Don’t Say
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At first listen, this may seem like just another “break up” song, but it’s really about a lot more than that. The main message of this song describes a love and commitment so intense that, no matter how bad the relationship gets, or how hopeless it looks, giving up is not an option. Most of us have had moments in relationships where things are coming apart at the seems, some of us go through more intense circumstances than others. I wrote this song after coming out of one of those REALLY tough situations. My mind set was that, even though there seems to be no hope left to salvage this, I’m NOT giving up, even if it makes no sense to continue trying. My hope was to some day be able to be proud of the fact I didn’t give up.
“Ooooh, and I thought that you should know..
that I’ll never let you go
Ooooh, one more thing I know for sure
Someday, you’ll hear me say I told ya (so).”
And in this story, the determination pays off. Ironically enough, as I type this blog describing possibly one of the toughest times in life, I’m in New York celebrating my 7 year wedding anniversary! This song really is summed up in 3 words. Perseverance, Faith, and Love.
On a musical note, we wrestled with this one for a LONG time. Dustin came up with the original musical idea, and it was like a smooth latin jam, and I wrote all the lyrics over that. As the band kept jamming on it, we couldn’t make it feel quite right, and we thought, “what would Timbaland do?” I tried the current drum groove in a rehearsal, and everyone else immediately had parts flowing. This turned out to be one of my favorite tracks on the CD. And to top it off, long time friend, and incredibly talented artist Chris Swan aka “Luppy” agreed to come write a rap verse for the bridge of this song, which just takes it over the top. We are really glad to have him guest on the album.
So, no matter what the situation,…. there’s always hope left in the seemingly hopeless.
1. I love this song
2. I love what this song represents even more
3. I’m so jealous that you’re in NY today
Luke, You so cheated and put “Stories Behind The Songs” out on Sunday!!! I guess we can let it slide!!! :)
I too am jealous that you and your lovely wife are in NY!!! Hope you guys have an amazing and refreshing time while there.
I love this song, too. It’s always one of the first songs I show people when I show you guys off.
Also, I forgot to mention that the lead vocal on this song is Russ’ scratch vocal. He would sing a long a scratch vocal to keep us in place while we recorded the music, and would use a crappy drum mic to do it, while sitting in a chair, but we thought it was so cool, we kept it as the final vocal of the song… kids don’t try that at home.
Love this song – amazing that this is a scratch vocal track. I think that speaks volumes about Russ’ vocals!