I started this 5 hours ago after getting the idea while showering. I thought I had music for it but since then have been out of action with stomach problems. Posting lyrics-only for now so I can move on.
I think that means it's the first song that ever made me physically ill to write. :)
If the morning newscast says there’s nothing to report,
Predicts more pleasant weather and success in favourite sports.
If your coffee maker custom-grinds a premium brand
Welcome and congrats, you have arrived in Charlieland.
Charlieland! Oh, Charlieland!
Where no day’s only average, according to the plan.
Charlieland has a place for you;
Whatever Charlie wants comes true.
Your bus is at the corner where its operator waits.
Drivers let the bus merge; no one wants you to be late.
Co-workers are exceptional, no slacker in the bunch
And you’re not tired yet of tuna sandwiches for lunch.
Charlieland! Oh, Charlieland!
Every neighbour greets you and extends a helping hand.
Charlieland has a place for you;
Whatever Charlie wants comes true.
Here, every question’s answered with a slogan or a meme
That satisfies completely, making acclamation seem
Like lifeblood of society, its motion and its beat:
The rhythm from a single song, forever on repeat.
Charlieland! Oh, Charlieland!
Gives simple explanations that you’ll understand.
Charlieland has a place for you;
Whatever Charlie wants comes true.
Sometimes, late at night, you wonder how you found this place
Did you come by magic or a rift in time and space
And then you push that question down to where enigmas lay
For, when you question Charlieland, it starts to fade away
Charlieland! Oh, Charlieland!
Maybe someday you’ll become Charlie’s good right hand.
Charlieland has a place for you;
Whatever Charlie wants comes true.
@davidr Feb 2022
I like this, I'm curious how it will sound when put to music. I like how we see a hint of the ominous toward the end.
@gmcgath Feb 2022
Looks interesting. I too am wondering who Charlie is.
@calicocat Feb 2022
And may Charlie always want good things for you!
I'm not sure if you intended this song to be a bit spooky but it is reminding me of a horror story about a town with a magical little boy in it where whatever he wanted just happened...
Anyway, I'll be interested to see what you do with the melody!
@summerrussell Feb 2022
"Charlie is my darling..." OK, I don't *know* that there's an intended Star Trek reference here, but the "Whatever Charlie wants comes true" refrain certainly fits. I like how you conveyed the sense of menace underneath this sort of personal utopia (and I note that everything caters to the "you" in the song) that really reveals itself in the last verse.
@seemanski Feb 2022
I have a feeling this is going to sound nothing like I expect it. I'm a huge Ben Folds fan and I can't get the Jesusland melody out of my head every time I read it.
Not sure who Charlie is but he sounds delightful.