Story Behind The Song

I first wrote this song not knowing who my ancestors were, thinking of what it must have been like in general. But after my brother's family research, I was inspired by their stories to rewrite and record it. I can't say that it's in a final version yet, but soon...

Song Description

My mother's ancestors include William Bradford, governor of Plymouth colony; my father came with his parents from Norway in the 1920's. This song is to honor the courage and vision of those who would leave all behind in the hopes that are born when a distant land offers freedom. Because even with 300 years between them, the connection between my ancestors is obvious: came for the promise of freedom--freedom to live, work, and build a life based on personal covictions.

Lyrics

They say that the water
And air is like wine
Rivers and mountains
And fields fill the eye
So down to the ocean
I know I must go
This day or next
While the trade winds still blow

(chorus 1)
Ride, ride
Stars are my guide
The spray in my hair
And my love at my side
Sail, sail
Ocean and rail
Carry me far and away

A hard rack
And hard tack
Are all that I own
Hunger, and northers
Moonlight and storm
Mains'l and rudder
The wind and the wave
To the land of the free
And the home of the brave

They say that the water
And air is like wine
Rivers and cattle
And fields fill the eye
So up to the prairies
I know I must go
This day or next
While the warm winds still blow

(chorus 2--not on recorded version yet)
(Ride, ride
Stars are my guide
The wind in my hair
And my love at my side
Sail, sail
Wagon and trail
Carry me far and away)