Do you ask nicely?  I have decided that we should only ask nicely 50% of the time. the other 50% requires being mean. gotta balance things out.  😆

Learning With Music

STAND ALONE
By NOVA.J

I’ve seen the highs, I’ve walked the lows  
nothing’s promised, nothing’s owed  
When the world gets cold, and the lights go dim  
I don’t need your love; got strength within  

I’ll stand on my own, don’t need your hand  
I’ve built my life, on this shifting sand  
But I won’t fall, I’ll rise, I’ll grow  
Because I know how to stand alone  

Stand alone
I know how
To stand alone

love’s a gift, but it comes with chains  
I won’t trade freedom for all your pain  
I’ve walked through fire, been burned before  
 I’ve found my strength, I’m scared no more  
 
I’ll stand on my own, don’t need your hand  
I’ve built my life, on this shifting sand  
But I won’t fall, I’ll rise, I’ll grow  
Because I know how to stand alone  

Stand alone
I know how
To stand alone

And when night falls, and I’m all alone  
I know who I am, I’ve found my home  
I won’t fall, I’ll rise, I’ll grow  
Because I know how to stand alone  

Stand alone
I know how
To stand alone

And when night falls, and I’m all alone  
I know who I am, I’ve found my home  
I won’t fall, I’ll rise, I’ll grow  
Because I know how to stand alone  

Stand alone
I know how
To stand alone

Stand Alone

Unrequited love
By NOVA.J

I don’t know why
I don’t know why
I don’t know why
I don’t know why

When we talk
Your face is distant
With that never ending gaze

Your words are short
Your mind resistant
Like your lost or in a haze

So I cling to clues
And I sing the blues
Hoping you will change your ways 

Unrequited love
Unrequited love
Need to see you
Need to hear you
But you’re silent love
I don’t know why
I don’t know why
You’re undecided love

I don’t know why
I don’t know why
I don’t know why
I don’t know why

I’m so tired
So tired
Of always giving you my all
So uninspired
Uninspired 
When I’m the only one to call

Feels so one sided
So unexcited 
My love unrequited 

Unrequited love
Unrequited love
Need to see you
Need to hear you
But you’re silent love
I don’t know why
I don’t know why
You’re undecided love

Unrequited love
Unrequited love
Need to see you
Need to hear you
But you’re silent love
I don’t know why
I don’t know why
You’re undecided love

I don’t know why
I don’t know why
I don’t know why
I don’t know why

Unrequited Love

This is another song I put into the category of learning. Reflect, ask, and act with intention. It's all in the asking, and asking nicely.

A smooth blend of thought-provoking lyrics and soothing melodies, this track encourages introspection and mindful action. The song invites listeners to reflect on their desires and intentions, gently prompting them to ask themselves important questions about how they engage with the world around them. Through a rhythmic interplay of bass and melodies, it emphasizes the simplicity of achieving clarity by starting with a simple act—asking.

Learning To Ask, Nicely

Language learning and learning in general should be fun!  I literally wrote this song after my children were asking me about what the word meant when they were doing school work.  After giving them examples I figured I might as well write it as a song for easy reference and to make it fun!

The song explores interrogatives—who, what, when, where, how, and why—through engaging sentences that make learning more interactive. Whether you're a student, teacher, or just someone who enjoys expanding their knowledge through music, this track is a great way to reinforce key language concepts.

Interrogatives: What, Where, How, When and Why – Learning with Music

"Old Adages" is a smooth jazz track that brings classic wisdom to life. 

The most important thing about this song is that my dad liked it, and he is not a music person.

The song uses a blend of laid-back rhythms with thoughtful storytelling, and explores why certain sayings stand the test of time. With a relaxed yet introspective vibe, it serves as a reminder that "Life is a journey, not just a destination."

Whether you're sipping coffee, winding down after a long day, or just looking for some lyrical inspiration, this jazz-infused piece will have you nodding along to the wisdom of the past.

🎷 Style: Chill Jazz, Smooth Jazz, Vocal Jazz
🎹 Influences: Nat King Cole, Chet Baker, Mose Allison
🔊 Mood: Reflective, Relaxed, Philosophical


Old Adages

Old Adages – A Chill Jazz Reflection on Timeless Wisdom

Finding My Way is officially releasing on April 24, 2025! 

A journey of self-discovery, resilience, and trust in the process. I will find my way—no matter what.  

You don’t have to listen to my music for long to notice that I’ve spent a lot of time searching for answers. I’m grateful for what I’ve found, and once I start looking, I’m determined to keep discovering.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/PJoRqX5g59o
Website: https://sites.google.com/view/music-by-andy/work/finding-my-way

Finding My Way

Quiero saber si es amor (feat. Joy)

I’D DO IT AGAIN by Nova J

I never took the good days for granted
Grateful for our quiet, simple life
But these days I’m panicked
staring at my phone… all night

No news… worse than bad news
Confusion… worse than pain
Always…worryin’ bout you
Will I ever… see you again?

You and me
We’ve been torn apart
Now I bleed 
With a broken heart

And if it’s time
To say goodbye
You’ll always be
The love of my life…

I keep on writing
My messages unread
My mind racing
Are you alive… are you dead?

No calls. No clues. No power.
My mind is racing fast.
Each minute’s like an hour.
How long… can this last?

You and me
We’ve been torn apart
Now I bleed
With a broken heart

And if it’s time
To say goodbye
You’ll always be
The love of my life

Even through struggle
Even through pain
With you beside me…
I’d do it again
I’d do it again
Mmm…
I’d do it… again

You and me
We’ve been torn apart
Now I bleed
With a broken heart

And if it’s time
To say goodbye
You’ll always be
The love of my life…

The love of my life…
The love of my life…
The love of my life…

I’d do it again

A quiet continuation of "The Way That It Goes".

This piece extends from the original — same rhythm, same feeling — with a shift that’s subtle but intentional. The sound fades, then returns, slower and more reflective.

Pay attention around 2:50—there’s a pause that really pulls everything home. No remix, no drastic change. Just the same current, carrying a little further. The artwork reflects that transition: a door opening into something familiar, still unfolding.

Lyrics:
Life… it hits where it hurts, ya know.
It doesn’t come light — it comes with weight,
And a good dose of doubt to throw you off straight.

But the doubt must be weighed with the clarity.
The cost must be counted with the things that set you free.
Yeah, the struggle’s real — but so is the rise.
You can’t have the truth without seeing through the lies.

The rights and the wrongs,
The highs and the lows,
The stops and the starts,
It’s the way that it goes.

It’s all part of life —
A journey of growth.
And growth’s gotta walk
Right through the storm.

The doubt must be weighed with the clarity.
The cost must be counted with the things that set you free.
Yeah, the struggle’s real — but so is the rise.
You can’t have the truth without seeing through the lies.

The rights and the wrongs,
The highs and the lows,
The stops and the starts,
It’s the way that it goes.

Oh, oh...

I know how it fades — not by choice, not by plan.
It slips through my fingers like water through hands.
So I bury small signals in places I pass,
Little echoes of truth in the cracks of the glass.

But the doubt must be weighed with the clarity.
The cost must be counted with the things that set you free.
Yeah, the struggle’s real — but so is the rise.
You can’t have the truth without seeing through the lies.

The rights and the wrongs,
The highs and the lows,
The stops and the starts,
It’s the way that it goes.

It’s all part of life —
A journey of growth.
And growth’s gotta walk
Right through the storm.

They say “face it,” like that means it’s gone.
But letting it go don’t mean it moves on.
Sometimes forgetting is just a disguise,
For a weight that still waits just behind my eyes.

The doubt must be weighed with the clarity.
The cost must be counted with the things that set you free.
Yeah, the struggle’s real — but so is the rise.
You can’t have the truth without seeing through the lies.

The rights and the wrongs

When Life Hits

The Rise Through The Lies

CATFISH by Nova J

Got a face? (Not your own)
Got a name? (One you stole)
Got a story? (Full of holes)
Got some shame? (God, I hope so)

Feeling pretty? (Only online)
Feeling wanted? (On borrowed time)
Feeling brave? (Behind the screen)
You fooled me once — but now I see

You’re a (Ca-ca-ca-ca…) catfish (Catfish)
Yeah, a (Ca-ca-ca-ca…) catfish (Catfish)
You thought you’d get away with this?
You’re just a (Ca-ca-ca-ca…) catfish (Catfish)

Five eleven
Twenty-nine
Model pics
(Not even mine)
Stolen smile
Bedroom eyes
Face-tuned deep
Full of lies

One old selfie
From who knows when
You showed up
And lied again

You were looking (looking, looking)
For tonight (tonight, tonight)
Wanna trick me (trick me with a)
Pretty lie (lie, lie)

You were looking
For tonight
Tried to take me
For a ride

When we met
I saw the truth
Not the guy
From in the booth
You flinched hard
When I said hi
You said your name
I said “goodbye”

You meant no harm? (You swear, you swear)
But all I see is vacant stares
You built a mask, played the part
Now deal with it — I know your heart

You’re a (Ca-ca-ca-ca…) catfish (Catfish)
Yeah, a (Ca-ca-ca-ca…) catfish (Catfish)
Fake as hell and full of glitch
You’re just a (Ca-ca-ca-ca…) catfish (Catfish)

Five eleven
Twenty-nine
That ain’t your dog
That ain’t your ride
Bubble butt? (Nice try)
Laughed so hard
I nearly cried

You deceived me (And yourself)
Go get help (You need some help)

You were looking (looking, looking)
For tonight (tonight, tonight)
Tried to trick me (trick me just to)
Feel right (right, right)

You were looking (now exposed)
I saw through you (strike a pose)

You were looking (now exposed)
I saw through you (strike a pose)

You played a role
You wore it well
But fairy tales
Can go to hell
I don’t date liars
With bogus names
Delete your apps
And own your shame

You’re a (Ca-ca-ca-ca…) catfish (Catfish)
Yeah, a (Ca-ca-ca-ca…) catfish (Catfish)
Don’t DM me — I ain’t your wish
You’re just a (Ca-ca-ca-ca…) catfish (Catfish)

You feel pretty? (Filter lies)
Feel authentic? (In disguise)
Five eleven? (Try five-five)
Fake the world — but not my eyes

You were looking (for tonight)
Tried to trick me (with a swipe)
You were looking (but I’m gone)
Try again — on someone dumb

Catfish

A global whisper of unity and breath.

This song blends English, Spanish, and Arabic — gently weaving through language, rhythm, and stillness.

“Where We Meet” is a space for peace, kindness, and presence across borders.
Listen close… there's always music in the air.

🌍 Languages: English, Español, العربية
🌬️ Mood: Stillness • Motion • Connection

DistroKid HyperFollow Link:
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/hybridroots/where-we-meet-aqu-nos-encontramos?utm_campaign=website&utm_medium=Email+&utm_source=SendGrid

#HybridRoots #enspar #WhereWeMeet #MultilingualAnthem

Where We Meet (Aquí Nos Encontramos)

PETTY by NOVA J

I don’t even care that you unfollowed me
It actually led to an epiphany 
I think you are psycho crazy jealous of me
And I’m living in your ugly ass head rent free

Okay your head’s not ugly
You’re actually kinda pretty 
But your attitude is shitty 
And I don’t say that to be petty

BUT you really crossed a red line
WHEN you tried to take what’s mine MINE
I was just here minding my business 
And you’re here just talkin’ shit shit 

(OOOH) You think you’re special
(OOOH) So deep, so intellectual
(OOOH) Oh please, you’re superficial
(OOOH) Not exceptional
(OOOH) At alllll… (ooooh)

Go ahead, unfollow me 
Is that the best you can do?
I don’t care, you don’t bother me
I already forgot about you

You’re not the first, and you won’t be the last
Just another fly I flicked off my ass
You were never close, not even warm
So why you creepin’ girl, BE GONE, BE GONE!

You’re not a total wreck, okay
You’d be fine if you’d behave
I think your ego’s in the way
You should hear what people say

BUT you really crossed a red line
WHEN you tried to take what’s mine MINE
I was just here minding my business 
And you’re here just talkin’ shit shit 

(OOOH) You think you’re special
(OOOH) So deep, so intellectual
(OOOH) Oh please, you’re superficial
(OOOH) Not exceptional
(OOOH) At alllll… (ooooh)

Go ahead, unfollow me
Is that the best you can do?
I don’t care, you don’t bother me 
I already forgot about you

You might be just a one-trick pony
I won’t waste my time on a phony
Shiny toys always fade
I work harder every day
(harder) (every) (day)
(harder) (every) (day)
I work harder every day
(harder) (every) (day)
(harder) (every) (day)
(Oooooooh)

(OOOH) You think you’re special
(OOOH) So deep, so intellectual
(OOOH) Oh please, you’re superficial
(OOOH) Not exceptional
(OOOH) At alllll… (ooooh)

Go ahead, and follow me 
Is that the best you can do?
I don’t care, you don’t bother me 
I already forgot about you

Go ahead, and follow me
Is that the best you can do?
I don’t care, you don’t bother me
I already forgot about you

Petty

[Verse 1]
They say I’m stubborn—like that’s wrong
But I’ve been standing in this storm too long
Told to bend, told to yield
But they don’t know the ground I’ve sealed
I walked barefoot just to plead
While they sat high and watched me bleed

[Pre-Chorus]
I didn’t break—I bent like flame
But now I’m done with taking blame

[Chorus]
Stubborn ain’t a sin, it’s how I stand
When justice slips through open hands
I gave, I fought, I held the line
And still they say it’s all just mine
But I won’t fall, I won’t pretend
I’m not the one they couldn’t bend

[Verse 2]
They call it court—I call it war
No one asks what I was fighting for
A home she left, a truth denied
While I still carried what she tried to hide
I offered peace, I wrote it plain
But silence answers truth with pain

[Pre-Chorus]
I held my tongue till it turned red
Now I speak loud for what’s unsaid

[Chorus]
Stubborn ain’t a sin, it’s how I breathe
When every page is built to deceive
I’ve lost my sleep, I’ve lost my name
But I won’t lose my soul to shame
You want the truth? Then here I am
Not a convict—just a man

[Bridge]
And I’ve got names, I’ve got dates
Receipts of love they twist to hate
But I still walk, I still rise
With nothing left to compromise
I see the system, dressed in law
But justice doesn’t wear a flaw

[Final Chorus]
Stubborn ain’t a sin, it’s what remains
When you’ve been dragged through loss and chains
I’ll hold this weight, I’ll bear the cost
But don’t you dare say that I’m lost
‘Cause I’m still here, I’m still whole
I’m still the fire they couldn’t control

[Outro]
So write me off or write me down
But truth don’t vanish in a courtroom crown
I’m stubborn, sure—but I won’t bend
Not for them.
Not in the end.

Convict

STUCK IN MY HEAD by NOVA J

[Vers 1]
I didn’t know I’d be on a plane
When I woke up today
Don’t wanna go, wanna see you again
I wish you’d asked me to stay

But you told me to go
For reasons only you know
Now I’m flying solo
(Flying solo…)

[Pre Chorus]
And my flight is running late
Rain is falling at the gate
I thought you were my soulmate 

[Chorus]
And I keep replaying what you said
When we were laying in your bed
And now you’re stuck in my head
Stuck in my head 

[Hook]
(Stuck in my head)
Why’d you move on
(Stuck in my head)
like we never met?
(Stuck in my head)
And now you’re stuck
(Stuck in my head)
Stuck in my head 

[Instrumental]

[Vers 2]
You said I’m married to my career
And you feel like a mistress 
But you’re the one who disappeared
And now you’re keeping secrets 

What’s his name again?
You’re my best friend 
I don’t want us to end
(Not the end…)

[Pre Chorus]
And my hands begin to shake
Every drink’s a new mistake
I thought we had what it takes

[Chorus]
Because I keep replaying what you said
When you told me our love had to end
And you’re still stuck in my head
Stuck in my head 

[Hook]
(Stuck in my head)
Why’d you move on
(Stuck in my head)
like we never met?
(Stuck in my head)
And now you’re stuck
(Stuck in my head)
Stuck in my head 

[Instrumental]

[Bridge]
Now my flight is running late
Rain is falling at the gate
I thought you were my soulmate 
And my hands begin to shake
Every drink’s a new mistake
I thought we had what it takes

[Outro]
And now I keep replaying what you said
When we were laying in your bed
And you told me our love had to end
But you’re still stuck in my head
(Stuck in my head)
Why’d you move on
(Stuck in my head)
like we never met?
(Stuck in my head)
And now you’re stuck
(Stuck in my head)
Stuck in my head 
(Stuck in my head)
Why’d you move on
(Stuck in my head)
like we never met?
(Stuck in my head)
And now you’re stuck
(Stuck in my head)
Stuck in my head 
(Stuck in my head)
Why’d you move on
(Stuck in my head)
like we never met?
(Stuck in my head)
And now you’re stuck
(Stuck in my head)
Stuck in my head

Learning To Ask, Nicely

Andy Brotherton

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