Released January 1, 2023
Lyrics and info: https://ameliaray.net/discography-delegate
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Delegate 3:470:00/3:47
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0:00/3:47
Released 01 January 2023
Written, composed, arranged, produced and performed by Amelia Ray
Mixed and mastered by Brandon Bankes
Cover design: Daniel Cisneros and Amelia Ray
This past summer, I was feeling overwhelmed trying to juggle multiple projects within the ever-changing landscape of being an independent musician. A friend suggested I focus on outsourcing tasks, and jokingly challenged me to write a love song about delegating responsibility to help me learn how to do it.
The lyrics came easily enough. I imagined someone who, after weighing the pros and cons of continuing a love affair, ultimately leaves the decision to the other party. The music was a bit harder. I knew the style of music I wanted but didn’t know how I was going to fit the elaborate Memphis soul arrangement I was hearing in my head into my limited budget.
So I decided to approach "Delegate" from a subtractive rather than additive point of view. Applying the study of triads that have been the focus of my guitar lessons for the past two years, I dissected the song into small parts that I could easily play. I came up with a simple, charming arrangement that sounds unlike anything I've written before.
The exercise also helped me learn the first rule of delegation, namely, having clear explanations of the tasks to be assigned. I feel I’m one step closer to grasping the motto of successful entrepreneurs the world over: “Work smarter, not harder.”
Amelia Ray
01 January 2023
Lyrics
“Delegate”
Do I love you?
Do I trust you?
Can we start anew?
I'm in no shape to decide so
I delegate it to you
Is it springtime?
Are you all mine?
Can we make it through?
There's a feeling inside but
I delegate it to you
Could this be forever?
We might be so sad
I should walk away, however
Baby, you're the best I ever had
Are we there yet?
Are you my safe bet?
Does it all ring true?
See, I've got nothing to hide so
I delegate it to you
I should walk away, however
We might be so glad
This time could be forever
'Cause, baby, you're the best I ever had
Do you need me?
Will you deceive me?
Leave me sad and blue?
I’ll cast my fears aside and
I'll delegate it to you
© 2022 Amelia C. Ray/Annabel Is Her Mother Today (ASCAP)