|
SWING AND A MISS
v
I was never the first one picked
Spent a lot of time on the pine
But when it was my turn to hit
I thought the same thing every time
chprus
I gotta swing the bat if I’m gonna get a hit
Step up to the plate wait for my pitch
I remember the day my daddy told me this
Son nothing worthwhile comes without risk
In life don’t ever doubt
three strikes don’t make you out
So don’t be afraid of a swing and a miss
v
There’s a blonde at every game
Her smiles, all I see in the crowd
I don’t think she even knows my name
Win or lose I’m going to ask her out.
Cause I gotta swing the bat if I’m gonna get a hit
Win or lose I’m going to ask her out.
chorus
Cause I gotta swing the bat if I’m gonna get a hit
Step up to the plate wait for my pitch
I remember the day my daddy told me this
Son, nothing worthwhile ever comes without risk
In life don’t ever doubt
three strikes don’t make you out
So don’t be afraid of a swing and a miss
bridge
Whether it’s a fast ball, curveball, slider, or a knuckleball
If I get the fat of the bat on it, maybe I can touch them all
chorus
But I gotta swing the bat if I’m gonna get a hit
Step up to the plate wait for my pitch
I remember the day my daddy told me this
So nothing worthwhile comes without risk
In life don’t ever doubt
three strikes don’t make you out
So don’t be afraid of a swing and a miss
tag
No, I’m not afraid of a swing and a miss
(Copyright 2025. Kayaneksongs. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
SMILE AT A STRANGER TODAY
The hostess at the restaurant
Was having a bad day
She’s probably expecting me
To complain about the wait
In a world of negativity
Kindness is a choice
So I’ll just stand here patiently
Instead of raise my voice
I’ll just
Smile at a stranger, today
Kindness is like a beautiful sunrise
It warms the heart its own special way
And you get back more than you leave behind
The agent for the airline
Said my flights delayed tonite
It may not make a difference
But I said it’s all right
I just
Smile at a stranger, today
Kindness is like a beautiful sunrise
It warms the heart its own special way
And you get back more than you leave behind
I can always find a reason to be kind
And I got enough smiles to give you one of
Mine
So I’ll just
Smile at a stranger, today
Kindness is like a beautiful sunrise
It warms the heart its own special way
And you get back more than you leave behind
Won’t you
Smile at a stranger, today
Kindness is like a beautiful sunrise
It warms the heart its own special way
And you get back more than you leave behind
(Copyright 2025. Kayaneksongs. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
GOOD THINGS HAPPEN
Good Things Happen
(Kayanek/Steffen)
v
Life is full of surprises
God never lets me down
Each day when the sun rises
I think this time around
pre-chorus
For all that tomorrow might bring
Nothing stands in my way
My faith guides me to the King
I, find peace when I pray
chorus
Good things happen when you trust in Jesus
Good things happen when you trust in God
He will be your power, in your darkest hour
Put you faith in Christ the Lord
Good things happen
v
God rules over all nations
Anyone who follows Christ
Will be a new creation
His Son was sacrificed
repeat chorus
bridge
His promise is renewed each spring
Challenges come and they go
It's easy to do the right thing
The Lord. He lets you know
repeat chorus twice
(copyright 2024. Kayaneksongs. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
ONE MORE
One More
(Music and Lyrics by Ray Allen Kayanek)
We know all the words to jingle bells
Silent night says it s well
know it came upon a midnight clear
yet we forget eleven months a year
we need one more Christmas song
we can sing the whole year long
the keep that feeling with us every day
one more Christmas song
that lives on when the tree is gone
all the decorations put away
to keep that Christmas spirit going strong
we need one more Christmas song
the spirit that the season brings
the message of the songs we sing
does it really have to go away
by the time that we reach New Year's Day
repeat chorus
for a season it seems loud and clear
there's no reason it can't last all year
if we try that is why
repeat chorus
(Copyright 2012. Cross Eyed Songs. All rights reserved. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
I AM
verse 1
So many times I've gone astray
Like a ship that's lost at sea
I've forgotten how to pray
So paralyzed with agony
verse 2
The Lord called out to me
But I was not listening
I was sick with apathy
Softly, He was whispering
Pre-chorus 1
Come home to God, follow Me
Chorus
I am the way, the truth, the life
I am the light of the world
I am the door, I am the vine
I am the good shepherd, the bread of life
I am the resurrection and the life
I am
verse 3
His hope was my salvation
He said I am who I am
Those words of proclamation
Led me to become Christ's lamb
Pre-chorus 2
HIs words rang true, loud and clear
Repeat Chorus
Outro
His Word is the only way
He is the Great I Am
His Word is the only way
He is the Great I Am
The Great I Am
He is the Great I Am
--- END ---
|
WHEN NATURE LENDS A HAND
When Nature Lends a Hand
(Kayanek/Johnston)
A little bit of privacy in a crowded world
uncivilized, unblemished and unbroken
Mother Nature smiles as she hears a boy and girl
communicate though not a word is spoken
It doesn't take words
It takes the right touch
to show someone you love them
show them just how much
There's nothing like making love
by a cool mountain stream
nothing like making love
by the light of moonbeam
sharing every feeling
where the ocean meets the sand
oh there's nothing quite like making love
when nature lends a hand
Knowing I'm a part of her and she's a part of me
a harmony designed to last forever
a feeling that's so natural as it was meant to be
the glue that binds a man and wife together
It doesn't take words
It takes the right touch
to show someone you love them
show them just how much
There's nothing like making love
by a cool mountain stream
nothing like making love
by the light of moonbeam
sharing every feeling
where the ocean meets the sand
oh there's nothing quite like making love
when nature lends a hand
Everything about the mood is right
as the water sparkles in the sunlight
the treetops gently sway up above
nature's gentle symphony of love
There's nothing like making love
by a cool mountain stream
nothing like making love
by the light of moonbeam
sharing every feeling
where the ocean meets the sand
oh there's nothing quite like making love
when nature lends a hand
--- END ---
|
A MAN OF HIS WORD DEMO
Grandpa never broke a promise to this little boy
once he went to seven stores to find my favorite toy
every basketball game in that hot and humid gym
five rows up behind the bench, you could count on him
I agreed to help him pull weeds from his garden
but I went to play ball and forgot all about him
he said when you make a deal and give someone your word
our faith helps us know what a promise is worth
grandpa taught the ten commandments, lived the golden rule
how to turn the other cheek when your neighbor's cruel
John three sixteen and what it means, now I know for sure
Grandpa helped me be, a man of his word
he taught me to apologize whenever I was wrong
failing ain't failing if I get back up strong
always tell the truth cause when you tell someone a lie
it's never quite the same when you look them in the eye
grandpa taught the ten commandments, lived the golden rule
how to turn the other cheek when your neighbor's cruel
John three sixteen and what it means, now I know for sure
Grandpa helped me be, a man of his word
when heaven called him home the funeral home overflowed
they lined up to talk about the friend they'd all known
when I hold Grandpa's Bible I know he's there with me
Lord, thank you for the man who helped me see
grandpa taught the ten commandments, lived the golden rule
how to turn the other cheek when your neighbor's cruel
John three sixteen and what it means, now I know for sure
Grandpa helped me be, a man of his word --- END ---
|
MORE BEAUTIFUL
More Beautiful
(Kayanek/Johnston)
Up Sangre De Cristo
the chairlift slowly goes
diamonds sparkle everywhere
in the sunlit snow below
nature's brush can paint so beautifully
there's a masterpiece right here next to me
c
nothing is more beautiful than you
the sunlight that's within you shines through
your eyes reveal a heart aglow with love so pure and true
nothing is more beautiful than you
on sliding sands of Sanibel
as the waves caress my toes
a crimson ball of sunset slips
into a turquoise bath below
nature's brush can paint so beautifully
there's a masterpiece right here next to me
nothing is more beautiful than you
the sunlight that's within you shines through
your eyes reveal a heart aglow with love so pure and true
nothing is more beautiful than you
diamonds rubies and pearls
can not compare with my beautiful girl
nothing is more beautiful than you
the sunlight that's within you shines through
your eyes reveal a heart aglow with love so pure and true
nothing is more beautiful than you
--- END ---
|
HOLLOW
If you want to hide from God
Church is a great place
Just sing along to the worship songs
Make sure your tithes are paid
So everyone will see
Your Christianity
But somethings missing in your life
Something makes you feel
Hollow, hollow
You pretend, cover up your sorrow
Hollow hollow
Life can be a bitter pill to swallow
You can replace that empty space
With unconditional love and amazing grace
You won’t have to feel so hollow
It’s hard to see what lies
Deep within your heart
A smile can hide the pain inside
Til it all falls apart
The hurt controlling you
Tucked safely out of view
A lonely face lost in a crowd
You are stumbling through
Hollow, hollow
You pretend to cover up your sorrow
Hollow hollow
Life can be a bitter pill to swallow
You can replace that empty space
With unconditional love and amazing grace
You won’t have to feel so hollow
Let love chase the emptiness away
Don’t go through another day (feeling)
Hollow hollow
You pretend to cover up your sorrow
Hollow hollow
Life can be a bitter pill to swallow
You can replace that empty space
With unconditional love and amazing grace
You won’t have to feel so hollow
You don’t have to feel so hollow
(Copyright 2025 Kayaneksongs. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
LITTLE BIT OF MONEY
Forty hours can seem like forty years
Counting down until Saturday gets here
Best part of Friday is quitting time
For a couple days I leave work behind
Got a little bit of money in the bank
an F150 with a full gas tank
Couple of rods, bucket of bait
All my buddies are on the way
Got a little bit of time on my hands
Yeti full of beers with a girl on the can
Not gonna rain it’s bright and sunny
You can buy a Whole lotta life
With a little bit of money
If i didn’t have to work all week
It wouldn’t mean as much to me
All that hard work gives me the right
To kick the party off Friday night
Got a little bit of money in the bank
an F150 with a full gas tank
Couple of rods, bucket of bait
All my buddies are on the way
Got a little bit of time on my hands
Yeti full of beers with a girl on the can
Not gonna rain it’s bright and sunny
You can buy a Whole lotta life
With a little bit of money
Some say the best things
in life are free
But just to be safe
I’m still bringing cash with me
Got a little bit of money in the bank
an F150 with a full gas tank
Couple of rods, bucket of bait
All my buddies are on the way
Got a little bit of time on my hands
Yeti full of beers with a girl on the can
Not gonna rain it’s bright and sunny
You can buy a whole lotta life
With s little bit of money
(Copyright 2025 Kayaneksongs. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
FIND A BEACH
V1
Put a chair in the water, sand in my toes
Lather the sunscreen on my cheeks, my nose
Leave my worries behind me, cares of the day
Rely on the ocean to wash them all away
Pre-Chorus 1
Anytime life, gets the best of me
Or I'm confused, need some clarity
Chorus
I find a beach
find a beach
a refuge my problems can"t reach
I find a beach
I find a beach
when I need the sun to shine
I find a beach
V2
Hear the waves roll in, sun on my face
I bet heaven is, like this place
Sit and just listen to, the surf symphony
Mother nature provides, the perfect therapy
pre chorus 2
One deep breath of, salty ocean air
Always helps me, forget all my cares
Repeat chorus
Bridge
Magically My burdens disappear
When ocean whispers in my ear
Repeat chorus
Copyright 2022.
Ray Allen Kayanek (ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
GOD LOVES SOUTHERN ROCK AND ROLL
God Loves Southern Rock and Roll
(Ray Allen Kayanek, Walter Alexander Kulwicki)
In Heaven there's a hell house, where the Skynyrd boys now jam
I know a little about Curtis Lowe, I'm a simple kind of man
Sweet home Alabama, little girl what's your name
Tuesday's gone, right or wrong this free bird you can't change
Straight through the pearly gates, turn right on Golden street
The South side of Heaven, backstage is where they meet
As you listen to the music it'll soothe your Southern soul
Discover what the angels already know
God loves southern rock and roll
in heaven there's a big house where the brothers can be found
Jessica ain't wasting time on a ramblin' man southbound
Melissa done somebody wrong but it's not my cross to bear
In memory of Elizabeth Reed catch the midnight rider there
repeat chorus
if I leave here tomorrow, don't feel the need to cry
it's my ticket to see an all star band, God assembled in the sky
repeat chorus twice
(copyright 2022. Kayaneksongs. All rights reserved. ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
MY OWN MAGGIE MAE
My Own Maggie Mae
(Music and lyrics by Ray Allen Kayanek)
v
Margaret was her name
I called her Maggie just the same
the year we brought to life her favorite song
she sang a bit off key
but it was magical to me
with all my heart and soul I sang along
when it came to her I couldn't get enough
she was and always will be my first love
Every time I hear a mandolin play
I think of the way
that she looked just laying there
that late September day
Every time I hear those sweet sweet sounds
wish she was still around
don't know why I let her get away
my own Maggie Mae
I'm not even sure if she
even would remember me
the time we shared so many years ago
when the jasmine are in bloom'
I can still smell her perfume
there's a part of me that she just won't let go
when it came to her thought I'd had enough
didn't understand the power of first love
Every time I hear a mandolin play
I think of the way
that she looked just laying there
that late September day
Every time I hear those sweet sweet sounds
wish she was still around
don't know why I let her get away
my own Maggie Mae
we've been apart more years than I remember
but in my heart we've always been together
Every time I hear a mandolin play
I think of the way
that she looked just laying there
that late September day
Every time I hear those sweet sweet sounds
wish she was still around
don't know why I let her get away
my own Maggie Mae
(Copyright 2016. Cross Eyed Songs. all rights reserved.ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
TOMORROW DEPENDS
Tomorrow Depends
(Kayanek)
Brother Martin had a dream
impossible as it might seem
he never saw with his own eyes
the day his dream was realized
hopeless as it seemed to be
at every opportunity
he shared that dream so I could see
his dream depended upon me
(C)
tomorrow depends on today
the future is our resume
together we must find a way
to make a better tomorrow today
our weather doesn't seem the same
tsunamis and hurricanes
global warming acid rain
is the way we live to blame
that's the message we now hear
the price of progress isn't clear
is this the blessing it appears
or will it cause tomorrow's tears
repeat chorus
live for today is the message we've all heard
who is gonna pay for the charges we've incurred
all the comforts of this world there's a price to pay
to build a better tomorrow we must build a better today
repeat chorus
let's make tomorrow a better today
(copyright 2005. Cross Eyed Songs. All rights reserved. ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
TIME MACHINE
Time Machine
(Kayanek)
V1
When a song comes on the radio
Sherman sets the wayback machine
While you're listening before you know it
You find yourself re-living history
Hearing The Boss for the first time again
at The Pony on the Jersey Shore
Drinking your last beer with your childhood best friend
The night before he went off to war
Chorus
Close your eyes and go back, take a trip through time and space
Til' you're in that magic moment where the memory took place
Hold on tight with all your might as you re-live your history
A certain song comes along it's like you step into a time machine
V2
Back in the boat with your brother and your dad
As he sang along with Trace on "Just Fishin'"
Or with your first love on a blanket in the sand
As^NYSNC puts her in the mood for kissing
First time you ever danced with your wife
As Tracy sang "Keeper of the Stars"
For all those magic moments in your life
There's a song that knows right where they are
Repeat Chorus
Bridge
Memories aren't meant to last a lifetime
Sometimes they fade away 'til they are gone
You've got a tresure chest of memories in your mind
You can only unlock with a song
repeat chorus
(Copyright 2022. Kayaneksongs. ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
FLORIDA GIRL
Florida Girl
(Music and Lyrics by Ray Allen Kayanek)
Been around this great big land of ours
in almost every honky tonk and bar
met girls of every shape and size
one of them helped me to realize
she was so much more
than just another date
I gave away my heart
in the sunshine state
I'm on my way to F-L-A gonna have lots of fun
On my way to F-L-A gonna tell everyone
All across the U-S-A and all over the world
On my way to F-L-A
for my little Florida girl
One by one the mile markers are gone
Georgia just goes on and on and on
I'm so anxious I can hardly wait
so excited that I can't see straight
for there's a special girl
who is expecting me
not gonna let her down
she means too much to me
repeat chorus
(copyright 2008 Cross Eyed Songs. All rights reserved. ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
DON'T FORGET TO THANK A VET
Don't Forget to Thank a Vet
(Kayanek)
(spoken)
Daddy what's a veteran my little boy asked me
As he watched the floats go by in all their majesty
I had to think about it, didn't answer right away
Son it means a lot of things so I'll put this way
Chorus
Don't forget to thank a vet, for the very freedom you enjoy today
They freely fought, their bloodshed bought, us the liberty to live our lives this way
For those who gave their lives, we never must forget, the sacrifice they made for one and all,
Don't forget to thank a vet
Grandpa was a veteran who fought in Germany
Daddy went to Vietnam in 1970
Now your brother Davey tours Afghanistan
Fighting for you future as bravely as he can
Repeat Chorus
bridge
Every American should know
Veteran's just another word for hero
Repeat Chorus
(copyright 2008 Kayaneksongs. All rights reserved. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
BELIEVE
Believe
(Music and lyrics by Ray Allen Kayanek)
Some people spend all year searching for the perfect gift
for that special someone in their lives
Others shop at the last minute fighting through the crowds
hoping they get done by Christmas time
from the time we're little children we believe
let's not outgrow what Christmas really means
I believe in Santa Claus for I know he's real
through each and every one of us his magic is revealed
I believe that Jesus came down from heaven above
as we celebrate His birth we celebrate in love.
some people try to say that the Christmas holidays
become more commercial every year
others say it's still the same Christmas hasn't changed
the message still rings through loud and clear
from the time we're little children we believe
let's not outgrow what Christmas really means
repeat chorus
I believe that every child should smile on Christmas Day
we can't let them go without that's not the Christmas way
repeat chorus with (We) --- END ---
|
SAWDUST
V1
Told mom I’d clean out her garage
So she could park her Focus inside
It had turned into a place for storage
Since last April when my father died
I’m immersed in a flood of memories
Of all I learned inside these walls
Dad on his craftsman table saw
as I watched the sawdust fall
Pre-chorus 1
It didn’t really matter what we built
what mattered was the way I always felt
Chorus 1
Sweeping up sawdust, in a cloud of memories
When I finished building with my dad, my job was
Sweeping up sawdust, always did my part
Still a little sawdust ended up, in the corners of my heart
V2
Mom wanted me to take home
In the U-Haul she had me rent
Shovels. Rakes and garden hoes
Dad’s toolbox and work bench
one at a time we loaded
his workshop not that truck bed
When I finally moved the table saw
There was sawdust under it
Pre- chorus 2
AS I fought to hold back the tears
Once again like I’d done for all those years (I was)
Chorus 2
Sweeping up sawdust, in a cloud of memories
I was finished building with my dad, but it’s still my job
Sweeping up sawdust, I still did my part
Once again a little sawdust ended up
In the corners of my heart.
Bridge
Had a workshop like my dad, when that day was done
When my baby boy gets older, I am going to teach my son (about)
Chorus 3
Sweeping up sawdust, we’ll make new memories
When we finish building something, it’ll be his job
Sweeping up sawdust, hope he loves his part
So a little bit of sawdust will end up
In the corners of his heart
Copyright 2022.
Ray Allen Kayanek (ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
TENNESSEE WHISKEY
Tennessee Whiskey
(Music and lyrics by Ray Allen Kayanek)
v
It was a Knoxville Friday night
much to my delight
the blonde across the bar
was a sight to see
I got up to take a chance
ask her for a dance
til I remembered my wife
was sitting next to me
sometimes I should really stop and think
instead I'll just grab another drink
c
Cheap Tennessee whiskey
it's got a hold on me
It's a guarantee
I'll drink too much
might be killing myself
ain't hurting no one else
at least that's the lie
I keep telling myself
v
our anniversary just got worse
think I'm gonna need a hearse
can't recall how many
years it's been
she put me to the test
so I had to take a guess
damn I wish she'd
let me guess again
sometimes I should really stop and think
instead I'll just grab another drink
c
Cheap Tennessee whiskey
it's got a hold on me
It's a guarantee
I'll drink too much
might be killing myself
ain't hurting no one else
at least that's the lie
I keep telling myself
(Copyright 2016. Cross Eyed Songs. All rights reserved. ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
DADDY'S ARMS
In a tin roof shack in Managua
Hidden by Mahogany trees
A mother prepares her children
For a 2000 mile journey
She knows they don't understand
Why they must leave their friends behind
It's the only way she knows to save them
That's all that's on her mind
They live every day in fear
At the whims of the cartel
They've turned what once was heaven
Into seven kinds of hell
(She says) Your daddy works in Texas
In a place called Abilene
We'll keep on traveling 'til we get there
Reunite our family
chorus
We 're gonna walk until we can't walk any more
We'll be tired, we'll be hungry, we'll be sore
'Til we're so close to the flag of freedom
We can count all fifty stars
We won't stop until you're in your daddy's arms
They followed the long road
Crossing bridges where they could
Determined they could make it
Like momma said they would
When the day finally came
They reached the Camargo Bridge
Momma asked for asylum
As she looked down at her two kids
Repeat Chorus
They put us in a cage
With a kinder name
Kept us there for months
While they reviewed our case
We are safe from the cartels
But not what I call free
If we ever get out of here
We're going to Abilene
Repeat Chorus
We Won't stop until you're in your daddy's arms
(Copyright 2022. Kayaneksongs. All rights reserved. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
EVERYTHING
Everything
(Kayanek)
He'd weathered many hurricanes so this was just one more
Plywood on the windows stock up at the store
When ordered off the island he didn't leave at first
But he knew it was time to go when the storm got worse
A voice in his heart told him to evacuate
So he packed up the family and said a prayer the day
chorus
He lost everything but his faith
The house that he grew up in completely washed away
A lifetime of possessions in a pile of memories
He lost everything but what he really needs
The riverbank his house sat on's seen heavy rain before
Stack some extra sandbags to bolster up the shore
Ignoring the flood warnings cuz' he thought he had control
But as the waters quickly rose he knew he had to go
A voice in his heart told him to evacuate
So he packed up the family and said a prayer the day
repeat chorus
He's gonna miss that house and all the things he loved inside
But the only thing that matters is that his family's still alive
repeat chorus
He lost everything but faith and family
He lost everything but he's still got what he needs
--- END ---
|
POCKET FULL OF PRESIDENTS
v
Got my first job at age sixteen
Dishwasher at Johnny's Cafe
Worked hard to get those dishes clean
After school most weekdays
Wasn't much but I loved that place
My bosses name was Mitch
Every Friday we got paid
For the weekend I was rich
chorus
Had a pocket full of presidents
Lot's of dollars but no sense
Found a way to spend every single bill
Knew I should make them last
But they disappeared faster
Than a cold beer in my hand will
After I cashed that paycheck
Makin' it last til the next
Was kind of like swimming uphill
So I'd find a way to treat myself
Not worry about nothing else
Man I wish I had that money still
v
Now I work forty hours a week
In a factory by that little cafe
Got a wife and kids to feed
Bills and a mortgage to pay
Got a bonus check last payday
Had to be a computer glitch
Been a while since I felt this way
For the weekend I was rich
repeat chorus
Should've saved some for a rainy day
But I gotta tell ya
It was gone before it looked like rain
I still had my umbrella
repeat chorus --- END ---
|
CLOSE YOUR EYES (THE WONDER OF IT ALL)
Imaginary constellations
Beyond the Milky Way
Momentary, creations
Quickly fade away
Chorus
Close your eyes
Don't ask why
Hear the call
Of the wonder of it all
My galaxy, tapestry of hope
All these late night daydreams
A surreal kaleidescope
No one's ever seen
repeat chorus
This cosmic voyage
Never ending story
Second star to the left
Straight on "til morning
repeat chorus twice
--- END ---
|
ANYONE ELSE
Anyone Else
(Kayanek)
Everyone thinks I've got it made
they don't know my life's so disarrayed
in the mirror I stare at someone else
so I never have to face myself
I'm beginning to see I'd much rather be anyone else but me
I'm just fooling myself nobody else sees my misery
all the roles I play are simply a way to get through the day
I'm beginning to see I never will be anyone else but me
wish that I could peel away my skin
to reveal the suffering within
everyone would finally understand
I'm not happy like they think I am
I'm beginning to see I'd much rather be anyone else but me
I'm just fooling myself nobody else sees my misery
all the roles I play are simply a way to get through the day
I'm beginning to see I never will be anyone else but me
Living in the dark afraid to face the dawn
searching for a reason a reason to go on
my silent cries are only heard by me
I wish that someone someone would finally see
Will you finally see I'd much rather be anyone else but me
I'm just fooling myself nobody else sees my misery
all the roles I play are simply a way to get through the day
will you help me to see I don't want to be anyone else but me
will you help me to see I was not meant to be anyone else but me
(Copyright 2016. Cross Eyed Songs. All rights reserved.ASCAP) --- END ---
|
I'LL NEVER FORGET THE CROSS
I'll Never Forget the Cross
(Kayanek)
Holding your brokenness between my fingertips
Feeling your pain and agony
Seeing your suffering as they punished you
when they should've punished me
unworthy of your sacrifice as you paid a price
you knew no one else could pay
tasting the mercy that gave away your life
so my sins could wash away
I'll never forget the cross
I'll never forget how you died
when you took my place that day
willing to be crucified
as I come to your table
humbly I say
I'll never forget the cross
where you died for me that day
holding the cup of wrath
thinking of the torment that you felt
wondering how much blood you had to shed for me
before my sins could wash away
knowing you could've called 10,000 angels to your aid
but you faced it on your own
for you knew that it was the only way
I would ever make it home
repeat chorus
so I'll cherish the Old Rugged Cross
til my trophies at last I lay down
I will cling to the Old Rugged Cross
and exchange it someday for a crown
repeat chorus
(Copyright 2004. Cross Eyed Songs. All rights reserved. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
DRINKIN' WITH LINCOLN
Drinkin' with Lincoln
(Music and lyrics by Ray Allen Kayanek)
v
Well I'm going to the bank to get a pocketfull of presidents
Five hundred ninety five dollars and twenty seven cents
the teller just smiles and I don't have to speak
I get it the same way every week
I've got a plan for every bit of this money
c
five fifties go to tmy rent, two more for utilities
the twenties go to my wife, spending money she don't need
the tens go to my son, for lunch and a little bit of fun
as for the fives here's what I'm thinkin', I'm goin' drinkin' with Lincoln
v
well I don't have an I.R.A. or a 401 K
there's never much money left at the end of the day
before it's made my money's already spent
at least I can tell you where it went
allow me to explain myself again
repeat c
b
drinkin' with Lincoln, five dollar sink or swim at Joe's
drinkin' with Lincoln, I'm gonna stay til close
I'm swimmin' I'm not sinkin', ask anybody who knows
repeat c
(copyright 2017. Cross Eyed Songs.All rights reserved. ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
BANNER IN THE SKY
Banner in the Sky
(Kayanek)
thought you were kind of crazy when I first saw you on stage
time revealed a wise and gentle man
no stories truly over til' you turn that final page
wasn't ready for this one to end
every tear that I cry reminds me
stars belong in the sky
chorus
light up the sky old friend light up the sky
brighten up these southern stars tonight
light up the sky old friend light up the sky
there's a banner in the heavens tonight
so the world below will never lose your light
suddenly I woke up with a huge hole in my soul
you were so much more than just a friend
trying hard to understand why you had to go
I'm glad we rocked it right up to the end
every note that I play reminds me
we will reunite someday
repeat chorus
the west side laid it's claim to Skynyrd and their fame
but Arlington had stars to call their own
through the years the line up's changed players rearranged
Banner's back with Bruce, Duane and Danny Joe
repeat chorus
(Copyright 2017. Cross Eyed Songs. All rights reserved. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
BROKEN THINGS
Broken Things
(kayanek)
Mr. Lingo's picture window
that I hit the baseball through
momma's favorite Fenton vase
I knocked over when I was two
my candy apple red impala
that sat so long in my back yard
all together in one place
I know just where they are
If there's a heaven
for broken things
that's where you'll find my heart
my old guitar strings
soaring with angels'
on wounded wings
if there's a heaven
for broken things
my little league Louisville Slugger
that the home run snapped in two
the bike I rode til it fell apart
the way things you love can do
my brother's favorite model airplane
that I really thought could fly
all together in one place
now I know the reason why
repeat chorus
love can melt the hardest heart
turn around and tear your world apart
repeat chorus
(Copyright 2014. Cross Eyed Songs. All rights reserved. ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
MORE LIKE YOU
I'm a mess I'm so broken
truer words have never been spoken
so in need of a Savior
to change my heart change my behavior
more like You Jesus make me more like You
walk beside me lead me guide me in everything I do
more like You Jesus make me more like You
purify me make me Holy all I ask of You
is make me more like You
overcome my limitations
help me share about my Salvation
now I pray to you my King
give me the strength that only You can bring
repeat chorus
I know I don't deserve this gift You've given me
but You gave it to me anyway
I want this world to see Your Glory shine through me
help me to be more like You today
repeat chorus
(copyright 2008. Cross Eyed Songs. All rights reserved. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
COME DANCE WITH ME
Come Dance with Me
(Kayanek)
every night I bowed my head
said a prayer before bed
didn't ask for wealth or fame
my request was always the same
needed someone I could love
felt I'd waited long enough
though life tried to test my faith
knew it would be worth the wait
All my life I waited patiently
to find the one God made for me
In a moment it was crystal clear
the answer to my prayers was finally here
we share a love always meant to be
come dance with me for all eternity
had relationships before
they were missing something more
now a distant memory
the two of us is all I see
every sunrise brings a smile
hand in hand another mile
found the one the one I love
now that's all I'm thinking of
All my life I waited patiently
to find the one God made for me
In a moment it was crystal clear
the answer to my prayers was finally here
we share a love always meant to be
come dance with me for all eternity
always and forever
I'll be by your side
I'll treasure this moment
when you became my bride
All my life I waited patiently
to find the one God made for me
In a moment it was crystal clear
the answer to my prayers was finally here
we share a love always meant to be
come dance with me for all eternity
(copyright 2019. Cross Eyed Songs. All rights reserved. ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
ONE MORE GIFT TO OPEN
One More Gift to Open
Words and music by Ray Allen Kayanek
(Verse)
Christmas always has been
Mama's favorite time of year
Singing Christmas carols
barely loud enough to hear
carefully placing each ornament
right where it should be
as the whole family
gathers round the Christmas tree
(Chorus)
There's one more gift to open I don't know what's inside
My momma bought it for me just before she died.
As I hold it in my hands Momma's memory is so strong.
I'm afraid that if I open it this feeling will be gone
(Verse)
Momma loved Christmas
Momma loved her Lord
now she's in His presence
gone for her reward
she taught me right from wrong
about faith and family
now I'd give anything
to have Momma back with me
(Repeat Chorus)
(Bridge)
I'm not ready for Christmas to be over I'm not ready for momma to be gone.
I thought as long as I didn't open this last present. in my heart they'd both live on
there's one more gift to open
now the time is right
Momma would've wanted me
to find out what's inside
As I untie the ribbon as the paper tears
Inside I find a Bible and a note that says
Live the way I taught you son and I'll see you in Heaven
(whisper) Merry Christmas Momma
--- END ---
|
EMPTY STOCKINGS
Empty Stockings
(Kayanek/Besley)
Empty stockings all hung by the chimney with care
Children hoping that Santa Claus knows they are there
The mere mention of Christmas brings Momma to tears
It’s been such a difficult year
Christmas is a time for giving
Helping those who need a hand
Celebrate the life you’re living
Fill their empty stockings if you can
Momma works doubles trying to make extra tips
Daddy can’t find a job and he can’t get a grip
Now the holiday blues have displaced Christmas cheer
It’s been such a difficult year
Christmas is a time for giving
Helping those who need a hand
Celebrate the life you’re living
Fill their empty stockings if you can
You can make a difference in their lives
Help to make it better when you realize
Christmas is a time for giving
Helping those who need a hand
Celebrate the life you’re living
Lend a hand when you can
--- END ---
|
HERE WITH ME
Here With Me (Kayanek)
v
Feel like I'm working a puzzle and I can't find the last piece
Want a perfect picture but this one's incomplete
So I try to make the most of what life's put in front of me
Close my eyes and call upon my favorite memories
chorus
Southern Living shows and the way your garden grows
Wild flowers that blossom along a winding mountain road
Cranberry glass vase or your grandson saying grace
The beauty you taught me to see will always keep you here with me
v
Feel like my world's just a picture that is now missing it's frame
No matter how much I pretend things just won't be the same
Knew that someday I would lose you when it was your time to leave
But I will never lose the love you left me in my memories
Repeat chorus
Bridge
Think of you when I'm out raking leaves or window shopping down on St. George Street
Or when I place the angel on the Christmas tree you left behind a lifetime of my favorite memories
Repeat chorus
--- END ---
|
IT FELT LIKE HOME
v
Our first date, it changed my life
Just when I'd given up on love
Before long, made you my wife
I was yours from that first touch
When God did what God does
chorus
It felt like home, felt so right
Couldn't let go, held on tight
Always knew from the start
How your touch could heal my heart
And t felt like home
Yes it felt like home
v
We raised our little family
Thanked our lucky stars above
I was your favorite company
Yeah, you and me and our kid gloves
When God did what God does
repeat chorus
bridge
Then my work led me to travel
and I lost sight of what you need
Our love started to unravel
'Til I let go and got down on my knees
and God did what God does
repeat chorus
tag
Yesterday, it felt like home
When we touch
It still feels like home
(Copyright 2023. Kayaneksongs. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
I FIND A BEACH
v1
Put a chair in the water, sand in my toes
Lather the sunscreen on my cheeks, my nose
Leave my worries behind with, cares of the day
Rely on the ocean to wash them all away
pre-chorus 1
Anytime life, gets the best of me
Or I'm confused, need some clarity
chorus
I find a beach, find a beach
A refuge my problems can't reach
I find a beach, find a beach
when I need the sun to shine.
I find a beach
v2
Hear the waves roll in, sun on my face
I bet heaven is, like this place
Sit and just listen, to the surf symphony
Mother nature provides, the perfect therapy.
pre-chorus 2
One deep breath of, salty ocean air
Always helps me, forget all my cares
repeat chorus
bridge
Magically my burdens disappear
When the ocean whispers in my ear
repeat chorus --- END ---
|
FELT LIKE HOME
v
Our first date, it changed my life
Just when I'd given up on love
Before long, made you my wife
I was yours from that first touch
When God did what God does
chorus
It felt like home, felt so right
Couldn't let go, held on tight
Always knew from the start
How your touch could heal my heart
And t felt like home
Yes it felt like home
v
We raised our little family
Thanked our lucky stars above
I was your favorite company
Yeah, you and me and our kid gloves
When God did what God does
repeat chorus
bridge
Then my work led me to travel
and I lost sight of what you need
Our love started to unravel
'Til I let go and got down on my knees
and God did what God does
repeat chorus
tag
Yesterday, it felt like home
When we touch
It still feels like home
(Copyright 2023. Kayaneksongs. ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
BEHIND ENEMY LINES
v
The world in which we live is a battleground
Where the war of the ages is going down
The forces of good and evil engaged in fight
Both sides battling with all their might
pre-chorus 1
For what is at stake is the eternal destiny
of every prisoner trapped by sin
I must fight to set them free
chorus
I'm behind enemy lines
with a soul purpose in mind
to cut the chains that bind
all sins prisoners I can find
it's up to me to make them see
my God can set then free
take them safely to the other side
I can't leave any lost souls I find
behind enemy lines
v
my commander in chief has me fully armed
cloaked in his armor to keep me safe from harm
Bullets fly, gunshots ring and explosions start
But no bomb is strong enough to change the human heart
pre-chorus 2
that's what's at stake is their eternal destiny
all these prisoners trapped by sin
I must fight to set them free
repeat chorus
guitar solo
bridge
though I am surrounded by the enemy
I'm not the least bit worried my God's protecting me
repeat chorus
--- END ---
|
WOUNDED BY A WORLD
Wounded By a World
(Kayanek)
Bring your sick, your tired and your poor.
Bring your broken, your beaten and your torn.
Bring them all to The Throne of Grace.
To The One who knows just what they face.
Chorus
Wounded by a world that can be so unfair
Wounded by a world that doesn't seem to care
Bring them to The One who's already been there.
Wounded by a world with a Cross to bear.
Bring your aching, your lost and your downtrodden.
Let them know they are not forgotten
Bring them all to The Throne of Grace.
To The One who knows just what they face.
repeat chorus
bridge
Jesus left HIs place upon The Throne.
Freely gave His Life to set us free.
Willingly embraced a hostile world.
Knowing all along that He would be.
repeat chorus. --- END ---
|
WISH WE COULD GO FISHIN'
Wish We Could Go Fishin'
(Kayanek)
Dad worked on the assembly line
Making trucks for GMC
Pulled a lot of overtime
to provide for his family
Somehow he still found time
to teach a boy to fish
if I had a genie in a bottle
I would only need one wish
chorus
Wish we could go fishin' one more time
Just sit there in silence cast our lines
Though he never said a word
It's amazing what I heard
Wish we could go fishin' one more time
Got my degree from state
I moved far away
I realized too late
How the years had slipped away
repeat chorus
time has a way of turning memories to regrets
wish I had one more chance to spend time with my dad
repeat chorus
(Copyright 2023.Kayaneksongs. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
ANIMAL INSTINCT
I saw her sitting at the ice cream counter.,
she gave me that sideways glance.
Couldn't help but notice her,
thought I might have a chance.
At sixteen my mind was on watching girls,
so many shapes to enjoy
She set my teenage brain in a whirl,
spinning like a top or some toy.
pre chorus
Something about her made me look back
I could see that she had quite the rack.
chorus
She had me without even trying,
All I could do was follow her scent.
I couldn't hide it no I'm not lying.
Animal instinct, hunger hell bent.
Animal instinct, following animal instinct.
I wiped the drool from the side of my mouth,
and bolstered up my courage.
Usual lines would surely go south,
I still wanted to scratch that itch
repeat chorus
Dog on the prowl, sat down next to her
I could hardly say a word.
Sixteen, tongue tied and unsure
Animal instinct trapped and lured
outro
Caught in the snare of animal instinct
--- END ---
|
GIVEN (WORKTAPE)
Given
(Kayanek/Sullivan)
v1
waited all winter for this reservation
before the wine could breathe you had me ready to leave
chatting away you didn't see my frustration
None of your calls sounded like work to me
chorus
(M) You're given me excuses
(F) You're given me lies
(M) I always give in
(F) You never compromise
(Both) We drove under the high road
(Both) the ditch was therapy
(M) take back your ring
(F) take back your key
(Both) Can we please make a decision
(Both) it's over, it's a given
v2
the cap's off the toothpaste are you even trying
my Patron bottle's empty, I'm blaming you
do you have my charger my batteries dying
my leftovers are gone it's time you are too
repeat chorus
bridge
since you started working remotely
We're not remotely working
repeat chorus --- END ---
|
BANNER IN THE SKY (INSTRUMENTAL)
instrumental --- END ---
|
GOD LOVES SOUTHERN ROCK INSTRUMENTAL
instrumental --- END ---
|
MOVING AMERICA
Moving America
(Kayanek/Easterling/Ebrahimi)
v
Hello my friends, how are' you?
If there's something that you need,
Just place and order and soon you'll see
My truck rolling down your street.
Chorus
We're moving America,
From coast to coast,
One lonely mile at a time.
We're moving America,
To keep this country going,
Us truckers gotta stay between the lines,
and drive.
v
From Baltimore to Fresno,
And Galveston to Buffalo,
Twelve hours driving, 10 hours rest,
And then right back n the road.
repeat chorus
bridge
You can't keep a good trucker down.
I'll do what it takes, to make it to your town.
Not rain no wind no snow can ever slow me down,
Nothing will ever stop me
repeat chorus
(Copyright 2024. Kayaneksongs. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
FELT LIKE HOME INSTRUMENTAL
Instrumental --- END ---
|
WISH WE COULD GO FISHIN' INSTRUMENTAL
instrumental --- END ---
|
BETWEEN THE LINES
Between the Lines
(Kayanek)
v
My favorite way to spend the day
Is to curl up with a book
I go to places far away.
Take chances I never took.
Chorus
It hasn't got a battery that needs to be charged.
Even if the WIFI doesn't have any bars.
It's the perfect fit when I hold it in my hand.
If you read, you understand.
When you get lost in a story soon you will find
You can always feel the love
If you read between the lines.
v
I've got a whole room full of books.
And i dig the way it looks.
Shelves so full of memories,
Each one means so much to me.
repeat chorus
bridge
It's the kind of companion that won't leave you alone.
So pick up a book and put down your phone.
repeat chorus
tag
You can always feel the love,
If you read between the lines
You can always feel the love,
If you read between the lines.
Between the lines.
If you read, between the lines
(Copyright 2024. Kayaneksongs. ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
MAN OF HIS WORD
v
Grandpa never broke a promise to this little boy
once he went to seven stores to find my favorite toy
every basketball game in that hot and humid gym
five rows up behind the bench, you could count on him
v
I agreed to help him pull weeds from his garden
but I went to play ball and forgot all about him
he said when you make a deal and give someone your word
our faith helps us know what a promise is worth
chorus
grandpa taught the ten commandments, lived the golden rule
how to turn the other cheek when your neighbor's cruel
John three sixteen and what it means, now I know for sure
Grandpa helped me be, a man of his word
v
he taught me to apologize whenever I was wrong
failing ain't failing if I get back up strong
always tell the truth cause when you tell someone a lie
it's never quite the same when you look them in the eye
chorus
grandpa taught the ten commandments, lived the golden rule
how to turn the other cheek when your neighbor's cruel
John three sixteen and what it means, now I know for sure
Grandpa helped me be, a man of his word
bridge
when heaven called him home the funeral home overflowed
they lined up to talk about the friend they'd all known
when I hold Grandpa's Bible I know he's there with me
Lord, thank you for the man who helped me see
chorus
grandpa taught the ten commandments, lived the golden rule
how to turn the other cheek when your neighbor's cruel
John three sixteen and what it means, now I know for sure
Grandpa helped me be, a man of his word --- END ---
|
DUMPING YOU
Dumping You
(Kayanek/Corrigan)
v
Thought I had found true love, but it was false hope
My friends they tried to tell me what I didn't wanna know
How you had been unfaithful, behind my back
None of your excuses are ever gonna change that fact
Chorus
Oh You turned something so beautiful to dust
Got caught up in the lacy dreams and lust
Yeah, I know all too well breaking up is hard to do
But it was so damn easy when it came to dumping you
v
I made my status single, single, in case you haven't heard
Deleted all your pictures because I felt the urge
Left a single image, the three of us that day
Thought I was in the middle but I was standing in the way
Repeat Chorus
bridge
No discussion needed, no amends to make
I am not defeated, I'm just finally wide awake
Repeat Chorus
(Copyright 2023. Ray Allen Kayanek, Kayaneksongs. .ASCAP)
--- END ---
|
WITHOUT GIRLS
verse
Night out, without, girls just the boys
Making memories of the work week disappear
Soon we, wish we’d, made a better choice
Don’t take a genius to know what’s missing here
Chorus
It ain’t a beach without the sand
And every dance floor needs a band
It’s not a ladder without the rungs
What goods Cancun without the sun?
One thing I'm sure of in this world
it damn sure ain’t a, party without girls
Verse
We talk, football, all about our trucks
all those crazy high school memories
But in, the end, this idea sucks
It ain’t the same without female company
Repeat Chorus
It ain’t Nashville without country music
Or buffalo without the wings
Someone Call the girls
it’s time to start this thing
Repeat Chorus
No it damn sure ain’t a, party
Without girls
(Copyright 2025. Kayaneksongs. ASCAP) --- END ---
|
MISS A SIPPY
verse 1
My son's at the age, he likes to copy me
whenever I had my tools out, that's where he wanted to be
So, I got him a play set so he could work by my side
When he taps his little hammer, he swings it with pride
pre chorus
But now our times come to an end
His mom and I couldn't work it out
she's taken him back to South Bend
and I'm alone in this empty house
chorus
Mornings in his high chair
Pancakes shaped like Mickey
As I'd sip my coffee
He'd reach for his sippy
We'd play a game
to get him to eat his meal
it might not sound like much
but to me it was a big deal
As i sit here drinking coffee
still feeling messed up
didn't know how much i could
miss a sippy cup
verse 2
now I only get to see him, on a video call
he likes to show how fast, he can run down the hall
he wants all my attention,
so I give him my smile
man , I sure do miss, my precious little child
Repeat pre chorus
Repeat chorus
bridge
It's six hours on the road
but the time flies by
cause when he sees me he'll know
how his daddy really tries
Repeat chorus
outro
wish I didn't know how much I can
miss a sippy cup
(Copyright 2025. Ray Allen Kayanek/Mark Lambert ASCAP #930743376) --- END ---
|
SAILING LESSONS
verse
I learned how to sail on a barstool
From a windburned old man of the sea
Conk fritters and a six pack of red stripe
Was the only thing it cost me
verse
From a napkin he hoisted a mainsail
a straw mast perched on a paper tray
With it he slowly explained
How to navigate a relationship that day
chorus
So let the past be your lighthouse not your harbor
Spend more time on the bow than the stern
Before you drop anchor sail farther
In case the wind decides to turn
For she’ll go where she goes and all you can know
Is her respect’s something you have to earn
So stick to the things within your control
These are lessons every sailor must learn
verse
Mother ocean appreciates romance
And to be Shown the proper respect
Remember in one angry moment
She could Sweep you right off of the deck
repeat chorus
bridge
Never made it to the water
But I understand
How those sailing lessons
Work just as well on land
repeat chorus
these are lessons every good man must learn
(Copyright 2025. Ray Allen Kayanek. KAYANEKSONGS. ASCAP #930743392) --- END ---
|