Six String Orchestra - Harry Chapin

The very day I purchased it

I christened my guitar

As my monophonic symphony

Six string orchestrar

In my room I’d practice late

They’d leave me alone

My mother said, «You're nothing yet

To make the folks write home.»

I’d play at all the talent nights

I’d finish, they’d applaud

Some called it muffled laughter

I just figured they were odd

So I went up for an encore

But they screamed they’d had enough

Oh, maybe I just need a group

To help me do my stuff

And so I’d dream a bass will join me

And fill the bottom in. And maybe now some lead guitar

So it would not sound so thin

I need some drums to set the beat

And help me keep in time

And way back in the distance

Some strings would sound so fine

And we’d all play together

Like fine musicians should

And it would sound like music

And the music would sound good

But in real life I’m stuck with

That same old formula

Me and my monophonic symphony

Six string orchestra

Oh, I write love songs for my favorite girl

And sing them soft and slow

But before I get to finish

She says she has to go

She’s nice and says «Excuse me

I’ve got to find a bar

I think I need refreshment

Before I hear you play guitar.»

Oh I sent a demo tape I made

To the record companies

Two came back address unknown

One came back C.O.D

Of course I got form letters

All saying pleasant things

Like suggesting I should find a trade

Where I would not have to sing

And so I’d dream a bass will join me

And fill the bottom in

And maybe now some lead guitar

So it would not sound so thin

I need some drums to set the beat

And help me keep in time

And way back in the distance

Some strings would sound so fine

And we’d all play together, like fine musicians should

And it would sound like music

And the music would sound good

But in real life I’m stuck with

That same old formula

Me and my monophonic symphony

Six string orchestra

I’ve been taking guitar lessons

But my teacher just took leave

It was something about a breakdown

Or needing a reprieve

I know I found my future

So I will persevere

And hold onto my dream of

Making music to their ears

And so I’d dream a bass will join me

And fill the bottom in

And maybe now some lead guitar

So it would not sound so thin

I need some drums to set the beat

And help me keep in time

And way back in the distance

Some strings would sound so fine

And we’d all play together, like fine musicians should

And it would sound like music

And the music would sound good

But in real life I’m stuck with

That same old formula

Me and my monophonic symphony

Six string orchestra