After writing two songs for other family members, I didn’t want to leave one of them out. “Ride” was written for my sister and “Funky Animals” was written for her youngest son. My sister’s eldest son, an aspiring Marine and ardent, conservative patriot was my target audience. I had the luxury of asking the other two what they wanted in their song but I wanted the song for this young man to be a surprise for his High School Graduation. Knowing he likes his scream-o, metal music on sonic boom, I decided to take my creative juices in a completely different direction. I knew the song had to have attitude and metal.
It was a new sound for me vocally and quite challenging to deviate from my more common vocal nuances. This is the inspiration for this song. My nephew is a very outspoken person when it comes to what he believes. We have had many conversations about how some Americans take Freedom for granted. As a Veteran myself, I have strong feelings about burning the very flag I served to defend, and taking a knee when the National Anthem is presented, a song I often proudly sing. Do what ever you feel you need to do but don’t try to take my constitutional rights away. Yes, conversations like this. I thought about these conversations with him.
Besides, this kid has spent several summers with us so I think I know where he stands on these issues. As the lyrics evolved, I realized I was writing the song for myself just as much as I was writing the song for him. I am proud to have served this Nation, and I would do it again to protect Freedom. The freedom we all have and should never take for granted. After all “I have my reasons I push the limits.”
Shout out to all the Veterans who have served or who are currently serving. Thank you for your sacrifice and commitment.
