Don't Think Twice

I particularly enjoy this song because the lyrics are so vague yet descriptive of a relationship that must've been tough. The sentiments expressed seem rather unique to me compared to other songs of love and loss. It speaks a bit of regret and unfulfilled wishes in the relationship as well a repeated sense of futility at any attempts at reparation. Though all those feelings of disappointment are founded on something we as listeners don't fully know, we are told with each refrain that "it's all right." I love how the chords echo some of that dissapointment and longing while still resolving in a calm way.

Oh Ye Mountains High

This is one of the first hymns I ever tinkered with. A few college friends and I decided to perform it at a church talent show and met with some laughs and applause as we hammed it up. This is a much shorter version, but you'll get the gist.

I love how the music has a happy lilt to it and how the lyrics make you picture so vividly a friendlier, happier place and time. A good pick-me-up for a rough day.

Here's a link to the actual music and lyrics. Below is some guy doing a fun version on mandolin.

Blowin' in the Wind

I don't claim to really know much about the cultural movements of the 1960s or about folk music in general, but I am definitely attracted to the musical quality of guitar and harmonica together as well as the message (insofar as I can derive it) of the lyrics.

To me, this song is a reminder to be a bit more sensitive to those around me, to not put off trying to be a better person, to pay more attention to the needs of those around me and try to lend a hand. The answers to the questions he asks certainly may be "blowing in the wind," but that doesn't mean I can't do what I can now to try to improve myself and lend a hand to others.

Oh What Songs of the Heart

This hymn's lyrics are all about the songs our hearts will be singing when we're reunited with our loved ones in the next life. That message resonates with me partly because I enjoy making music with my family and partly because I can't imagine how great it will be to be together again never to be parted.

It's always difficult to arrange times for my family to meet because we are literally spread from coast to coast. Whenever we do get together, we all have a great time, but there comes that time of parting when you are right on the line of crying - and sometimes I do - because feelings of happiness and sadness become so confusingly intermixed.

For me, this song is about celebrating our time together both now and in the next life. I hope you enjoy my arrangement above as well as the Mormon Tabernacle Choir's version below.