“New Kentucky Sunrise”

Martin Swinger describes the process of writing his song, "New Kentucky Sunrise" as an alternative for "My Old Kentucky Home", by Stephen Foster for the Know Better Do Better Project.

Martin Swinger sings his song "New Kentucky Sunrise", an alternative for the Stephen Foster song, "My Old Kentucky Home"

"New Kentucky Sunsrise"

© 2021 Martin Swinger, https://martinswinger.com
Permission granted by the songwriter to be used for personal and educational purposes.

Rolling meadows bright with blossom,
Queen Anne’s Lace and Iron Weed
Buzzing bees are keeping busy,
Combs to build and mouths to feed
Summer sun as sweet as honey
Spun across the blackbird skies

     Sing no more of hard times
     Sing a New Kentucky Sunrise

Foothills worn by rain and thunder
Bending trees from winter’s blast
Empty cabin in the hollow
Ghost of generations past
Cemetery time neglected
Names nobody recognize

     Sing no more of hard times
     Sing a New Kentucky Sunrise

Far away but not forgotten
Dry a tear from memory’s eyes
Sing no more of hard times
Thistle combs and split-rail fences
Edge the stony clear creek road
Ballad tunes and moonshine whiskey
Lightening life’s heavy load
Mockingbird outside the window
Weeping wistful lullabies

     Sing no more of hard times
     Sing a New Kentucky Sunrise

Far away but not forgotten      
Dry a tear from memory’s eyes
     Sing no more of hard times  
     Sing a New Kentucky Sunrise