Dennis Field

Joey, I think you accomplished exactly what you set out to accomplish with this song. To me this song is not “political-vibey” at all. Yes it talks about some really important topics, but It’s your interpretation on the world right now. It did make me think.

It is also full of some really great lines. I really like the first verse:

“Broken homes and secret drones, hungry kids and new iPhones, but no one likes a told you so.”

I think it is a great first verse. The way it follows the opening “Chorus” is great. I t really sets the tone for the song and immediately made me start thinking about the era we are in. With gadgets and technology. I often wonder how is that effecting the world as a whole? Where are we going with it? and how far?

The homicides and pesticides…part of the song is probably the only spot that I feel gets drowned out by the background vocals. I like having a “change up” in the song, so I feel like something like that is needed, but I wonder if it could be refined some?

I’m excited to see what others have to say about this! Also, I like the Instagram shot! Really helps the story of the song.

Dennis Field

Forgot to mention. Thanks for posting the Lyrics. It was great to follow along with them as I listened to the song.

Dick Plunk

Joey,  I think you did a great job of pointing out various social/moral issues that might be bothering you/others without being “preachy”. You never say: “this is what needs to happen”. In fact, I think you say the most profound thing to say in an issues song - “but no one likes a told you so”.Your approach puts the issue on the table without turning off anyone who might have disagreed with whatever opinion you have. Good job.

Personally, I think there is a fine line (in a song) between repeating a theme just enough or too much. I felt that the “our love is going to save the world” line crossed the line (excuse the pun) a little. I have heard some people say that when a writer over repeats a good line, it’s because they can’t think of enough to say. I’ve also heard it said that the song can become tedious when a line is over used. I do not think either of those apply to your song, but it is something to keep in mind when deciding how often to repeat a line, a chorus, or even a musical hook.

Having said all of that - I really like the song!

Spencer Saylor

I love this song. I can’t say much more. Reminds me so much of my favorites in Bob Dylan and Lennon. Two of my most favorite artists and who really got me interested in writing. So for me, this song is really cool in the fact that it kind of mirrors a lot of the work they did. I love the “oos” throughout the piece as I think it’s really cool how it keeps the song simple but matures it a ton with subtle touches like that. Love listening to your stuff—you’re an incredibly talented writer and vocalist.

Joey Hendrickson

These are some very useful insights, and I’m thankful for all of the encouragement above.

I’ve gotten a lot of feedback about over repeating the chorus.  I whole heartedly agree that it’s redundant.  I used the phrase 15x during the song… More than another song I’ve written.  My intention was for this to be an audience sing along.  But perhaps a bridge would be in order, or something else could happen production-wise to change the chorus just enough to make it feel less repetitive.  I’m not sure at this point.

Again, thank you all for the feedback.  Spencer:  Really looking forward to sharing the stage with you at Woodlands this Sunday!

Dennis Field

Joey, Happy to provide the Feedback. I can see where in production you could make the chorus really come to life in a way that feel unique each time and still be a great sing along. Upset I was not able to make it to the show Sunday. I’m sure it was great!

Sarah Spencer

Wow, what a powerful song. I’ve got goosebumps. And I LOVE your voice. Very strong and pleading. Great track!

Allyse Huey

Way to stretch yourself in your writing Joey.  Great topic, and yes the chorus may be repetitive, but we need believe that love can change things so its great to repeat that.  Nice.

Charlie Jacob

Joey,
  We are the “kings” of our songs. We decide what we want to say. Although others may make suggestions, we can change our songs…or not.
  I’m fine with your repetition.
  I’ve heard some weak songs. Hammering the “hook” doesn’t strengthen a song. It emphasizes the weakness. Not the case here.
  Have you ever heard, or read the Anne Murray lyrics…A Little Good News? Okay, the are no easy answers to lifes problems. However, I’d like to see some sort of progress in your song. Anne talked about problems. Then, said what she’d like to see(a little good news). As I see your song, it’s a throw back to the 60’s flower power. Love and Peace.
Eric Clapton has a Change The World. He seems to concentrate on just 2 people.
Your song didn’t take me any where. Maybe a bridge? Maybe say that the world could be a better place. Simply being half of a lovers relationship does nothing. Actually, you even doubt that.
My point? If you have nothing to say, then why write a song?

Scott Jones

Great talking with you yesterday at Kitamu.  Interesting to meet someone so young and motivated to change the city of Columbus.  Why not just do what everyone else does and go to Nashville?  Because Columbus rocks

I think it takes courage to stay where you are and make things around you better, rather than grow weary seeking out constantly greener pastures.

Those are the thoughts that I had reading these lyrics.

Interestingly enough, I fly that exact airplane for a living.  Doesn’t make for great conversation at a bar or party so I rarely bring it up.  I am never sure how people would react to it.  Regardless, I usually just say that I am a musician/songwriter.

Anyways, I enjoy listening to your stuff.  I was sitting here soloing along with it a little, the progressions and vibe are certainly coffee shop and easy listening. 

Cheers