It may be some time until Christmas, but when you release a single you need to plan ahead, and that’s exactly what local song writing duo, Clarry Bean and Andy Merryweather have been doing.
Both from Swindon, Clarry and Andy have been busy writing and recording a song close to their hearts. ‘Christmas (The Way It’s Meant To Be)’ is a moving musical tribute to Clarry’s late wife Christine.
Christine loved this magical time of year, but sadly passed away just twelve days before Christmas 2017 after receiving treatment for several years for both a rare autoimmune disease (GPA) and bowel cancer.
The song writing duo hope to raise a significant sum of money for charity by donating a percentage of proceeds from sales of the single to Prospect Hospice, who cared for Christine at the end of her life, and to Vasculitis UK, who supported her and her family throughout her illness.
The recording features Clarry on lead vocals, with additional vocals from his son Danny and daughter Abby, as well as a backing chorus featuring many of Christine’s relatives and friends. Backed by talented local musicians including co-writer Andy Merryweather on piano and Wurlitzer, the song also features a string quartet.
Clarry says: “It’s a song that on first listen will resonate and connect with anyone who has lost a loved one. A song about love and bravery, a song of inspiration. Through her incredible attitude my beautiful wife influenced so many people: family, friends and medical professionals alike. It is our hope that this song will also have a positive impact on the lives of people who hear it and engage with the words, and that Christine’s spirit will be carried far and wide by its message.”
As a song, ‘Christmas (The way It’s Meant To Be)’ comes from quite a different angle and offers a unique perspective on Christmas. With all the uncertainty and negativity in the world, people need a positive and consoling message, especially at Christmas time, and this song achieves that.
The song was launched before the press and an invited audience in November. This event will included the premiere screening of the official video for the song, a live acoustic performance and an opportunity for those in attendance to purchase the CD ahead of the official release date.
The CD release of the single will feature an exclusive second track, which will be a remixed version of Christine’s 2007 recording of Sting’s “Fields of Gold”, featuring Clarry and Danny on vocal harmonies and with newly recorded piano accompaniment by Sheila Harrod. This song will not be available as a download.
‘Christmas (The Way it’s Meant To Be)’ will be officially released on Friday 7th December and will be available to download and stream from major digital platforms, as well as on CD from Sound Knowledge, Marlborough SN8 1LT, Holmes Music, Swindon SN1 5AR and Swindon Museum and Art Gallery SN1 4A (cash purchases only).
For more information including how to purchase a CD by mail order or to pre-order your digital copy please visit www.illuminatemylife.co.uk
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