Song #3 - I’ll Be Your Angel
Hello Record Producer Types!
Here’s another song in progress on the CD. It’s called “I’ll be Your Angel.”
Background:
1 - This song might not be on the CD.
Ben wanted to nix this song from the CD, stating that it’s not as strong as the others. A few conversations about it ensued. And we decided to work on it in the studio anyway. I think he likes it a little better now. Maybe a lot better. I’m not sure. Place your vote in the comments!
2 - “Last song” songs.
This is one of those “last song on the CD” songs. At least that’s what it sounds like to me. (I tend to write a few too many “last song” songs!) Of course, not many people listen to CD’s all the way through anymore - so it doesn’t really matter!
3 - It’s kind of old. But I’ve never played it live.
I wrote most of this five years ago while sitting on the floor of my friend Suzi’s house. She used to let me come over and write at her house. This helped give me a change of perspective. She really liked it while I was writing it. (She designs websites, and she’d shout out from her computer room…”Hey! I like that!” here and there.) However, it has changed dramatically since then.
4 - Open tuning shifted to standard tuning.
When I was first writing this, it was in an open tuning (DGDGAD) - and it kinda moved into a “march-y” beat in the chorus. But it never really did much for me.
5 - I don’t remember who I wrote it for.
But I do remember that at the time, I had gone through a painful personal situation. Some people I had thought were my friends had apparently said some horrible things about me to other people. There was betrayal and meanness involved, and I was crushed at the time. The whole second verse was about that incident. I was at a turning point in my life where gossip and cruelty were just plain old tiring to me, and such a waste of time. So, I think I was, in essence, writing the second verse to myself. (I have since set these friendships free - and I can honestly say that this kind of behavior is simply non-existent in my life now.)
6 - Steve Seskin to the rescue.
I played this song for Steve Seskin. He took it home with him, and tweaked the music a bit. And he played it in standard tuning and slowed it way down. Then he started playing it on the piano as he worked on the melody of the chorus. I liked how it sounded on the piano. He left my lyrics alone.
7 - There’s no bridge.
Steve and I tried to come up with a bridge - but it felt so forced. I think it says all I wanted to say. It’s simple, and it feels done to me. Every now and then Steve or I will say, “Do you think it needs a bridge?” And we’ll have the discussion all over again.
8 - There are no drum loops. 
9 - I’ve never recorded a song with me and piano.
This is very different. Maybe not.
Your thoughts please….
Here’s the song.
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Pati wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 1:17 am :
Beautiful. Include it. Thank you.
Pati
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Thien-Kim wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 1:44 am :
I guess I’m a sucker for “last songs” too.
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bonni wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 3:15 am :
It is lovely, but my reaction to it is sort of neutral. There’s a lot I do like about it, but it’s a message that has been done time and time again, and I’m not sure this song brings any fresh perspective to that message.
It wouldn’t be a tragedy to include it on the album. It’s a good song. But it doesn’t seem like a “great” song to me.
Please know that I mean this with kindness (and, hey, you asked for opinions ;)).
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Elaine wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 4:52 am :
I agree with Pati - ‘beautiful’.
I especially love the lyrics. Some songs make my skin tingle when I listen to them - this was one of them (…not sure why this happens but it’s a deep connection thing I think). I’m gonna have this in my head all day now.
Yay for last songs…
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NancyCz wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 5:22 am :
Different… interesting… a nice surprise this morning.
Just a thought… can we hear it with you and a piano — totally bare (no electronic stuff)? While I love it the way it is, I think the emotion is raw enough that that would just bring an already beautiful song over the top.
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Daniel Shaw wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 6:37 am :
This some should be included, but I’d go for a more “natural piano” sound to give it a raw edge. I can imagine it being performed live as the last encore song. Possibly it could finish before “very soul”. I would be a true “last song” that way.
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Christi wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 6:44 am :
It’s funny - when I saw the title, I didn’t think I’d like it. I’m not sure why. But the actual lyrics are different (and much better) than what I was imagining.
I think I’d like it better with a more acoustic piano. But it’s pretty, and I like the arrangement as it is. I agree that it works as a last song.
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tre wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 7:46 am :
wow…timely…need this message right now for a bunch o reasons…
i’d actually prefer to hear it by guitar..rougher, more raw…would follow the tone of the message more…or minimally a real piano… the keyboard sounds separate and removed and doesn’t blend w/ your singing (ie you can tell it’s 2 separate things spliced together).
Does anyone else think Christine should play it with guitar and let us hear that too? So far I am counting 3 other comments about using more an acoustic piano…
Anyone want her to somehow (if at all feasible) let us hear both?
Christine, a possibility to let us hear both?
The lyrics are a powerful message. I disagree w/ the redundancy of the message…not at all…and you never know who is hearing that message for the first time…several will be I’m sure.
Maybe you can blog about how you let the friendships go…at some point…down the road….My situation isn’t re: friendships…so much as folks I’m in a business situation with.
Either way, to me part of the letting go is defending the innate honesty of man….I firmly believe everone intends to do the right, honest, pure thing..but experience, history, conditions mold us otherwise…
“I’ll be your angel” reminds of what is there 24/7 stronger than folks’ betrayals and harsh ways….Fave lyric is the one about the heart being strong…..Kinda like ‘breathe…..the ways of love are meant to carry you through and beyond.’Hugs for including this…anyone else wanna hear it minimally with guitar? That’s my vote…or with live acoustic piano? (that’s my 2nd pref).
Be well all……
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Sandy wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 8:04 am :
I vote for a kitchen table version of this song as well. But, that may be because I am not used to hearing you with a piano.
Those few times I have gotten to see you live are some of my favorite concerts ever, so maybe that’s why I always want your songs to sound like that.
It is a beautiful song!
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I’m for hearing it with the guitar too!
Also a less electronic (more natural) sounding piano - if you go down the piano route
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tracy wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 8:32 am :
Hi Christine,
I think it’s a lovely, quiet song. Not as catchy as the other songs you’ve been working on, but I think maybe that’s a good contrast on an album. It has the feeling that you are back at your kitchen table again and I am really partial to those kinds of songs.I have to agree with the masses in wanting acoustic instrumentation. Acoustic piano would sound gorgeous.
I have been humming the other songs over the last few weeks; they have really stuck in my head. We’ll see how “sticky” this one is.
Tracy
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Judy wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 8:38 am :
I love the way your voice sounds with the piano, although I agree with others that an acoustic piano might work better. There is something off about the piano sound on this. I find your voice comes through in a way that is very authentic when it is in combination with the piano. I think the roughness of the guitar disguises the roughness or edginess that your voice has. It draws me in more.
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Cher wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 8:43 am :
good song-the piano adds a different counter point to your voice-I think it is a keeper. good change of pace. Natural piano version would be fun to hear. I don’t think all your songs have to be with the guitar. Your lyrics rock.
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Kelsey wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 8:57 am :
I agree that the synthesizer sound of the piano is not great, but I LOVE the song. I don’t supposed you’d ever record it with NO instruments? Because that’s sort of how I listened to it, I was trying to block the sound of the piano. I think it would be beautiful with a “natural” piano (Is that the right word? It sounds like a piano just sprang up in the wild or was grown without pesticides or something!) and I wouldn’t mind hearing it with guitar. I like the idea of this being a very stripped bare song, just your voice and one instrument.
I used to work in college retreats and this sounds like the kind of song we’d use during the big Saturday night emotional purging session. That’s a good thing.
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Barb V wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 9:05 am :
I vote piano also.
This is like the electronic version of the “Pizza Pie Jury”. When recording “Slippery When Wet”, Bon Jovi used to take tracks over to the kids that hung out at the pizza place next to the recording studio and get their opinions . Its a great idea and I love that you are letting us experience this whole process with you. Thanks! -
Laura wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 9:06 am :
Thumbs up…it really spoke to me. I’d like to hear guitar, too, (as said earlier) although I thought this was beautiful.
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Pat wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 9:43 am :
I love piano, and prefer to hear that instead of guitar. I think it’s okay for you to not play guitar on every song. It’s refreshing. A different perspective.
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Sue wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 9:44 am :
I agree with the comments about adding guitar and the more natural piano sound. I like it. And with all the lost souls and loneliness out there, I think this message can’t be redundant. Someone may be touched by this song in a different way than other songs, and in that moment have a bit more hope than before. Love your voice here too!
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Meg wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 9:58 am :
I love the lyrics. I vote for a version that is just you and acoustic piano. It’ll be a new frontier for you.
I think you referred to the piano in an eralier post as a Wurlitzer. It’s a cool sound, but how many songs on the album are going to have the Wurlitzer on it? I think there may be a tipping point where there could be too much Wurlitzer on the album. I know it worked for SuperTramp on Breakfast in America… but we are talking about your art done your way.
Also, When I was youg, listening to “records”, I would listen to the first side and then to the last song on the second side. I didn’t know enough to think of the marketing around the song placement (oh, to go back to that innocent place), but the very last songs on albums were often my favs. Are “last songs” sappy? If so, I guess I’m sappy.
Thanks for sharing!
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barb b wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 10:04 am :
i, too , would like to hear it w/o the synthesized piano. i have to agree w/ ben, it is not your strongest, a few of the lyrics sound a bit forced,,e.g.,”I’ll be your companion,…so here’s a hand to put your hand in.” pushs the slant rhyme a bit too far.” doesn’t mean it shouldn’t go on the album. maybe it is a middle song? bb
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heather wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 10:17 am :
I’m with Ben on this one - it’s a lovely song (and I’ll go with the masses and vote for a version with a piano instead of a Wurlitzer-y sound) but maybe not the strongest. It seems to be missing a track when the guitar stops and it’s all keys - IMO it seems difficult to fade rhythmic guitar in and out without it providing consistent texture through the piece.
It’s beautiful, but maybe not my favorite. However, the context of the rest of the album may change my mind on that - this only being song 3 of X, and it may need the others to allow me to see where it goes and how it fits in.
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David Kreger wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 10:19 am :
A beautiful song, Christine, please include it on your CD! It’s a little bit different song for you, but not very much considering songs you’ve done like “The Real World”, which I love. I for one love “last songs” like this, they really add a signature and a mood that stay with me when I think of the album. Maybe I’m old fashioned, but I do listen to CDs all the way through when I know there are great songs at the end that touch me and leave me feeling a certain way as this one does. I really like the combination of guitar and piano and wouldn’t remove either one - though I’d like to hear it with an acoustic piano as well just to see how it changes the feel. To me the guitar adds a lovely delicateness to the mix, but hey, I’m an acoustic guitar lover. My only suggestion is at the very end to draw it out a few or several more notes, mabe a slow strum instead of the rather abrupt end it has, which kind of turns off the feel and the flow for me too quickly. I like to keep the feel going a bit at the end, maybe evenconsider a last instrumental verse or partial verse. Again, many thanks for sharing your evolving songs - it’s a unique and very fun opportunity for us all to play along with you! - David
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Irene wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 10:42 am :
Christine this is a beautiful song. I would prefer hearing it with a natural piano and guitar. I love the lyrics. There may be something missing however I know you will find the answer to it. Thank you for sharing with us.
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chris zydel wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 11:41 am :
Hi Christine,
This song is so very, very lovely….I just loved the line “fear not, the trials of love. The heart is made well.” The song felt like a prayer; a heartful, soulful, get inside you, touch you deep and lift you up at the same time, prayer.
I loved the piano, or Wurlitzer, or whatever it is, and I loved that it is somewhat different than the other stuff that you do. My vote is to keep it, pretty much as is, and yes ,have it be the last song. It leaves something wonderful and sweetly inspiring to come away with.
That being said, my inner music muse voice
( who often has her own ideas and opinions), keeps jumping up and down and saying “Tell her to maybe try it acapella like Julie Millers last song ( which she titled Last Song and which IS a prayer) on her album (oops…. dating myself there) Blue Pony.Thanks again for letting us be part of this process. it is a truly amazing experience and great fun. Can’t wait for the CD!!!
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Thom Shepard wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 11:49 am :
Add a real live pianist and to me this is your best song ever, I would not change one thing. I can’t even write what this song means to me.
Thank you Christine, I know you wrote this song about your angel, but for me it is as if you wrote it about mine.
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Amylia wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 11:51 am :
I think this is a beautiful song, but i’d definitely go with a “real” piano sound. I usually love piano, but this one sounds tinny and doesn’t seem to enhance the song. i love seskin’s music, so am surprised by my reaction to his piano, but i’m just not diggin’ this piano version.
also, it feels incomplete, i mean the way it ends. it leaves me hanging, like a short story that just ends before the denoument, or a poem that ends abruptly before saying the thing it intends to say well at the end if that makes any sense.
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Sarah Sample wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 1:42 pm :
Christine, I am new to your comments section, but I love that you are opening up this process. You are so brave to do so, but reading everyones thoughts is refreshing. Yes, I agree with many that the wurli/B3 sound by the end feels a little tiring. We used this really old upright on a song on my last album that had a lot of character. Also, my “last song” on my album was called tie the knot. It’s funny, b/c it also was a piano song (we played on wurli, ha ha) but then at the bridge, it was just a simple wurlizter solo and my guitar came in really simply. Then the last verse was just my guitar and voice. For some reason I think this same thing could work on this song, no sung bridge, but try bringing guitar in and finish just you and guitar. I will post tie the knot on my myspace page so you can hear it if you like, b/c I don’t know how to attach it to here. http://www.myspace.com/sarahsamplemusic
This is obviously just an idea…I think it is a beautiful song. and I love love love the line “the heart is made well”
loves.
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KatherineME wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 2:43 pm :
votes for yes: include as last song. acoustic piano.
agree with someone in the many comments about the line “Fear not the trials of love. The heart is made well”.
I like to think my late niece is singing to me, because she has been my angel and she taught my heart how to grow so big in loving her as well as knowing the trials of it breaking when she died 7 years ago. I don’t really know if she guides my heart or is by my side as I live my life, sort of agreeing with me when I discover something wonderful about life. Maybe both. That line is lovely and connected me with her and my heart strings strummed. Hmmmm, no still want the acoustic piano! Thanks for the song. -
Kate wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 3:16 pm :
I agree wth some of the previous messages. This song would have more impact wihout the piano that is now included…I would like to hear it either with more of a “raw”, uncut feeling with guitar and/or acoustic piano, or, as was also mentoned, a capella..the song has a beautiful message that does make a statement as a final song, but I feel it is diluted with the piano as is…
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Beth wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 4:08 pm :
You won’t be surprised to hear that I’m probably with Ben on this issue . . .
It’s a nice song. But it’s not a song that grabbed me by the shoulders and held on (and even gentle songs can do that). I listened twice before I headed out for the day this morning; with the other songs you’ve posted I’ve done that and they then reverberated (both lyrically and melodically) through my head the rest of the day. I just came home and couldn’t remember a thing about this song. So I listened again. It’s a nice song and it’s growing on me, but I don’t think it’s nearly as strong as the others I’ve heard for this project.
About last songs: I tend to write a bunch of ‘em too. But, interestingly, when I made my (first) CD this past year the various folks advising me on track order strongly suggested that I not put any of the last-ish songs last, at least in part because they were more likely to get lost there. (In fact, the most last-like song ended up second on the whole album.)
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Christine:
i love the way it ends …. it is how this song should end …. please don’t change a thing unless your gut tells you too. -
Eileen wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 4:51 pm :
I agree with wanting to hear it with just an acoustic piano, but I’d also like to hear an acapella version. In the middle of the song when the piano seems to decrease in volume and fade away, it almost sounds as if the song is over. And then it picks back up with “every soul set upon this Earth…” This seems a bit odd. But,overall, the theme of the song is sort of similar to your “Made Of Steel” (my favorite CK song)I say see how the CD comes together and include it if you seem to need a “last song”.
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P.S. What about a cello?? Reminiscent of “Fall From Grace”. Just a thought. Peace!!
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Anna Garrett wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 7:05 pm :
This song is so YOU! But it would be even better with a real piano. Don’t like the synthesizer version at all..would also like to hear a guitar version, but I think plain old piano would be beautiful!
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Patty wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 9:24 pm :
It’s strong in its simplicity. I wonder if this song is something you want to really love, but you’re not sure it’s ‘matured’. For whatever it’s worth, the more I listened to it, the more I liked it. You sing it from a perspective of strength, having been there, lived through it and gained wisdom from it.
You’ll make the right decision about this song. We’ll hear it on this CD or the next one (I hope!) -
Wendi wrote on 29 Aug 2008 at 11:18 pm :
I love it, maybe because it is so simple. I like hearing it with piano, but also liked the idea from the previous post of strings - cello, viola. I think it should be on the CD.
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I keep thinking of the movie Once, and what happened in the movie after they gathered together a handful of musicians and played together … be bold christine, go with your gut and try a few things you don’t have to worry about putting on the CD, just play with some musicians in a club, a cafe with a recorder on, and see what happens.
Your voice is so unique and beautiful, i think we all just want to hear what you sound like with a flute, a chello, a sax, a snare drum, etc. You never know what magic might happen when you just let go and follow your heart.
Well yes you do, because you do this all the time.
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Jeffrey wrote on 31 Aug 2008 at 1:09 pm :
Not one of my favorites though not sure why.
I also think I may like it better with a standard piano. The ectronic piano drags each note out too long and sounds a bit like a music box. A standard piano would give the words more depth.
Thanks again for allowing us to participate.
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Cheri wrote on 31 Aug 2008 at 6:03 pm :
I love the simplicity of the last song. It is your voice that moves me into the lyrics. Go with your gut.
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Deborah Wolfe wrote on 31 Aug 2008 at 9:03 pm :
It is a beautiful, tender and soulful song. Include it. I do agree with the comments about the ‘real’ piano sound vs the electronic piano sound.
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for those who have not seen Once, in one scene Marketa Irglova is off by herself from the band and plays the piano and sings, while normally they are all playing together and a lot of acoustic.
Listening to “I’ll be your Angel” I can’t help but think it will be amazing with a very subtle live piano, the contrast with the rest of the Album would just be awsome, even if it only makes the Kitchen Table dAlbum.
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Mark wrote on 01 Sep 2008 at 2:41 pm :
It’s a beauty! Love your vocal performance. Keep it!
I do agree with the others. A natural piano with acoustic would be amazing. Think “Verdi Cries” by 10,000 Maniacs.
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Emily wrote on 01 Sep 2008 at 7:38 pm :
I have decided that I am going to be very sad if this song isn’t included on the CD in some way, shape, or form.
The lyrics - not so much the electricy piano sound (ha, I know nothing about music or instruments) - but the lyrics really resonate with me.
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dennis wrote on 02 Sep 2008 at 12:07 pm :
very nice…the bridge?.. for me it was there in the space between the verses… please include the song with the current bridge untouched
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Lisa wrote on 02 Sep 2008 at 2:00 pm :
Great last song … I like the contrast of using the piano - an acoustic piano would be simple, elegant & beautiful.
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Howard Pavane wrote on 03 Sep 2008 at 1:59 am :
Beautiful song and lyrics. I like the tempo and the simplicity of your sweet vocals with piano. I do not think a bridge is needed, the song stands on its own and a bridge would distract from the warm lyrical style. I also feel that no other instruments are needed (especially drum loops) - sometimes less is more and that is certainly true for this song. My only critique would be to try playing it with an acoustic piano rather than a synth. I hope you include this song on your new album which I pre-ordered.
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Nancy wrote on 04 Sep 2008 at 1:24 am :
Christine, This song is beautiful. My favorite, so far. Although I think a standard piano would better compliment the lyrics and your lovely voice.
Nancy
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Karen Mades wrote on 04 Sep 2008 at 11:21 pm :
This is the first song I listened to here. I really like it. I agree with Nancy about the piano. A less tinny sound would be nice.
You have a fabulous voice! -
This song has definitely “stuck”… I find myself singing parts of it at random times. It reminds me of “You Don’t Have To Say Goodnight” a little. Whomever suggested the cello, like “Fall From Grace” is a genius — that’s my favorite of your songs. Always has been. I also like the idea a capella. And I’m still championing for the vocal/piano version.
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Jen wrote on 07 Sep 2008 at 1:49 am :
I love this song. I just stumbled upon it tonight in the midst of a devstating loss in my life. I can’t sleep and googled you and found this song. I have played it repeatedly all night. I am holding on to the idea that my heart was built strong. Please put this on the cd!
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Mindful Mimi wrote on 07 Sep 2008 at 4:26 pm :
Nice song. Not as catchy and ‘earworm’ like Virginia, but still. It seems to miss a ‘high’ somewhere. Love the piano. Piano or guitar - as long as it’s earthy. But please get a real piano.
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Maggie wrote on 10 Sep 2008 at 7:28 am :
Beautiful! Quiet, simple songs can sometimes be the most profound and touching. Please do include it.
Your Newest Fan in Miami,
Maggie -
Luther wrote on 16 Sep 2008 at 2:52 pm :
Sorry to disagree with some of you, but to me the piano is the best part of this lovely song. Haunting, and different from anything I’ve ever heard.
First line and chorus reminds me of The Boxer.
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Tari wrote on 17 Sep 2008 at 10:01 am :
This is a lovely song, Christine, but I agree with an earlier comment — I’d love to hear this with an acoustic piano. I think that it would compliment the purity of the song, and the resonance of your voice.
I’d also be interested in hearing a slower (yup!) version — almost a lullaby. Not sure, but it might be more effective…
Can’t wait for the CD! Thanks for sharing yourself!
Tari
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Hilda wrote on 18 Sep 2008 at 11:22 pm :
My parents are elderly and for some reason it made me feel connected to them. Maybe a song I would sing (if I could sing) or I would play at their funeral.
It just made me want to forgive them for all the pain of the past and love them for who they are now.
I know in reality when we cross over to the other side we don’t become angels but it’s still feels right to know they’ll be looking over me after they’re gone.
Don’t mean to be a downer. But this song is so beautiful and song touching. I hadn’t listened to any of your songs until now.
Thank you for letting me feel today.
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james anderson wrote on 24 Sep 2008 at 12:59 am :
When I listened to angel I had just gotten off the phone with a really good friend and we we’re talking about how we have helped each other the years and what a two way street it has been. Maybe that’s why I had this reaction but I was hoping that the last time you said “I’ll be you angel” that you would say “just like you’ve been mine”. It might be a nice pay off. Just a thought. either way, I loved it and I love you!
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The Cactus Hippie wrote on 05 Nov 2008 at 10:53 am :
Don’t know if you’ve had a big hit yet, because I don’t listen to the radio anymore, but this song is it. It’s almost ready, and it will take you there.
I love your site, songs and blogs.
Namaste
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Tanya Monteiro wrote on 16 Nov 2008 at 5:39 pm :
Fantastic, Pam Slim recommended that I listen to your music and boy how right she was. Really love it - Thank you:-D
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Drew wrote on 06 Dec 2008 at 6:58 am :
This song has a lot of potential. Personally, after the first chorus I would have liked to have heard some drums, very light bass, and some acoustic guitar strumming kick in (right after that intro riff). In my opinion this would really change the song from being an “thats alright” song to “thats a really good song.” If you follow those methods I could really see more people getting interested in it. To your credit, I like the electric piano. Oh, and I would have liked to hear your voice come down a note or two on the word “angel” in the chorus. Maybe change up the third verse.
As you said, not all songs need a bridge, though an instrumental bridge in this song would not be the worst thing.
all this with love. Oh, and I love your voice btw, as well as what you’ve created with this site.