This story is to be filed under "Waltzing in a Minefield." One little misstep can explode. One little word gone awry!
Over a decade ago, Michael and I broke up over creative territory. He did a beautifully produced recording of A Girl Like Me with Satya Chavez.
When I heard it, though, there was one small problem. When she gets to the part where she says,
"with big shoes"... she says, "—size nine—but in style."
I'm not sure how this happened...it sounded fine but this one word change broke the story structure! Because the entire premise of the story is ASHLEY HAS COMICALLY BIG FEET. And size nine is quite normal. (Had she said, "Men's size nine," that would be big. Or "size twelve." Or even "size ten" ... that would be big enough for a teen to feel awkward.)
Michael was not in a position to re-record the song, so our conversation about it was difficult and heated. Unkind words were said. And then some more, later.
A few years ago, I sang the song myself for a song showcase with Musical Café. I sang the original version, with lyrics just by me. It helped me get myself sorted out, just as Ashley sorts herself out in the song.
Then last year, I heard from Michael again! He was asking for permission to perform the song again, for his own New York showcase. Of course I said yes!
A bit after that, we were able to talk things through and make peace again. I'm so glad. I have so much respect for this man and his music, and I know he respects me as an artist. I don't know if we'll ever finish the musical, but it helps to be on good "footing" again. Even in clown shoes.
