After almost sixty years writing songs, one thing is clear. The most worthwhile ones are those that come to me nearly whole.
Returning from meditation one day in late 2019, three words - my true north - wouldn't leave me alone. Almost immediately I recognized how that common phrase captures what my life partner has been for me since our first date on April 17, 1978. From there, the opening melodic phrase and most of the lyric and melody for the refrain came to me. Scheduled to visit an ailing friend that day, I was initially concerned about leaving directly from the spot where I'd been parked while meditating. I worried the rest of the song might get lost, something that frequently happens.
My concern was misplaced. As I drove the nearly sixty miles to my friend's home, the remaining words arrived, accompanied by a melody that pleased me. By the time I got to my destination, the composition had nearly written itself. I got it down in my journal, confident the harmonies would reveal themselves as soon as I had a guitar in my hands. When I got back home, those harmonies - as well as an opening guitar riff - were right there.
https://patrickbarton.bandcamp.com/track/my-true-north
The journey from that day in late 2019 to the finished product above - with my daughter singing - ended in late 2022. On Christmas morning my daughter and I - along with her new husband - cued up the recording and played it for my life partner. I'm thrilled with my daughter's performance, grateful for all the help a good friend gave me to bring the song fully into the world, and proud of the song itself. There were more songs written between late 2019 and late 2022 but none arrived nearly as whole as this one. I hope you enjoy listening to it.
Pat, you know that I have been a fan of you not only as a musician but also as a good friend for all these years. Being one of those honored as a lover of music as a non musician and a POTC Ambassador, I always look forward to your artistic expression, music knowledge and performances, especially when you include your extremely talented daughter. I enjoyed this on my first listen and I have downloaded it into my music library so the I can continue to listen and become more acquainted with it. I will let you know how this has grown on me the next time that we get together. Hats off to Scott for production and his guitar solo and kudos to Kim and you for your collaboration. All the best.
ReplyDeleteHey Chris; To say your extensive comment moved me is inadequate. Thanks so much for... 1.) being a good friend for so many years; 2.) being a "fan"; 3.) taking the time to listen, react, give me your initial feedback, and download the tune into that massive music library of yours; 4.) acknowledging Alison and Scott's role in making this song written for/about Kim into a reality. You're a mensch!
DeleteThank you, Pat, for this beautiful gift. There are no words. I'm so proud of how you have matured as a songwriter and musician and nothing brings me more joy than hearing you and Ali create music together. The lyrics touch my heart...if I could write a song for you, it would also be called My True North. All my love.
ReplyDeleteYou've been my muse for almost half a century. Just wish more songs inspired by you over the years came out as whole as this one did. And of course having Alison sing it just brought the whole thing to another level. I'm thrilled you like it.
DeleteGood morning, Pat. I tried commenting on this post yesterday but not sure where it wound up. If for some reason it should show up you'll have 2 for the same post.
ReplyDeleteIn any event, this song is a beautiful tribute to your wonderful 'life partner', Kim. Alison's vocals are always so nice to listen to. I especially like her harmonizing with her own vocals. And although I have never had the opportunity to hear you playing live, I do enjoy it via your recordings. As for the meaning behind the song, and who it was written for, I can only imagine there was a fair amount of tears upon hearing the finished product for the first time.
Be well,
Bob
Bob; Thanks for the comment, the supportive feedback, and your appreciation for Alison's vocal and harmonizing with herself.
DeleteYay!! Nice work dad! Proud of you.
ReplyDeleteAlison; If not for you, the end product would not be half as good. You brought your A game to this tribute for Mom. Love you for that.
DeleteNice song, Pat! (Although I expected nothing less from you.) And I didn't know you played drums and bass. Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteI didn't intend to be anonymous but didn't know how to sign in. This is (secretly) Alan.
DeleteAlan "Anonymous"; (Nice alliteration there) Glad you enjoyed the song; thanks for the comment.
DeleteBeautiful! ❤️
ReplyDeleteThanks Kelly.
DeleteKnowing Pat for many years and the love he has always felt for his music, it is easy to see the importance of his relationship to his life long partner with that music. Since his True North Star encompasses both music and the love he has for Kim, he has no other option but to write a song about both loves that give him the joy and fulfillment in his life. Alison came from their love and who better to sing those beautiful lyrics, with such feeling and tenderness.
ReplyDeletePhil; Thanks for the sincere and thoughtful comment. Especially like your last sentence.
DeleteHi Pat. Great story about your journey from inspiration to creation! And a lovely tribute to Kim. And of course, Alison's delivery of your melody is flawless. Her warm and clear voicing reminds me of Holly Near. Thank you for sharing your song with everyone. More please!
ReplyDeleteSteve M; Thanks for the comment and for appreciating the "journey". Holly Near, huh? I'll have to go back and listen to some of her stuff. BTW, at 2:28 a.m. it's possible you now hold the record for "deepest in the night" comment.
DeleteWhat a lovely treat to hear Alison sing, Scott on guitar, Uncle Pat with thoughtful and heartfelt lyrics, all wrapped together celebrating your love and commitment. Thanks for sharing this.
ReplyDeleteSusan; Thanks for the comment (your third in twelve years?) and nice words about Alison's singing, my song, Scott's playing. Pleased you enjoyed it.
DeleteBeautiful and lovely aren't even adequate adjectives! But, it will have to do for today. The lyrics, Alison's angelic voice, and the production quality made it a delight to listen to. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteInes; Thanks so much for the gracious and detailed feedback. I appreciate you taking time to listen.
DeleteHi Pat, Thank you so much for sharing this amazing tribute to Kim. Alison has a perfectly lovely voice and your guitar playing is wonderful. What I find most fascinating is how the song began with 3 words popping into your head and then song’‘s words following, already “almost whole”. You have such a gift as a poet, songwriter. I truly admire your ability.
ReplyDeleteJane; Thank you for taking the time to listen and your gracious comment about Alison's voice, my guitar playing, and the over-the-top compliment about my songwriting abilities. As I said in the post, I am proud of the song but - though your feedback is lovely - I stop way short of calling myself a "poet". You made my week; thanks!
DeleteWell...knowing both you, Kim and Alison made that song even more awesome. So beautiful and lovely. And such a bright moment on this gray day. Thank you for sharing!! xoLaura
ReplyDeleteuh...I hate mistakes. My bad. ...knowing you, Kim and Alison...has been a joy!!
ReplyDeleteLaura; Thanks for listening to the song and your gracious feedback. When are we going to see you guys?
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