By BEN OLSON/For The Herald — The lyrics of most popular songs are statements about the human condition. An artist’s view of the world they live in or, in many cases, the world they would like to live in. Their dreams, their desires, the longing for love, the blues for a love lost, or an ode to someone’s car, bar or guitar. Sometimes, though, a question is posed. Perhaps the singer already knows the answer to the question. Maybe the only way to find the answer is to forge boldly ahead, hoping upon hope that the truth that’s found is the one that’s sought. Do you remember the songs whose titles asked the question?
Why do fools fall in love? Who will the next fool be? Do you know the way to San Jose? How can you mend a broken heart? Don’t you love her madly? Ain’t it funny how time slips away? Will you still love me tomorrow? Are you lonesome tonight? How deep is your love? Should I stay or should I go? Where did our love go? Who wrote the book of love? Have you ever seen the rain? Who’ll stop the rain? What’s so funny ‘bout peace, love and understanding? How long has this been going on? Have I told you lately that I love you?
Have you had enough yet? (that’s probably a song title as well, but I was just trying to break this up into two paragraphs.
Brother, can you spare a dime? Is that all there is? Where have all the flowers gone? Who’s sorry now? Do you believe in magic? Did you ever have to make up your mind? What’s new, pussycat? Do you love me? Is she really going out with him? What’s love got to do with it? Isn’t she lovely? What kind of fool am I? How much is that doggy in the window? Do you wanna dance? What’s going on? Can I get a witness? Wouldn’t it be nice? Do ya think I’m sexy? Who let the dogs out?
Can you give me a reason I shouldn’t end this blast from the past right now?
Ben Olson is an Oakridge musician who performs solo and with the trio Song Dawgz.