Say Hey!

On occasion I’m up for delving into complex, poetic lyrics. But more often than not, I appreciate a simple, direct lyrical message. Whether it’s the simple “I love you” sentiments of soul music, or the “JUST DANCE!” directive of dance music. I guess I just don’t usually listen to lyrics carefully enough to appreciate subtle details. My loss, I suppose.

Fortunately, there are a lot of great songs with simple messages out there. One I’ve been digging of late is “Say Hey (I Love You)” from Michael Franti & Spearhead. It’s a song you’ve probably heard many times on the radio, at a party, etc. It’s certainly not a hidden gem. But with a great Latin dance beat and joyful message, it’s easy to see why it’s popular. “Seems like everywhere I go, the more I see the less I know. But I know one thing: that I love you.”

Another song with a similarly simple message that I’m digging these days comes from a very different genre. It’s “Danny’s Song,” by Loggins & Messina. This understated country love song was written by Kenny Loggins for his brother, Danny, upon the birth of Danny’s first son. It is simple, acoustic song about the joys of marriage and parenthood. You can imagine a new father singing it to his wife: “Even though we ain’t got money, I’m so in love with you honey…” A little cheesy? Yes. Nonetheless beautiful? I think so.

It’s a beautiful day, here are some beautiful songs to go with it. Enjoy.

Michael Franti & Spearhead – Say Hey (I Love You) (YSI)
Loggins & Messina – Danny’s Song (YSI)