Sounds like an old Joni Mitchell track.
Rough (first) demo.

The Man In The Moon

LYRICS
Sitting in the moonshine around the glowing fire,
Drinking beer and singing old folk songs.
Sharing what we had with anyone who came to join us,
Making plans of revolution and how we’d change the world.
We’d watch the sparks rise in the night and give each one a name,
Then make a wish as they vanished for all time.
But now those friends have vanished too,
It all seems so long ago.
The revolution never came to pass.
The peace and love we wished for never made it through the night,
And all those campfire songs are only ghosts of passing lives.

    There was Jennifer, Carlos, Lynn and Christopher.
    There was Bobby with his younger brother Joe.
    Elizabeth who came to look,
    But stayed for three good years.
    But last to leave the campfire,
    That was me.

We sang our way through summer days,
We lived on air and love.
The world was ours to cherish like a song.
The tunes we played were heard in all the battlefields of power,
But we may as well have thrown them on our fire.
We played for peace and harmony, all those years ago,
And wished our campfire songs could all come true.
But wishing wells and wishbones never work in real life,
Shooting stars are someone’s dream collapsing,
All those sparks from all those fires never helped at all,
And none of these has made our dream come true.

    There was Caroline, Colin, Jane with babe in arms,
    There was David with his laugh that touched us all.
    Jimmy with his fast guitar,
    That made us want to dance,
    But last to leave the campfire,
    That was me.

Where are all our long haired friends,
And where are all our songs.
And where are all those campfire days,
That gladdened all our hearts.
For all the years mapped on our faces, nothing really changed.
Was it just a dream or were we really there.
Maybe all that peace and love was just a waste of time.
Just a youthful dream that went too far.
So many questions left unheard, so many wishes squandered,
Take me back to Woodstock, let’s do it all again,
Maybe next time we can make it all come true.

    There was Julian, Tamsin, Clair who sang so sweet,
    There was Geoffrey, so wise and yet so sad.
    Mandy with her innocence,
    That she never seemed to lose,
    But last to leave the campfire.
    That was me.

Campfire Days Mp3

LYRICS

Smooth and warm on cotton white,
Shadows loving in the night.
Denim blue upon the floor,
Do it to me just once more.
Eyes of green lit by the moon,
Don’t let the morning come too soon.
Golden hair upon my face,
Touching me like silk and lace.
Crimson lips that softly kissed,
Away my willpower to resist.
Moods of grey are all I see,
When you’re far away from me.

Only you can ever do,
The things that no one else can.
Only you can make me see,
The colour of our love.
Only you can make me feel,
The passion that you give me.
Only you have ever,
Brought this colour to my life.

Black of night high up above,
Heaven watching us make love.
Silver droplets down my spine,
Shining bodies lie entwined.
Pink and gentle next to me,
Here for all the world to see.
Saphire voice entraps my soul,
Captures and devours me whole.
Yellow sunlight creeping in,
Playing games upon your satin skin.
Lavender hanging in the air,
Reminding me when youre not there.

 copyright © John A. Read
 mayjar@aol.com                                          


Love In Colour

                                 LYRICS
      She doesn’t know what she does to me.
      Filling my heart full of love and pain.
      Tied up in knots at the thought of her,
      Knowing all the time she just doesn’t feel the same.
      She doesn’t know.  She just doesn’t know.
      I never said a word so how could she know.

Thinking about her all of the time.
Every second of every minute of every day.
Remembering the thrill of being near to her.
And the pain she brings to me.
So gently by her kindness.

Longing for the touch that never comes.
Longing for those words that say I want you too.
Slowly going crazy with the need for her.
Only getting sweetness and a smile.
While she was stealing my heart.

    She doesn’t know what she does to me.
    Filling my heart full of love and pain.
    Tied up in knots at the thought of her,
    Knowing all the time she just doesn’t feel the same.
    She doesn’t know.  She just doesn’t know.
    I never said a word so how could she know.

Words wouldn’t come when I needed them most.
She must have thought I didn’t care for her at all.
She’s everything in the world to me.
Oh but I’m nothing to her.
Now she’s left with my heart.

    She doesn’t know what she does to me.
    Filling my heart full of love and pain.
    Tied up in knots at the thought of her,
    Knowing all the time she just doesn’t feel the same.
    She doesn’t know.  She just doesn’t know.
    I never said a word so how could she know.
    She doesn’t know.   She just doesn’t know.    
                copyright: John Read ©                                      

She Doesn't Know

LYRICS
One more day, one more dollar, 
Lipstick on and hair all straight. 
Nice face, fine lace, into the mans race. 
They don't know it but I punch my weight. 
I can do it all and then some more, 
I think on my feet and I'm fast on the floor. 

Watch me now, nobody stop me. 
Just cos I'm pretty don't mean I'm weak. 
I'm not gonna stop till I've had enough. 
And I don't get going till the going gets tough.
Watch me now, here I come, 
Living in a mans world, having some fun. 
Help if you want but just don't stop me. 
Gonna do it my way, just you watch me.
One more week, one more paycheck. 
High heels on for the boardroom boys. 
Wake up, make up, working out to shape up, 
This here girl aint a boardroom toy. 
I can do it all and then some more. 
I think on my feet and I'm fast on the floor.
Watch me now, nobody stop me. 
Just cos I'm pretty don't mean I'm weak. 
I'm not gonna stop till I've had enough. 
And I don't get going till the going gets tough.
Watch me now, here I come, 
Living in a mans world, having some fun. 
Help if you want but just don't stop me,                                                                              Gonna do it my way, just you watch.
copyright © John A. Read                                                                                         mayjar@aol.com 

Watch Me Now

LYRICS
Please Mr Publisher , publish my song.
I’m tired of working all day long.
I’m getting kinda restless and it’s coming on strong.
Please Mr Publisher, publish my song.

It took me thirty minutes to make up this rhyme,
Please Mr Publisher, don’t waste my time.
There’s a pile of bills to pay and I aint got a dime,
The bailiff’s calling round at a quarter to nine.

If I don’t sell a song soon, I aint gonna eat,
I’ll be walking to the river with no shoes on my feet.
I’m down to my last candle for lighting and heat.,
One more day to go and I’ll be out on the street.

Please Mr Publisher , publish my song.
I’m tired of working all day long.
I’m getting kinda restless and it’s coming on strong.
Please Mr Publisher, publish my song.

Let me down lightly if you say no to me,
Say it’s very nice but it’s in the wrong key.
I’ve papered all my walls with rejections you see.
Another Dear John is the last thing I need.

Don’t throw this tape recording into your bin,
Give it to a megastar with hair on his chin.
All medallions and suntan, so masculine,
Don’t give it to a has been, who’s hitting the gin.

Please Mr Publisher, publish my song.
I’m tired of working all day long.
I’m getting kinda restless and it’s coming on strong.
Please Mr Publisher, publish my song.

When it’s number one you will see I was right,
You can send me lots of money, I’ll get high as a kite.
It’ll get played on the radio and all night satellite,
You’ll sign me up for peanuts and take everything I write.

I know you’re sitting there with your coffee and your bun,
Thinking put it on fast forward, let’s have some fun.
But if you let this one slip by, you really must be dumb,
’Cos it’s gonna get you fired when it goes platinum.

Mr Publisher

LYRICS
Stop that girl, call the police,
If she don’t stop, I’ll need a priest.
Do anything, just make her stop,
She’s running away with my heart.
 
I came home early in the evening,
Caught her in the act of leaving.
Bags all packed with my possessions,
Just my heart and all her love.
Tried to make her think again,
Tried to force her to remain.
She just laughed and made her exit.
Call the police, I’ve just been robbed.
 
 Stop that girl, call the police,
If she don’t stop, I’ll need a priest.
Do anything, just make her stop,
She’s running away with my heart.
 
She hit me when I wasn’t looking.
Didn’t know what she had cooking.
Stole my heart while I was down,
Oh no, I’ve just been mugged.
Next time I’ll use chains and locks,
I’ve had enough of lovers knocks,
I don’t think I’ll survive this pain,
Wont someone please call a priest.
 
 Stop that girl, call the police,
If she don’t stop, I’ll need a priest.
Do anything, just make her stop,
She’s running away with my heart.
 
 Stop that girl, call the police,
If she don’t stop, I’ll need a priest.
Do anything, just make her stop,
She’s running away with my heart.
She’s running away with my heart.
copyright © John A. Read                                                                                                                                                                                                          mayjar@aol.com.                                                                                                         


Stop That Girl

LYRICS

Okay I'm wrong, it's my mistake.
One human slip, that's all it was.
Don't be mad, she's gone for good,
I promise she's the last.

Okay, okay, I know the score,
She's not the first, she's number four.
But what the heck, who's counting.
No need to get upset.

If I were you I'd hold me tight.
I'd want to be with me all night.
If I were you, I'd want my man,
To be as perfect as I am.
If I were you, I'd love me.

What's the point of getting angry,
She was just a one night stand.
Try to see my point of view,
I had some time to spare.

Now look what you have gone and done,
You've smashed that photograph of me,
Serves you right if I walked out,
That was mean and spiteful.

Just think again before you leave,
There's not a lot like me out there.
You know you'll miss me pretty soon,
You wont get lucky twice.

That's my suitcase in the hall,
But I thought you were leaving me.
Okay, okay, I'm going,
But you'll soon change your mind.

Come on girl, I know you love me,
Even when I play around.
You can't resist me near you,
Now put that poker down.

Okay, alright, I get the hint,
You want me out of here right now. 
I just don't see the problem, 
Why do you feel like this. 

Copyright © John A.Read

If I Were You

LYRICS

Standing here just looking at you,
I can't believe my eyes.
You've stepped out of my wildest dreams,
I don't ever want to sleep again.
Because my dreams have all come true.
I am awake and I can still see you.
Am I still dreaming.

Is this real, can it all be true,
I can't believe my luck.
You are all that I ever wished for,
Could you really want me too.
Wrapped in your arms, you're holding me tight,
Here I am with you, and it feels so right.
Can it be true.

This must be love, it feels so good.
Just holding you like this.
The touch of you that I dream about.
That first exciting kiss.
I've never been so sure before,
But now I know it's true.
You will be mine forever.
'Cos I am in love with you.

Am I really holding you close,
Are you really in my arms.
Are your lips so close to mine,
Are you really kissing me.
You are the light that's shown me the way,
Here I am with you and you're here to stay.
Am I still dreaming.

Is this my imagination,
Playing tricks on me.
All those lonely nights are gone,
You're the only one I've ever longed for.
Now love is here and it's growing fast,
Here I am with you and it's going to last.
Can it be true.

I've got you and you've got me,
It feels so natural.
I've never felt this way before,
And it's all because of you.
There is a heaven up above.
We are together and we are in love.
Here I am with you.

copyright © John A Read 2015

Here With You

LYRICS

What would I do
Without your love.
What in the world would I do.
What would I be,
Without you.

Nothing. Nothing at all.
 
What would I have
Not a whole damn lot.
If I didn’t have you.
You’re all I’ve got.

Take the birds from the trees,
Take the fish from the sea.
Take the beat from my heart,
If you ever leave me.
Take the sun from the sky,
If I ever lose you.

Who could I love.
Without you here.
Who in the world could I love.
Who could there be,
Like you.

No one. No one at all.

Why should I care,
If I’m loved or not.
In a world without you,
You’re all I’ve got.
 
Take the birds from the trees.
Take the fish from the sea.
Take the beat from my heart,
If you ever leave me.

copyright © John A. Read

You're All I've Got

LYRICS

Going downtown where the lights shine bright,
Gonna have some fun with the boys tonight.
Worked like a dog and the week is long,
Now I’m looking for a girl and a drink and a song.
Pocket full of money and it’s making me itch,
‘Cos I can’t get used to being this rich.
I’m gonna have a good time, there aint no doubt.
That I wont be home until the money runs out.

Going downtown on the early train,
Gonna be some time before I’m home again.
I’ll be singing when I get back home with the boys.
So don’t wait up and don’t be bothered by the noise.
I’m never gonna be a millionaire,
Always have to sweat just to earn my share.
But I aint complaining, not tonight.
‘Cos I’m going downtown where the lights are bright.
 
There’s a drink with my name on a bar somewhere.
There’s a good looking girl without a man.
There’s a good time somewhere waiting for me.
And I’m getting there as soon as I can.

Going downtown where the music’s hot.
Where the beer is cold but the girls are not.
Looking for a good time, don’t care how.
But I want it fast and I want it now.
Going all the way and I don’t care where,
If it’s on tonight then you’ll see me there.
I got the money and the mood is right,
So I’m going downtown on a Friday night.

There’s a drink with my name on a bar somewhere.  
There’s a good looking girl without a man.                        
There’s a good time somewhere waiting for me.               
And I’m getting there as soon as I can.

copyright John A. Read ©

Going Downtown m

LYRICS

Well here I am again,
Breaking your heart again.
It seems to be the only thing I'm good at.
But you really should have known,
This day would come along.
After all, we've had enough rehearsals.

I know you love me more than I deserve,
I'll always remember how you hugged me tight,
And said I make everything alright.
That was really very sweet of you.
Oh how it's going to break your heart,
When I tear all that apart.
And tell you that I'm leaving you.

I fell in love with another girl,
But I didn't fall out of love with you.
God must have a wicked sense of humour,
When he made the rules so hard to follow through.

If only you'd been spiteful.
Done the things that some girls do.
But you've done nothing to deserve,
What I'm going to do to you.
Perhaps I'll be a coward,
And sneak into the night.
You'll wake up in the morning,
Thinking everything's alright.

But I couldn't bear the thought,
Of not being there when you need me.
That's a stupid weakness isn't it,
When I'll soon be gone for good.
So I'll wait until the moment's right,
Before I do my worst.
Telling you I love you,
Saying we can still be friends.
Anything you want to hear,
Even that I'll stay.
Then when you think you've won me back,
You'll see me walk away.

copyright © John A Read 2008

BreakingYourHeart

A beautiful emotive classical instrumental. 

One Free Spirit.

LYRICS

Standing here just looking at you,
I can't believe my eyes.
You've stepped out of my wildest dreams,
I don't ever want to sleep again.
Because my dreams have all come true.
I am awake and I can still see you.
Am I still dreaming.

Is this real, can it all be true,
I can't believe my luck.
You are all that I ever wished for,
Could you really want me too.
Wrapped in your arms, you're holding me tight,
Here I am with you, and it feels so right.
Can it be true.

This must be love, it feels so good.
Just holding you like this.
The touch of you that I dream about.
That first exciting kiss.
I've never been so sure before,
But now I know it's true.
You will be mine forever.
'Cos I am in love with you.

Am I really holding you close,
Are you really in my arms.
Are your lips so close to mine,
Are you really kissing me.
You are the light that's shown me the way,
Here I am with you and you're here to stay.
Am I still dreaming.

Is this my imagination,
Playing tricks on me.
All those lonely nights are gone,
You're the only one I've ever longed for.
Now love is here and it's growing fast,
Here I am with you and it's going to last.
Can it be true.

I've got you and you've got me,
It feels so natural.
I've never felt this way before,
And it's all because of you.
There is a heaven up above.
We are together and we are in love.
Here I am with you.                                                 

 copyright © John A Read 2000

LYRICS 

Highways snaking through the air,
Movers shaking everywhere.
People watching, sights to see.
Living high in Beverley.

Shining towers of power and glory,
Every grown ups bed time story.
Sun kissed land of dollar bills,
Growing wild up in the hills.

Chauffeur driven limousines,
Made to measure beauty queens.
Working easy playing hard,
Cruising down the boulevard.

City of wishes, city of hope.
City of dreams come true.
City of light and shining stars,
L.A. City Of Angels.

Posing bodies shining brown,
Hanging out around the town.
Pumping iron looking mean,
Got to keep up with the scene.

Cocktail parties round the pool,
White tuxedos looking cool.
Talent scouting just for fun,
Underneath the L.A. sun.

Serving tables just for dimes,
Getting through the hungry times.
Palms to press, calls to make,
Waiting for that lucky break.

City of wishes, city of hope.
City of dreams come true.
City of light and shining stars,
L.A. City Of Angels.

copyright © John A Read 2009

City Of Angels m

LYRICS
 
Maybe it's me. Maybe you.
Things just happen like they do.
Confessed your love then nothing more,
Commitment slithered out the door.
Loving you tears me apart.
Who knows what's happening.

Maybe something. Maybe not.
Happening cold then happening hot.
Confused my up from upside down.
Forgot my left hook. Turned around.
Loving you confuses me.
Who knows what's happening.

Maybe feelings could be shared.
But then he'd have to show he cared.
Maybe when we touch tonight,
He'll utter words of love and light.
Maybe he'll just fall asleep,
And wake up in a sweaty heap.
All yellow teeth and matted hair.
Man I'm glad I wont be there.

Maybe sometimes. Maybe never.
Maybe always and forever.
Man you sure came from the sack.
Hell I wish you'd go right back.
Loving you drives me insane.
Who knows what's happening.

Maybe feelings could be shared.
But then he'd have to show he cared.
Maybe when we touch tonight,
He'll utter words of love and light.
Maybe he'll just fall asleep,
And wake up in a sweaty heap.
All yellow teeth and matted hair.
Man I'm glad I wont be there.

copyright © John A Read 2010

Maybe

LYRICS

Father was a redneck, working with his hands.
Didn’t understand that wasn’t for me.
Wanted me to follow him, just like that.
Couldn’t understand what I wanted to be.

I never let him see me with my guitar in hand,
He said the likes of us shouldn’t bother with that.
If only I’d had the nerve to do as I pleased,
I wouldn’t be a redneck just like him.
 
Father was a mans man, drinking with the boys,
Letting off steam down at the local bar.
He wanted me to stand my round just like him,
Lose my money on the horses or a beat up car.
 
Didn’t want to spend my time a number in the line,
All I wanted was to make my guitar sing.
But all that was for nancy boys, father said.
And now I am a redneck just like him.

Father was a soldier in his younger days,
Said it didn’t do him any harm at all.
Told me that some discipline would make a man of me,
Wanted me to fight a war just like him.

Father never had a dime all his life,
Worked his fingers to the bone for the company.
I thought I could do better, I was smarter than him,
Now here I am at his age in the same routine.
 
Smart ideas were not enough to get me out of here,
I fell into the trap just like all the rest.
He would have been so proud of me, working just like him.
Another generation. I’m my fathers boy.

John A. Read © 2009

Fathers Boy

LYRICS

Close the door and turn the key,
Draw the blinds and come to me.
Here we are alone together,
So let's make love and last forever.

So wont you hug me,
Squeeze me,
Kiss me, tease me.
Hold me, love me,
Thrill me, please me.
It's heaven in my arms with you,
I'm loving all the things you do.

I wanna leave the world and go and hide,
Cos I've got you with me inside.
So do whatever's on your mind,
I love you, we've got nothing but time.

So wont you hug me, 
Squeeze me,
Kiss me, tease me.
Hold me, love me,
Thrill me, please me.
It's heaven in my arms with you,
I'm loving all the things you do.

You're just what I need,
To take me away,
Sweet pleasure night or day.
Real desire, it feels so good.

So wont you hug me,
Squeeze me,
Kiss me, tease me.
Hold me, love me,
Thrill me, please me.
It's heaven in my arms with you,
I'm loving all the things you do.

copyright © John A Read 2009

The Things You Do

LYRICS

It's probably me.
It's probably you.
It's probably all you put me through.
It's probably best that we just part.
Will it be you who wins my heart.
Probably not.

Who's the one who wrecked the car
Who's the one who cheated.
Who's the one who blew five grand,
On that losing poker hand.

Will you be here to pay the rent,
Or tell me where the money went.
Well, Probably not.

It's probably me.
Its probably you.
It's probably all you put me through.
It's probably best that we just part.
Will it be you who wins my heart.
Probably not.

Who got beer stains on my dress,
When you were flirting with the waitress.
Who's the one who killed the cat,
When you fell drunk where it was sat.

Will you surprise me with a gift,
That wont get us arrested.
Well, Probably not.

It's probably me.
It's probably you.
It's probably all you put me through.
It's probably best that we just part.
Will it be you who wins my heart.
Probably not.

If China wins the Superbowl,
And man lands on the sun.
If Elvis makes a comeback soon.
And Cher becomes a nun.
Then I promise that,
I'll take you back, in seconds flat.
Well........ Probably not.

copyright © John A Read 2009

Probably Not

LYRICS

Meet me at the usual place at ten o clock,
My sweetheart said over the phone.
I was driving ninety miles just to be in his arms.
I was tired of being alone.

My overnight bag was packed with toothbrush & perfume.
I wouldn't be needing much more.
When you're spending the night,
Behind a lover's motel door.

I started on the road leaving plenty of time,
The love I had just wouldn't wait.
I hadn't seen my sweetheart in almost a month,
This is one time I wouldn't be late.

The roads were fairly empty, I was making good time.
The lights were all shining me through.
If only just a few more had stopped me on red,
I wouldn't be crying over you.

Three  miles to go and I'm floating on air.
It's a straight road up to your door.
Three miles to go to the end of my dream,
Then you wouldn't be mine any more.

I was aching for your touch as I got out of the car,
Just in time to see you kissing her goodbye.
I'd arrived a little early thinking you would be pleased,
I tried to shout, but just whispered, 'Why.'

You saw me standing there like a statue in a square,
You just turned and walked back to your room.
That's the last I ever saw,
Of the man that I longed for.
I'd arrived three miles too soon.

John A. Read © 2012

Three Miles Too Soon

LYRICS
(Revised lyrics - For USA)

I hear them talking about the new girl you've been seeing,
And you've been talking loudest of them all.
I hear them saying that my bags are packed and ready,
And you've been saying the most as usual.
Half the town's been staring, wondering when I’m gonna show.
When you going to tell me what everybody seems to know.

The plumber knew, the barman knew.
And so did my best friend.
Your mother knew, the neighbours knew,
Our love was at an end.
You told them all that we were through,
You told them you were free.
But you forgot to tell someone........
You didn't tell me.

I gave you loving but you thought the grass was greener.
And all you gave me was something I'd forget.
And now you've got her and although I've never seen her,
When I see her, man, she's gonna be upset.
Half the town's been staring, wondering when I'm gonna show.
When you going to tell me what everybody seems to know.

copyright © John A Read 2014

You Didn't Tell Me

LYRICS.

Sitting in the moonshine around the glowing fire,
Drinking beer and singing old folk songs.
Sharing what we had with anyone who came to join us,
Making plans of revolution and how we’d change the world.
We’d watch the sparks rise in the night and give each one a name,
Then make a wish as they vanished for all time.
But now those friends have vanished too,
It all seems so long ago.
The revolution never came to pass.
The peace and love we wished for never made it through the night,
And all those campfire songs are only ghosts of passing lives.

    There was Jennifer, Carlos, Lynn and Christopher.
    There was Bobby with his younger brother Joe.
    Elizabeth who came to look,
    But stayed for three good years.
    But last to leave the campfire,
    That was me.

We sang our way through summer days,
We lived on air and love.
The world was ours to cherish like a song.
The tunes we played were heard in all the battlefields of power,
But we may as well have thrown them on our fire.
We played for peace and harmony, all those years ago,
And wished our campfire songs could all come true.
But wishing wells and wishbones never work in real life,
Shooting stars are someone’s dream collapsing,
All those sparks from all those fires never helped at all,
And none of these has made our dream come true.

    There was Caroline, Colin, Jane with babe in arms,
    There was David with his laugh that touched us all.
    Jimmy with his fast guitar,
    That made us want to dance,
    But last to leave the campfire,
    That was me.

Where are all our long haired friends,
And where are all our songs.
And where are all those campfire days,
That gladdened all our hearts.
For all the years mapped on our faces, nothing really changed.
Was it just a dream or were we really there.
Maybe all that peace and love was just a waste of time.
Just a youthful dream that went too far.
So many questions left unheard, so many wishes squandered,
Take me back to Woodstock, let’s do it all again,
Maybe next time we can make it all come true.

    There was Julian, Tamsin, Clair who sang so sweet,
    There was Geoffrey, so wise and yet so sad.
    Mandy with her innocence,
    That she never seemed to lose,
    But last to leave the campfire.
    That was me.

Campfire Days

LYRICS   (Read / Adriaco)
You came to me from I know not where,
Without a past and without a care,
That day.
You showed me love that I never knew
My heart could feel until I met you.
That day
 
You gave me the sweetest love,
My fickle hearted stranger,
Came and took my heart and stole away.
Like a thief you took it all.
Then you left without a word.
Just a stranger passing through,
Left me here without my world.
 
How I wish I never knew
The stranger only passing through.
 
You taught me things that I never knew,
Were possible with a man like you.
That day.
My heart was full with a lover's high,
I touched the clouds in a sunshine sky,
That day.
 
You gave me the sweetest love,
My fickle hearted stranger,
Came and took my heart and stole away.
Like a thief you took it all.
Then you left without a word.
Just a stranger passing through,
Left me here without my world.
 
How I wish I never knew
The stranger only passing though.
 
Now I wish there'd never been you.
Now I wish I'd never seen you.
What am I supposed to do.
Without you in my world now.
Here alone without you feeling blue.
 
Repeat as necessary.

The Sweetest Love

LYRICS

All the love in the world,
I gave you.
Everything I had,
You took.
All my hopes were raised,
Then nothing.
All my dreams came true,
Then lost.

You came you saw,
You conquered me.
You took my breath away,
And flew me around the universe.
You said we'd never part,
Then you broke your promise,
And my optimistic heart.

I couldn't believe my eyes,
When you walked away.
And my world came falling down.
I didn't know I could feel like this,
Some lost and lonely clown.
You must have had a laugh,
On the day you pulled apart,
My optimistic heart.

You came you saw,
You conquered me.
You took my breath away.
And flew me around the universe.
You said we'd never part,
Then you broke your promise,
And my optimistic heart.

I was yours forever 
You were mine always. 
Forever didn't last, 
Always came and went, 
And took my optimistic heart.

copyright © John A. Read

Optimistic Heart

Try not to fall apart,
Help is coming with an open heart,
Dry your tears, hide your fears,
Show your smile one more time, till the truth hurts. 

Try not to lose your trust,
When our promises have turned to dust.
Cross your heart, hope to die,
We'll drop by, and pick up the pieces. 

Everybody wants to love you,
Everybody hurts when you hurt. 
But when all the lights go out at night,
Does anyone hear you call ? 

Everybody understands you.
Everybody knows your problems.
But when all the lights go out at night,
Is anyone there at all ? 

You've just got lucky again. 
We are smart and we can feel your pain,
Here we go, one more time,
Put your faith in our hands, don't give in. 

We love the love that you show,
It makes us shiny with a feel good glow.
Play the game, what's your name,
Cheerio, we'll see you next time. 

Everybody wants to love you,
Everybody hurts when you hurt. 
But when all the lights go out at night,
Does anyone hear you call ?.

Everybody understands you.
Everybody knows your problems.
But when all the lights go out at night,
Is anyone there at all ?

Everybody needs to feel love
Everybody needs some kindness.
Everybody heard you calling for love. 
Did anyone help at all ?

Everybody heard you crying,
Everybody heard you dying,
But when all your lights go out tonight,
Will you still be all alone ?

When The Lights Go Out

LYRICS

Never in a hurry, whenever you’re with me.
Easy in my heart because of you.
Grow together wise and calm,
You’re always by my side.
Always by my side.

Letting go of all I’ve never really needed.
Happy with the world and with your love.
Quiet in my thoughts am I,
You’re sharing life with me.

Lazy is my love for you,
Lazy in my arms are you.
Drifting through my dreams are you,
Carefree in my life with you.

Showing me that love cures all, and love is all we need.
Lifting me to higher ground with you.
Smoothing over every care,
By simply being with you.

Lazy is my love for you,
Lazy in my arms are you.
Drifting through my dreams are you,
Carefree in my life with you.

Drifting through my dreams are you,
Pleasing one another without a spoken word.
Never minding, knowing when to give and take.
Experience the key.
Never minding which it is at all.
 
Lazy is my love for you,
Lazy in my arms are you.
Drifting through my dreams are you,                                                                      Carefree in my life with you.                                             

 copyright © John A. Read

Lazy f

LYRICS

He doesn’t know what he does to me,
He doesn’t know.
 
Thinking about him all the time.
Every second of every minute of every day.
Remembering the thrill of being near to him.
And the pain that he brings.
So gently by his kindness.
 
He doesn’t know what he does to me,
Filling my heart full of love and pain.
Love and pain.
Tied up in knots at the thought of him,
Knowing all the time he just doesn’t feel the same.
He doesn’t feel the same. 
He doesn’t know, he just doesn’t know.
I never said a word so how could he know.
How could he know.
He doesn’t know what he does to me,
Filling my heart full of love and pain.

Words wouldn’t come when I needed them.
He must have thought I didn’t care for him at all.
He’s everything in the world to me.
But I’m nothing to him.
Now he’s left with my heart and my soul.

He doesn’t know what he does to me.
Filling my heart full of love and pain.
Tied up in knots at the thought of him,
Knowing all the time he just doesn’t feel the same.  
He doesn’t know, he just doesn’t know.                             
I never said a word so how could he know.                       
How could he know.                                                           
He doesn’t know what he does to me,                               
Filling my heart full of love and pain

copyright © John A. Read

He Doesnt Know

LYRICS

Did the sky fall down when you turned around, 
And I wasn’t there. 
Did the earth collapse when you woke alone, 
Like a new born baby. 
Do you hug the phone to be near to me 
At the other end. 
Tell me, when you reached for me 
But just got thin air, 
Did the sky come falling down.
Did your life stand still when you knew for sure, 
I was gone for good. 
Did the empty walls try to eat your heart, 
When you cried for days. 
Have you lain awake for a million years, 
In a cold, cold sweat. 
Tell me when you said my name 
And the silence laughed, 
Did the sky come falling down.
‘Cos when you walked away and left me alone. 
The whole damn sky fell down on top of me. 
‘Cos when my door slammed shut 
Like a prison cell, 
The whole damn sky fell down on top of me.
Do you think of me with another love 
Where you used to be. 
Can you touch that fear like a jealous child              
At the thought of me..                                                                  
Have you prayed so hard to be mine again                             
That you’ve felt such a fool.                                                                                            
Tell me when you said hello,                                                            
Did you have to smile,                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    
Did you touch the sky.                                                                       
 ‘Cos when I saw you there holding hands like that,                           
The whole damn sky fell down on top of me

John A. Read © 2009

The Sky Fell Down f

LYRICS

Let there be light
In my heart full of wonder.
Let there be joy
In my life full with you.

Let there be times
Filled with nothing but pleasure.
You’re in my life,
And there’s love everlasting with you.

You bring the sun
Where before there was darkness.
You bring the meaning
To each new born day.
You brought me peace,
Where my heart was not peaceful.
You’re in my life
And there’s love all around now you’re here.

My life is rich,
With the love you have brought me.
Each day with you,
Brings me all I desire.

You are the breath
On my lips that completes me.
You’re in my life
And there’s love everlasting with you.

You bring the sun
Where before there was darkness.
You bring the meaning
To each new born day.
You brought me peace,
Where my heart was not peaceful
You’re in my life
And there’s love all around now you’re here.

 John A. Read  ©   Lyrics & Music

Love Everlasting

LYRICS

My soul is weary,
I'm going home.
I've been away too long,
From where my heart belongs.

We've been blessed with lives to share,
Now it's time to part. 
Think of me when I am gone.
I'll be with you in your heart.

When I'm home in all my glory.
Will you say a little prayer for me.
Guide my footsteps on their journey,
Say a little prayer for me.
Say a little prayer for me.

Keep my memory safe from harm.
I did the best I could.
Think of me when times get hard,
I'll be by your side.
We'll only be a little prayer apart.

copyright © Read/Glennie.

Say A Little Prayer.f

LYRICS

Highways snaking through the air,
Movers shaking everywhere.
People watching, sights to see.
Living high in Beverley.

Shining towers of power and glory,
Every grown ups bed time story.
Sun kissed land of dollar bills,
Growing wild up in the hills.

Chauffeur driven limousines,
Made to measure beauty queens.
Working easy playing hard,
Cruising down the boulevard.

City of wishes, city of hope.
City of dreams come true.
City of light and shining stars,
L.A. City Of Angels.

Posing bodies shining brown,
Hanging out around the town.
Pumping iron looking mean,
Got to keep up with the scene.

Cocktail parties round the pool,
White tuxedos looking cool.
Talent scouting just for fun,
Underneath the L.A. sun.

Serving tables just for dimes,
Getting through the hungry times.
Palms to press, calls to make,
Waiting for that lucky break.

City of wishes, city of hope.
City of dreams come true.
City of light and shining stars,
L.A. City Of Angels.

copyright © John A Read 2009

City Of Angels

E.mail: mayjar@aol.com
Born and raised in Birmingham England where I went to the same school as Jeff Lynn of ELO fame, and was raised in the same neighborhood as Duran Duran and a short drive from Ozzy Osbourne - Black Sabbath. I worked in Cabaret Theatre for many years - in charge of stage and lighting for artists such as - Three Degrees; Jack Jones; Dionne Warwick; Supremes; Buddy Rich; Rose Royce; Odyssey; Commodores; Osmonds; Dr Hook; Four Tops; Hollies; Sister Sledge; Martha Reeves - and many more. My first piano lessons were on the Theatre's Grand Piano on an empty stage, where I would drive the other staff crazy by practising scales for hours on end. I often had help from visiting MDs and artists such as Victor Borge. Before music took hold, my first writing success was short scripts and comedy sketches for TV and radio. As a songwriter, I have written with world famous percussionist Evelyn Glennie OBE. & with John Hamilton (18 weeks in the charts.) & with the superb www.donnabritton.com I have a song on the latest Sham Rock CD, 'The Album'. Sham Rock had a massive chart hit with their song 'Tell Me Ma.' The album is produced by Grammy award winner, Philip Larson, (Kylie Minogue; Mary J Blige) and features songs by Tom Springfield and a spine tingling ballad by Paul McCartney. My song, 'Watch Me Now' is a rockin, foot stomping 'girl power' song that was originally written for a Whoopi Goldberg film, but was dropped at the eleventh hour for a Gospel song. I have also had 'near misses' with Celine Dion; & Jennifer Rush. I've been signed to: Warner Chappell; The International Music Network; MKM Germany, Faber Music, Strange Art Music; and others. HOT NEWS: Now have two tracks on the superb new album by Isaac Angel. www.isaacangel.com                                                                                                                                               http://www.reverbnation.com/johnaread                                 http://www.myspace.com/johnaread                                 www.broadjam.com/johnread                                                         

John A.Read

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