by Alex Wilson (songwriter)
Album
Ember & Sky
Year
2025
Genre
Americana/Country Rock/Singer-Songwriter
Duration
3:45
Description
"Phoenix Flight" is a powerful Americana/Country Rock anthem about overcoming adversity and personal transformation. Alex Wilson's raw vocals and evocative lyrics tell a story of burning away the past and rising anew, stronger and more resilient. The song blends gritty instrumentation with soaring melodies, creating a cathartic and inspiring listening experience. It's a testament to the human spirit's ability to find light in the darkest of times.
Lyrics
(Verse 1) Dust devils danced on the cracked, dry land Reflection stared back, a ghost in my hand Thought I was buried, six feet beneath the shame Rattlesnake whisperin', "Ain't nobody else to blame." Sun beatin' down, a crucible of pain But something shifted, a low rumble in the rain. (Chorus) These ashes ain't my ending, they're the fuel for the flame Burnin' off the past, risin' up with a new name No more lookin' backward, no more chains to hold me down This ain't a resurrection, this is a phoenix flight outta this town. (Verse 2) Built my own pyre with the regrets I'd held tight Every broken promise, bathed in the fading light The whispers turned to roars, the demons screamed and cried As the flames licked higher, I felt the fear subside. Let the judgment fall, let the gossipers spin their lies 'Cause the only truth that matters is the fire in my eyes. (Chorus) These ashes ain't my ending, they're the fuel for the flame Burnin' off the past, risin' up with a new name No more lookin' backward, no more chains to hold me down This ain't a resurrection, this is a phoenix flight outta this town. (Bridge) They thought they had me broken, thought I'd wither and fade But they underestimated the wildfire I had made From the embers of heartbreak, a fierce spirit takes flight Soaring through the darkness, bathed in the morning light. Watch me rise above it all, set against the evening sky Leaving all the shadows behind, where the broken spirits lie. (Chorus) These ashes ain't my ending, they're the fuel for the flame Burnin' off the past, risin' up with a new name No more lookin' backward, no more chains to hold me down This ain't a resurrection, this is a phoenix flight outta this town. (Outro) Yeah, a phoenix flight, a phoenix flight Outta this town, into the light. Flyin' high, leavin' the dust behind A phoenix flight, peace of mind. Ooh, A phoenix flight into the light.
Notes
Instrumentation: Lead vocals, electric guitar (with slight overdrive), acoustic guitar (rhythm), bass guitar, drums (driving but not overly complex), subtle organ/synth pads for atmosphere, possible slide guitar accents. Tempo: Medium tempo, driving beat. Key: E Minor BPM: 118 Feel: A sense of struggle and pain in the verses, building to powerful release and triumph in the choruses. The bridge should have a feeling of hope and determination. Vocals: Strong, slightly raspy male vocals with a touch of country twang. Backing vocals on the choruses to add power. Mix Notes: Focus on the vocal clarity and the energy of the guitars. The drums should provide a solid foundation, but not overpower the other instruments. The organ/synth should be subtle and atmospheric, adding depth to the soundscape. Performance Notes: Emphasize the raw emotion in the verses and the soaring feeling in the choruses. The guitar solo (if any) should be blues-influenced and expressive. The outro can be extended with vocal ad-libs and instrumental flourishes to create a sense of finality and release.