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Hard To Write

from Company by Ross John Martin

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about

Everyone was tired when we recorded this song at the end of a long session but it has become one of my favourite tracks. It became a perfect analogy for the song because we really buckled down and got on with it despite being pretty tired and sweaty! The song is really about having a quiet strength and resilience. Sometimes life isn't how you planned but you can get on with it and create something beautiful.

The chord pattern had been something I had been playing around with and then I wrote the lyrics for the chorus and it all fitted together quite quickly after that! We changed the first chord of the chorus whilst recording, I was very proud of this strange discordant chord that didn’t really work with the piano. Bryan the pianist was adamant that it should be a simpler B minor chord and I’m glad I listened as it just worked much better. That is why I love working with other musicians and recording at the same time in one room, the ideas that bounce off each other is part of the magic of the music.The instrumental section 1:15 minutes in is probably my favourite part of the whole EP, the way the three instruments meld together just wouldn’t be possible if they were recorded separately I think.

The hard to write/say lyric is about tough love, it’s saying that sometimes life doesn’t go as planned and it can be tough but you need to be the captain of your own ship. I guess when I write songs there might be a personal message for me and I was definitely singing with a someone in mind but I do like to keep the subject somewhat open to interpretation. Maybe the message will resonate with the listener? That is the goal of my writing. It might be about someone else or it might be about you? I know with myself that I’ve always been fiercely independent and resilient, I’ll keep walking the path I feel is right even when it’s the hardest and longest road. It’s a bit like with my music, I’ll keep making it even if no-one is listening, it’s a drive that I have and I’ll keep pushing on!

The verse of this song is pretty easy on guitar, it’s normal tuning with a capo and the first 4 chords go G F C A7. Simple! The rest get a little more complicated and is really fun to play. I especially like the first chord of the chord with it’s minor feel.

lyrics

Hard times they come and go
It's up to you to carry the load
And although the road is long
You'll be strong

I know your heart's been torn
But you'll find peace amidst the storm
And although the road is long
You'll be strong

Hard to write
I've got a friend in need
Hard to say
I know the world seems cold
But you shouldn't hide away

The way ahead it feels unknown
Some walks you have to take alone
And although the road is long
You'll be strong

Hard to write
I've got a friend in need
Hard to say
I know the world seems cold
But you shouldn't just hide away

Life at times can take it's toll
You build a fortress around your soul
And although the road is long
You'll be strong

I know your heart's been torn
But you'll find peace amidst the storm
And although the road is long
You'll be strong

Hard to write
I've got a friend in need
Hard to say
I know the world seems cold
But you shouldn't just hide away

credits

from Company, released July 27, 2018
Music & Lyrics - Ross John Martin
Vocals & Guitar - Ross John Martin
Cello - Matt Constantine
Piano - Bryan Edery

Recorded at Soup Studio
Mixed by Dan Blackett at Soup Studio
Mastered by Richard Willan at LOUD Mastering

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about

Ross John Martin Cambridge, UK

RJM plays beautiful, intricate and textural acoustic music. Like Nick Drake jamming on Becks Sea Change album.

Songs that are sad, strange and soulful.

Overcoming odds
and an awakening of the soul are an ever present theme.
... more

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