I thought some of you would like to see one way that a song project evolves. So, below is my first very rough draft lyric of my latest song. It is written in honor of my dog Duke and all the dogs and their humans who have a special bond. The lyric is likely to change a lot before the song is completed–if ever. Sometimes the original is unrecognizable in the final lyric. This first draft just lays out a basic possible approximately 3 minute story. Each section needs a lot more work regarding fit, rhyming, story continuity, theme, the feelings we’re trying to evoke, and of course meshing with the music that my collaborator creates for it.

Russ

“My Old Friend”
I remember how you picked me the moment we met
Somehow you knew it right from the start
Of all the people you could choose from
You ran right into my arms and into my heart.
Who could resist your soft warm puppy licks
Or your big blue eyes (now brown)
You were a squirmy bundle of furry energy
I wanted to hold you forever and never put you down.

Chorus
My Old Friend, My Old Friend
Life with you is never boring, My Old Friend
It’s always an adventure that I wish would never end,
I’m glad we have each other, My Old Friend!

Remember when you ruined our new carpet
After eating my wife’s whole birthday cake?
It’s lucky she thinks we’re cute or we’d both be dead
And getting sick is no excuse for all the mess you made!
You must have been hungry or jealous
Because you ate her rose bushes too
Every flower and every thorn
‘Til she planted balloons in their roots

My Old Friend, My Old Friend
Life with you is never boring, My Old Friend
It’s always an adventure that I wish would never end,
I’m glad we have each other, My Old Friend!

From your tail-wagging welcomes
To your sad-eyed goodbyes
You let me know you’re always here for me
You stay right by my side
No matter what goes wrong
Even when I’m sick or cranky for days
And growl, bark, and snap at you,
You love me anyway.

My Old Friend, My Old Friend
Life with you is never boring, My Old Friend
It’s always an adventure that I wish would never end,
I’m glad we have each other, My Old Friend!

Bridge:
Your face is growing whiter and your pace is off a step
Let’s make the most of the time that we have left.

My Old Friend, My Old Friend
Life with you is never boring, My Old Friend
It’s always an adventure that I wish would never end,
I’m glad we have each other, My Old Friend!

I’m glad that we’re together, My Old Friend!