DECADE - AARON JOHNSON
DECADE - AARON JOHNSON
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Decade is Aaron Johnson's third album, recorded in 1982 by music associate Mike Kloepfer, celebrating Johnson's tenth year of being a musician whose talents were in demand. Johnson began his musical journey in high school in a band called Stone Free before being recruited into the Stiffwater band and becoming a solo artist by the end of the 1970s with the completion of two albums, Midnight Mountain Hour and San Juan Stories.
In 1982, resources and money were tight and Johnson was raising a new family of two daughters. Decade was produced on a modest budget long before home recording technology was common in the consumer grade market. Despite the meager resources, Decade would be successfully completed and include some of Johnson's best compositions spanning a wide variety of genres and subjects.
An expanded version of Decade was released February of 2026 as part of the AJP Project, featuring three updated songs on the album, one being a "sequel" to its original, plus a fourth new bonus track composed and recorded at the end of 2025. This web page provides background on the album, original and new artwork and lyrics to the songs that folks can follow along with as they listen to the songs.
LISTEN TO DECADE ON SPOTIFY HERE.
In 1982, resources and money were tight and Johnson was raising a new family of two daughters. Decade was produced on a modest budget long before home recording technology was common in the consumer grade market. Despite the meager resources, Decade would be successfully completed and include some of Johnson's best compositions spanning a wide variety of genres and subjects.
An expanded version of Decade was released February of 2026 as part of the AJP Project, featuring three updated songs on the album, one being a "sequel" to its original, plus a fourth new bonus track composed and recorded at the end of 2025. This web page provides background on the album, original and new artwork and lyrics to the songs that folks can follow along with as they listen to the songs.
LISTEN TO DECADE ON SPOTIFY HERE.
COMPOSED OVER 2 YEARS
COMPOSED OVER 2 YEARS
DECADE was compiled from a group of songs composed over a period of two years when Johnson resided in the county and city of Ouray, located in Colorado's San Juan Mountains. During his life there Johnson played in a three-piece folk band as well as a nightly revue. This lively period inspired his creativity in composing, resulting in the songs on this album.
Aaron would team up with Stiffwater alumni Mike Kloepfer and together they would forge ahead with the goal of making the album a reality. Kloepfer would take on an engineering role and began his research into gear that could be acquired and used in completing the album. Aaron would employ Kloepfer's musical talents in addition to his own, and also call upon the talents of San Juan Stories drummer Scott Blumenreich for two songs. Most of the instrumentation and singing was done by Aaron.
Rehearsals and recording took place in early 1982. The album was recorded at the Kloepfer estate, the same location where Stiffwater's Armageddon Gold had been recorded seven years earlier. Artwork and photography was also done by Johnson, including the design of the Decade logo.
Aaron would team up with Stiffwater alumni Mike Kloepfer and together they would forge ahead with the goal of making the album a reality. Kloepfer would take on an engineering role and began his research into gear that could be acquired and used in completing the album. Aaron would employ Kloepfer's musical talents in addition to his own, and also call upon the talents of San Juan Stories drummer Scott Blumenreich for two songs. Most of the instrumentation and singing was done by Aaron.
Rehearsals and recording took place in early 1982. The album was recorded at the Kloepfer estate, the same location where Stiffwater's Armageddon Gold had been recorded seven years earlier. Artwork and photography was also done by Johnson, including the design of the Decade logo.
THE SONGS
THE SONGS
Each song on DECADE has a unique beginning and life of its own. Unlike his other albums, DECADE covers diverse subjects and influences spanning a two year period. Released at the start of what would become the iconic 80s decade of super-polished recording techniques, DECADE marks a period of transition from an organic approach to recording to a glossy sound that would become that unmistakable 80s ear candy. This trend is readily apparrent on Johnson's next album, 1984's FINALLY. Johnson made no attempt to follow the indicated trend, knowing he'd have that opportunity later on, instead remaining true to the vision the nature of the songs indicated. This decision would assure DECADE's timelessness decades later. For most of the songs, two years would pass before they were recorded and made a reality.
MUSICIANS
MIKE KLOEPFER: Drums, synthesizers, backing vocals, engineeringLAURA McKINNIS: Vocals on "Quiet Feet"SCOTT BLUMENREICH: Drums on "Dragonslayer" and "The Promise"AARON JOHNSON: The rest
PHOTO: Standing atop the highest of the Great Sand Dunes in Colorado, circa 1982.
MUSICIANS
MIKE KLOEPFER: Drums, synthesizers, backing vocals, engineeringLAURA McKINNIS: Vocals on "Quiet Feet"SCOTT BLUMENREICH: Drums on "Dragonslayer" and "The Promise"AARON JOHNSON: The rest
PHOTO: Standing atop the highest of the Great Sand Dunes in Colorado, circa 1982.
SONG BACKGROUNDS
SONG BACKGROUNDS
DECADEThe title song was composed in Ouray where Aaron worked during the day. In the evening he would play various instruments in a nightly revue and a folk band. The lyrics illustrate the inevitable fate of musicians destined to entertain.
THE APPRENTICEThis song expands on the concept sung about in Decade, expressing the futility of trying to escape one's musical destiny. Composed in Denver prior to the DECADE recording sessions.
LITTLE AMBER Parts 1 & 2Aaron's first daughter had just been born, inspiring this heart warming piece presented in two parts. Many years later, Aaron would come under increasing heat for not composing a song for his second daughter Shanna, an event that would not come to fruition...until 2025.
YANKEE BOYWritten in Ouray, Colorado, about the legendary spot high in the San Juans west of town. The lyrics are ambiguous but may suggest a tendency of leaping off a cliff long before wing suits were invented, thus becoming a permanent resident of that lovely place.
QUIET FEETA unique commentary on evolving social conventions in the form of a story sung as a duet. Featuring Laura McKinnis' stunning vocal that leaves listeners moved and perplexed at the same time. A one-of-a-kind masterpiece sure to spark lively conversation. Aaron does not recall when or under what circumstances the song came to be.
DRAGONSLAYERAaron saw the now legendary film for the first time in Ouray's long-gone movie theater where he worked in 1980. Out of pure inspiration, Aaron composed this piece. Iconic drum work provided by Scott Blumenreich.
SWEET DANI'S SUITEComposed and recorded in honor of a treasured niece, this four-part instrumental features Aaron on the twelve string guitar, bass and electric guitar. Inspired by one of Aaron's guitar heroes, Leo Kottke. Composed in Ouray.
GOODTIMES COUNTRY CANTEENAaron was never one to do country. The closest he got was bluegrass, but this song comes close. Expressing disdain for the country music conventions of the time, Aaron composed this song in Ouray.
NO TEXANSLiving in Ouray meant dealing with the annual summer tourist industry, and at the time, the region was being overrun with Texans, inspiring the composition of this song. Things are worse since then and Texans aren't so bad, and prosperity has blessed the region, making this song a quaint two-sided memento of a time long gone by.
THE PROMISEHarkening to Aaron's steadfast faith since childhood, this song discusses the future and Biblical prophecy in a contemporary tone. Composed during production of Decade. Features one of Aaron's most difficult bass lines and Scott Blumenreich's intricate drum work.
LEGEND OF THE GREAT SAND DUNESComposed in loving memory of Aaron's mountain climbing partner Vern and based on a true story with some embellishments, this song was a joy to assemble. Features the legendary Maxikorg K3 synthesizer in numerous sound effects roles in what is likely Aaron's most deliberately humorous piece. This song would inspire the theme of DECADE's album cover artwork.
THE APPRENTICEThis song expands on the concept sung about in Decade, expressing the futility of trying to escape one's musical destiny. Composed in Denver prior to the DECADE recording sessions.
LITTLE AMBER Parts 1 & 2Aaron's first daughter had just been born, inspiring this heart warming piece presented in two parts. Many years later, Aaron would come under increasing heat for not composing a song for his second daughter Shanna, an event that would not come to fruition...until 2025.
YANKEE BOYWritten in Ouray, Colorado, about the legendary spot high in the San Juans west of town. The lyrics are ambiguous but may suggest a tendency of leaping off a cliff long before wing suits were invented, thus becoming a permanent resident of that lovely place.
QUIET FEETA unique commentary on evolving social conventions in the form of a story sung as a duet. Featuring Laura McKinnis' stunning vocal that leaves listeners moved and perplexed at the same time. A one-of-a-kind masterpiece sure to spark lively conversation. Aaron does not recall when or under what circumstances the song came to be.
DRAGONSLAYERAaron saw the now legendary film for the first time in Ouray's long-gone movie theater where he worked in 1980. Out of pure inspiration, Aaron composed this piece. Iconic drum work provided by Scott Blumenreich.
SWEET DANI'S SUITEComposed and recorded in honor of a treasured niece, this four-part instrumental features Aaron on the twelve string guitar, bass and electric guitar. Inspired by one of Aaron's guitar heroes, Leo Kottke. Composed in Ouray.
GOODTIMES COUNTRY CANTEENAaron was never one to do country. The closest he got was bluegrass, but this song comes close. Expressing disdain for the country music conventions of the time, Aaron composed this song in Ouray.
NO TEXANSLiving in Ouray meant dealing with the annual summer tourist industry, and at the time, the region was being overrun with Texans, inspiring the composition of this song. Things are worse since then and Texans aren't so bad, and prosperity has blessed the region, making this song a quaint two-sided memento of a time long gone by.
THE PROMISEHarkening to Aaron's steadfast faith since childhood, this song discusses the future and Biblical prophecy in a contemporary tone. Composed during production of Decade. Features one of Aaron's most difficult bass lines and Scott Blumenreich's intricate drum work.
LEGEND OF THE GREAT SAND DUNESComposed in loving memory of Aaron's mountain climbing partner Vern and based on a true story with some embellishments, this song was a joy to assemble. Features the legendary Maxikorg K3 synthesizer in numerous sound effects roles in what is likely Aaron's most deliberately humorous piece. This song would inspire the theme of DECADE's album cover artwork.
LYRICS
LYRICS
DECADE
DECADE
Here comes the music man, guitar down at his side,Still performing everywhere that he may go.The crowds were always thin and he knows they dwindle stillAs the spotlight fades and he moves on down time's road.
He's been singing ten long years with the stories in his eyesHe'll be singing songs until the day he diesTo the lovers and the losers and the women at his side.He made them laugh and love and he made them cry.
To hear his somber voice, to see those golden hands,You wish his legend well with a sigh.He's been singing ten true long romantic years you know he mustSing the decades on until the day he dies.
He's been singing ten long years with the stories in his eyesHe'll be singing songs until the day he diesTo the lovers and the losers and the women at his side.He made them laugh and love and he made them cry.
To hear his somber voice, to see those golden hands,You wish his legend well with a sigh.He's been singing ten true long romantic years you know he mustSing the decades on until the day he dies.
THE APPRENTICE
THE APPRENTICE
I come from afar, questing a better life.You ask for my help as if I were a pro.You know I left my homeland and my music behindYet you beg that I play, let my talent show.My escape was futile, my motives were vain.Is this my destiny? Am I who you seek?
I will play for you, lend me your ear.Hear me my friends, for I tell you the truth.I'm the last of a breed this lousy town has seen.None like me shall pass this way again unless I do.But you must have faith and believe in me.For one day I'll return, to claim you for my own.I am who you seek.
I will play for you, lend me your ear.Hear me my friends, for I tell you the truth.I'm the last of a breed this lousy town has seen.None like me shall pass this way again unless I do.But you must have faith and believe in me.For one day I'll return, to claim you for my own.I am who you seek.
LITTLE AMBER Parts 1 & 2
LITTLE AMBER Parts 1 & 2
PART ONE
By the time you hear this song, it will have been so long, will I remember?By the time you understand the many times I squeezed your hands, will you remember?
You will soon be a young lady fair, heed me now for I may not be thereTo tell you this is daddy twenty years ago.Since the day you arrived I have loved you so.
You are my joy, my purpose for life, to strive for a better world.You are the reason I exist and work on this earth,To carry me on your breath and your song.
By the time you hear me sing and each word has meaning, I'll be forty years young.I must make it clear by now, whatever it takes, somehow, I'll get through to you.
Everything I have done, everything I have said, every hour of my life was for you,And you'll never really know just how feeble my words show how much you mean to me.I hope that you'll see by now.
Like an old man in his prime, I remember the old times, when you were young.I hope and pray to God I did the right things to send you on.
You have my every blessing, I'm behind you all the way,I hope you never forget this very special dayWhen you hear me and understand why I wrote this song so long agoAnd know somehow it was to be this way...little Amber.
PART TWO
Little Amber, you're starin' off in space. Little Amber, you got the cutest little face.Little Amber, ya got your momma's fatso cheeks, little Amber. Little Amber.
Little Amber, don't have a tantrum now. Watch your temper...give us a classic frown.Don't be angry. Your food is on the way. Little Amber. Little Amber.
Little Amber, why such a pissed-off face? I will take you on a tour of the place.See the colors. Sleep by the stereo. Close your eyes. Tiny bubbles...Catch your Zs...Off you ride...on cloud nine...off you go...
By the time you hear this song, it will have been so long, will I remember?By the time you understand the many times I squeezed your hands, will you remember?
You will soon be a young lady fair, heed me now for I may not be thereTo tell you this is daddy twenty years ago.Since the day you arrived I have loved you so.
You are my joy, my purpose for life, to strive for a better world.You are the reason I exist and work on this earth,To carry me on your breath and your song.
By the time you hear me sing and each word has meaning, I'll be forty years young.I must make it clear by now, whatever it takes, somehow, I'll get through to you.
Everything I have done, everything I have said, every hour of my life was for you,And you'll never really know just how feeble my words show how much you mean to me.I hope that you'll see by now.
Like an old man in his prime, I remember the old times, when you were young.I hope and pray to God I did the right things to send you on.
You have my every blessing, I'm behind you all the way,I hope you never forget this very special dayWhen you hear me and understand why I wrote this song so long agoAnd know somehow it was to be this way...little Amber.
PART TWO
Little Amber, you're starin' off in space. Little Amber, you got the cutest little face.Little Amber, ya got your momma's fatso cheeks, little Amber. Little Amber.
Little Amber, don't have a tantrum now. Watch your temper...give us a classic frown.Don't be angry. Your food is on the way. Little Amber. Little Amber.
Little Amber, why such a pissed-off face? I will take you on a tour of the place.See the colors. Sleep by the stereo. Close your eyes. Tiny bubbles...Catch your Zs...Off you ride...on cloud nine...off you go...
YANKEE BOY
YANKEE BOY
Cold summer morning, fire in the sky, hear the gentle breezes moan.The fog still lingers in the trees below. Above rise peaks, bizarre talons of stone.And as if in a fairy tale, that we all seem to know too well,I'll meet you there on Yankee Boy.
Deep endless vistas in another time. Vast wilderness old timer miners once owned.Lofty mountains surround you there. Take my hand and we shall go.It is time to come with me, visions clearing for you to dream,As the fog lifts from Yankee Boy.
Gentle encounters of the fairest kind, your mind is free as you kiss the flowers.Why should it be that it has to end? Paradise now rules your final hour.We need not wonder why we are soaring down from the sky.I'll meet you down on Yankee Boy.
We need not wonder why we are soaring down from the sky.I'll meet you down on Yankee Boy.
Deep endless vistas in another time. Vast wilderness old timer miners once owned.Lofty mountains surround you there. Take my hand and we shall go.It is time to come with me, visions clearing for you to dream,As the fog lifts from Yankee Boy.
Gentle encounters of the fairest kind, your mind is free as you kiss the flowers.Why should it be that it has to end? Paradise now rules your final hour.We need not wonder why we are soaring down from the sky.I'll meet you down on Yankee Boy.
We need not wonder why we are soaring down from the sky.I'll meet you down on Yankee Boy.
QUIET FEET
QUIET FEET
I wandered in to an old cafe in a town that had seen its better days, she said "Do I know you? Are you feelin' blue?"It's gettin' late is all I said, eggs and ham and I'm off to bed, she said "We close at ten. See you then."When I got my meal, I was starin' off in the night. Right next to the eggs were the keys.
Meandering up the old main street, somber lights and quiet feet, she said "Follow me. Come love me."Impassioned love in a motel room, soft kisses graced by sweet perfume, she said "I need you now. Come love me now."To know her name had never crossed my mind. Mesmerized by those eyes...
You never know who you will meet in this heartland lined with lonely streets.So many people with so many reasons. So many problems, so many seasons,So many ways...
I found the note imagined her smile... "With a little luck I will bear your child," she wrote I don't know you. Please don't feel blue. This is my dream, please understand, nothin' personal but I don't need a man..."She wrote "I'm movin' on. So carry on. May your life be rich and full of memories. Thanks for your help. Don't come lookin' for me."
Meandering up the old main street, somber lights and quiet feet, she said "Follow me. Come love me."Impassioned love in a motel room, soft kisses graced by sweet perfume, she said "I need you now. Come love me now."To know her name had never crossed my mind. Mesmerized by those eyes...
You never know who you will meet in this heartland lined with lonely streets.So many people with so many reasons. So many problems, so many seasons,So many ways...
I found the note imagined her smile... "With a little luck I will bear your child," she wrote I don't know you. Please don't feel blue. This is my dream, please understand, nothin' personal but I don't need a man..."She wrote "I'm movin' on. So carry on. May your life be rich and full of memories. Thanks for your help. Don't come lookin' for me."
DRAGONSLAYER
DRAGONSLAYER
Sentenced to death in a last fiery breath,The light has faded from the dragon's ember eyes!The sorcerer arrived with words I'll never forgetAnd the bells rang out across the green hillsides.The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.
'Tis said the sorcerer stood at the mouth of the lair without as much a potion or a spellCommanding unknown powers, a mere motioning of his handTrembled the earth to lay away the fires of hell!
Evil gave up the fight on that triumphant day,Solemn peace reigns supreme throughout the landThough many still doubt not having seen with their eyesWe must rejoice and let the deed of the age stand.The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.
'Tis rumored through the land that the dragon is not deadThat indeed it will return to seek revenge.It's dark shadow will split the sky, deadly fires will scorch the land-We've been warned-is it not the dragon's end?
Sentenced to death in a last fiery breath,The light has faded from the dragon's ember eyes!The sorcerer has come with words I shant e'er forgetAs the bells ring out across the countrysideThe day of the sorcerer and the dragon.The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.
'Tis said the sorcerer stood at the mouth of the lair without as much a potion or a spellCommanding unknown powers, a mere motioning of his handTrembled the earth to lay away the fires of hell!
Evil gave up the fight on that triumphant day,Solemn peace reigns supreme throughout the landThough many still doubt not having seen with their eyesWe must rejoice and let the deed of the age stand.The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.
'Tis rumored through the land that the dragon is not deadThat indeed it will return to seek revenge.It's dark shadow will split the sky, deadly fires will scorch the land-We've been warned-is it not the dragon's end?
Sentenced to death in a last fiery breath,The light has faded from the dragon's ember eyes!The sorcerer has come with words I shant e'er forgetAs the bells ring out across the countrysideThe day of the sorcerer and the dragon.The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.
SWEET DANI'S SUITE
SWEET DANI'S SUITE
Instrumental for 2 12 string guitars, electric guitar and bass guitar
GOODTIMES COUNTRY CANTEEN
GOODTIMES COUNTRY CANTEEN
I'm usually sympathetic, it's been a long hot summer's day.We workin' folks all do our share instead of wastin' our lives away.Then you stagger in stinking of gin, a walking liquor factory,A druken stupor fool slouching on the stool, moanin' a miserable life story.
I'm sick 'n' tired of your whinin', and you wishin' you was dead.If you'd change your ways and use common sense, you'd be better off instead.The troubles you're tryin' to drink away you brought upon yourself.This bar don't hold no miracles, so don't come to me for help.
Don't matter to me which side you're on, you're always bound to lose,Stealin' away with your best friend's wife and drownin' in your booze.Don't wanna hear your problems today and see you crying in your beer.You'd best pack your bags and be on your way, we don't put up with that around here.You'd best pack your bags and be on your way, we don't put up with that around here.
Life's too good to throw away on a bottle and a woman or two.We're weary of folks just like you who sob with sobber's tunes.Take a look at the ol' jukebox, I think you'll see what I mean.We don't have no cry-in-your-beer songs here at the Goodtimes Country Canteen.
I'm sick 'n' tired of your whinin', and you wishin' you was dead.If you'd change your ways and use common sense, you'd be better off instead.The troubles you're tryin' to drink away you brought upon yourself.This bar don't hold no miracles, so don't come to me for help.
Don't matter to me which side you're on, you're always bound to lose,Stealin' away with your best friend's wife and drownin' in your booze.Don't wanna hear your problems today and see you crying in your beer.You'd best pack your bags and be on your way, we don't put up with that around here.You'd best pack your bags and be on your way, we don't put up with that around here.
Life's too good to throw away on a bottle and a woman or two.We're weary of folks just like you who sob with sobber's tunes.Take a look at the ol' jukebox, I think you'll see what I mean.We don't have no cry-in-your-beer songs here at the Goodtimes Country Canteen.
NO TEXANS
NO TEXANS
Seven months out of the year, you know it's the nicest place around here.But during the other five come the tourist lines, you know it's the hardest part of the year.Pouring in from all four winds, the crowds never seem to end.Glaring out the windows of their bag-a-winos comes the worst of them all my friend..."HOWDY PARDNER!"It's the Texans!
While the issue's here, I'll make myself clear,Right now I'm gonna tell ya want no Texans here.Right now I know in all of Colorado,This is the only place Texans dare not go.They got their money, they got their class,They think they own the road but over my dead ass.While the issue's here, I'll make myself clear,Right now I'm gonna tell ya want no Texans here.
Now I realize that the tourist trade is a beneficial industry,But in some ways it has gone too far, like invasion of privacy.Ya gotta understand mister businessman it get harder for us natives to bearTo find the family Texans and their TV sets and their trailers everywhereIn the middle of nowhere!
I got my home where I can roam in my corner of the world.Not a soul for miles around and I trust they can read the sign.This land will remain unspoiled by the wrath of the tourist lines,A place where I can stand bold and proud and boldly shout out loud...No Texans aloud!
While the issue's here, I'll make myself clear,Right now I'm gonna tell ya want no Texans here.Right now I know in all of Colorado,This is the only place Texans dare not go.They got their money, they got their class,They think they own the road but over my dead ass.While the issue's here, I'll make myself clear,Right now I'm gonna tell ya want no Texans here.
Now I realize that the tourist trade is a beneficial industry,But in some ways it has gone too far, like invasion of privacy.Ya gotta understand mister businessman it get harder for us natives to bearTo find the family Texans and their TV sets and their trailers everywhereIn the middle of nowhere!
I got my home where I can roam in my corner of the world.Not a soul for miles around and I trust they can read the sign.This land will remain unspoiled by the wrath of the tourist lines,A place where I can stand bold and proud and boldly shout out loud...No Texans aloud!
THE PROMISE
THE PROMISE
Look up a yonder on hill from afar breaks the light of another sunny day.I recall long ago in the days of the Robe and the hope in the Promise He made.In times of doubt and worry and shame when our fate was just around the bend,I recall long ago of the Promise proclaimed, He'd deliver us in the end.No one else had a better friend.
I learned the golden rule in Sunday school, I played all the hypocritic games.I saw satellites fly with money in their eyes, saw the preacher-man's glorified fame.But things got worse and I wondered how the world would survive this mess.The signs of the times show rapture is nigh, what's taking so long I can't guess.I'm not sure I can stand the suspense.
If you're sad now, have no fear, don't be frightened, be of good cheer.It's a new day, and a good new year, though danger lurks, salvation's near.
So don't sit there in your gloom and fear, come on, let's have three cheersFor a happy new year!The equinox never looked so clear. No more need to shed your tears.Listen friends I want you to hear. Though dark ages grow ever near,And we wait in uncertain fear, be brave and assured and gather here,Heaven's gates never looked so clear!
I learned the golden rule in Sunday school, I played all the hypocritic games.I saw satellites fly with money in their eyes, saw the preacher-man's glorified fame.But things got worse and I wondered how the world would survive this mess.The signs of the times show rapture is nigh, what's taking so long I can't guess.I'm not sure I can stand the suspense.
If you're sad now, have no fear, don't be frightened, be of good cheer.It's a new day, and a good new year, though danger lurks, salvation's near.
So don't sit there in your gloom and fear, come on, let's have three cheersFor a happy new year!The equinox never looked so clear. No more need to shed your tears.Listen friends I want you to hear. Though dark ages grow ever near,And we wait in uncertain fear, be brave and assured and gather here,Heaven's gates never looked so clear!
LEDGEND OF THEGREAT SAND DUNES
IN LOVING MEMORY OF VERNON GARNER
He stands there in broad daylight before the mighty Great Sand Dunes,Withstanding roaring winds, searing stinging blowing sand too.That mighty man of the mountains, climbing up the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
Forging ever onward, eight hundred feet up into the sky,Efficient blinding speed, speedy dot upon the dunes before your eye-Mighty man of the mountains, climbing up the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
Assaults in leaps and bounds, lively sprints of strength and daring-do!Climbing like an eagle, with the swiftness of a light-weight kangaroo!That mighty man of the mountains, climbing up the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
All of this for a picture from the top in the dullest black and white,Braving angry winds, he stands there snapping pictures with all his might.Stupendous and astounding, sensational, gallant, wonderful!Awesome and inspiring! Marvelous and that's incredible!That mighty man of the mountains, standing on the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
Triumphantly returning, he says, "I have lost my shoes.""You WHAT?" is all I said. He says," I have lost my shoes!"Stupid man of the mountains, immortal memorial to bad human engineering.
This is the last place you'd ever want to lose your shoes.So Vern begins his trek. Without his shoes, what would he do?Mindless man of the mountains, climbs again up the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
As he flounders through the sand, he says "why'd this ever happen to me?How could I be so stupid? Stupid black and white pictures!"Mighty man of the mountains staggers up the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
Exhausted and so thirsty, crawling on hands and knees too,Windblown and so thirsty, no longer like a mighty kangaroo.Desperate fingers grabbing a miraged canteen in his sight,It disappears into nothing-he sees his shoes have fallen down the other side.He tumbles down beside them, kisses them, ties them to his side.Begins his trek for camp, as the tiny dot caught my eye...Little man of the mountains, tumbling, falling down the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
He almost drowns in the river, he says "I'll never do that again!"I'm sure we all will remember, if we ever see the sand dunes again,The moral of this story is never to lose your shoes.I'm sure we all will remember the ballad of the Great Sand DunesAnd that mighty man of the mountainsHaving climbed twice in one day the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.That mighty man of the mountains having climbed twice in one dayThe highest of the Great Sand Dunes!
He stands there in broad daylight before the mighty Great Sand Dunes,Withstanding roaring winds, searing stinging blowing sand too.That mighty man of the mountains, climbing up the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
Forging ever onward, eight hundred feet up into the sky,Efficient blinding speed, speedy dot upon the dunes before your eye-Mighty man of the mountains, climbing up the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
Assaults in leaps and bounds, lively sprints of strength and daring-do!Climbing like an eagle, with the swiftness of a light-weight kangaroo!That mighty man of the mountains, climbing up the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
All of this for a picture from the top in the dullest black and white,Braving angry winds, he stands there snapping pictures with all his might.Stupendous and astounding, sensational, gallant, wonderful!Awesome and inspiring! Marvelous and that's incredible!That mighty man of the mountains, standing on the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
Triumphantly returning, he says, "I have lost my shoes.""You WHAT?" is all I said. He says," I have lost my shoes!"Stupid man of the mountains, immortal memorial to bad human engineering.
This is the last place you'd ever want to lose your shoes.So Vern begins his trek. Without his shoes, what would he do?Mindless man of the mountains, climbs again up the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
As he flounders through the sand, he says "why'd this ever happen to me?How could I be so stupid? Stupid black and white pictures!"Mighty man of the mountains staggers up the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
Exhausted and so thirsty, crawling on hands and knees too,Windblown and so thirsty, no longer like a mighty kangaroo.Desperate fingers grabbing a miraged canteen in his sight,It disappears into nothing-he sees his shoes have fallen down the other side.He tumbles down beside them, kisses them, ties them to his side.Begins his trek for camp, as the tiny dot caught my eye...Little man of the mountains, tumbling, falling down the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.
He almost drowns in the river, he says "I'll never do that again!"I'm sure we all will remember, if we ever see the sand dunes again,The moral of this story is never to lose your shoes.I'm sure we all will remember the ballad of the Great Sand DunesAnd that mighty man of the mountainsHaving climbed twice in one day the highest of the Great Sand Dunes.That mighty man of the mountains having climbed twice in one dayThe highest of the Great Sand Dunes!
BONUS TRACKS
BONUS TRACKS
THE JOURNEYMAN (SEQUEL TO THE APPRENTICE)Aaron found himself in the same situation after returning from living in the San Juan mountains for two years. Having retired from the industry, he was asked to play guitar for his messianic synagogue, which led to a rekindling of his career. An "orchestra" of electric guitars plays the song here, as originally envisioned. This song addresses the inevitable destiny of being a musician in the service of the Almighty.
DRAGONSLAYERAaron did not like the way his voice sounded on the original, and felt the song would benefit from an updated orchestral version with more precise lyrics. Much effort was made to honor Scott Blumenreich's powerful original drum performance.
THE PROMISEAaron did not like the acoustic approach of the original and wanted to update the lyrics. He had forgotten the difficult bass part, which proved to be a formidable challenge and compelled him to record it "in pieces" in order to get the song completed in a reasonable amount of time. Scott Blumenreich's stellar drum performance on the original is emulated here.
O SHANNA, O SHANNAAaron had penned a song for his second daughter back in the 2000s but lost track of the lyrics and music notation. It would be at least another decade before the inspiration would finally wake him from a deep sleep. Aaron had the benefit of a computer readily available to record the basic idea so the concept was not lost to a failing memory. The song was quickly developed in organic fashion, paying homage to two guitarists Aaron appreciates: Chris Isaak and Billie Gibbons. This song is appropriately included as a bonus track on DECADE, where Shanna's sister Amber's song is also located. The song's "attitude" aptly reflects Shanna's character.
All instruments and vocals by Aaron Johnson
DRAGONSLAYERAaron did not like the way his voice sounded on the original, and felt the song would benefit from an updated orchestral version with more precise lyrics. Much effort was made to honor Scott Blumenreich's powerful original drum performance.
THE PROMISEAaron did not like the acoustic approach of the original and wanted to update the lyrics. He had forgotten the difficult bass part, which proved to be a formidable challenge and compelled him to record it "in pieces" in order to get the song completed in a reasonable amount of time. Scott Blumenreich's stellar drum performance on the original is emulated here.
O SHANNA, O SHANNAAaron had penned a song for his second daughter back in the 2000s but lost track of the lyrics and music notation. It would be at least another decade before the inspiration would finally wake him from a deep sleep. Aaron had the benefit of a computer readily available to record the basic idea so the concept was not lost to a failing memory. The song was quickly developed in organic fashion, paying homage to two guitarists Aaron appreciates: Chris Isaak and Billie Gibbons. This song is appropriately included as a bonus track on DECADE, where Shanna's sister Amber's song is also located. The song's "attitude" aptly reflects Shanna's character.
All instruments and vocals by Aaron Johnson
THE JOURNEYMANSEQUEL TO THE APPRENTICE
I return from afar, living a quiet life.You asked for my help because I once was a pro.You know I left that life and my music behind,Yet you ask that I play, let my gifting show.My escape was futile, my motives were lost.Is this my destiny? Am I who you seek?
I will play for you, lend me your ear.Hear me my friends, for I tell you the truth.I'm the last of a breed, not an AI wet dream. None like me shall pass this way again that is as true.So believe in me when I tell youI will sing the songs, serving to the end.I am who you seek.
I will play for you, lend me your ear.Hear me my friends, for I tell you the truth.I'm the last of a breed, not an AI wet dream. None like me shall pass this way again that is as true.So believe in me when I tell youI will sing the songs, serving to the end.I am who you seek.
DRAGONSLAYER
DRAGONSLAYER
Sentenced to death in a last fiery breath, the light has faded from the dragon's ember eyes!The apprentice arrived with words I'll never forget,And the bells rang out across the green hillsides.The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.
'Tis said the sorcerer stood at the mouth of the lair without as much a potion or a spell.Commanding unknown powers, a mere motioning of his handShook the earth to drown the fires of hell.
Evil gave up the fight on that triumphant day,Solemn peace reigns supreme throughout the land.Though many still doubt not having seen with their eyes,We must rejoice, the final deed of the dragon age stands!The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.
'Tis said through the land that the dragon is not dead, indeed it returns to seek revenge.Its dark shadow will split the sky, deadly fires scorch the land, we were warned!Is it not the dragon's end?
Sentenced to death in a last fiery breath, the light has faded from the dragon's ember eyes!The real sorcerer brought the beast to its death and the bells ring out his noble sacrifice.The day the sorcerer killed the dragon.The death of the sorcerer and the dragon.The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.
'Tis said the sorcerer stood at the mouth of the lair without as much a potion or a spell.Commanding unknown powers, a mere motioning of his handShook the earth to drown the fires of hell.
Evil gave up the fight on that triumphant day,Solemn peace reigns supreme throughout the land.Though many still doubt not having seen with their eyes,We must rejoice, the final deed of the dragon age stands!The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.
'Tis said through the land that the dragon is not dead, indeed it returns to seek revenge.Its dark shadow will split the sky, deadly fires scorch the land, we were warned!Is it not the dragon's end?
Sentenced to death in a last fiery breath, the light has faded from the dragon's ember eyes!The real sorcerer brought the beast to its death and the bells ring out his noble sacrifice.The day the sorcerer killed the dragon.The death of the sorcerer and the dragon.The day of the sorcerer and the dragon.
THE PROMISE
THE PROMISE
Look up a yonder on hill from afar breaks the light of another sunny day.I recall long ago in the days of Rome and the hope in the Promise He made.In times of doubt and worry and shame as our fate seems just around the bend,I recall long ago the Promise proclaimed, He'd deliver us in the End.No one else had a better friend.
Learned the Golden Rule in Sunday school, I played all the hypocrite games.Watched satellites fly and money in their eyes, saw the charlatan's glorified fame.Things got worse and I wondered how the world will survive this mess.The signs of the times say rapture is nigh, what's taking so long I can't guess.I'm not sure I can stand the suspense.
If you're sad now, have no fear. Don't be frightened, be of good cheer.It's a new day and a new year, though evil lurks, salvation's near.
So don't you fret in gloom and fear, listen friend I want you to hear!The prophecies never looked so clear. It is the jubilee year.Look up! Your redemption is near! Though enemies grow ever nearAnd false prophets will appear, be strong and be bold and have no fear.Heaven's gates have never been more near!
Learned the Golden Rule in Sunday school, I played all the hypocrite games.Watched satellites fly and money in their eyes, saw the charlatan's glorified fame.Things got worse and I wondered how the world will survive this mess.The signs of the times say rapture is nigh, what's taking so long I can't guess.I'm not sure I can stand the suspense.
If you're sad now, have no fear. Don't be frightened, be of good cheer.It's a new day and a new year, though evil lurks, salvation's near.
So don't you fret in gloom and fear, listen friend I want you to hear!The prophecies never looked so clear. It is the jubilee year.Look up! Your redemption is near! Though enemies grow ever nearAnd false prophets will appear, be strong and be bold and have no fear.Heaven's gates have never been more near!
O SHANNA, O SHANNA
O SHANNA, O SHANNA
You are only four years old but you could hold you ownYou take no shit from anyone, brave your path alone
When she taunted you too much you laid your sister out.You're gonna be a boss, you're gonna have some clout.One day you'll own a business and make your daddy proud.Always choose your own way, drive that jeep into the ground!
O Shanna, O Shanna, princess of my worldO Shanna, O Shanna, daddy's little girl
No need for a safe harbor, that's just not for you.Once you make your mind up, it's what you're gonna do!
In your teens put your parents' patience to the test,From the chaos of those years, rise above the rest.One day you'll rule an empire, escape rooms and pool halls.You're gonna be successful, you're gonna be a mom!
O Shanna, O Shanna, princess of my worldO Shanna, O Shanna, daddy's little girl
O Shanna, O Shanna, it's fun to watch you growO Shanna, O Shanna, your daddy loves you so!
O Shanna, O Shanna, your sis is your best friendO Shanna, O Shanna, you're loyal to the end
O Shanna, O Shanna, princess of my worldO Shanna, O Shanna, daddy's little girl
O Shanna, O Shanna, everyone should knowO Shanna, O Shanna, you love your rock and roll
You love your rock and roll...
When she taunted you too much you laid your sister out.You're gonna be a boss, you're gonna have some clout.One day you'll own a business and make your daddy proud.Always choose your own way, drive that jeep into the ground!
O Shanna, O Shanna, princess of my worldO Shanna, O Shanna, daddy's little girl
No need for a safe harbor, that's just not for you.Once you make your mind up, it's what you're gonna do!
In your teens put your parents' patience to the test,From the chaos of those years, rise above the rest.One day you'll rule an empire, escape rooms and pool halls.You're gonna be successful, you're gonna be a mom!
O Shanna, O Shanna, princess of my worldO Shanna, O Shanna, daddy's little girl
O Shanna, O Shanna, it's fun to watch you growO Shanna, O Shanna, your daddy loves you so!
O Shanna, O Shanna, your sis is your best friendO Shanna, O Shanna, you're loyal to the end
O Shanna, O Shanna, princess of my worldO Shanna, O Shanna, daddy's little girl
O Shanna, O Shanna, everyone should knowO Shanna, O Shanna, you love your rock and roll
You love your rock and roll...
Shanna and her dad performing together at his 60th birthday party bash, 2016.
MORE FROM AARON JOHNSON
MORE FROM AARON JOHNSON
More releases coming in 2026!
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