Story Behind The Song

This is the first song that my friend Ted and I wrote together and my first effort after years of not writing. Ted told me this story about his nieghbor who he watched deal with this sort of abusive relationship day after day. He played me the chorus and I got chills just from listening to that, so I went to work writing the story (or the verses) from there. I would love to have a male sing this song as I think the message would have even more impact coming from a man.

Song Description

This songs tries to understand domestic violence from the female viewpoint while also trying to offer some hope and encouragement to get out of this losing situation.

Lyrics

Black and Blue Elaine

A shaky hand brushes her hair back
reveals a face she's never seen
she looks like one of those women
she always said she'd never be

But things change
And a woman's gotta do what is sane
Even thought the world says she's to blame
Don't believe them Black and Blue Elaine

there were times she thought about leaving
but it was too hard to do
besides the children need their father
there's only so much she can do

But things change
And a woman's gotta do what is sane
Even though he says that he'll change
Don't believe him Black and Blue Elaine

He gave her something to cry about
some kind of pain she thinks she can't live without
her face is broken and her eyes are burning red
and last nights go around is still banging in her head

But things change
And you know you're gonna do what is sane
Pack up your things and take the morning train
You're gonna leave him Black and Blue Elaine

'Cause a woman's gotta do what is sane
Even though the world says she's to blame
Don't believe them Black and Blue Elaine