From the recording Short Story Long
Luisa: Written when my friend Ryan Young (Frank's nephew) was in pre-school and his mom was getting calls of concern because he was doing his own thing and not quite following the program. Ryan was (and is) a truly creative, thoughtful child (now young man) and I was aggravated that the "establishment" of pre-school would do anything but nurture and support his spirit. The song came in an instant, a gift. Thank you, Ryan.
Frank: That's our FreeFall bandmate Maureen Wasik on backing vocals. It was great fun harmonizing with her again.
Lyrics
L.Tanno
I’m a hero. I’m an angel. I’m a monster too
On the playground I’m a leader. We go two by two
The color green feels so clean to my eye
I think I’ll use it for the sky
I have daydreams. I have nightmares. I don’t know what’s real
Everyday I learn a new word, a new way to feel
Teacher says I’m shy and I don’t get along
But I feel fine like I belong
The other kids do like to tease
Big people I just try to please
I think they really count on me
‘cause they keep asking what I’ll be
I am just me
I make wishes. I draw pictures. I write stories too
Make-believing is my favorite thing to do
I know the rules to all the games that we play
But I like my rules just the same
The other kids do like to tease
Big people I just try to please
I think they really count on me
‘cause they keep asking what I’ll be
I am just me
I am just me
I am just me
Luisa: lead vocal, acoustic guitar, glockenspiel
Frank: acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass, electric piano, harmony & background vocals
ChrisAleo: drums & percussion
Maureen Wasik: harmony & background vocals