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rittmo's own Sweet Joyce telling how they met.
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The original FAWM entry and lyrics follow.
Tim Fatchen
2012-02-11 @ 07:55pm
tags: spoken-word urban folk
Rittmo' sez: After reading my FAWM bio, Annie Mayo Graf (Rhymetime) suggested that I find music for it, so I did :) I found Tim Fatchen's beautiful piece titled "Turnaround"
Tim sez: This just turned out...amazing! I think this collab is the single most moving piece of art I've been involved with this year. Rittmo' has taken his bio, touched my music, and put the two together in such a way that it transcends both. And the music originally was...just a turnaround stocking filler...
Lyrics by and Copyright © 2012 Rittmo' (Richard Blum)
Music by and Copyright © 2012 TJ Fatchen
All Rights Reserved
Lyrics
For twenty five odd years I drove a graveyard shift taxi
through the worst neighborhoods of NYC.
Through my picture window I've seen angels surrounding
the stars, the devils daughter feet dangling off a crescent moon,
her eyes on fire. I greeted the suits and those in rags
with the same how are you doin' smile,
somehow along the road I logged three million unscratched miles.
I believe I know about as much about footprints in the sand as any man
can I've seen good and evil first hand, drove a hit man to a club
called sin city, he asked if I wanted to stop in for a drink,
I respectfully declined; as I drove away I could hear gunfire,
sometimes in the city, things ain't so pretty,
and so I write lyrics for songs to be,
you would think I'd be more cryptic,
but that just isn't me....:)
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"Christmas Creativity" written and performed by Rittmo'
From the album Wintersongs http://wintersongs.bandcamp.com/album/wintersongs
for more Rittmo' music & sounds, please visit: soundcloud.com/taxicat
lyrics
Christmas Creativity
snow on a tuesday morning
came with no warning
I said it feels like Christmas
and sure enough
the calender on the wall
said it was time
to deck the halls
here in my retreat
it's easy to lose track of time
but looking at the white pines
even I could see
reindeer outlining the clouds
and for the child in me
that's what Christmas
is all about
imagination running wild
giving off the widest of smiles
the gift of Christmas creativity
is my most cherished reality
me and my beau
celebrating mistletoe
a cabin in the woods
everything better than good
the whole world unwrapping presents
isn't that the essence of Christmas
here in my retreat
it's easy to lose track of time
but looking at the white pines
even I could see
reindeer outlining the clouds
and for the child in me
that's what Christmas
is all about
imagination running wild
giving off the widest of smiles
the gift of Christmas creativity
is my most cherished reality
rittmo'
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Black Dog Creek
You got a black cat bone
Chasin a lucky streak
Cant miss a break
Feelin real sweet
But it wont be long
I hear them speak
Before they find you in
Black Dog creek
You can play the angles
You can shoot the wall
You think you got
What will beat them all
But some folk say
You sold your soul
Someday they’ll find you
In that waterhole
That black dog creek
Black dog creek
Cold and dark
and it’s oh so deep
When you’re at the top
It’s a long way down
In Black dog creek
You sure to drown
When the queens wont fall
And when the jacks don’t roll
Stay away from that waterhole
You cant drink the water
You cant eat the dirt
You goin need some help to wash away the hurt
Of the pain that you aint feeling
Any more
That black dog creek
Black dog creek
Cold and dark
And it’s oh so deep
When you’re at the top
It’s a long way down
In Black dog creek
You sure to drown
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Ten Paces
should we take ten paces turn and fire
find a dirt road in some small town
over is over, shoot each other dead
whistle marie elaina as the sun goes down
it's such a waste to patch things up
we always come back to the same place
making lame excuses, I didn't mean it
better to blow a kiss, leave without a trace
Pre Chorus
yet it's as if we're frozen in a deep freeze
no matter how hard we try, there's no release
Chorus
the music starts, we swing, we tango
we are the rhythm, we are the beat
our systems overloaded with heat
my cape is smooth like satin sheets
our souls flying, we convice ourselves
that our wounded hearts are lying
Bridge
but when the music stops
we're back to where we came from
our passion not quite as hot
in the dull echo of a big a bass drum
should we take ten paces turn and fire
find a dirt road in some small town
over is over, shoot each other dead
whistle marie elaina as the sun goes down
the music starts, we swing, we tango
...............
the music stops
............
should we take ten paces turn and fire
rittmo'
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My notes show that track was recorded on Christmas Eve 2011. I had just announced that I planned a compilation album of Valentine's Day tracks with my friends at Songsmiths Anonymous. Within an hour Rittmo posted the lyrics for this track and sent me an email asking if I'd add music to it. We'd been in contact quite a bit at that time since he'd contributed many songs/lyrics to 2 prior Songsmith Anonymous complilation albums I'd compiled. The lyrics really effected me and a few hours later I sent him the track for his approval. His response "WooooooooHooooooooooo Wolf!!!!!!!!!!!! Great job at undercovering rittmo meter :) Yes include it!!!!!!!! Thanks"
So I guess he was happy. I hope he's still happy. His enthusiasm for the creative process and its healing bonding power was inspirational. His writing as you can see from the collected jewels on this album was always great and very very often sublime. The energy was infectious. I miss Ritt'.
You can find links to the Songsmiths Anonymous Collection albums, Wickedsongs, WIntersongs and Valentunes on the main album page here (as well as many more links to help you explore a greater sampling of Ritt's work with music and other creative accomplishments between 2004 and 2013. http://rittmo-rip.bandcamp.com/album/rittmo-r-i-p
Thanks to all who brought love to this collection.
Wolf.
+++++++++++++++++++LYRICS++++++++++++++
Rittmo' Style Valentine
breathe deep the smog and smut
makes one proud to be alive
send a taxi for my valentine
black with bright yellow tires
hell on wheels told you so
twelve dead roses and a ham sandwich
on moldy bread any one seen my beer
a knock on the door tap tip tap
come in and get uncomfordable
make yourself some foam and dip
yourself into my sweaty self
this like all other birds will fly
let me help you with that
my oh my
on the windowsill are some chocalates
i let the pigeons peck out the nuts
wipe your hands on the curtain
they're overdo for new
much like this sparrow chested heart
comb my hair with your fingers
trace circles round my eyes
these stages take for ages
my breath deep controlled
console me with sweet i love you's
sing it softly
as if it's not a lie
let me help you with that
my oh my
veins like road maps
we ain't spring chickens any more
karma sutra ain't got a chance
i'm not a pretzel never was
never had a fling with abnormal love
but i do have a thing for you
let me trace your bermuda triangle
only a girdle to hurdle
arthritic fingers, not doing the trick
try as i might
i'm fighting the good fight
dying of fright
when she said
in a voice reminiscent of shy
let me help you with that
my....oh....my
rittmo'
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The "D" Word
Deviously destructive delinquent
Destroying divine deliverance
Deliberately defragmenting destiny
Dangerously dissolving delay
Digressing, diverging Dilettante
Delusional dullardly,Déclassé
Divisive disgusting dabbler
Dubiously deploying Delicacies
Duplicitous, disingenuous demoralizer
Deceptively defaming, deliberately
Destructive dysfunctional delusioner
Delivering dastardly despair
Diabolical Deliberate devil
Digging demented decay
Death’s Door, diseased decrepitude
Disillusion's departing dismay
Sherry Somach
c 2012
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LOVE NERVE
Forgive me for asking, am I trespassing
Crossed a border, gone past where I oughta
Some invisible line, completely unrehearsed
Have I touched upon, the love nerve?
Have I found the love nerve?
I know we promised, to keep things casual
To not pay homage, to our mothers manual
Steady as frozen water, a motionless still frame
We would flow, no quarters drawn, no need to give it a name
Have I found the love nerve?
Nature has other ideas, time measured in changing gears
At the risk of, all being lost, love's progress cannot be paused
What I'm trying to say, is either we is or we ain't
I need to know today, is what tomorrow will taint
Have I found the love nerve?
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Black Out The Sun
Both of us looking at the stairwell
Numbed by the fact, the only way was down
Teetering, waiting for the starters gun
A silencer fired, it couldn't get any quieter
Tumbling, no one stood tall, no one at all
Side by side, one last time we took a fall
If there's such a thing as negative equality
The flower petals fell softly on not to be
There is not enough evidence to convict
I plainly chose to take the blame
Love is not a game to be contested by one
dark enough to black out the sun
Science and passion have little in common
I beg to differ, mathematics are always in play
Percentages cannot be denied, law of averages
Most lovers come to visit, some come to stay
Strength is not found in muscle, but elasticity
To bounce back stronger, roll with the punches
Regardless of the odds, Gods of wisdom fortell
I may have succumbed, but idle not, i went with my hunches
There is not enough evidence to convict
I plainly chose to take the blame
Love is not a game to be contested by one
Dark enough to black out the sun
Venturing onward, i ask of you this
How many lips ... kiss ... in a total eclipse
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For our recently departed friend may he rest in peace.
The Star Of Christmas
I took a stroll
down by Rudolf's watering hole
said hey there deer, shy and famous one
forgive me for I do not stare
but are you a gelding, perhaps a job
requirement
no. no. no. my friend, Rudolf is a girl;
you see us deer aren't born with names
it was mankind who chose, but just the same
it's about to all come to the forefront,
to be blunt, and to some degree quaint, I'm
pregnant!
Wow that's wonderful, when are you do, and
how will it effect what it is you do? Well I
really don't know, I haven't even told Santa
yet. How do you think he will react? Oh Santa
is always cheery, never weary, he'll say
something like Rudolf if you can't go, Blitzen
has been itchen to lead the show. Now
Rudolf, it just wouldn't be Christmas without
you, why don't we go see Santa now, and find
out what he's going to do with you. You're
right kind sir, will you do me the honor of
accompaning me to Santa, you know offer
some moral support. No problem, Rudi with
an i, they both smiled as they made their way
to Santa's home.
The bell to Santa's front to door was like a
billion wid chimes, all with their seperate
rhyme, all for good measure, harmonizing
together. Santa opened the door, why Rudolf
what a pleasure to see you, hello and hello
why don't you two come in from the cold and
make yourself comfortable, while Mrs. Clause
fetches some hot chocolate. Ok Rudolf tell
me what brings you to my parlour on this
fine winters afternoon? Santa my good
friend and mentor, I might as well come right
out and say it, I'm pregnant, and I fear I
won't be ready to lead your sleigh this
coming Christmas eve. Wow Rudolf that's
quite a developement, what to do, what to
do? As I'm sure you aware, Blitzen has been
itchen, yes Santa I figured you would say
that, but still I feel so much loss, when I
should be the happiest dear in the world.
That's when Acton Rudolf's friend jumped up
and said hold on a second I have an idea.
What if me and Rudi, went on our own, and
Rudi could prance around everyone's
backyard, blessing the houses and the
stockings on the line. Santa bellowed well I
don't know, will Rudolf be strong enough?
Acton continued from what I can tell Rudi is
having twins, and we can have the elfs build
matching cradles, and they'll be enough love
and joy as they ride side saddle with Rudi to fuel a million
Christmasses! A new tradition? Perhaps?
Rudi was getting a big kick out of hearing the the children yell,
momma, poppa, come quick look see, Rudolf the red nosed reindeer in
our own backyard, wow look at him fly, neighbor to neighbor
on a big swirl all around the world!
So it came to be that Rudi would take her family every year and bless each and everybody, whilst
the other reindeer took turns being Santa's lead reindeer. Still it was clear, from near and afar
that Rudi would still be the star of Christmas!!!
rittmo'
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For our recently departed fellow songster.
I have poured over many of Rittmo's lyric with guitar in hand trying to put together something that could get anywhere near the quality of his writing, I did manage to do something with his lyric "the star of christmas" but that made me more frustrated, I wanted to work on one of his more serious lyrics, whilst "the star of christmas" was great writing. I really wished i could get my act together and take on one of his more serious lyrics.
it is with regret that this happened on the evening of learning of Rittmo's passing, he was truly unique among us and will be sadly missed by his fellow songsters.
I Don't Know You
I don't know you, but I imagine
you're like a tiger lilly in the rain
wet and wild, and just a touch insane
long wavy reddish brown hair
eyes of hazel eyes that share
all the beauty of which I am fond
all the magic, that is the pond
the pinwheel fog
the golden rays dancing in between
a cherished soul so calm so sirene
I don't know you, but I can imagine
you're prettier than a dream
rittmo'
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Mercury Retrograde
riding on the highway
minding my own business
on a peaceful sunny day
when I bore witness
a solitary dark cloud
burst like an aging star
rain came pouring down
on only my car
I often wonder
if what happens to me
is attributed to solo thunder
an under cover code, in foremost secrecy
blame it on mercury retrograde, my ticket prepaid, blame it mercury retrograde
the driver in the parallel
rolled down his window
amazed he began to yell
unbelievable, what a show
hey Mr. this is crazy
tell me are you cursed
sorry there is no maybe
60mph and around curves
I often wonder
if what happens to me
is attributed to solo thunder
an under cover code, in foremost secrecy
blame it on mercury retrograde, my ticket prepaid, blame it mercury retrograde
BREAK
And as I flew on past I yelled out loud
Hey man go find your own cloud
Sometimes when I take my inventory
It helps if the story makes sense
It’s so hard to defend against
The relentlessness of mercury retrograde
Written by rittmo', music and vocal by Michael Frazier
Copyright 2013
Lyrics Rittmo' (Richard Blum)
Vocal and Music Michael Frazier
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The Start Of Now
into our eyes we can see
distant stratospheres
filled with love and not
an ounce of fear
we shall go bravely forth
our compass heading due north
higher and higher we go
we're we end up nobody knows
and one thing is for certain
there will be colorful balloons
ribbons and bows will take a bow
and the final curtain will only be the start of now
all it took was one gaze of blue into green
to unleash the beauty of the mountain stream
and one thing is for certain
there will be colorful balloons
ribbons and bows will take a bow
and the final curtain will only be the start of now
Words and Vocal - Rittmo'
Music - Michael Frazier
Copyright 2013
Lyrics and Vocal: Rittmo' (Richard Blum)
Music: Michael Frazier
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Care Free Summer Days
copyright 2013 Rittmo' and Michael Frazier
I remember being a child
jumping in puddles
stomping, splashing all around
till I laughed so much I fell down
summer days, care free summer days
how I miss those carefree summer days
sometimes in my dreams
I imagine this scene
I'm parachuting
into the middle of nowhere
floating free
and then I find a puddle to jump in
stomp my feet in glee'
splashing all around
till I laugh so much
I fall to the ground
summer days, care free summer days
how I miss those carefree summer days
the waters fine
come jump in
let's have some fun
let's have a good time
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Wow Rittmo, your spirit really worked me hard on this one. Recorded through the night, now the sun is rising and there is gorgeous pink and purple in the sky a few birds chirping. Thank-you for you beautiful lyrics and this incredible passion and spiritually uplifting song. Peace. mm
Lyrics:
Today and Everyday
Rittmo's Psalm
Here in my heart
what I own
is worth more
than precious stone
and all the diamond's
in all the mines
don't have the luster
or the shine
I care so much
to share
to say to you
Today and Everyday
Collect the hours
in all of time
let's get together
for the great rhyme
witness the magic
that god provides
we'll see his majesty
open the skies
I care so much
to share
to say to you
Today and Everyday
He gives his love away.
Amen
here are rittmo's original lyrics
Today and Everyday
(rittmo's psalm)
here in my heart what i own
is worth more than a precious stone
all the diamonds in all the mines
don't have the luster or the shine
of what i've found in this heart of mine
and i care so much to share, to say to you
if all the floating hours, in the history of time
could come together for just one minute
and breathe in the majesty, then most magically
you will see his arms in the clouds
his palms wide open
and you will come to realize
today and everyday
he's giving his love away
yeah it's true
today and everyday
he's giving his love away
to me and you!
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Let's Go Down to the Pumpkin Patch
Copyright 2012
vocals Rittmo music and lyrics Michael Karns (JamKar)
John was in the musket wars
and saw a lot of fight,
came home with a souvenir
rolling round inside his head.
He said he just wanted a place to rest,
leaving joy in other’s hearts.
That’s when an old gal gave to him
his wish and then he did depart.
Chorus:
Let’s go down to the pumpkin patch
Where they found old Uncle John
The hip flask and the overalls
Still laying out there
Let’s go down to the pumpkin patch
Haven’t been there in a year
Corn stalks and frigid air,
and ghosts whisperin in my ear.
I was out on the porch last night
thinking about when he was here
straw hair and a corn cob pipe
filling out that easy chair
Suddenly the moon was up
and out here over the fields
I saw old Mr. Will O’ Wisp
searching for his long lost bud
The musket ball and empty skull
were long ago transformed
And now each Fall a yellow flower
brings forth a healthy gourd.
Chorus:
Outro:
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HalloweenParty/Nadia Cripps, piano © 2011, James Karns/ Rahkoi, and rittmo'
Halloween Party
it's a halloween party
for all the freaks
ghosts, ghouls,, goblins
vampires, werewolfs,
warlocks and witches
and it's a game of who can spook who
boo, boo, boo, ...boo boo
first one that flinches
gets whisked out into the light
ain't that a fright
first one that flinches
gets whisked out into the light
ain't that a fright
boo, boo, boo, ...boo boo
rittmo'
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On this Christmas Eve performed by
Music rittmo' + Michael Karns (Keyboards)
words & vocal recital rittmo'
To hear more music visit:
Michael Karns: michaelkarns.bandcamp.com
rittmo': soundcloud.com/taxicat
lyrics
On This Christmas Eve
-
On this Christmas Eve
I sit here wishing
I was alive in the times of John
to be a deciple
to he who bore witness
to be among the few
who were chosen
to do the business
the sacred business
of protecting
baby Jesus
-
to smell the air
to taste the water
that He did breathe
that He did drink
to think in the moment
of absolute purity
to know with complete surety
the world was changing
an amazing rearranging
in the name of the Lord
-
to be a part of the miracle
of the opening of heaven's gate
where life wasn't at the end of a sword
where the persecuted would recieve
their just reward
to be certain that eternal life
was there for the taking
to awaken in Eden's simple splendor
to know I was loved
by he who I adored
by he who I adored
-
time unfortunately hasn't changed much
evil too easily finds the hearts of men
I wonder out loud, why all haven't felt His touch
but I truly believe, it's not a matter of time, but when
-
On this Christmas Eve
I sit here wishing
I was alive in the times of John
to be a deciple
to he who bore witness
to be among the few
who were chosen
to do the business
the sacred business
of protecting
baby Jesus
++++++++++++++++++
This is just one of the many tracks Rittmo' contributed to the Wintersongs album compilation album: http://wintersongs.bandcamp.com/
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My first collaboration with rittmo' (Richard Blum).
I've posted my instrumental "The Land Of Robots" on Songramp and Richard sent me PM saying that he's created his words to my music. This was an amazing surprise to me and I instantly loved Richard's lyric and recital.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
'Programmed To Please' Copyright© 2000, 2010. Music /keyboard by Nadia Cripps, Words /vocals by Richard Blum (rittmo).
'Programmed To Please'
Copyright© 2000, 2010
Music by Nadia Cripps
Words by Richard Blum (rittmo)
a drop of oil behind the ears
as I summon up the courage
a little more grease for my gears
it gets heavy carrying all this metal luggage
now that I'm squeaky clean
a machine amongst machines
will you take this tin can
to be your lawfully wedded man
I'm programmed to please
say God bless when you sneeze
iron each and every crease
I'm on bended knees
did you say no way jose
sorry that does not compute
my joints are getting pointed
how could you refuse my refuse
oh I see you're programmed to tease
you really didn't mean it
is that a yes I hear
I'm shaking so, I'll be all nuts and bolts in a minute
a clink of glasses
a toast to being rust free
and the clang, clang, clang
of eternity
++++++++++++++++++++++
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One of my collaborations with rittmo' (Richard Blum).
FOR YOU MY LOVE
Copyright Music © 2012 by Nadia Cripps (music) and rittmo' (words&vocal). Piano played by Nadia Cripps. Photo by Nadia Cripps.
night sky, soft pillowy clouds
a familiar face in the crowd
snow capped mountain tops
rainbow bubbles, blown and popped
are a few of the things
I bring for you my love
if I may
on this valentines day
a master key to open every heart
a hint of sunlight, even in the dark
a special smile that abides deep inside
an extra tear for when you have cried
are a few of the things
I bring for you my love
if I may
on this valentines day
the sweet harmony, of a street corner serenade
children on a stoop, selling lemonade
a ballbark, rooting for the home team
a pocket book made from pieces of dreams
are a few of the things
I bring for you my love
if I may
on this valentines day
rittmo'
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In memory of Ritt, a collaboration I did with him back in 2006. I did 2 songs with him in all. He always made me think. We shared many messages through site mail and email about taxi driving and many other things. I will always remember his support for me in my most difficult times. Thanks for listening. ~AS~
+++++++++++++
She’s Ambiguous
She was there, my soul was hungry
Irony is she wanted money
We arranged a nice flat rate
To Feed my soul and contemplate
Sometimes silent, sometimes loud
But only us two, never a crowd
In the beginning she played my mind
After that I wanted more time
She’s ambiguous, makes me feel secure
There’s a fine line between her office and the tenth floor
She’s ambiguous, though I get nervous
When she raises her eyebrow I’m thinking to myself
Not me not now, not me not now
She knows me I won’t know her
Our sessions pass by in a blur
I never thought my soul would speak
But it finds her soul there one a week
She projects my every word
No matter the subject or how absurd
Can she really know my mind
Confused out of tune without a rhyme
I tell her I’m wrapped in flames
She looks ahead and never cranes
I am a made inside this fire
I’m am eternally trapped
She casually asks
And how do you feel about that
Rittman 2006 + Lisa Gundling
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SEEING EYE DOG
Lyrics; Richard Blum & Hans Vreedenburgh. Music/Vocals: Hans Vreedenburgh
I'm about to tell you a story that'll blow you off your socks
I'm about to tell you a story that'll blow you off your socks
I'm a man of pride and glory, I know how to Roll & how to Rock
Maybe I'm lazy, at least I'm lazy 'round the clock
Maybe I'm lazy, at least I'm lazy 'round the clock
I might even be too lazy to cover up the bullshit that I talk
I'm a grown man, yeah I'm a grown man
I do what I can, I'm strong as a rock
Like all men I'm in need of a seeing eye dog
Listen up
I went to see the doctor and asked him about my heart
I went to see my doctor and asked him about my heart
He said you're barely breathing, boy
One of these days you might just fall apart
Well I looked him in the eye and eh...I told him I'm in shock
I looked him in the eye and eh...I told him I'm in shock
Tell me why I should die, I'm as hot as the sun
I just don't want to run, coz' I'm fine with the way that I walk
I'm a grown man, yeah I'm a grown man…
Maybe I'm crazy, well baby, I might even go to hell
In that case I hope you will wish me luck
But I'm still around, don't know for how long
You never can tell
As long as I'm here I will be in the pub
In the company of my seeing eye dog
I need a drink, make it one part vodka, two parts rum,
and three parts love and lost
hey bartender, I think I'll call this drink the seeing eye dog
I'm a grown man, yeah I'm a grown man
I do what I can, I'm strong as a rock
Like all men I'm in need of a seeing eye dog
He do what he can, he's as strong as a rock
Like all men he's in need of a seeing eye dog 3x
I'm in need of a seeing eye, a seeing eye......dog
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A MILLION COLORS
Lyrics by Richard Blum & Hans Vreedenburgh
Music/Vocal by Hans Vreedenburgh
I see a million colors shining through
I see a million colors all brand new
I see a million colors when I see you
Depending on the shadows
And the infiltration of light
A rose can be a thousand shades of red
Like ruby gems in disguise
Staring at the horizon
The sun comes into view
The morning mist paints the trees
And once again everything’s new
I see a million colors….
An imaginary garden
Where yellow tulips grow
Together they reflect the orange sun
Like melting gold as they flow
Midday showers painting
Prisms in the sky
While shreds of clouds pass along
A ray of hope into my eyes
I see a million colors….
Where would I be without your rainbow rain
A lack of colors would drive me insane
Leading a life in shades of grey
Like a hobo in a shadow play
I need you to clue me in
You give me 20/20 vision when you touch my skin
I can’t imagine what it’s like to live without you
You color me true
I see a million colors shining through
I see a million colors all brand new
I see a million colors when I see you
# 18 July 2012
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26. |
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What If Moses
lyrics and vocals by Rittmo'
music by Phil McMill
being lazy has it's advantages
I can procastinate with the best
and enough can't be said
about a good days rest
but
somebody has got to do something
otherwise nothing gets done
somebody has got to make the first move
if boy is ever to meet girl
somebody has to get in the groove
if his flag is ever to be unfurled
you can't unwind
unless you have something to unwind from
you can read all the signs
but that won't get you to Kingdom come
somebody has got to do something
otherwise nothing gets done
there's nothing wrong with
stopping to smell the roses
but what if Moses
but what if Moses
we'd still be waiting for words etched in stone
if you never do anything, there'd be nothing to atone
somebody has got to do something
otherwise nothing gets done
somebody has got to do something
otherwise nothing gets done
rittmo'
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27. |
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Lyrics coming
Music and Thomas W Hughes
Lyrics / Vocal by RIttmo'
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28. |
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A tribute to Rittmo, who upon hearing this track in its first, instrumental form, wrote the following words, that I've included in the track:
it was the great blackout of twenty ninety nine
the longer the dark lingered, the more we knew
the chicken fingers, and all the trimmings
would soon go missing, it was time for a worldwide BBQ
all the races, all the sects in survival mode
it was clearly time to fire up the coals
and the space travelers could see the smoke signals
billowing up through the darkness, had somebody
finally dropped the bomb, was there an all out call for alarm
or had the oft strange demented minds, found a common goal
beyond the boundaries of ultimate control
could the sacrifice of flaming flesh, the dirth of blood and guts
be the beginning of peace on earth, for us wild pack of mutts
could one slip along the enlightened grid
cause a universal eclipse, and though you may claim
not to know the answer, perhaps it already did....????
rittmo'
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29. |
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Cooking with Tom Waits
Tina: yeah i often cook with tom on in the kitchen so this was just natural
but he better not start banging on my saucepans!!
Rittmo: Piano by TwH "no sore throat Tina, just my waking up "voice after years and years of self abuse" and that's a Tom Waits quote :)
Lyrics:
The sailor's on the skids
with the butter in his pocket
& the hooker's up from Harlem
with the treacle in a locket,
& the flours in the limo
with the alligator shoes
& Fred Astaire left ginger
when they got the bad reviews,
with a switchblade & the bicarb
& a picture of St Paul
the Cubans got my sugar
cooking Spanish down the hall,
& theres a queue for tables
at the Pearly Gates
so the Devils got his oven on
& he's ordering more plates,
& the eggs are getting beaten
by the Mob on 52nd
but thats another recipe
for another day I reckon,
& the night wears a black pinney
with stars embroidered on the hem
& the judge is in the kitchen
making ginger bread men,
“little man you didnt sing
& the mobsters werent sent down
Im gonna give you 15 minutes
in the hottest jail in town!”
© tina marshall 2012
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30. |
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My Insane Husband
Lyrics by Tina Marshall
Vocal / Music by Rittmo
My Insane Husband
Every night the mad songs of my insane husband
would echo down the stairs
where i'd sit holding my terrified child
as he hugged his teddy bear
songs of contacting aliens & prostitutes
with his electric guitar
screaming about smashing windows, breaking doors
...darling we're safe where we are!
but mummy please your hurting me
its you who've gone insane
your holding daddy prisoner
hes screaming for help & hes in pain!
Tommy NO not you aswell
you must have your fathers mad gene
i'll have to lock you in with him
in the time travel machine
….& DONT try to run outside
we're in a submarine
© 2011 tina marshall
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31. |
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Lyrics,vocals,percussion - Peter Murphy (Blind Kiwi)
Music,guitars - Matt Love (The Zanti Misfit)
Lyrics:
Well santa’s drunk on moonshine
There’s a pistol in his belt
And a rainbow shooting colours
Through a portrait of itself
The cops are drawing silhouettes
Around another Christmas elf
And a striped cat sees it all
From its faded parcel shelf
The steam hides the evidence
Whistling as it blows
From the holes in the pavement
Where the city sewer goes
Taxi cat whistles
Another sweet adagio
and another life evaporates
beneath his glistening nose
He sees it through the windows
Of a yellow taxi cab
No there’s nothing that escapes
The senses of this cat
He ain’t sleeping, he’s observing
The hookers and the gnats
The creepers and the crawlers
In their shades and their wraps
The cops and the victims
The slappers and the slime
Taxi cat is watching
Smiling all the time
And when the night is over
He dips his claw into the ink
Stabs the words on paper
Fresh with the stink
Of the city that he lives in
the rags and the bones
the ghettoes and the bars
that taxi cat calls home
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rest in peace, fellow songwriter, your songs live on, Woody
+++++++++++LYRICS++++++++++++++++++
Alien Invaders Disco Band
words by Rittmo (2011 50/90)
music by woody muller (johnny credit)
Chorus:
they're the alien invaders disco band
thirty years behind the times
maybe there was a booger in the sand
causing interference in their attenai
they have unlimited energy
they can play for three days straight
it's a kinda kinetic synergy
hey, for the show you can never be late
and they're playing super freak
can you say Rick James
somebody in the audience is bound to streak
claiming their fifteen minutes of fame
they're the headline act at area fifty two
their big hit is aliens are blue not green
so many heads bopping, one will come unglued
but they handle that, they just call Charlie Sheen
words by Rittmo (2011 50/90)
music by woody muller
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33. |
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As I ventured into the catalog of our dear friend, Rittmo, I came across these lyrics he had penned. I thought it was mighty fine to lend interpretation to. Music should be up later this evening.
MOMENTS
Lyrics:
I may not be the greatest brother
I may not be the worker bee
I may not be the best of lovers
but I have my moments
I may not be the greatest friend
I may not be honest to a tee
I may not be the best of husbands
but I have my moments
moments of aggravation
moments of agitation
moments of stagnation
moments of utmost purity
moments of absurdity
moments most assuredly
that I'm the best that I can be
I have my moments
rittmo'
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34. |
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"take me to your leader (rittmo version 2)"
vocal by rittmo
music by paul hudson (dragondreams)
lyrics by cold comfort
from the album Cold Comfort: Rittmo + Friends
"Take me to your leader" is Cold Comfort Song wk030" - this is the second version uploaded.
you can hear more
rittmo music, sounds and words at: www.soundcloud.com/taxicat
dragondreams music at dragondreams.bandcamp.com + ddwk.bandcamp.com
this is one of three alternate interpretations of Cold Comfort Lyrics "Take Me to Your Leader". You can hear the other versions at:
Rittmo : coldcomfort.bandcamp.com/track/take-me-to-your-leader
Airbagtester + Kahiwa Balfour: coldcomfort.bandcamp.com/track/take-me-to-your-leader-4
lyrics
take me to your leader by cold comfort
v1:
take me to your leader
make me kneel and beg
take me to your trailer
strap me to your bed
take me to your conscience
or did you lose the map?
I'm blind but not forsaken
I don't mind the crap
CHORUS:
take me, baby, take me,
take me to your leader
Don't wanna miss this moment
Steal it, Steal it, Steal it
Baby, take me.
v2:
take me to your honey pot
sweet and dripping wet
There's things I don't remember
And things I can't forget
take me your pimp
take me to your man
take me to your ATM
hold me by the hand
CHORUS:
take me, baby, take me,
take me to your leader
Don't wanna miss this moment
Steal it, Steal it, Steal it
Baby, take me.
BRIDGE (and solo) :
Take me, take me, take me, take me...
I want it, I want you, I want this,
Take me to your bed.
(marching)
I forget
I forgot
I forget
I forgot
I forget
I forgot
such a fool!
V1 (repeat)
CHORUS:
take me, baby, take me,
take me to your leader
Don't wanna miss this moment
Steal it, Steal it, Steal it
Baby, take me.
copyright 2011 cold comfort music (wk030)
credits
credits
from cold comfort: rittmo' + friends, track released 03 October 2011
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35. |
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When I heard of the project, I felt compelled to participate, although I never had the pleasure of working with Rittmo. Reading these lyrics, I realised that they’re perfect for my style, and also take me out of my comfort zone a little. With regard to instrumentation, I played guitar and sang, as I most often do.
+++++++
This Ain’t Working Anymore
Rittmo
In the flatlands you can see a snowstorm coming
From miles away, watch it spread across the plains
Your world a picture window, everything in full view
No surprises, no dark clouds hanging over lover's lane
So tell me is it the shadows from the hills
The resounding echoes from the vallay's low
That guided your thoughts this frightful morning
When you plainly said, I think it's time you go
This ain't working anymore
The same old just ain't cutting it
The fat lady knows the score
She's no longer strutting it
Over my shoulder I tossed some salt
Laughing at my open wound
One of these days I 'll remember good times
But for now I'll sadly croon
My baby done left me
Got bored with my act
My baby done left me
And that's a fact
This ain't working anymore
The same old just ain't cutting it
The fat lady knows the score
She's no longer strutting it
I can't get used to not seeing her
but there's not enough glass cleaner...
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36. |
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Separate Ways
to remember sadness
the outrage the madness
the words said, as if in passing
so much for ever lasting
head bowed, what was that
excuse me c'mon take that back
am I hearing things again,
oh no not the line about friends
can we go our separate ways
say goodbye to our special days
stomp out the spark, once and for all
let new actors adorn the stage
may as well get a license for a parade
play that trumpet till the moon fades away
I guess time will wink and grin
love is a game, very few can win
so wave your hand and blow a kiss
cause sometimes when you bet on a wish
can we go our separate ways
say goodbye to our special days
stomp out the spark, once and for all
let new actors adorn the stage
rittmo'
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37. |
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Posted: Sun, 07/03/2011 - 17:10
Liner Notes:
do any of the singer composers out there hear a melody in these words?
Lyrics:
The Whole Truth
what is this business
of revealing your secrets
does your lover need to bear witness
to all of your regrets
can you let my history
have its sense of privacy
tell me, isn't a little mystery
like a hidden treasure in a case of piracy
the whole truth and nothing but the truth
honestly, how much do you want to know
the whole truth and nothing but the truth
maybe I should provide a slide show
of all the times I cheated and lied
of all the times I made girls cry
and if I told you that I have changed
could you ever look at me the same
give me the same attention
look at me with the same affection
the whole truth and nothing but the truth
honestly, how much do you want to know
rittmo'
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39. |
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Smile, Little One
by rittmo and Keyth Bridge copyright 2009
Original collab posting liner notes on songramp:
Written for Richard Blum´s musical, this is the first lullaby I ever wrote ;-)
Hope yuh ´ll sleep well ;-)
LYRICS:
Smile Little One (A Lullabye)
smile little one
let your dreams flow
over the mountain top, top, top
higher than the clouds, clouds, clouds
higher than the clouds, clouds, clouds
stay calm little one
don't you flip, flop, flop
lay your head on a cotton candy pillow
in your dreams every wish, everything is allowed
you can jump over the moon
you can hop from star to star
use saturn's rings as a sliding pond
eat jelly coated moonbeams on mars
smile little one
let your dreams flow
over the mountain top, top, top
higher than the clouds, clouds, clouds
higher than the clouds, clouds, clouds
when the sun comes up, up, up
and it's time for you to rise, rise, rise
open your hands and let the jelly coated moonbeans go, go, go
until it's bedtime again and you lay yourself down to float, float, float
in between we'll go to the park, park, park
and play all day, until it gets dark, dark, dark
you'll swing on swings, swings, swings
enjoying all the good, things, things, things
that childhood brings, brings, brings
smile little one
let your dreams flow
over the mountain top, top, top
higher than the clouds, clouds, clouds
higher than the clouds, clouds, clouds
rittmo'
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40. |
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Rittmo's Original Lyrics To The Song "Unfair To You" are here:
http://archive2011.fawmers.com/songs/9693
"How Would I Know Now"
Lyrics by Richard Blum and Valerie Cox
Music by Valerie Cox
I'd tell you that I love you
But I don't know how
Send flowers with a poem
But I don't know how
To make the future work
I'd have undo the past
That's unfair to you
Untrue promises never last
If I didn't know before
How would I know now
If I didn't know before
How would I know now
I could try to make you love me
But I don't know how
Or even make you need me
But it's too late now
It's best we go our separate ways
And carve a brand new path
Cause lies made holes I can't change
Even if I took them back
If I didn't know before
How would I know now
If I didn't know before
How would I know now
How would I know now
How would I know now
This way we can stand up tall
And let our tear drops fall
Embrace for one last bittersweet hug
To say goodbye my love
If I didn't know before
How would I know now
If I didn't know before
How would I know now
It's best we go our separate ways
And carve a brand new path
Cause lies made holes I can't change
Even if I took them back
How would I know now.... ?
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41. |
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NOTES & LYRICS:
I want to add here that the music was very much inspired by how Richard himself heard the song in his head. I'll explain. Richard had the lyric and wanted to give instructions as to the right feel. He entrusted it to a recording, excusing for not being a singer. When I heard the mp3 he had sent me, I noticed to my great surprise that Richard's voice resembled mine a lot. That was an peculiar experience. I felt an immediate connection that went deeper than the love of his great lyrics (and especially the wonderful songs he wrote with singer-songwriter Nash, which were my first acquaintance with Rittmo'). As he already had warned for, he had his own very special way to sing, as in... completely out of tune, which made it hard for me to decrypt the melody that he actually had in mind. I asked him if I could have my way with it, and he insisted I did. So I listened to his 12 minute 48 seconds mp3 several times, then went to the piano, recorded a take in my own intuitive working style, listened to my take, wasn't happy with it, relistened to Richard's recording, and so on. I kept the fourth version, accepting the fact that I too sang out of tune here and there. So to be fair, even when I turned his first inconsistent ideas into a song, he should be mentioned as my cowriter. I insist. He cannot refuse now. :)
His feedback, which really moved me: "WOW ROEL!!! By all means, my vocal melody was nothing more than a non musicians timing device, I fully suspected, and hoped you would take that to a higher level, which of course you did!!! It's odd to have written the words and to be so taken in by them, that I thought at one point I was going to cry; Roel you did Too Much proud!!! Thanks rittmo' "
+++++++++++++++++++++
Music and Vocal Roel Van Veldt
words rittmo'
Copyright 2012
+++++++++++++++++++++
LYRICS
Too Much
though you may never know it
I massage your feet and toes
every chance I get, it's the least I could do
to pay homage to the love we knew
it's all about the little gestures
the comfort, the extra measures
that allow me to bathe in the pleasure
to pay homage to the love we knew
too much too much
fingers that never grew tired
too much, too much
the fire beneath every touch
there's a sadness when love wains
secumbs to the the obvious pain
of staying so high above the ground
as with all flight, what goes up, must come down
though you may never know it
I massage your feet and toes
every chance I get, it's the least I could do
to pay homage to the love we knew
there's a streetlamp on lovers lane
shines on a tree, where we carved out names
too much too much
fingers that never grew tired
too much, too much
the fire beneath every touch
rittmo'
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42. |
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NOTES & LYRICS:
Richard wrote to me: "I have this lyric you might find interesting, I see it as a jazz, blues, rock fusion kinda thing; or put on your best Joe Cocker hat! Thanks rittmo' "
That sounded like a huge challenge to me, in which I had to exceed anything I had done before, musically speeking. To compose the music at the piano still went smoothly, but to create the right arrangement and get the vocals right, not to speak of finding the right mix, took a hell of a time. Besides, I did use a lot of whisky and smokes though to make my voice sound more like Joe Cocker. Okay, that's a lie, I experimented with a few digital effects on my voice recording. With my natural voice, I could only fake that effect for 8 seconds and the rest of the song I would be coughing my heart out.
Rittmo's feedback made me feel proud: "WOW Roel, not sure how it can get that much better, this is spectacular, what a journey you took me on!!!!! WOW!!!!!! Thank You!!! rittmo' "
++++++++++++++++++++++++
Music and Vocal Roel Van Veldt
words rittmo'
copyright 2012
++++++++++++++++++++++++
LYRICS
No Room To Cry
I've been in witness protection for far too long
and I'm tired of hiding, tired of hiding
what I witnessed wasn't even true
and I'm tired of hiding, tired of hiding from you
mirrors, trick photography, now you see it, now you don't
house of horrors, witches and vampires, vacate the scene
leaving ghosts, goblins and ghouls to hold the bag
I'm not sure what's happening, but I begin to scream
afterglow, aftermath, after the fact
papers signed, ink bearly dried, I turn
around, only to find, there's no room to cry
I've been in witness protection for far too long
and I'm tired of hiding, tired of hiding
what I witnessed wasn't even true
and I'm tired of hiding, tired of hiding from you
porch light, crescent moon, blinking stars
I'm the man in the middle of a galactic distubance
I wave frantically, help I'm floating out of control
in an instant, I'm transported far, far, far away from my heart
I cannot be consoled
no matter how hard I try
there's no room to cry
I've been in witness protection for far too long
and I'm tired of hiding, tired of hiding
what I witnessed wasn't even true
and I'm tired of hiding, tired of hiding from you
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43. |
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I didn't know Rittmo, never met him in person but we came in contact through Song Ramp, a music site where people could post their music or their poetry/lyrics for others to listen to.
I had posted a few songs and instrumentals and Rittmo posted his poetry. Somehow we came together and joined the two, Rittmo sent me the vocal take and I pasted it over the music, it was not any more complex than that, it was perfect simplicity and 'Leprechauns' was the result. That was in 2010, we did two more that I have been unable to find, I'm still looking for them. May he rest in peace and his poetry lives on ... thank you Rittmo.
Richard Boase.
++++++++
LYRICS:
Leprechauns by Rittmo 2010
Leprechauns are shoemakers cobblers by trade, no taller than a boy in the fifth grade
Green as grass with mischievous brown eyes, as ugly as they are agile and spry
Loners, they avoid contact with all mortals and fairies,
Who don't mind at all as Leprechauns are very scary,
They guard the Fairy Queens gold 24 hours a day, at least that's what the Leprechauns say.
When Leprechauns drink beer a clurichaun is born
A clurichaun is a leprechaun with a big nose, when no-one is looking and no-one ever is.
Travelling amongst mortals they are the slickest of thieves, whether you are short or tall,
They will lead you to believe, all of your treasure is theirs, all this time it's been on loan,
With interest times ten squared they will soon have all that you own.
They guard the fairy Queen's gold 24 hours a day, at least that's what the Leprechauns say.
In the morning it gets poured into a pot of gold but no-one knows how these riches came into the fold, for in the morning sun a clurichaun is a leprechaun again.
The wealthiest of fairies, without any friends, they guard the fairy Queen's gold 24 hours a day, at least that's what the Leprechauns say.
Leprechauns and clurichauns one and the same, one works hard while the other plays games.
Travelling amongst mortals they are the slickest of thieves whether you are short or tall they will lead you to believe, all of your treasure is theirs all this time it's been on loan
With interest times ten squared they will soon have all that you own.
When no-one is looking and no-one ever is,
Leprechauns and clurichauns, one and the same, one works hard while the other plays games.
Leprechauns and clurichauns, one and the same, one works hard while the other plays games.
Travelling amongst mortals they are the slickest of theives.
When no-one is looking and no-one ever is, they are a lot like us, they are a lot like us ...
Rittmo
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leprechauns by Rittmo (Lyrics and Vocals by Rittmo) - music (The Only Fish in the Sea) by the Old Grey Wolf Ltd Co.
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44. |
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Lemon Maringue
words Rittmo' 2012
music Airbagtester 2013
I'm in a lemon maringue kinda mood
nothing else will do
no cherry, not blue or boisenberry
omega three fusion, two teaspoons
and I'll be twenter years younger
have the hunger of a verilifluos man
lock up your daughters, oh chastity
soon I'll have the master key
time is now to brood
I'm in a lemon maringue kinda mood
the sour and the sweet
a bittersweet treat
my piece of the pie
under a chartreuse sky
a time of sparkling wine
cheese and chocolate
it's almost lascivious and lewd
I'm in a lemon maringue kinda mood
rittmo'
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45. |
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Found some lyrics for Rittmo from FAWM of this year called Pine Trees. Tried to stay as close to the lyrics as Rittmo wrote them, but required a few small changes to make it fit my music.
For completeness, here are his lyrics as written and posted on fhe FAWM 2013 site. Hopefully he would have liked the small changes, especially the repeats at the end. Somehow it seemed fitting. The lyrics as per the track are included after.
Pine Trees'
pine trees never change
perhaps in winter they grow greener
with a hint of grey in the fall
but the perception remains
come snow, come sun, come rain
pine trees never change
most times I stand tall and stout
unwavering, apparently unchanging
but my autumn leaves fall softer
much like my thoughts of her
mother time, a thief and a gift giver
every fever more fiery, yet I still tingle & shiver
at the site of you
your greenish blues
time can't erase
your inner grace
time can't change
my pining for you
when I look out at distant horizons
and I visualize the future
I see couples walking pine lined trails
and the aroma of pine cones are telling a tale
of lovers of an era gone by
the sweet song, of you and I
mother time, a thief and a gift giver
every fever more fiery, yet I still tingle & shiver
at the site of you
your greenish blues
rittmo'
Lyrics:
Pine trees never change
Perhaps in the winter they grow greener
With a hint of grey in the fall
But perceptions remain
Come snow, come sun, come rain
Pine trees never change
Most times I stand tall and stout
Unwavering, apparently unchanging
But my autumn leaves fall softer
Much like my thoughts of her
Mother time, a thief, and gift giver
Every fever more fiery, yet I tingle and shiver
At the sight of you
Your greenish blues
Time cannot erase
Your inner grace
Time can't change
My pining for you
Pine trees never change
Perhaps in winter they grow greener
With a hint of grey in the fall
But perceptions remain
Come snow, come sun, come rain
Pine trees never change
I look out at distant horizons
And visualize the future
Couples walk in pine lined trails
Aroma of pine cones tell a tale
Of lovers in an era gone by
The sweet song of you and I
Mother time, a thief and gift giver
Every fever more fiery still I tingle and shiver
At the sight of you
Your greenish blues
Time can't erase
Your inner grace
Time can't change
My pining for you
Lovers of an era gone by
The sweet song of you and I
Lovers in an era gone by
The sweet song of you and I
You and I
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46. |
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Many Thanks Wolf! Rittmo's lyrics are below.
I would just like to say that Rittmo was always there to encourage us and pat us on the back. His comments and lyrics were truly inspiring. I was so happy, even more so now, that Rittmo took my song "Andy" and added his moving lyrics, entitled "Wide Open Spaces". I wrote "Andy" as a tribute to a friend who was taken from us too early and Rittmo's lyrics were a beautiful and fitting addition. Now I think of them both whenever I hear this song. Thank-you Rittmo and may you rest in peace!
++++++LYRICS++++++++++
Wide Open Spaces
there's a beat coming
over the distant hills
open hand strumming
can you feel the thrill
a low rumbling kind a drumming
electricity, dancing beneath your feet
it can't be properly explained
but it feels like something, of a treat
a song of wide open spaces
a song of uninterrupted shorelines
and it's true one day nature will heal itself
even if the top of the food chain
can't make reason or rhyme
plates will shift
as they've always done
the sand will sift
in favor of no one
we are the great observers
though we think we know more
but the Good Lord says
don't worry, let me keep score
a song of wide open spaces
a song of uninterrupted shorelines
and it's true one day nature will heal itself
even if the top of the food chain
can't make reason or rhyme
rittmo'
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47. |
Rittmo' - Winter Sunrise
02:12
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"Winter Sunrise" performed by Rittmo'
for more Rittmo' music & sounds, please visit: soundcloud.com/taxicat
lyrics
Winters Sunrise
after the stars have gone to bed
and the moon has left the old homestead
the first crack of dawn, alights the land
and the early birds begin to chant
and sing of winters homecoming
brighter than the summer sun
with naked branches, their shadows cast
like a mirror of time, so vast
the motion picture, stilled for a frame
a time of remembering
warmer days, and dust clouds of stars
and how they would enrich our hearts
yet there's something enchanting,
about romancing the cool morning air
a breeze of life, to let you know
we are still here
to sit by the fire,
and sing along, with the birds
of good winter cheer
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48. |
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Temporary Insanity
Lyrics by Rittmo'
Music and Performance by Ann Mayo Muir
This song was one I treasured because I wrote some of my best music when I worked with Rit's lyrics. He had a fresh way of looking at life and he made up his own rules.
He was a dear friend up until his death 4/1/13. He told me to feel free to publish any lyrics where I wrote the music and did the vocal. I do it to bring his lyrics to more people
and should I ever profit I would happily send it to his wife who misses him dearly.
Rit ,is Richard Blum who is in the Hall Of Fame on SongRamp. God Bless him! HE IS NOW IN THE HALL OF FAME on SongRamp
LYRICS++++
I was so enjoying the tease
friends on the edge of romance
easy laughter easy to please
a heart beat away from taking a chance
the mystery was alluring
he loves me, he loves me not
and though my heart was soaring
I can't believe I forgot
don't say those three little words
but instead I chirped like a bird
was it temporary insanity
when I said I love you
oh the calamity
I put us through
suddenly every whisper
was a sweet nothing
a kiss hello a kiss goodbye
under sunny and starlit skies
and in between at every whim
I would kiss him
knowing all too well
every beginning has an end
What a wonderful calamity
I put us in
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49. |
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This is my recitation to promote more understanding about the plight of battered women. It is done with music I wrote called Andrea's Lament.
In a sense she was one of the battered woman I knew very well. I worked on this with my good friend Rittmo who passed away this year. This will be included on a CD that will be a tribute to Rittmo done by his many friends who appreciated his work.
LYRICS:
Angular Circles
i must have pulled the ripcord
a million times
or is the air out of the balloon
no matter what the score
always a crash landing
broken only by boney boulders
just the thought of waking
another triumphant defeat
passes aimlessly by
can you see me crying
does any one see
least of all me
comatose i blend in
with the trash and the trees
leaves falling
a burial in denial
deep socketed dried up wells
of laughter laughing at me
have you heard me tumble
and break in angular circles
does anyone hear
least of all me
scraped and battered in tassles and rags
can you see my wounds
does any body see the scars
''who'd have thought
i had so much blood''
-------------
Dawning
a tangible curve, bends into view
a feint lash lingers in darkness
dimmed cages parallel bars
sunlit shadows at the break of day
a stream of light grips and tugs
splitting the futility of begone terror
into speckled dust neatly swept away
arise in splendor anew
arise in ribbons and bows
the sun arose this morning
unblurred by flailing horizons
a long dead flame
reborn
Awakening
a fresh pink silhouette
adorns my flesh
like the rim of a lunar eclipse
as my little wonders awaken
my privelege to drink their poison
trembling in voices etched in the madness
forever an island washed asunder
twinkle as a sun sprinkled wave
upon an eddy
piled on yesterdays----- shredded with a kiss
like stains of virtue
dripping from my palate
harden and dry into clay visages
sculpted by me in the image of your
smile
rittmo'
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50. |
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Love is Why
Performed with Music by Ann Mayo Muir
soundcloud.com/ann-mayo-muir
Lyrics by Rittmo
soundcloud.com/taxi-cat
Copyright Ann Mayo Muir + Rittmo 2012
lyrics
Love Is Why
stars exploding light years away
made us what we are today
pixels, mere grains of sand
a design in hand, a master plan
earthquakes crash upon the world
tornados swirl, volcanos erupt,
fires rage between boy and girl
we spin, we rotate, we fall in love
it's a spiritual floating in time
some call it a valentine
we dance we sing, we celebrate
we end all debate
love is why we're here
to cherish with heart warming care
love is why we're here
to relieve all the burdens we bear
love is why we're here
a universe in turmoil
a world in grave despair
love is why we're here
to cherish with heart warming care
love is why we're here
to relieve all the burdens we bear
love is why we're here
rittmo'
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51. |
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father time is all caring
father time is aloof
father time never stops sharing
in a way for him it's a goof
amebas paraemecium
worm holes in space
instantaneous dilerium
gone without a trace
but wait what of history
is past time dead
is there only the here and now
nothing under the flower bed?
I can't think straight
until my first cup of coffee
is the dream I'm lost in
the bridge between the end and the beginning
though adam or is that atom
paid for his evening out
was his bliss the start
of everyman's broken heart
and once again father time
has one foot in the real
but just how much can one man feel
and at times it seems he twists with great zeal
there's a lady bug on my keyboard
my fingers dance around her
but my cat has other ideas
the world a bowl of soup beneath his fur
so however or whatever you percieve time to be
cherish the moment before father time sets you free
rittmo'
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52. |
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This was Rittmo's Final FAWM entry February 28, 2013 - The liner notes Rittmo' posted with the track when uploaded read. "hey Eric, well it's the last night so here's my one take shot at it"
Thanks to Eric (Airbagtester) for allowing the inclusion of the track here - Wolf Kier
+++++++++++++++++++++
LYRICS
Flying Kites In Winter
(recorded February 28, 2013)
Flying Kites In Winter
dispatch, here we go again
say what car seventeen
I think I'm going snowblind
if you know what I mean
really, damn, keep your eyes on the road
ok boss but you know
when they start flying kites in winter
it'll be like tadpoles spinning the toad
flying kites in winter
it's a black and white rainbow
there ain't much tincture
when your flying kites in winter
well that's the fare that ended my fares that night
after they fly their kites in winter, things just ain't right
the back seat will recover, but I'll never be the same
flying kites in winter is a cabbies claim to fame
flying kites in winter
it's a black and white rainbow
there ain't much tincture
when your flying kites in winter
dispatch, here we go again
say what car seventeen
I think I'm going snowblind
if you know what I mean
really, damn, keep your eyes on the road
ok boss but you know
when they start flying kites in winter
it'll be like tadpoles spinning the toad
rittmo'
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53. |
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Tim Fatchen Says: From 50 songs in 90 days (50/90) 2012. fiftyninety.fawmers.org/songs/16673
I knew nothing about this collab with Rittmo' (and Barbara) until it was sprung on me. My comments were: "Oh wow. oh wow oh wow. (I knew nothing about this!) rittmo' and Barbara, this has just lifted to another level!"
Barbara Roughton said "He was full of delight and anticipation over the prospect of surprising you that day, Tim, and it was a little bit of a stretch for me to play along with not asking your permission first. I was so nervous that you might feel we'd trampled over your composition. In the end, I'm so proud that I got to play at his direction, and in his generous space, and I feel we made something lovely together, we three, though you were in the dark for that short amount of time. I will miss the surprises that came from tapping into him."
Rittmo's liner notes:
Drift along with us :)
Lyrics & Vocal: Rittmo' (Richard Blum):
Backing Vocal Barbara
Music and orchestration Tim Fatchen
from the instrumental Reawakening
fiftyninety.fawmers.org/songs/14959
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
LYRICS:
DRIFTING THROUGH TIMELINES:
I'm drifting through timelines
and I have no idea where I'm going next
I'll let the wind decide my fate
find which wave is best
I'm drifting through timelines
I'm drifting through timelines
drifting, drifting, through timelines
my attitude is long and lateral
the open sea is so theatrical
I'm on my spot, feeling so natural
yet nothing makes sense, nothing is practical
I'm drifting through timelines
I'm drifting through timelines
drifting, drifting, through timelines
but in the vast emptiness
everything does make sense
the future mimes what's left behind
I'm drifting through timelines
I'm drifting through timelines
drifting, drifting, through timelines
history is always in motion
floating, floating, floating
I'm drifting through timelines
I'm drifting through timelines
drifting, drifting, through timelines
rittmo'
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54. |
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Ann Mayo Muir's sad announcement on Songramp of the passing of Rittmo' (April 2, 2013) and Rittmo's final collab, Happier Tomorrows, on which he did a recitation over the track "Double Barrelled Pork-Pie Rags" Gilly Slinn. You can hear the original instrumental track here: http://www.songramp.com/mod/mps/viewtrack.php?trackid=91649
When he posted the track on March 31, 2013, just a day or two before passing away, Rittmo' left the following liner notes: "Earlier today Gilly uploaded an instrumental which inspired me to write something; I've since played it for Gilly and though she liked it a lot, I'm not sure I have permission to post this, hmmm, like a lot is like a lot so I'll take my chances :) "
LYRICS:
Music Gilly Slinn
words and vocal rittmo
Happier Tomorrows
I have two penny whistle pieces in different keys, and the tempos don't resemble each other, and when I strung them together, the blue began to fade from the sky, and Picasso drawings suddenly had normal sized eyes, and the salt rose from the ocean, which attracted rainbow flavored potato chips, and kids from every nationality sat in a circle, and chanted no more sorrows, and happier tomorrows, there's something about discordant sounds in the mind of babes that makes the world go round! :)
watching the lilly pods change colors
as each child reached for higher notes, and sang the rainbow full circle, and it was no work at all to bring a smile to the faces of the grown ups, who were so desperate to hold on to love, love of being, love of seing, things go right, so tired of all the wrongs and so they sang along, no more sorrows, and happier tomorrows, there's something about discordant sounds in the mind of babes of all ages that makes the world go round
rittmo'
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55. |
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All music written and performed by Thomas Hughes (TwH),
All lyrics written and performed by Michael Frazier.
Michael Frazier: This is a song where I “channeled” Rittmos vocal and have a conversation about death with his Sweet Joyce.
+++++++++++
A NOTE:
Dear Sweet Joyce
Don’t cry
I’m right here by your side
In Spirit
You see it was simply my time
Like the colorful autumn leaves
That fall from the trees
Upon the ground below
Where they are swallowed up
Back to where they came from
It was simply my time to go
I wish I could let you know
That I’m OK
When I arrived there were colorful balloons
And great puddles to splash in
And all these magical words and sounds
Bouncing from the walls
Filled me with light and energy
Like I have never known
And there was, like this magic
This feeling of floating with creation
And there were my grandparents
And my great grandparents
And my great great grandparents
And so many who had gone before
And they all welcomed me
As if they knew me
My insides felt like warm chocolate chip cookies
Still there is this emptiness
Like something was lost
And I couldn’t put my finger on it
But I know it’s you
You were the cost of me going away too soon
In this flash I am carried away
In my final day, I see
I see it all
Don’t you know, we will always be
We will always be
In Love
I already miss you Sweet Joyce
Written by Michael Frazier © April 4, 2013
In memory of my friend Rittmo' aka, Richard Blum
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
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Rittmo' (Richard Blum) and Friends recommends:
wintersongs
by Wintersongs 2011 by Songsmiths Anonymous Forum
Wintersongs 2011 - Winter and Christmas compilation with more Rittmo' music, lyrics and performances
go to album
Valentunes 2012
by Valentunes 2012 by Songsmiths Anonymous Forum
Valentunes 2012 - Valentine's Day Songs compilation with more Rittmo' music, lyrics and performances
go to album
cold comfort: rittmo' + friends
by cold comfort + rittmo' + friends
Cold Comfort: Rittmo' and Friends - 4 track EP Rittmo
go to albumIf you like Rittmo' (Richard Blum) and Friends, you may also like:
True Romance EP
by James Massiah
featured on Bandcamp Radio Apr 9, 2024
go to album
The dark, poetic second album from the duo of Adam "Aran" Nenadál and Anar Badalov is rich and meditative.
go to album
A collaborative ode to the mythology and culture of the Czech Republic, pairing meditative poetry with menacing sounds.
go to album
