A Q&A With Make Some WAVs Lyric Contest Promotion Winner, Karl Westman

“Lonely Man”

Interview by American Songwriter

Karl Westman is an American Songwriter Make Some WAVs Lyric Contest Promotion winner for his song “Lonely Man.” American Songwriter caught up with Karl to get the story behind his lyrics.

How long have you been songwriting?

I’ve writing songs now and again since I was a teenager. I dedicated myself to it 5 years ago, at 65.

Why did you enter American Songwriter’s Make Some WAVsPromotion?

I felt “Lonely Man” was a strong but simple story and I’d throw my hat in the ring.

What was the inspiration behind your song, “Lonely Man”?

It’s somewhat autobiographical. While I’ve never been unhoused, or a street musician, music has lifted me out of some challenging times.

Who are your all-time favorite songwriters and why?

Brian Wilson – Always breaking the rules.

Joni Mitchell – Storyteller that painted a picture.

Lennon McCartney – They changed my life.

David Bowie – Ever changing.

Too many to recall – Melody and meaning will get me every time.

Are you planning to release any new music this year?

I just released an EP, “Lonely Man” is included. Available to stream 10/4!

What would you tell other artists who are considering entering the contest?

I would encourage other artists to submit work. The judging has a high bar and to get recognized is like having your work “workshopped”.

Read the winning lyrics below:

I’m a lonely man living life on the street

Got no place to go another man’s shoes on my feet

I played in a band, had a wife and two kids

I made some mistakes

Too many to admit

I’m a lonely man praying for amazing grace

God’s light shining somewhere but not on my face

Can’t live on your pity

Just wanna survive

A song gives me comfort

That keeps me alive

Sing High, Sing Low

Gotta dollar in my pocket

Putting on a one man show

Sing High, Sing Low

Gonna play this old guitar

Cause that’s all I know

I’m a lonely man with nothing much left to lose

A prophet in tatters with no savior to choose

I made my own bed and that’s where I lie

The moon is my lover

My bedroom sky

Sing High, Sing Low

Gotta dollar in my pocket

Putting on a one man show

Sing High, Sing Low

Gonna play this old guitar

Cause that’s all I know

I’m a lonely man working hard playing for keeps

The sidewalks my stage, my guitar gently weeps

I play to remember, I’ll play til I die

I play for salvation

For the ghosts walking by

Sing High, Sing Low

Gotta dollar in my pocket

Putting on a one man show

Sing High, Sing Low

Gonna play this old guitar

Cause that’s all I know