Play (Zia’s Song)

In the winter of 2008, we went to see our friend Zia as she was very busy getting ready for Christmas. Following our visit, we talked about the many huge projects she creates—to the point of being overworked and worn out with deadlines.

Our conversation turned to that inner child that seems to always be there just under the surface in all of us. We noticed that, in spite of all the hard work, Zia was always thrilled with quirky new ideas. The creative part of a project was what she loved the most. She became very childlike, taking on a different voice and posture. There was a discernible gleam in her eye when she talked about her creations.

Music

Lyrics

Beneath the skin there lives a girl
Always present, rarely seen by the world
So wildly innocent with eyes of wonder
Everything she touches comes alive, filled with magic

Glittered hair
Twirling with excitement
Floating on air
Head thrown back
In fits of laughter

Secrets barely whispered
Begging to be shared
Dancing with her sister
Just like when they were kids

Hand in hand
Keeping time to a tune
Only heard by the young
Only for the young

Inside the heart, there lives a girl
Always present, often missed by the world
Just beyond each knowing smile, there lives a small child
Naïve and running free, ageless, timeless

Silver hair
Glitter on her fingers
Style and flair
Head thrown back
With tears of laughter

Visions all around her
Waiting to be shared
Creative dreams have found her
Just like she was a kid at play
Keeping time to a tune
Only heard by the young

Hidden, quietly just beneath the skin
Is a child, waiting, longing just to be
Invited to come out and play

Video

Credits

From After All, track released September 1, 2008
Cheryl Martlage – Lyrics, vocals and production
Emerson Martlage – Music, guitar, vocals and production
Mr Toad’s San Francisco – Mastering
Patricia Barry Ryley (Zia) – Inspiration