I wrote the beginnings of “Lie” not long after the presidential election. While on the campaign trail, it was troubling how the lies became “normal” for the president elect. Watching the inauguration with the less than capacity crowd, doctored photos and “alternative facts,” “Lie” began to take on a life of its own. What I found most frustrating was that no one would utter the word “lie.” There were falsehoods, false claims, misleading statements but no one would call any of them a lie until the last year or so. It was that frustration that led to the writing of this song. I had written the first two verses, chorus and bridge, but felt like it needed a little something more so I sent the song to Kelley Ryan to see what she might add to the mix. Says Ryan, “As soon as I heard the lyric, “the sky was green,” I was inspired to make a list of all of the rationalizations a liar would make to justify the untruths from their perspective. Gaslighting, covering up the lies and then doubling-down. I’d say it’s much more a laundry list than a rap.” Kelley’s laundry list perfectly underscored what I was trying to say with her clever play on words.

When it came to recording, a more somber sounding demo took on a whole new life at the hands of Julian Coryell. From the producer, “The first time Kimm played me “Lie”, I knew it was an important and timely offering the world needed to hear. The goal was to retain an indie production aesthetic to match the integrity and honesty of her words and music. Finding just the right balance between bitter and sweet was key.” However, “timely” proved to be difficult. The death of my brother not long after the recording process and then the onset of COVID-19 put things on pause with everything moving haltingly at it’s own pace. But here we are, days away from our presidential election and this song feels just right for the moment. Cathryn Beeks imaginative video is the icing on the cake. I hope people will enjoy the uplifting vibe of the recording with the straight forward, to the point, message. (Photo by Catherine Beeks.)