Lyric Theatre

Bob Dylan once said that Smokey Robinson was America's greatest living poet, and even though Allen Ginsberg lodged a foul, the point was made that the songwriters of today are the great lyric poets of yesterday.

And by today, of course, I mean most any song written since the silly 50's heyday of "Sh'Boom," How Much is that Doggie in the Window" and "Come on-a My House."

It's all about the lyrics to me. I might be alone in that. Generally, when Peggy likes a song, it has to do with the melody, the beat, the music. Peggy used to dance, until she married a guy who moves like the south end of a northbound horse. But that crazy fascinatin' rhythm is still in her heart.

For me, it's the lyrics. They can be clever, or poignant, or mournful, or gleeful. But they have to catch on with a part of my experience; they need to glint off one aspect of life.

But to prove a point, I hit shuffle on the old 'Pod and came up with this glinting gem, done by Tompall and the Glaser Brothers, and written by Tompall himself. This family trio did some great harmony backgrounds for such artists as Hank Snow, and released some singles and albums on their own, with limited success. One of the articles I once read about them said that Tompall Glaser had a "prickly" personality. Not a good trait for someone in a people-oriented business!

But check the lyrics to "Gone On the Other Hand"...and hear it on your computer!
http://video.aol.com/video-detail/tompall-and-the-glaser-bros-gone-on-the-other-handmpg/66991670

Someday I think I'll take up thinking
and try my best to understand
How she could be loving me forever
and leaving on the other hand

Last night I thought I'd see a movie
to help me get my thoughts in hand
I think what I saw was a western feature
or James Bond on the other hand

I placed a ring upon one finger
of her left hand
The one who said she'd stay forever
is gone on the other hand


But today the world looks brighter
I feel just like a brand new man
I love her no longer; I don't miss her
I'm lying on the other hand

She's gone I know I'm being foolish
I should act like a grown-up man
But things could get worse I could start crying
I do on the other hand

I placed a ring upon one finger
of her left hand
The one who said she'd stay forever
is gone on the other hand
The one who said she'd stay forever
is gone on the other hand

Those are some lyrics, my friend!