Lyrics

(Annotation: Start with a slow, soulful strum of guitar, adding a hint of mariachi horns in the background to bring a slightly comical flair. The voice should be gravelly, laid-back, with a touch of “been-through-it” humor.)

(Verse 1)
[(Voice: Casual, self-deprecating tone)]
Oh, I got a need for connection, keeps me up at night,
Tryin’ to resolve, but it don’t feel right,
Looked in the mirror, but I had to laugh,
‘Cause the answer starin’ back’s a face I’d half unmask.

(Annotation: Transition with a playful pluck of guitar strings, letting a single horn note linger for comedic timing before launching into the chorus.)

(Chorus)
[(Voice: Proud but a little resigned, like he’s telling an old friend)]
My kids all grown, they flew the nest,
Left me with this house, a little stressed,
But I got my pride, yeah, I’m not alone—
They call once a week on the telephone!

(Annotation: Add a little “yee-haw” flair with a playful trumpet, keeping the beat lighthearted. The vibe should be half-country anthem, half-mariachi serenade.)

(Verse 2)
[(Voice: Hint of sarcasm, playful but defeated)]
I tried to get out, mingle and flirt,
Turns out desperation don’t work, it hurts,
Bought a nice shirt, but I still felt snubbed,
Guess I don’t clean up like I thought I could.

(Annotation: Slight pause, then a twangy guitar riff as he reflects on the situation, leading back into the chorus.)

(Chorus)
[(Voice: More amused, with a hint of sadness in the last line)]
My kids all grown, they call when they can,
Sometimes it’s five minutes—well, that’s the plan,
And I play it cool, like I’m doin’ just fine,
Got a couch and a beer that’s as loyal as time.

(Annotation: The bridge has a reflective, slower feel. Let the horns go softer, maybe a violin slide, setting up a more serious tone.)

(Bridge)
[(Voice: Nostalgic, almost speaking rather than singing for effect)]
Yeah, I’m that lonely cowboy singin’ his blues,
Got Netflix for company, and old worn shoes,
They say, “Just reach out!” but it’s hard to see
When every hand’s busy scrollin’ down a screen.

(Annotation: Speed up the pace slightly, bringing back the upbeat guitar and horns for a spirited final chorus.)

(Chorus)
[(Voice: Light-hearted, accepting his fate with a grin)]
So here I sit, this lonesome throne,
My kids got far away as fast as they’d grown,
But I still got jokes, yeah, I’ve still got laughs,
Even if life left me out in the past.

(Annotation: Slow down, almost speaking the last lines, adding a sentimental trumpet for emphasis.)

(Outro)
[(Voice: Soft, wistful, but with a chuckle)]
So, cheers to connection that’s harder to find,
And my little phone calls that ease my mind,
Yeah, they’re all far away, but they still love me,
A little distance, but hey—family’s family.