Lou Dalgleish – The Empty Swing (Single)

£2.00

On July 29th 2024, Southport seemed to change colour. Pink ribbons adorned every lamppost, pink petals scattered everywhere, pink bubbles blew in the breeze, and even the moon shone pink around us as that agonising first day drew to its close. The town continued to grow in colour, signalling its tribute to our loss. But all colour was simply drained from us. The unthinkable had happened and life was changed forever.

The summer sunshine seemed to shine brightest on the empty swing in the garden. I tried to write a song about that swing but it was too overwhelming. (As a result, it’s barely mentioned in the song.)

My song is a message to Bebe, telling her what’s been happening, letting her know that they’re calling her an angel and a new star (in every way). I knew she’d like me to throw in a line from Taylor Swift, and I knew she’d like me to sing about the Wizard of Oz. But I also wanted to tell her that she’s still here with us, always in her sister’s voice, pulsing in her Mom’s veins (& waltzing her every step.) And forever with her Dad in his everything.

The precious memory of Bebe, running full pelt towards me as I crouch with arms wide open, awaiting the pending hug, visits me every day now. Needless to say, this is the hardest song to sing.