Children of the Lotus Blues

A soulful blues folk rendition of Buddhist wisdom teachings, "Children of the Lotus Blues" weaves ancient spiritual concepts into an accessible American roots framework. The song tells the story of enlightened children seeking truth while featuring haunting call-and-response vocals that echo traditional spirituals. Backed by sparse, emotive acoustic guitar work, the gentle thrum of stand-up bass, and mournful harmonica interludes, this contemplative piece bridges Eastern philosophy and Western folk traditions. The lyrics transform the formal structure of the Lotus Sutra's teachings into an intimate, accessible journey that resonates across cultural boundaries while maintaining spiritual authenticity.

Lyrics: 
Verse 1: 
Dawn was breakin', light was shakin' 
When those children put their toys away 
Hearts on fire, souls reachin' higher 
Seekin' out the Buddha's Way, 
(oh yeah, Seekin' out the Buddha's Way)

Chorus: 
Tell us the truth, oh wise one 
Set our troubled souls free 
Show us the light within us 
Show what we all can be

Verse 2: 
Minds like water, clear and knowin' 
They bowed before their father wise 
No gold or treasure could they measure 
Against the truth before their eyes, 
(oh Lord, Against the truth before their eyes)

Chorus: 
Tell us the truth, oh wise one 
Set our troubled souls free 
Show us the light within us 
Show what we all can be

Bridge: 
"If we reach that other shore," they said 
"Others can follow too 
The path we walk, the chains we break 
Will help all beings break through" 
(Help all beings break through)

Verse 3: 
While we're walkin' through this valley 
Caught in sufferin's endless wheel 
These children show the way to go 
Where wisdom's flame burns real, so real,
(Where wisdom's flame burns real)

Chorus: 
Tell us the truth, oh wise one 
Set our troubled souls free 
Show us the light within us 
Show what we all can be

Verse 4: 
Like a lotus in the water 
The Dharma blooms in every heart 
From the darkness into brightness 
We've been Buddhas from the start, 
my friend,  
(We've been Buddhas from the start)

Final Chorus: 
Tell us the truth, oh wise one 
Set our troubled souls free 
Show us the light within us 
Show what we all can be 
(Show what we all can be) 
(Show what we all can be)
[Harmonica outro]



Children of the Lotus Blues

I Want To Be the light

Funny

Maitreya Bodhisattva, "the Fat Buddha," has been practicing patience for lifetimes. His big belly doesn't come from over-eating, but from enduring everybody's insults without reacting. On Lunar New Year's, Buddhists celebrate Maitreya Bodhisattva's anniversary and this is an English version of the traditional story of "the Old Fool." 

The Old Fool

DRY ICE by Nirosta Steel is out now! The album collects songs recorded in the '80s and '90s under various circumstances and worldly locations, as selected by Elodie Lauten after going through hundreds of assorted CDs of Steven Hall's compositions. Released as a limited CD-only issue in 2003, DRY ICE has been unearthed and remastered by the Buddhist Army label for the digital age. It features appearances by members of Arthur's Landing and at least a couple Hong Kong pop stars like Lam Man. Here she sings the chorus translated in Mandarin by her brother Chet Lam. The original was co-written by Steven and Arthur Russell. Keyboard by Elodie Lauten.

Foto: Nirosta Steel

Dedicated to Tom Lee

Nirosta Steel - LOST IN THOUGHT ft. Lam Man/Elodie Lauten - from DRY ICE

Let It Go

This is my acapella version of Compassionate and Wise or Dedication of Merit

Dedication Of Merit

Little Boy

Someone you admire, whose goals you want to share, someone to learn from -- in short, a mentor. Mine is Daisaku Ikeda. This is for him, and other mentors and dreamers.

Better Times

Don't hate me because I'm different; if everything were the same, life would be hell. The swing goes up!

The Swing

Please like and share. 
Welcome to the musical world of The William Altig Choir, where ancient wisdom meets contemporary sound.

Inspired by the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and infused with deep spiritual themes, my music blends the rich traditions of blues and folk with modern elements, creating a unique fusion that resonates with both the heart and soul.

I've been captivated by the Lotus Sutra's messages of compassion, wisdom, and transformation since my youth. It's a journey of self-discovery that has found its voice in my music. Each song is a reflection of my own spiritual awakening and a celebration of universal truths.

My style is characterized by emotive storytelling, powerful lyrics, and a commitment to exploring the depths of human experience. Featuring contemplative blues, acoustic slide guitar, saxophone melodies, and the harmonies of a gospel choir, my music reflects a quest for enlightenment and a better understanding of the self.

Join me on this musical journey. Together, we can explore the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, finding solace, hope, and a deeper connection to the world around us.

#SpiritualMusic  #LotusSutraMusic  #ContemplativeBlues  #BuddhistGospel #AcousticSlideGuitar  #GospelChoir  #Self-Discovery  #SpiritualAwakening  #Hope  #The_William_Altig_Choir

Urban Cowboy


Contact: Buddhistarmy@gmail.com

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