In Michael Lyon’s latest musical endeavor, “What Could Be,” we find the fourth album release since 2015, a testament to his enduring commitment to the art of songwriting. Drawing inspiration from George Harrison’s timeless wisdom – “keep writing songs, you’ll get better at it” – Michael Lyon unveils a captivating journey through music. It’s a journey that embodies the essence of perseverance, nurtured by life’s experiences, and fueled by the gravity of our contemporary world.
While each song and album holds a special place in Michael’s creative heart during its inception, “What Could Be” emerges as a poignant reflection on the myriad twists and turns of life. It transcends the mere status of a song collection, offering listeners a profound exploration of the human experience itself.
Michael Lyon wears the hats of songwriter, instrumentalist, and vocalist in this endeavor, skillfully playing a diverse array of instruments encompassing guitars, piano, keyboards, strings, and percussion. Despite the solitary nature of this artistic expression, Lyon readily acknowledges the invaluable contributions of two essential collaborators: the world-class recording engineer, Paul Horabin, and the guiding musical mentor, Kit Alderson.
The album’s rich tapestry of musical influences serves as a testament to Lyon’s eclectic tastes. Drawing inspiration from legendary artists such as The Beatles, Chuck Berry, Cat Stevens, Neil Young, Jim Croce, Paul Simon, and the Everly Brothers, along with the classical genius of Mozart, Lyon masterfully weaves these diverse threads into the fabric of “What Could Be.” The result is a harmonious fusion of sounds and styles that gracefully transcends the confines of genre.
The songs featured on “What Could Be” resonate with a profound sense of urgency, a reflection of the turbulent times in which they were birthed. For instance, consider “How Long It Takes” (Track #4), a composition that emerged during the pandemic, a period when even a simple grocery store visit felt like a life-endangering expedition. This urgency infuses each song with a unique depth, inviting contemplation of what can be achieved with each precious day.
The recording process for “What Could Be” unfolded at ReadyMix Recording Studios in North Hollywood and Van Nuys, California. The gifted recording engineer and co-producer, Paul Horabin, played an instrumental role in realizing Michael Lyon’s creative vision. The finishing touches were impeccably added by mastering engineer Don Tyler at IO Mastering.
Beyond his musical influences, Lyon pays a heartfelt tribute to the great songwriters of the singer-songwriter “golden age.” Icons such as Lennon & McCartney, Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, and Cat Stevens have left an indelible mark on Lyon’s artistic journey. Additionally, Lyon attributes much of his creative drive to the unwavering love and support of his parents, who instilled in him the belief that he can achieve anything he sets his mind to.
As Lyon reflects on his life journey, he shares, “When I was younger, life revolved around trying to get good grades. Then it was all about pursuing passions, including tennis. Afterward, came college, work in fields like environmental protection, broadcasting, and business, leading to a career in teaching. Over the past decade, it’s been increasingly about writing songs and creating albums.” Each phase of life serves as a foundation for the next, culminating in the profound question, “What Could Be.”
The recording sessions for “What Could Be” were laden with memorable moments. For instance, during sessions for the track “Love,” Lyon and his collaborators captured the magical essence of harmonies reminiscent of The Hollies at Abbey Road’s Studio One or The Beatles at Studio Two. These sessions unfolded during the height of the pandemic, a period when every studio visit felt like a potentially life-threatening endeavor. This heightened the commitment to seize each moment fully, recognizing that there might be no “tomorrow.”
The opening line of the album’s title track, “What Could Be,” encapsulates the essence of this musical odyssey: “What could be is a day unlike any day yet to be…” It serves as an invitation to embark on a harmonious journey through the phases of life, savoring the beauty of each moment.
“What Could Be” by Michael Lyon is more than just an album; it’s a heartfelt exploration of life’s possibilities. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of perseverance and experience in the world of music. Check out Michael’s website for more information https://www.michaellyonmusic.com/
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