Mix CDs - The Poor Man's Greeting Card

So I made another CD – I guess it’s my thing. This one was for a friend who was having trouble with her relationship, with her own insanity, and with the overwhelming pressure of living in LA. Each track was chosen with care:

Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood – Nina Simone
Her SO was not really supporting her decision to change as a person – when you’re not your whole self for a long time, change can be disconcerting.

When I Get It Right – Joan Armatrading
This song is about how people (in this case, her parents) make you feel like making mistakes is unforgivable; instead of unconditional love, you are faced with constant recrimination for your behavior. The confusion of being yourself in a society that demands conformity.

Safe and Sound – Idlewild
About how we embrace or don’t acknowledge our self-destructive tendencies until we are forced to confront them “you’re safe and sound, until you hit the ground”.

Can’t Be Trusted – One Star Motel
As a song sung to the self – about not knowing and believing in your own decisions and power.

Get Me Away From Here, I’m Dying – Belle & Sebastian
That overwhelming feeling that where you’re at is not where you need to be.

Don’t Be Shy – Cat Stevens
“Don’t be shy, let your feelings roll on by.” Yusef Islam claims, and I think he’s right about this one. “Don’t wear fear, or nobody will know you’re there.” If you are afraid of being yourself, then who are you?

Individuality – Phranc
“The world would be a pretty boring place, if everyone was the same”. Sing it sista, ...er, brotha,… er jewish lesbian folksinger.

Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
Because well, you can’t. That defeats the whole purpose.

Everyone Knows It But You – David Mead
“You’re a gift more than good, in a season renewed, and everyone knows it but you.” I wish I could send this song to all my friends when they feel alone or not good enough, because I truly feel it about the people I care about.