My Songs & the Willie Nelson Cut

I opened my mouth one afternoon and this song came out whole. Co—producer Howard Toole suggested a sax. And that was all it needed. 

Not to be confused with 'Round Midnight', this  song was inspired by a letter I received from a lover who missed me.

When it ain’t the ‘real deal’, this jazz pop standard explores the concept of being wrong without also being a victim.

A country-rock story based on a real-life event, the twist at the end describes what my mama would have wanted to do for her daughter.

The late Dan Doll wrote a stunning lyric called Lisa’s Room. I added  music and convinced him to allow the alliterative change to Rachel.

I started this song back in the ’80s and had trouble finishing it. In 2016, I tried again. My Mom said, “You’ve already used a gun. This time, use a knife.”  

When writing the anti-pity party songs for Nouveau Torch, wanted to try a new take on the original of the same name. 

Taking responsibility for my part, when I was afraid to love and just did this instead.

Traditional ‘torch’ songs celebrated being treated badly and staying anyway. I think it should work the other way around.

This song is the heart of the Nouveau Torch album, describing what love does not do. 

Back in the 80s when this was written, it was considered too edgy for radio.

‘Deserve’ explores a healthy approach to loyalty and self-care, when leaving is the next right move.

That’s my friend Tracy showing off muscles — an excellent physical metaphor for this one.

I was honored to have Willie record this song. It’s not country — more like the standards he recorded on his “Stardust” album.