Artist's Statement

For every songwriter, each song comes from a special place.  Some songs tell a story, inspired from long ago. For me, a transplant from the bluegrass of Kentucky to the pretzels and pierrogies of Philadelphia, who has fallen in love with this historical city, that is the case . . . for at least some of my music.  

Some songs may come from the here, the now, the within. The moments of living which we all share - the pain or joy, triumph or despair, challenge or whimsy.  These songs may be more 'personal' - for me at least that is the case - and I'm profoundly grateful that I have an  audience who allows me to share these stories with them. 

Whatever its inspiration, through word and note, I wish to share my music, my experiences, with the listener. Of course, the listener can receive it in any way they want.  I just hope the music stirs a response.

- Marion Halliday

Go to Philly Songs Project to learn more about my project involving songs inspired by Philly and PA history and culture.

Lyrics

BOURBON & MEN

By Marion Halliday 2016 (Rings Around Saturn 2019) - all rights reserved. 
Inspired by two subjects near and dear to Marion and her Trickster Sisters. 

V1 - I like my bourbon like I like my men -Strong, not too neat, some rocks thrown in. I like when things burn and make me sweat, And hard livin’ with no regrets.
Ref: Oh my aching head -Why’s that bottle in my bed? I like the things that aren’t good for me - I like you and Kentucky whiskey.
V2 - I like wild storms when wind shake my house The thrill of wondering will this work out Kinda how it feels when I’m loving you - Not quite sure what you're gonna do. (Ref)
V3-I like the quiet in the dark of night with just my thoughts to hold me tight. I liked you better when you went away- Why it hurts still, can't hardly say.(Ref)

BOY ON LEMON HILL

By Marion Halliday 2015 (Rings Around Saturn 2019) - all rights reserved.

Part of Marion's Philly Songs Project. Irish-y ditty inspired by a lovely spot near Marion's home in Fairmount Park area of Philadelphia.

V1-There’s a boy up on Lemon Hill, if I cant catch him, nobody will. A little bit sassy, little bit sweet, tastiest morsel you ever did meet. Six foot two and hair so dark - Its no wonder he would break my heart. Cho:  Hey dilly, dilly, and a derry derry oh, hey dilly, dilly and a  derry derry oh
V2 -That brawny lad, by the name of Will, lived in a house on top of Lemon Hill. I followed him home and gave him a kiss but Molly Bloom wasn’t happy with this. A little bit brassy and long in the tooth, what she couldn’t win was mine to lose. (Cho)
V3- Well I caught me the boy up on Lemon Hill. He spent all my money now I cant pay a bill. Alll he’s given me is a babe to raise and a heartache to last all of my days. So I gave him the boot back to Molly Bloom and now that pair can sing this tune. (Cho)