule this Soundstage.
Both Energetic and Sympathetic. Fine presentation with an understated ease of interval change and matching.
There is a slight hollowness to the environment that subtracts from the intimacy but not the Spirituality of the experience (Nor everyone has a Frequency Tuned recording space). I wonder if a Gate at about neg 33 wouldn't cut that out?
With Compliments and High Regards,
Cooper
Roxylee
I was wishing I could just send the whole thing to a professional mixer. Gate, huh? Thank you. I will try that next song. If you saw my setup in here, you'd shale your head while cracking up. I am so glad you liked the sound, and I thank you for stopping by. :-)
lengold
late to this. Lovely song and beautifully sung. I don't miss the software instruments at all - this production doesn't need anything more.
(Has the world gone kazoo mad recently? Have all the shops sold out of them yet?)
Cheers
Len
Roxylee
When I couldn't add any software, the only other thing I had was a kazoo, so.. :-) I'm glad you thought the production was good as is. I appreciate your coming over to listen. :-)
cthayes
I love your lyrics, and you have great vocal tone. Very nicely sung and played! And, of course, the message is spot-on.
Roxylee
I truly appreciate your stopping by. Your songs are amazingly good. I'm glad you liked this.
thetiler
Maybe even the most important lyrics at MJ, if not pretty darn close.
I really am glad to hear this precious tune!
Way to go Roxy
Roxylee
What a compliment, thank you. I think w all can get so used to carrying our own burdens, we forget that we don't have to. Forgiveness isn't easy, but what a difference it makes! I thank you for coming to hear this, and glad that you liked it that much. :-)
jie
love the song and the sentiment. beautifully sung. thanks for sharing
Roxylee
So nice of you to stop by for a listen.:-)
dirigent
How beautiful are the lyrics - and they are sung and played in such a most wonderful way, it's amazing!!! Enjoyed listening a lot :-) :-) :-)
Roxylee
I had written this awhile ago, and finally got around to recording it. Mostly me talking to myself about how to act when things aren't fun. <G>
diamondvalley
but worth digging for. I love your heartfelt lyrics.
Roxylee
Thank you for having a listen. :-) I appreciate your stopping by.