Six String Orchestra

Harry Chapin

About Six String Orchestra

"Six String Orchestra" is a song written, composed, and performed by Harry Chapin and released on his 1974 album Verities & Balderdash.


Year:
1974
5:25
93 
#1

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!

The very day I purchased it
I christened my guitar
As my monophonic symphony
Six string orchestra
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
Or 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 would 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
For 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 would 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 break down
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 would 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 finger tip
Oh some day, I'm gonna be a star

 The easy, fast & fun way to learn how to sing: 30DaySinger.com


Harry Chapin

Harry Forster Chapin (December 7, 1942 – July 16, 1981) was an American singer-songwriter best known for his folk rock songs including "Taxi", "W*O*L*D", and the No. 1 hit "Cat's in the Cradle". Chapin was also a dedicated humanitarian who fought to end world hunger; he was a key player in the creation of the Presidential Commission on World Hunger in 1977. In 1987, Chapin was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for his humanitarian work. more »

5 fans

Written by: HARRY F. CHAPIN

Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Song Artist
"Six String Orchestra" is a song by the American singer-songwriter Harry Chapin.
Album
It is one of the tracks on his third studio album "Short Stories," which was released in 1973.
Song Meaning
The song is a humorous story about a would-be musician who dreams of being a rock star playing guitar but lacks real talent.
Inspiration
The song reflects Chapin's own approach to music. He often narrated stories through his song lyrics, providing listeners with mini-stories in each of his hit songs.
Musical Style
The song features a simple but engaging melody and a mix of acoustic and electric guitar arrangements, staying true to Chapin's folksy rock style.
Concert Favorite
Even though "Six String Orchestra" was not a radio hit, it became a favorite for Chapin's concerts. The song's storytelling aspect and relatable theme often resonated with the audience.
Charitable Impact
Harry Chapin was known for his humanitarian work, especially his campaigns against world hunger. Although "Six String Orchestra" might not directly link to this, all of his work, including this song, contributed to his overall fame and enabled him to have an impact on global issues.
Song Popularity
Despite the lack of chart success, "Six String Orchestra" has remained popular among Chapin's fans, demonstrating his skill at crafting narrative-driven folk-rock songs.
Live Performances
During his live performances, Harry Chapin typically introduced "Six String Orchestra" with a bit of comedic commentary, adding another layer of enjoyment and entertainment to the song experience.
Legacy
Chapin's storytelling songwriting style, showcased in "Six String Orchestra," has significantly influenced many future singer-songwriters, securing his lasting legacy in the music scene even after his premature death in 1981.

Discuss the Six String Orchestra Lyrics with the community:

0 Comments

    Citation

    Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:

    Style:MLAChicagoAPA

    "Six String Orchestra Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 25 Apr. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/1049322/Harry+Chapin/Six+String+Orchestra>.

    Missing lyrics by Harry Chapin?

    Know any other songs by Harry Chapin? Don't keep it to yourself!

    Watch the song video

    Six String Orchestra

    46,712
    319     11

    Browse Lyrics.com

    Quiz

    Are you a music master?

    »
    "Oh here she comes, watch out boy she'll chew you up, Oh here she comes, she's a ________".
    A mad creature
    B man eater
    C real beater
    D a cheater

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Chrome

    Get instant explanation for any lyrics that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Free, no signup required:

    Add to Firefox

    Get instant explanation for any acronym or abbreviation that hits you anywhere on the web!

    Harry Chapin tracks

    On Radio Right Now

    Loading...

    Powered by OnRad.io


    Think you know music? Test your MusicIQ here!