Index
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I've Gotta Get Out More
Written by Garry Kelsey on July 30, 2011
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2011
From an idea heard at the Flinton Country & Bluegrass Festival.
This was the first song I ever wrote.
Chord D
D F# G D
I've been locked up in this room of mine ever since she left
G D E A
She took away my pride and now my mind's a mess
D F# G D
This house we shared for a while has been my hiding place
G D E A D
Then I went out into the night and put on a brand new face.
Chorus:
D G D
I've gotta' get out more, "That's what I said
G D E A
I've gotta' find a new love and stop hiding my head
D F# G D
I know that I can have some fun and find sombody new
G D E A D
If I could only lose your memory and forget you
The first time that I ventured out without her by my side
I felt like I was in a game and didn't have a guide
Then I met some more like me and they taught me all the rules
Now I've joined a bunch of other guys, sitting 'round on stools.
Chorus:
So if you end up in a spot without your better half
Just around the corner you can prob'ly find a laugh
Look at me I joined in and I'm not alone no more
I don't know what the game is but I think I know the score.
Chorus:
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We've Had A Few Rough Years
Written by Garry Kelsey on July 29, 2011 at the Flinton Country & Bluegrass Festival
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2011
From an idea by Debbie Baird Chord G Variation Capo 3rd fret
Chorus:
G Em C
We've had a few rough years
G A D G
But things will be better from now on
G Em C D G
We saw them all the good and bad times all these many years
C G D
Now we are in our sunset days with time to sing and play
G Em C D G
But back a while we had some rough times with the family
C G D G
We lost your Dad, we lost your Mom, and others along the way.
Chorus:
When we met we didn't know how it would all work out
We moved in together and sometimes we had our doubts
But time has added memories and time has turned the tide
The rough times started over when our old dog died
Chorus:
Now this may seem a sad song 'bout all this death and pain
But we are still together in sunshine and in rain
We look out for each other and make each other smile
The rough times are behind us, we can live life for a while.
Chorus:
I'd like to say 'I love you " but that would sound so lame
I can't get along without you or to hear you call my name
We give each other time and space and talk about what's wrong
We have our loud discussions but we always get along.
Chorus:
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If This RV's Rockin'
Written by - Garry Kelsey
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2012
Chord D
Me and my wife, my partner in life
Like to go RVing and camping
We meet up with others, we are all like brothers
How can you beat that my friend
Back when when the craze was a van with a bed
This old line was seen on a sign
If this van is rockin', don't bother knockin'
But that was when I was a kid
When I was younger I used to say
If you see this camper rockin'
Don't bother knockin'
Now that I'm older what you'll hear me say,
If this RV's rockin',
It's prob'ly someone walkin'
But now that I'm older I don't do that no more
On our RV this is what the sign read.
If you see this RV rockin', it's just someone walkin'
There's nothing going on in here
Now it's early to bed and early to rise
Keep your hands to yourself you old man
If this RV's rockin', it's just someone walkin'
We don't do none of that any more.
Spoken: Nothing going on in here
Ending: We don't do none of that no more.
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Don't Fly Too High
Written by Garry Kelsey from an idea by Basil Schroeder.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2012
We were camping in Algonquin park and Basil and Josie came in to camp for two weeks.
As we were leaving Basil said, "Goodbye, and don't fly too high".
I thought that would be good title for a song and wrote it when we got home.
Chord D Capo 2nd fret
D D7 G E
I was talking with an old friend, just the other day
A D
He said, "Things are going good, I'm finally on my way.
D7 G E
"I've got more money now, than I could ever spend
A D
I told him to be careful, someday it all could end
Chorus:
D G A G D
Don't fly too high, it's a long way to the ground
G A G D
Don't fly too high, some day you'll come down
D7 G A
Get your head out of the clouds, and come down to earth
G A G A D
Enjoy life and live each day, for what it's worth
My wife said I would never have to worry about our love
She said, "Our life together was made from up above"
I thought, what she said was true, but one day it was gone
I remembered that old thing about, flying too close to the sun
Chorus:
When we're young we look at things, with an open mind
We have no fear of the unknown, or what we seek to find
We're not afraid of failure, or what lies ahead
But things can go wrong, remember what I said.
Chorus:
D G------ A----D
Don't fly too h-------i-----gh
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Archie's Pontoon Boat
Written by Garry Kelsey on September 18, 20, 2012.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2012
One day my, friend Archie Ferguson asked me to write a song about his pontoon boat.
I tried a few ideas and made some changes on Dec. 19, 20, 2012, put music with it and recorded a rough version.
I guess you could say, "It's a pontoon tune". I tried to think of a theme for it for a long while,
finally I put this together, mentioning some of the names of our mutual friends. This is what I came up with:
Chord D
Archie has a pontoon boat, of it he is proud
It is a thing of beauty, and it will hold a crowd
They planned a get-together, and everyone showed up
Refreshments will be served on board, so bring along a cup
Chorus:
We wanted to have music, while we were going slow
Dale brought his old organ, you know the one he blows
Guy brought his Martin, in case we need to row
If we wanted a hymn, Doug had rosined up his bow
Murray brought his steel, incase we need an anchor
If June throws it overboard don't forget to thank her
When we left the dock, we had great expectations
Of cruising 'round the lake, like we were on vacation
All around the lake, we were heard across the water
As the sun went down Archie said, "Turn back we ought'r"
We had our music, while we were going slow
Dale brought his old organ, you know the one he blows
Guy brought his Martin, in case we need to row
If we wanted a hymn, Doug had rosined up his bow
Murray brought his steel, incase we need an anchor
If June throws it overboard don't forget to thank her
We headed back for home, some got wet but soon dried
And not long after we got back we were all wet inside.
Food was served that evening, with drinks all around
A great day of boating, and no one got drowned.
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Preachin' To The Choir
Written by Garry Kelsey at 5:00 AM, June 4, 2012
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2012
Added music on June 7, 2012
Chord D-D-aug.-D7-Em-A-G
My back hurts, my head aches and my mind is on the edge
I shouldn't have had that last drink, some day I'll take the pledge
My wife tells me on on the road to ruin and disgrace
Well your preachin' to the choir, so get out of my face.
Chorus:
Preachin' to the choir is what it's all about
Don't tell me what I already know
And don't jump up and down and shout
Your not lookin' through my eyes and you don't see what I see
Your preachin' to the choir but it don't sound like a sermon to me.
My old car is broken down and I can't find a job
My town is so small I can't even find a bank to rob
Poggy has run out and my welfare cheque is spent
And your preachin' to the choir about where it all went
Chorus:
Someday I'm gonna' go to my cabin in the hills
I'll enjoy my own company, and someone else can pay the bills
With no one to preach at me and tell me what to do
Stop preachin' to the choir or you and I are through.
Chorus:
Ending:
Stop preachin' to the choir, it don't sound like a sermon to me.
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My Old Man
Written by Garry Kelsey while on vacation in Algonquin Park
on September 18, 2012. Copyright Garry Kelsey Music 2012 ©
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2012
When I was very young I called my father Daddy.
Sometime later I started calling him just Dad.
One day I was talking with my older brother.
He said, "I always called Dad the old man. How come you never did?"
I think this song will explain what I said to him.
Chord D Bm F# G A
My Mother died and left us kids, with Dad when I was seven
He always said, "She's watching us, from somewhere up in heaven
He cared for us without her, a hard working Dad
I always called him Daddy, when I was just a lad.
Chorus:
He was never my old man, He was Mom and Dad to me
He never said, "I love you", But that was plain to see
He never said , I love you ", 'til he was very old
But we always knew he loved us, Without us being told
When I would ask for his advice, this is what he'd say,
"All my life I was told, what to be and not to be
So make your own decision, right or wrong someday you'll know
That's how you learn what's right or wrong, and that is how you grow"
Chorus:
Even when he got old, he were never my old man
We miss him every day, now that he is gone
So this song is for you "old man", for being Dad and Mom
And I will remember, every time I sing this song
You were never my old man, You were Mom and Dad to me
You never said, "I love you"ÃÂ, But that was plain to see
You never said , I love you, 'til you were very old
But we always knew you loved us, Without us being told
Ending:
You're not my old man, you are Mom and Dad to me
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You Let Me Down
Written by Garry Kelsey on January 10, 2013
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014;
Chord G C D Am Bm Variation (D Em)
Chorus:
You broke my heart you let me down
I can't forgive (Am) you and come around
You let me down right from the start
You found (Am) another and broke my heart
You said you'd always love me you said don't ever leave
But you`re the one that`s (Am) leavin' I had tears on my sleeve
I cried my heart out over you while you were runnin' 'round
I should have seen you (Am) didn't love me you let me down
Chorus:
You broke my heart you let me down
I can't forgive (Am) you and come around
You let me down right from the start
You found (Am) another and broke my heart
I thought that you might come back I waited like a clown
I'm all alone and (Am) lonely you let me down
I'll never trust another I'm on my own for good
I'll never love (Am) another, I never could
Chorus:
My house is full of memories I see them every day
I can't get over (Am) what I lost can't let them fly away
I guess what I should do is to try a brand new start
Get over what you (Am) did to me, you broke my heart
Chorus:
Ending:
You let me down right from the start
You found (Bm) another (Am) (D) and broke my heart
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I Thought I Was Wrong Once
Written by - Garry Kelsey
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2013
This was a line my friend Bob MacPherson used to say as a joke.
I have had it in my mind and decided to write a song about that.
I just finished it on March 2, 2013
Copyright Garry Kelsey Music 2013 ©
Chord G
G Em C D
I thought I was wrong once but I was mistaken
G Em C D
I loved you but your heart was taken
Bm C D
I thought you loved me now my heart is achin'
C G D G
You didn't love me I was mistaken
Chorus:
G D C G
No one should ever have to be wrong all the time
G D C D
When you're perfect as me it's a long uphill climb
Bm C
To have to admit you made a mistake
G D G
Is like giving in to another heartache
I thought I was wrong once but I was mistaken
I thought you loved me now my heart is achin'
I offered my love but your heart was taken
You didn't love me I was mistaken
Chorus:
I thought I was wrong once but I was mistaken
I loved you but your heart was taken
I thought you loved me now my heart is achin'
You didn't love me I was mistaken
Chorus:
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How Do You Like Me Now
Written by Garry Kelsey, April 2013.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2013
Completed on May 29, 2013 Chord: D
Chorus:
How do you like me now?
You said it didn't matter anyhow
I spent all your money and told you lies
You can see it in my lyin' eyes
When I was young I used to say
I'll be somebody one of these days
But now I think I've got it made
You work while I sit in the shade
I quit my job and went on a spree
You didn't see me for a day or three
I came home and asked you for a kiss
How do you like me now, and what do ya' think of this
Chorus:
I only work when the weathers fine
It's too cold in the winter and too hot in the summertime
I sit by the fire or out on the deck
And wait 'til you bring home your pay cheque
I wonder if you think it's wrong
You work while I sing another song
Come here and let me rub your feet
As soon as you get me something to eat.
Chorus:
Don't complain about the car you drive
I know somehow it will survive
We can't afford a newer one
At least until I get a new shotgun
Chorus:
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You Can Go Back
Written by Garry Kelsey on January 29, 2014
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014
Added some new ideas and music on September 16, 2014 Chord G Am C D
You can go back but you can't go home
Go back and visit those friends before you started to roam
Some have moved away and some are really gone
You can go back but you can't go home
We have moved around since we left that little place
Life is not a life, it's more like a race
We make new friends to fill our needs
But their not friends from school, we knew all their evil deeds
Instrumental:
As a person ages changes, take place
You go home to visit but you don't recognize a face
The streets in town don't look the same
People say hello, you don't even know their name
You can go back and talk to them again
But you can't go back to the way it's been
Too many things have come and gone
You can go back but you can't go home
Instrumental:
You can go back but you can't go home.
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I Won't Lie
Written by Garry Kelsey on March 19 & 20, 2014
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014
I had the TV on in the background and all I heard was, "I Won't Lie".
That's where the idea for this song came from, but I built my own idea of the meaning.
It's a justification for cheating on a partner. I cheated on you but you had plans to cheat on me.
The last verse has been a struggle. I think I have it now on March 26th.
The chord progression was an idea I have had some time using a prime chord "D " and an off chord "C "
Chord -Capo 2 Chord D G A C A7 Em
Chorus:
D A D G A
I won't lie, I cheated on you
D C A
While you were away,
D C
You said you'd be gone, for a day or two
G D
I won't lie , I cheated on you
D G A
I thought you knew, from my devotion to you
D C A
You, were my whole world
D G A
I found the note, that you threw away
D C Em A
It said, "I'll meet you in a couple of days "ÃÂ
Chorus:
D G A
While you were away, I was untrue
D C A
You crossed the line, I did too
D G A
You should have talked to me, I should have talked to you
D C Em A A7
Now we don't care, who cheated on who
Chorus:
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Written by Garry Kelsey on April 22, 2014
from an idea that I wrote down some time ago.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014
Chord Em A B7 (Alternate Capo 2 Chord D)
Are we having fun yet ?
That's what I used to say
When we were fighting for survival
Living day by day
Back when we first began
Laughter was better than being sad
We laughed a lot we loved a lot
And made do with what we had
Are we having fun yet ?
That's what I used to say
When we were fighting for survival
Living day by day
Now here we are, many years later
We have everything we could want
But somehow we don't have fun now
Like when I said too you
Are we having fun yet ?
That's what I used to say
When we were fighting for survival
Living day by day
Are we having fun yet ?
That's what I used to say
When we were fighting for survival
Living day by day
Are we having fun yet ?
Living day by day
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The Dog Ate My Homework
Started writting this one January 23, 2013 Completed on April 30, 2014
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2013
Capo 2 Chord G D Em C
G D C G
When I was in school, still being taught
G D
I had the inspiration to be an astronaut,
G D Em
My teacher thought so too 'cause, this is what she said
C G G
You're taking up space here, you have to move ahead
One day I went to school, with no homework completed
My teacher asked about it as I stood there defeated
I thought I was in trouble since I had no work to give
I said, "The dog ate my homework but I think he's gonna live."
Chorus:
G D C Em
The dog ate my homework, was my lame excuse
C G D
I could have came up with a lie, but thought what's the use
G D C Em
He chewed it up and swollowed it, there's nothing too be found
C G D G
I just stood there on one leg, looking at the ground
I'm not a space traveller, but I've seen some sights
I didn't finish school but I came this far alright
So the next time you think someone has outwitted you
Think a little bit, an idea will come through
Chorus:
Many times we are confronted, with a problem deep
We go to bed but the problem won`t let us sleep
Make up a good story and most people won`t ask why
At least they won`t accuse you of tell a big lie
Chorus:
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This Day
Written by Garry Kelsey on May 10, 2014 for Fran & Ric Arsenault's 50th Anniversary.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014
Chords: Capo 1 C D F G
We gathered there, in Kingston town
To see the couple walk on down
It was their day to say I do
We all watched as the white dove flew
Fran & Ric soon moved away
They were gone until one day
They moved to country mode
On MacGillivary Lane they built the Panabode
Chorus:
How could it be fifty years today
The years have passed, they flew away
We all would like to wish them well
Many years to come, only time will tell
Instrumental:
Now it's fifty years since we came to see
Them walk that aisle as a family
Many ups and downs they have gone through
Every day, will be brand new
Chorus:
How could it be fifty years today
The years have passed, they flew away
We all would like to wish them well
Many years to come, only time will tell.
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My Story In A Song
Written by - Garry Kelsey
Idea on July 1, 2013, continued on June 5, 2014 and added music. Cleaned it up on December 8,2014. Finished and recorded on January 7, 2015.
Copyright Garry Kelsey Music 2015 ©
Chords - D A G Em
I was born when I was young, not so long ago
My Mother would not around, to see me grow
Dad wasn't always there, to give me direction
He did the best that he could, at least that's my recollection
Chorus:
D A G
That's my story up to now
D A G
That's my story in a song
Em Em7
It's not much of a legacy
A D
But it's not too long
I have made my mistakes, all along the way
But I did manage to stay out of jail, at least until today
I made a living with hard work, and a little bit of luck
I know I won't live forever, I might get hit by a truck
Chorus:
Now my time is getting short, I just live day to day
And make the most of what I have, the government can pay
Chorus:
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I'm Ruthless Again
Written by Garry Kelsey on October 31, 2014.
Made some changes and added music on November 18, 2014.
Re-arranged verses and chorus on November 26, 2014.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014
Capo 3 G D Em C
We met one day it was just like a song
I was Ruthless 'til she came along
We were so happy living in sin
I don't want to be Ruthless again
We seemed so happy, Ruthie and I,
Together, on a mountain high
Then one day she closed the door
And now I'm Ruthless once more
Chorus:
Now I'm Ruthless, I'm Ruthless, sitting here alone
Wondering, wondering, listening for the phone
All alone and crying, cryin' in my beer
Wondering, wondering, where to go from here
Instrumental
Chorus:
Living together but I could see
She has ideas, that don't include me
She left the mountain and our home
Now I'm Ruthless and alone
Chorus:
Instrumental Ending:
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Rough Around The Edges
Written by Garry Kelsey. I got this idea some time ago but put together a few words on May 30, 2013.
Modified on November 9 & 11, 2014.
A few more changes and added music on January 17, 2015. September 23, 2019. I got up out of bed tonight to finish this song.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014
Capo 2 Chord G C D Bm Am A
Verse 1
G C G D
My Daddy was a carpenter, he liked things straight and true
G C D G
He was rough around the edges but it seemed he always knew
Bm Am Bm A
Just what to say when I asked him what kind of girl to choose
G C D G
Find one that will stick with you and you will never lose
Bm Am Bm A
He said, "When you go looking for a girl to call mine
G C D G
If she's rough around the edges, that will be just fine"
Verse 2
The first one that I found I thought was fair of face
Someone else had turned her loose and I fell into place
She left me for someone else, I went looking again
I found someone else but all she brought was pain
1st. Chorus:
She was rough around the edges but she wanted to be free
She was rough around the edges, she was not for me
Daddy said "When you go looking, for a girl to call mine
If she's rough around the edges, that will be just fine"
Verse 3
G C G D
Daddy knew just what to say to make the right choice
G C G D
He knew just what to say, I can still hear his voice
Bm Am Bm A
He passed away before he met the one that I fell for
G C D G
She's rough around the edges, she's the one that I adore
2nd Chorus:
She’s rough around the edges but I love her anyway
She’s rough around the edges, I can still hear daddy say
"When you go looking for a girl to call mine
If she's rough around the edges, that will be just fine".
Select the Title to download and listen
Two Old Timers
Written by Garry Kelsey on March 23, 2015
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2015
Chord D Bm Em G A F# Alternate Capo 2 C Am F G Am E
Two old timers, at the country place
Talkin' 'bout the old days, back when they ran the race
We get together every year, to tap the maple trees
In the evening by the fire, sit and shoot the breeze
Last summer he cut firewood to warm his city home
He never did get back to camp, to see the sap come down
He always wanted family, in the cabin on the hill
Look ---- around, you will see him still
It's hard to say goodbye, but his race --- is run
When you look at his life, I think that he has won
He slipped away today, I'll never forget the pleasure
Of ---- his friendship, and our times together
The bagpipes lead the way, to where he will stay
If you want to visit, he won't be far away
The cairn by the pond, is where he wants to be
To see what goes on at the camp, beneath the hemlock tree
We'll miss his criticism, and how he did his thing
He won't have to wait this year for flies to take wing
He had some rough times in his life, and some good times too
Goodbye ---- old friend, slow down, I'll catch up to you
He had some rough times in his life, and some good times too
Goodbye ---- old friend, slow down, I'll catch up to you
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It's Time To Go To Bed
Written by Garry Kelsey on my 71st birthday, June 12, 2014.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014
I got this idea before I got up that day.
Dug it out on August 26, 2015 and tried some music and rearranged the verses.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2015
Chord - Capo 1 G
It is the day of my birthday, another year today
You would think at my age common sense would play
But alcohol and music keep me young you see
Pass the beer and pour the wine and sing along with me
Chorus:
We partied and sang all night
We've all been watered and fed
We had a good time
Now it's time to go to bed
When this party started it started out real slow
But when we got it wound up we knew where it would go
We sang the songs that we all know and some a time or two
No one can drive or even walk they went to bed on cue
Chorus:
Now it's time to go to bed, sleep will cure the overhang
Try to remember, all the songs we sang
The party now is over, I'll start another year,
Go to bed and sleep it off, we're all out of beer
Chorus:
Now it's time to go to bed, sleep will cure the overhang
Try to remember, all the songs we sang
The party now is over, I'll start another year,
Go to bed and sleep it off, we're all out of beer
Select the Title to download and listen
He Gave Me Music
Written by - Garry Kelsey July 7, 2017
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2017
I seem to get song ideas in the middle of the night. This one came to me last night. Writing time today - 20 minutes.
Elwin MacMunn was a crippled man, I guess he had polio as a child. He could walk with crutches and he built hand controls so he could drive a car.
When I first went to see him I asked him if he knew anyone who could teach me the guitar.
He said, "I could show you enough to get you started", and so for a long time I would visit him at his home
and he would play fiddle tunes and tell me what chord to play and when to change.
Eventually it became second nature to know when to change.
I'll never forget Elwin and how he gave me a start to this thing called music.
Chord: Capo 2 C Dm Em (D)
Instrumental Intro:
Chorus:
He was just a little crippled man
Played fiddle in a band
He taught me how to play guitar
He could barely stand
When I was a young boy I bought a cheap guitar
No one around to show me all the chords
Elwin played fiddle so I thought that he might know
Someone that knew their way around an old guitar
Chorus:
He sat with me for hours and played fiddle tunes
I would strum along with him and listen for the cues
As I learned the tunes and where to play each chord
It slowly came into my mind just how to play guitar
Chorus:
Instrumental:
Elwin is gone and I'm old myself but his music is still here
In my heart and in my hands
I'll take it too my grave, this music in my soul
You gave me what I needed to make my life whole
Chorus:
Instrumental Ending:
He could barely stand
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Off The Beaten Path
Written by Garry Kelsey on June 20, 2017.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2017;
I came up with this idea as I cut the lawn today. The first part was all in my head until I finished the lawn.
There is no such place as Monnasis, Kentucky.
Chords: Capo 2 G Am Em (A)
G D C G
I was on a little trip and decided I would slip
D
Off the beaten path a day or two
C D G Em
I pulled into the town, there was no one to be found
C D G
So I stopped at the general store to look around
Chorus:
G Am G
Have you ever been to Monnasis Kentucky?
D
It's a little country town back in the hills
C D
Where your neighbours are like kin
G Em
And your neighbours are your friend
C D G
And the general store sells nails and overalls
The only one inside seemed to be the man in charge
He said, "Howdy friend what brings you to this place?"
I said, "Just dropping in to see what I can find,
And spend a day or two just to unwind"
Chorus:
Instrumental :
This town was meant for me and I could see
Living here and settling down
I'll be back some day, I'll be back to stay
In Monassis, Kentucky, USA
Chorus:
Instrumental Ending:
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I've Got A Worryin' Mind
Written by - Garry Kelsey August 3, 2016
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2016
D A D
I have nothin' -- to worry about
G A
I've have never had to do without
G D
My bills are all paid and I don't look behind
Em A D
But I've got a worryin' mind
D A D
I go to work in town - every single day
G A
When the weekend comes - I draw my pay
G D
I'm looking for love - that I can't seem to find
Em A D
And I've got a worryin' mind
Chorus:
G Em D
I'm living alone with my dog, my best friend
G
The one that I want seems just 'round the bend
My dog and I sit alone every night
The one that I want is just out of sight
D A D
I guess I'll go on - worryin' about life
G A
I envy the ones with a husband or a wife
G D
I know all this worrying - is just wasting time
Em A D
But I've got a worryin' mind
Em A D
But I've got a worryin' mind
Em A D
But I've got a worryin' mind.
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Mountain Chute Dam
Written by - Garry Kelsey Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2016
I got this idea when I realised the Mountain Chute dam would be fifty years old in 2017.
I started writing down some ideas in the fall of 2015 and put some of the lyrics together on November 23 & 24, 2015.
Continued working on the music on December 22, 2015. Tried another music idea today, March 30, 2016.
Changed the first line and re-arranged the verses today, April 1, 2016.
Changed a couple words on April 27, 2016. This may be the final version.
Chord Capo 3 D Em
Chorus:
Fifty years on Madawaska and Centennial Lake
The old timers remember for old time sake
A hundred feet of concrete is what it would take
To build Mountain Chute dam to hold back the lake
Under Whitefish Lake, they dug graphite from the ground
They dug graphite from the tunnel until that awful sound
No one was down below when the mine caved in that day
No more Black Donald town, everyone moved away
Hydro needed power, so they came up with a plan
They found a place called Mountain Chute, that's where they built a dam
They flooded Black Donald and many miles up stream
Centennial Lake is the lake of hydro’s dream
Fifty years ago, they watched them strip the land
Some of the locals, may have had a hand
Hydro bought out property, said, “The river will be nice”
But some of them thought, “Was the pay off worth the price”
Now it's fifty years since the flood, below you cannot see
The lake holds the memories of what used to be
Old folks have their memories of what it was like then
Try to imagine what it was a way back when
Chorus:
Fifty years on Madawaska and Centennial Lake
The old timers remember for old time sake
A hundred feet of concrete is what it would take
To build Mountain Chute dam to hold back the lake
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The Mother I Never Knew
Written by Garry Kelsey on September 14, 2016
I woke up this morning with this song idea in my head and sat down this afternoon to piece it together.
November 16, 2017 finished and recorded
Copyright © Garry Kelsey Music 2017.
Bm A
When I think back to that day in November
Bm E
I make up things that I can't remember
A D A
It's hard to recall my moments with you
E A
So long ago and so very few
G D G D
Your life was cut short, only thirty-nine
A E A
I was just a child at the time
1st. Chorus:
A G A
I know you didn't want to leave
D E A
But you were gone when I needed you
Bm A
I never knew you, you went away
Bm E
I had some memories, but they faded away
A D A
You are the mother I never knew
E A
We had some moments, but very few
G D G D
A mother's love I never knew
A E A
A mother's kisses were very few
2nd Chorus:
A G A
Dad went on alone and we did too
D E A
We grew up and wondered about you
I wish that you could see how I have grown
Even thou I grew up all alone
Repeat 1st. Chorus:
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Snowed Out
Written by Garry Kelsey on November 17, 2018
We left the portable hunt camp up at our place on Norcan Creek last Friday. We were supposed to go back next week to take it
down but snow has been falling since I got home and it looks like we may not get back. There’s a foot of snow down already.
I’m going to try my hand at a song with this theme.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2018
Chord - Capo 2 D E - (E)
Chorus:
Snowed out, can’t get back
Snowed out, snow in all our tracks
When the weather breaks we’ll tear the whole thing down
Until then the Nine Shot Boys are all stuck here in town
The hunt is over and we are all unpacked
We didn’t know that snow would cover up our tracks
The MNR says you can only camp twenty-one days
But we can’t get back…..there may be some delay
We can’t get back snow will knock the whole thing down
If the warden finds it I know he’ll have a frown
The weather’s bad we didn’t mean to break the law
All we can hope for is an early thaw
Chorus:
Snowed out, can’t get back
Snowed out, snow in all our tracks
When the weather breaks we’ll tear the whole thing down
Until then the Nine Shot Boys are all stuck here in town
We have no excuse the weather locked us out
A poor excuse, a lame one there’s no doubt
Things could be a mess when we do get back from town
Someone may have moved in or burned the whole place down
Chorus:
Snowed out, can’t get back
Snowed out, snow in all our tracks
When the weather breaks we’ll tear the whole thing down
Until then the Nine Shot Boys are all stuck here in town
Until then the Nine Shot Boys are all stuck here in town
They may come with handcuffs if we can’t tear it down
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The Winter Blues
Written by – Garry Kelsey
January 29, 2019 Copyright © Garry Kelsey Music
Chord – Capo 2 D (E)
At this time of year the winter gets me down
Snow every day, I can’t get into town
Thoughts of summer keep filling up my head
I’ve got the winter blues and I’m going back to bed
I can feel the sun warmer every day
It won’t be long till we get out to play
Camping and fishing and all that kind of stuff
The winter blues have got me, I have had enough
I should move south and find a warmer place
My feet in the sand and sun in my face
I should pack my bags but my finances are low
I checked in at the bank I can’t afford to go
Some people like winter for me it’s just too cold
How can I enjoy what chills me to the bone
I can’t wait….for summer to appear
Tomorrow is Christmas and winter is still here
Tag:
The winter blues have got me and I’m still here
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Heavy On My Mind
Written by Garry Kelsey on December 30, 2018
Another middle of the night idea.
Copyright © Garry Kelsey Music 2019 Chords – Capo 2 D (E)
Chorus:
You are heavy--- on my mind
I've tried to forget you but all I do is pine
Inside these prison walls I find
Your love is heavy on my mind
I've spent the last four years in this cell
Every day without you is a living hell
When I'm awake or sleeping I find
You are heavy on my mind
Chorus:
Someday I'll be free of these stone walls
I'm afraid that when I'm free you won't accept my calls
You always were the loving kind
But today you are heavy on my mind
Chorus:
I shouldn't ask you to wait for me
As long as I'm inside you should be free
To live your life as best you can
Go find yourself a better man
Chorus:
Tag:
I'm in prison and you're heavy on mind
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The Hunt Is Over
Written by – Garry Kelsey
February 7, 2019 Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019
Someone had a wedding and this was on the glasses they gave out as gifts.
My interpretation may be different than what was intended there.
Chord: Capo 2 D (E)
I have been a hunter most of my life
I was hunting when I met my wife
She thought it was cruel and that it was wrong
If I keep on hunting I won't be married long
The hunt is over, I am married now
I'd like to still be hunting but I can't figure out how
To make this marriage business work and have a happy life
I guess my hunt is over, I have found a wife
So if you like hunting, stay single for a while
You can look at all those married people and smile
Keep a safe distance from girls in your life
Or your hunt will be over and you will have a wife
The hunt is over, I am married now
I'd like to still be hunting but I can't figure out how
To make this marriage business work and have a happy life
I guess my hunt is over, I have found a wife
Really my wife doesn't mind, she likes to see me go
No cooking or cleaning for a week or so
She calls it male bonding it happens every year
She helps me pack, she even buys my beer
The hunt is over and we are happy now
We have come to terms and I have found out how
To make this marriage business work and not upset my wife
I can keep on hunting and have a happy life
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There's Something Restless In Me
Written by - Garry Kelsey
I got this idea from something Debbie said on April 24, 2015.
Tried some new ideas on February 7, 2019.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019
Chords D Em
D D7
I have a wife and family
G
So why do I feel this way?
Em A
I'd rather be out with the guys than watch the kids at play
D D7
With no future
G
And too much in my past
A G D
I’d better straighten out or my life won’t last
Chorus:
There's something restless in me, I can't seem to settle down
And when I get this way no one wants me hangin' 'round
I know I would be better off with my wife at home
But there's something restless in me and I have to roam
Instrumental:
How can I shake this feeling?
I'd like to change my way
Maybe when I'm old and grey I won't want to play
But in the meantime
I’ll settle for what I do
There'll be something restless in me, until my life is through
Chorus:
Instrumental:
Chorus:
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Norman Is Silent
Written by Garry Kelsey - Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019
October 14, 2019 I had a restless night and this came into my head.
Until he died my father-in-law, Gilbert Smith played a Norman guitar and sang
I played with him for a few years and now his guitar is with me but seldom gets played.
Added music on November 13, 2019 Chord E
(E) Gilbert had a (B7) nice guitar, (A) Norman was it's (B7) name
(E) We used to play to-(B7) gether (A) until he passed (B7) away
(A) We'd sit in the (B7) kitchen and (A) play old country (B7) stuff
(A) Willie, Hank and (B7) Lefty and (A) even Roy (B7) Accuff
The music that we played were old country songs
Gilbert never could read but he learned them all along
I miss, those times, we had back then
I'd give a lot to just go back and do it all again
Chorus:
(A) I took it out the (B7) other day
And (A) played a (E)song
(A) It came to life just (B7) like before
It's been (A) silent for too (B7) long
In the music room Norman seldom is heard
Seasons pass and things have changed, Norman doesn't say a word
The kitchen now is silent I hardly ever play
But when I play old Norman he has a lot to say
Chorus:
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Written by - Garry Kelsey on January 24, 2019
I got this idea while watching TV one day. Added music January 30, 2019
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019 Chord D
D G D A
I don't know...why it is...I don't like to be alone
D G D A D
I meet someone, I seem to like, and hope they like me too
D G
We move in together and have a lot of fun
D A
Get it, got it good,
G A D
I think that I have won
Chorus:
D G
Get the girl, I've got it good
D A
Feeling good, I knew that I would
D G
Buy a little cottage and settle down
D A
Get it, got it good,
E A D
No more running around
D G D
In the beginning I try to get the girl
D G D
I chase her 'till she catches me, I think I've got a pearl
D G
But as soon as I got her things went wrong
D A
The get it, got it good,
G A D
Didn't last too long
Chorus:
Get it, got it good,
No it's never just that easy
When it all began, she seemed to want to please me
But then the cheating starts and another got in the middle
I don't want to be, the one playing second fiddle
Chorus:
Ending: I guess I'll go back to running around.
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This idea came to me on January 4, 2014. This morning the temperature was -27 celsius.
By 3:00 PM it had risen to -2 celsius. That's as close to an Alberta Chinook as we will ever get.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2014
It's cold this morning, -27 celsius
The sun came up and the wind started blowin'
Straight out of the south
Before long it was almost bearable
So when it gets cold and you can't go outside
Just wait a while and watch for that Ontario Chinook
The temperature can change here by 30 degrees
In less than a day either up or down
One day you freeze to death, the next the ice is melting
It's an awful way to exist during the winter time
In an Ontario Chinook don't wait too long to go out
And enjoy the balmy weather and watch the snow go down
Soon enough the ice will start forming
On your walks and cars and face
As the temperature drops to just below
What the average person can stand
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One day in July of 2019, I was helping a friend on his strawberry farm and this came about.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019
(D) Pickin' strawberries, (G) on a summer day
(D) Nothing better in this (Am) world (A)
(D) Eat a few, (G) then fill the basket too
(D) Can't imagine (A) a nicer summer day
Chorus:
(G) Jam and pies and berries (D) with ice cream
(E) It's heaven right here on (A) earth
(Pause)
(D) Once a year, in early (G) summer here
(G) There's nothing better (A) in this (D) world
Pickin' strawberries, on a summer day
There's nothing better for your soul
Eat a few then fill the basket too
Berries and ice cream is the goal
Chorus:
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I got this idea sometime in March 2013 but just wrote down one line.
Today April 8, 2013. I wrote down a few more ideas, then I realised
I was writing a song about my good friend Bob MacPherson,
who passed away in November of 2012. Today is November 19, 2014
and I added a few ideas to Bob's song.
Additional lyrics and an idea for music on Aril 24 & 25, 2015
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2015
Chords G
Chorus:
You're the winner, on life's highway
Rollin' on, through thick and thin
You've been over, most of these roads
Living your life of sin
You have made it, to the finish
With no failure at the end
You were always close at hand
When I needed you my friend
Chorus:
You were like my older brother
You have not been gone too long
You taught me a lot of things
Including how to sing a song
In your old age, you found salvation
You left us doing things you loved to do
Hanging on, to hope for life
Hunting with friends and kids by you
You're the winner on life's highway
You've done it all my friend
You will never be forgotten
You are remembered at the end
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Edited this song for June and Archie Ferguson's fiftieth wedding anniversary
to make it more universal.
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2016 Capo 2 C D F G
We gathered there, in that little town
To see the couple walk on down
It was their day to say I do
We all watched as the white dove flew
Chorus:
How could it be fifty years today
The years have passed, they flew away
We all would like to wish them well
Many years to come, only time will tell
Instrumental:
Now it's fifty years since we came to see
Them walk that aisle as a family
Many ups and downs they have gone through
Every day, will be brand new
Chorus:
How could it be fifty years today
The years have passed, they flew away
We all would like to wish them well
Many years to come, only time will tell.
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Written by Garry Kelsey August 16, 2018, Heard at the South Grenville Bluegrass Festival
Added a few lines on November 17, 2018 and again on April 5, 2019
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019
I used to be the one that would jump into the middle
Now I'm older and I don't mind, playing second fiddle
Young folks like to think that they are Superman
But I'm too old --- to be a hero
Heroes don't live long and often they get burned
I'm a little older now and I have learned
To step back and let the heroes take all the glory
I already wrote my story
Chorus:
I'm too old to be a hero
Call me a coward, I don't mind
I used to be the one on top now I'm 'way behind
I'm too old to be a hero
I'm too old to be a hero, take me as I am
I'm happy with my place in line and my state of mind
As I get older I have knowledge to reveal
I offer free advice some of it could be real
With age comes the reality of what we can expect
From our body as it ages we should get respect
I don't want to be that one to take the ball and run
Yes I'm too old---to be a hero
Chorus:
Ending:
I'm too old to be a hero
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We Are Friends
Written by - Garry Kelsey
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2013
Started writing about Oct. 1, 20013
Added a verse on Oct. 17, 2013
This idea came to me after talking with my singer/songwriter friend Earl Mosseau recently.
We have been friends for almost forty years but sometimes we don't see each other for months.
We are friends when we're together and we are friends when we're apart
Sometimes we don't see each other for weeks and sometimes years
We are on the same wave length but our lives are so different
We want to spend time together but life gets in the way
How do I make time for my friend who lives so far away
When we talk on the phone we have so much to say
I know if we sat down and had some time to spend
We would enjoy the time and wish that it would never end
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We Have A Lot To Live For
I'm not sure when this idea was written down but on January 17, 2015
I dug it out and added a bit. Completed on April 4, 2019
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019
Intro:
We have a lot to live for
Don't smile when I say this
Even though we needed more
We can't seem to get ahead
But we still have a lot to live for
Chorus:
Don't cry when I say we have lost again
We still have a lot to live for
And I remember when
We had less than we have now
We were happy then and we are happy now
Many times I have thought
That we had won the race
But it seems that just as fast as that
We are in second place
Chorus:
Most people will live and die
And never have much wealth
At best if we can work and play
The most important thing is health
Chorus:
And we still have a lot to live for
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Elwin's Old Fiddle
Written by Garry Kelsey November 9 to November 20, 2020
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2020. Chords: Capo 2 D A C G C A7 (E)
Elwin's old fiddle is coming alive
In a bad crash nearly didn’t survive
He started to fix it but passed away
Before he could finish, before he could play
He taught me guitar many years back
He played this old fiddle and kept me on track
A few repairs it will be like new
A few new pieces and refinishing too
I have it here with me now
I don’t know when and I’m not sure how
But with a little sweat and glue
I'll get it together and just like new
The crash nearly finished his fiddle friend
He died before he could mend
I hope to hear it played like he did
It will take me back to when I was a kid
I hope I do it justice and make it come alive
If I do it just might survive.
Elwin's old fiddle will ring like before
Just like in nineteen-fifty-four
Ending:
Elwin's old fiddle is coming alive
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They Found A Treasure
Written by Garry Kelsey December 25-28, 2020
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2020 Chord C
Abandoned in a house for fifty years
It's enough to bring a man to tears
What they found would break your heart
The old fiddle had fallen apart
It was in a case so old and worn
It's hinges were badly torn
But all the pieces were still there
The fiddle bow was missing all the hair
1st. Chorus:
It's going to be a chore to put it back together now
One piece at a time but I still may not know how
In time it may look like a fiddle again
Right now it looks like an old has been
It used to be somebodies treasure
I'm sure it brought a lot of pleasure
House parties and kickin' up their heels
From all the waltzs, jigs and reels
2nd. Chorus:
I hope a real good fiddler sees some value now
Of making music with this old fiddle, I don't know how
The "Crooked Stovepipe" should be easy to play
With something in pieces just the other day.
Play "Maple Sugar" to the end...
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We Breath As One
Written by - Garry Kelsey
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2022
Chorus:
I close my eyes as we drift off to sleep
I seem to breath with you as we drift away
We know each others habits so well
Go to sleep - and in - our thoughts we dwell
We breath as one in everything we do
From our first breath each day until we are through
I know one day we will be apart
Then one us will have a broken heart
Chorus:
I close my eyes as we drift off to sleep
I seem to breath with you as we drift away
We know each others habits so well
Go to sleep - and in - our thoughts we dwell
I wonder if you think the same as me
Your loved one breaths and you seem to breath with them
If you don’t I feel so bad for you
I breath and the one I love breaths too
Chorus:
I close my eyes as we drift off to sleep
I seem to breath with you as we drift away
We know each others habits so well
Go to sleep - and in - our thoughts we dwell
My Little Cabin In The Woods
Written by Garry Kelsey
Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2019
Started writing about September 15, 2019
From an idea that my friend Dale Cooke gave me when he decided to move into a little cabin in the woods.
Sadly Dale passed away on January 17, 2022. His wish came true. And yes he will always be remembered in "His little cabin in the woods".
My little cabin suits me just fine
Everything here is all mine
Drop by and see and say hi
My wish is to live here ‘till I die
I'm alone I don't need a lot of space
I feel right at home in this place
My little cabin is where I want to be
I like my company, myself and me.
Chorus:
I'm at home in my little cabin, in the woods
Keep your ten room mansion, my cabin suits me good
I now when I'm dead and gone you'll remember me
In my little cabin in the woods
If you drop by and I'm not here
Help yourself to a beer
The next time the beer will be on you
Replace it with one or two
You may think it's far from town
There's no corner store around
But when I get home it's quiet here
Just frogs and crickets and my beer
Chorus:
I'm at home in my little cabin, in the woods
Keep your ten room mansion, my cabin suits me good
I now when I'm dead and gone you'll remember me
In my little cabin in the woods
Running Out Of Tomorrows
Written by - Garry Kelsey Copyright© Garry Kelsey Music 2022
An idea on April 16, 2022 Capo 2 Chord A (4/4)
Chorus:
A E G E A
I'm running out of tomorrows but today is not done
A E G A E A
When I wake up in the morning and see the morning sun
A E G E A
I know I'll have one more day and I'm thankful for the time
A E G E A
I may be running out of tomorrows but today is mine
A B7 A D
I started out not knowing much of life
E A
I thought the best thing would be a wife
B7 A
But then I found some other things to do
D A
Fishing and music to name a few
B7 A D
Cars, trucks, motorcycles, snowmobiles
E A
Almost anything with wheels
Chorus:
I'm running out of tomorrows but today is not done
When I wake up in the morning and see the morning sun
At least I'll have one more day and I'm thankful for the time
I may be running out of tomorrows but today is mine
Guitars and fiddles were fun to play
But life and work get in the way.”
But now my life is starting to slow down
It's an effort just to drive into town
Every day I get busy doing stuff
An hour or two and then I've had enough
Chorus:
I'm running out of tomorrows but today is not done
When I wake up in the morning and see the morning sun
At least I'll have one more day and I'm thankful for the time
I may be running out of tomorrows but today is mine
My Old Man A - photo video of the song I wrote for my Dad.
A short video of a sleigh ride Christmas 2015
Pickled Chicken String Band at The Pine Valley Restaurant 2015
Video of Two Old Timers, A song I wrote in memory of my friend Doug Cameron
Video of a song I wrote called, How Do You Like Me Now
A Nice Winter Day Back to Index
Deaf Mans Jig Back to Index
Are We Having Fun Yet? Back to Index
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