"Moroccan Sky" began with a simple four chord progression strummed on acoustic guitar.
Interestingly, those four chords remained the same, and repeat through the entire song.
Once I had the chords, I began thinking about lyrics. I had the idea of writing a short story based on a day spent in Morocco. I have only written a few songs where the entire story is based on fictional events created in my imagination. Once I had the general idea, the specifics came fast and I was able to "write" the entirety of the song in my head before even putting pen to paper.
I read once that Michael Jackson would "write" songs by just sitting and thinking about them. I was very inspired by this technique and attempted to complete the song simply through thought.
I eventually did write the ideas down, changing the structure of the lyrics, words and phrasing numerous times.
I recorded simple acoustic guitar and vocal "demos" live just to get a feel for what it would sound like.
When I finally began recording "Moroccan Sky," I had the majorityof the song complete, including ideas for vocals, instumentation, structure and production.
I probably spent way more time than necessary on "Moroccan Sky," but I am very pleased with the results. It is very produced, which is why I have also included the acoustic rendition, "Serenity Under Tranquil Moroccan Skies" which is much more similar to the song's original feel and sound.
"Moroccan Sky" may be the most accessible Solar Ritual song to date. At first I was a little uncomfortable and self-conscious about this, but upon further contemplation, I concluded that even creating something "pop" is a form of creative advancement for me as an artist.
I am very proud of this song, and thrilled to be able to share the final product with all of you.
The process of writing, arranging, recording, mixing and producing is constantly improving and evolving for me.
"Moroccan Sky" is representative of that creative evolution for the Solar Ritual project.
-Ben
lyrics
In Marrakesh markets and streets
Paths illuminate for you
Confronting a beggar's pleas
With a dark, expressionless face
She seems impossible to read
Drunk on her magnetic eyes
A fire burns as you fall to your knees
People look for answers
When they're quite high
Some look for them
In the night sky
She keeps on staring
Until this fire
Burns a Moroccan sky
Under Moraccan Sky
Under Moraccan Sky
Under Moraccan Sky
She seems impossible to read
In Marrakesh markets and streets
People look for answers
When they're quite high
Some look for them
In the night sky
She keeps on staring
Until this fire
Burns a Moroccan sky
Under Moroccan Sky
Under Moroccan Sky
Under Moroccan Sky
Under Moroccan Sky
Under Moroccan Sky
credits
from Moroccan Sky,
released November 13, 2020
Ben Allen: Songwriting, lyrics, vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitars, bass, drum arrangements, recording, mixing and production.
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