We’ve updated our Terms of Use to reflect our new entity name and address. You can review the changes here.
We’ve updated our Terms of Use. You can review the changes here.

Whatever Makes You Happy

by John Flanagan

/

about

John Flanagan wrote 'Whatever Makes You Happy' with NSW based singer/songwriter Timothy James Bowen in late 2014 before recording it in Nashville as part of an album with producer Viktor Krauss. It is a story about the end of a relationship and a selfless love that endures above jealousy and separation. The song features harmony vocals from alt-country songstress Brooke Russell.

John's upcoming (Feb 2016) record ‘There’s another way to where you’re going’ ties together stories of outsiders: the lonely, the heartbroken and those who aren’t afraid to step aside from the mainstream. The moments of sadness blend with the uplifting to create an overarching positive message of acceptance and change.

lyrics

We built a home upon this solid ground
Made of bricks and wood
We settled down
We made a fire and it burned so bright so long
We watched the flames with our hearts entwined
The smell of embers roses and wine
Photographs in my memory still so strong

Whatever makes you happy
Whatever quells your fears
Whatever makes you stronger
Whatever dries your tears
You know I love you more babe
Than any jealous man could do
Whatever makes you happy
That’s what I want for you

But people change like the swell of the tide
I felt the storm brewing deep inside
And as I watched you fell into his arms
You said “I’m sorry I let you down
And you don’t need me hanging around here
If I stay I will only bring you harm”

Whatever makes you happy, whatever quells your fears
Whatever makes you stronger, whatever dries your tears
Even if my heartbreak
Is the price I have to pay
If you’re happier without me
I wouldn’t make you stay

I love you more than living
You’re the air that I breathe
No matter what you’ve done
You’re the only one I need
Most men will only want you
When they’ve got you locked away
But this flame will keep on burning
If you go or if you stay

Whatever makes you happy, whatever quells your fears
Whatever makes you stronger, whatever dries your tears
If I could be the one dear
There’s nothing I won’t do
Whatever makes you happy
That’s what I want for you

credits

released July 30, 2015
John Flanagan: Vocal, Banjo
Viktor Krauss: Production, Bass, Electric Guitars, Acoustic Guitar, Synthesizers, Piano
Todd Lombardo: Acoustic Guitar
Marco Giovino: Drums
Brooke Russell: Background vocals
Ben Abraham: Background vocals

Mixed by Neal Cappellino
Mastered by Jim DeMain at Yes Master Studios

Recorded live at Omni Sound Studios in Nashville with engineer Neal Cappellino and assistant engineer Charlie Garcia
Additional tracking in Melbourne with engineer Dave Manton

license

all rights reserved

tags

about

John Flanagan Thornbury, Australia

From the Cygnet Folk Festival in Tasmania to the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia John Flanagan has won over fans far and wide. Audiences are drawn to the original but timeless melodies and deeply honest lyricism of the song-writing. Combining traditional old-time instrumentation with contemporary sensibilities John creates an alt-folk sound that is old and new at the same time. ... more

contact / help

Contact John Flanagan

Streaming and
Download help

Redeem code

Report this track or account

John Flanagan recommends:

If you like John Flanagan, you may also like: