Canen - So Damn Alone (Official Lyric Video) @meirameira

meira hi!! here's a little lyric video i made for my second song, "so damn alone". this song is a raw confession about being the person who is leading someone else on, and the guilt that comes along with it. i wrote this song at a time that i was not mentally in a good spot and took advantage of the fact that someone had feelings for me, even though i knew that it wasn't fair to them. this song became a way for me to organize my thoughts and everything i wished i could tell them upfront.
xx canen

www.canensings.com

Written by: Canen
Produced by: Will Russell
Vocals by: Canen
Guitar by: Chris Frank / Canen
Piano by: Emmett Scott
Bass by: Brian Dozoretz
Drums by: Dana Billings
Mixing by: Will Russell
Mastering by: Dana Billings
Recorded at: Electric Wilburland

Video clip via Pexels
Video edit: Canen

updated 3 years ago

Canen - So Damn Alone (Official Lyric Video)

meira 2020-10-28 | hi!! here's a little lyric video i made for my second song, "so damn alone". this song is a raw confession about being the person who is leading someone else on, and the guilt that comes along with it. i wrote this song at a time that i was not mentally in a good spot and took advantage of the fact that someone had feelings for me, even though i knew that it wasn't fair to them. this song became a way for me to organize my thoughts and everything i wished i could tell them upfront.
xx canen

www.canensings.com

Written by: Canen
Produced by: Will Russell
Vocals by: Canen
Guitar by: Chris Frank / Canen
Piano by: Emmett Scott
Bass by: Brian Dozoretz
Drums by: Dana Billings
Mixing by: Will Russell
Mastering by: Dana Billings
Recorded at: Electric Wilburland

Video clip via Pexels
Video edit: Canen

meira - Missing in Your Heart (Official Music Video)

meira 2023-03-29 | i'm so excited to finally share with you all the music video for my song, "missing in your heart"! i made this super 8 film in october with two of my friends, charlie neuhaus (acting) and ethan walsey (filming), and we had such a fun time just running around boston in the most beautiful time of year. my goal was to make a video with a nostalgic feel that really tells the story of the song and i think we did just that :) hope you enjoy !!
xx meira

stream my new EP, "Manic Pixie Therapist", here: levelmusic.lnk.to/a2pomj

Evergreen - Yebba (Cover)

meira 2023-01-10 | yebba yebba yebba. i love yebba. "evergreen" was the first song that i ever heard by her, and i remember just being fully entranced by her vocal control and melodies. hope i did her beautiful song some justice!
xx meira

lyrics:

I kissed my penny and I threw it in
I prayed I'd keep my soul
Went down to the river where the water bends
The only place I know

Oh I can't see
The forest, for the trees

So, will you wait for me?
Will you wait for me?
Will you wait for me?
My evergreen

Standin' at the water's edge
The Mississippi's overflowin'
Hold your current in my hands
You bring the meanin' to my moments

Oh I can't see
The forest for the trees

So, will you wait for me?
Will you wait for me?
Will you wait for me?
My evergreen

Oh, I can't see
The forest, for the trees
Oh, I feel so
Hopeless against the stream

So, will you wait for me? My evergreen
I know it's just as hard in Heaven
So, will you wait for me? My evergreen
I know it's just as hard
My evergreen
Evergreen
My evergreen

Iris - Goo Goo Dolls (Cover)

meira 2022-09-20 | i think over the past ten years, i've covered this song dozens and dozens of times on piano and guitar, but now.... behold.... my cheap new baby mandolin!! i'm not great at playing her yet but she's so much fun to mess around with and i've found myself singing "iris" with it a lot recently, so thought i'd do a cover. had a lot of fun making this one :)
okeeee bye! xx meira

meira – Something Higher (behind the scenes)

meira 2022-08-01 | hope you’ve been enjoying both versions of “something higher” so far!! (if you haven’t gotten a chance to listen to the live version yet, go do that right now on any streaming platform. i promise u. it’s just so good) anyway, here’s a lil vid i made of the recording process back in march. it makes me smile to watch and hope it does for you too :))
xx meira

meira – Something Higher (Visualizer)

meira 2022-07-03 | introducing….. my third single under a new name! i wrote “something higher” last summer at a time when i was feeling especially anxious about climate change. it’s part of growing up nowadays, i guess, just watching things get worse and feeling like there’s nothing you can do. writing “something higher” was maybe the first time i was truly honest with myself about how i was feeling. it’s given me comfort when i feel things getting turbulent, and i hope it does for you too.
much love, meira

stream it here!!! levelmusic.lnk.to/SomethingHigher

follow instagram for updates: @rearviewmeira

Shape of My Heart - Sting (Cover)

meira 2022-06-23 | hello hello hello!! this song has always been special to me, as it's my dad's favorite song, so i thought i would do a cover of it as a father's day gift to him. he's always been such a big supporter of whatever i do and he was the one that first made me love music. love u dad. thank you.
also shoutout to AcoustiClub for the amazing guitar track as always :) youtube.com/watch?v=V9Hp2izqkAc
xx meira

lyrics:

He deals the cards as a meditation
And those he plays never suspect
He doesn't play for the money he wins
He don't play for respect

He deals the cards to find the answer
The sacred geometry of chance
The hidden law of a probable outcome
The numbers lead a dance

I know that the spades are the swords of a soldier
I know that the clubs are weapons of war
I know that diamonds mean money for this art
But that's not the shape of my heart

He may play the jack of diamonds
He may lay the queen of spades
He may conceal a king in his hand
While the memory of it fades

I know that the spades are the swords of a soldier
I know that the clubs are weapons of war
I know that diamonds mean money for this art
But that's not the shape of my heart
That's not the shape
The shape of my heart

If I told you that I loved you
You'd maybe think there's something wrong
I'm not a man of too many faces
The mask I wear is one

But those who speak know nothing
And find out to their cost
Like those who curse their luck in too many places
And those who fear are lost

I know that the spades are the swords of a soldier
I know that the clubs are weapons of war
I know that diamonds mean money for this art
But that's not the shape of my heart
That's not the shape of my heart
That's not the shape
The shape of my heart

Wicked Game - Chris Isaak (midnight cover)

meira 2022-06-16 | hello, and goodnight :) i had the apartment to myself and thought it would be fun to spontaneously record a cover at midnight. (and i was right. this was fun.) "wicked game" has been one of my favorite songs for years now, and it's about time i posted a cover of it. hope you like it!
xx meira

follow instagram for updates! @rearviewmeira

guitar track: youtube.com/watch?v=qLqs_a2mE5M

Bubbly - Colbie Caillat (Cover)

meira 2022-06-09 | wanted to cover this throwback!! such a cute song. forever and ever. literally never gets old. hope u likeee :)
xx meira

guitar track!! youtube.com/watch?v=5lF4JiSIkYQ

lyrics:

I've been awake for a while now
You've got me feeling like a child now
'Cause every time I see your bubbly face
I get the tingles in a silly place

It starts in my toes and I crinkle my nose
Wherever it goes, I always know
That you make me smile, please stay for a while now
Just take your time, wherever you go

The rain is falling on my window pane
But we are hiding in a safer place
Under covers, staying dry and warm
You give me feelings that I adore

They start in my toes, make me crinkle my nose
Wherever it goes, I always know
That you make me smile, please stay for a while now
Just take your time, wherever you go

But what am I gonna say
When you make me feel this way?
I just... Mmm

And it starts in my toes, makes me crinkle my nose
Wherever it goes, I always know
That you make me smile, please stay for a while now
Just take your time, wherever you go

I've been asleep for a while now
You tuck me in, just like a child now
'Cause every time you hold me in your arms
I'm comfortable enough to feel your warmth

It starts in my soul and I lose all control
When you kiss my nose, the feeling shows
'Cause you make me smile, baby, just take your time now
Holding me tight

Wherever, wherever, wherever you go
Wherever, wherever, wherever you go
Wherever you go, I always know
'Cause you make me smile, even just for a while

Creep - Radiohead (Cover)

meira 2022-06-02 | hope you enjoy my rendition of this radiohead classic :)
xx meira

guitar track!!! youtube.com/watch?v=-PnwATAyJJU

Lyrics:

When you were here before
Couldn't look you in the eye
You're just like an angel
Your skin makes me cry

You float like a feather
In a beautiful world
I wish I was special
You're so fuckin' special

But I'm a creep
I'm a weirdo
What the hell am I doin' here?
I don't belong here

I don't care if it hurts
I wanna have control
I want a perfect body
I want a perfect soul

I want you to notice
When I'm not around
So fuckin' special
I wish I was special

But I'm a creep
I'm a weirdo
What the hell am I doin' here?
I don't belong here

She's running out the door (run)
She's running out
She run, run, run, run,
Run...

Whatever makes you happy
Whatever you want
You're so fuckin' special
I wish I was special

But I'm a creep
I'm a weirdo
What the hell am I doin' here?
I don't belong here
I don't belong here

i changed my artist name again... oops

meira 2022-05-31 | rip canen rip jo next door, hello meira! sorry for any confusion hahah, i'm figuring things out!!
xx jo meira

meira - Paper Cranes (Official Audio)

meira 2022-05-08 | paper. cranes. YES. original music!! it feels crazy to finally have this one out, as i wrote it last winter and recorded it last april, but i'm just so excited to share it with you today. it perfectly captures the way i was feeling at the time, and i'm so grateful to all the people that helped me create the atmosphere i was looking for (thank yous below!!). this one is special to my heart. i hope you like it too :)
xx meira

written and performed by: jo meira strogatz
produced, recorded, and engineered by: colin lester fleming
bass and keys by: jonathan elyashiv
guitar by: johnny cattini
strings by: philip etherington
mastered by: dereck blackburn

cover art by: jeff sambuco

ill follow you (demo)

meira 2022-04-18 | (use headphones!) wellll hi :) sometimes when i'm feeling off or anxious, i do this thing i like to call "vocal meditation", where i start with some vocal loop and write a song on top of it. last night i wrote and recorded this one i'm calling "i'll follow you", and it gave me some needed peace of mind. hope it calms you too
xx jo meira

lyrics:

i’ll follow you
take me where your heart is
the morning dew
shows the storm has started

and when you cry
i’ll be the one to dry your cheek
i’ll follow you
if you’ll let me

you’re like the water
you slip right through my fingers
you’re never there
but the sound of you still lingers

and when i cry
i’ll be the one to dry my eyes
i followed you
i don’t know why

meira - New Friends (Live at Earfull)

meira 2022-04-09 | hi! recently i had the absolute pleasure of playing a set at an event called "earfull", which is where two authors read, and two music acts perform. the audience was so kind and welcoming and i just had the absolute best time :) i was lucky to have my friend, justin nash-fisher, accompany me on guitar, doing much cooler stuff than i could ever do. hope you enjoy this live version of "new friends"!
xx jo meira

filmed by: michael healey
recorded by: matt tahaney
mixed by: jon lupfer
check out earfull here! earfull.org/home
listen to justin nash fisher's music here!! justinnashfisher.com

...what happened to Canen?

meira 2022-03-16 | *UPDATE*: I AM NOW USING THE NAME 'meira'! I'M INDECISIVE, SORRY FOR CONFUSION LOL
i get this question quite a bit in the comments and thought i'd just give you a lil video explanation / life update. much love!!
xx jo meira

Polka Dots & Moonbeams (Cover)

meira 2022-02-11 | happy early valentine's day!!! thought i'd do a cover of one of my favorite lovey-dovey jazz standards: polka dots & moonbeams. hope this lulls you to sleep, but like, in a good way lol
xx jo meira

Lyrics:

A country dance was being held in a garden
I felt a bump and heard an "Oh, beg your pardon"
Suddenly I saw polka dots and moonbeams
All around a pug-nosed dream

The music started and was I the perplexed one
I held my breath and said "May I have the next one?"
In my frightened arms, polka dots and moonbeams
Sparkled on a pug-nosed dream

There were questions in the eyes of other dancers
As we floated over the floor
There were questions but my heart knew all the answers
And perhaps a few things more

Now in a cottage built of lilacs and laughter
I know the meaning of the words "Ever after"
And I'll always see polka dots and moonbeams
When I kiss the pug-nosed dream

listening to the first song i wrote ?!

meira 2022-02-02 | literally can't believe i found this. the first full song that i ever wrote and recorded (skip to 0:57 for song). it's called "not so broken" and well, just watch the video and you'll hear what it's about :) hope this makes u smile or something idk happy wednesday everyone
xx jo meira

be cool - LOONY (Cover)

meira 2022-01-23 | hiiiiiii! i just heard this song by LOONY literally two days ago and fell IN LOVE ok. had to cover it. and i had so much fun making this one tooooo :) on a different note, i hope you had a nice holiday/winter break time!! enjoy this vid i made for u
xx jo meira

Lyrics:
Feel like I gotta do it today
Crossing the street, don't look no both ways
I'm duckin' 'em all
Like a week day, yeah, I tried to work around it
But it's not like I...

Think about that you like always
You just fill up some space in an empty brain
I'm going over what it is I might say, I
Don't wanna complicate, its not like I...

Feel deeply about it, or
Seriously about it

It's not like I...
Love you
It's not like I...
Love you
Oh no, so be cool
Just be cool

Gonna tell you in the hopes that it'll go away
I been workin' on my ego, this should set it straight
I'm gonna rush through it quick like a bad date
Probably a big mistake but it's not like I...

Obsess about it in the way it might seem
Or talk reckless 'bout you after few drinks
Just real excited to get it off of my plate
It's your problem now but it's not like I...

Feel deeply about it, or
Seriously about it

It's not like I...
Love you
It's not like I...
Love you
Oh no, so be cool
Just be cool

It's not like I...
Love you
It's not like I...
Love you
So be cool
Just be cool

new years (original song)

meira 2021-12-29 | hiiiiii i hope you've had a nice holidays so far! here's an original for you (yeah, i know. gasping.) !! this one is unreleased but i hope maybe at some point to record a nice simple acoustic version with just singing, guitar, and piano. we'll see :) for now here's this version from my college dorm lol. and HAPPY NEW YEARS !!!
xx jo meira

lyrics!!!!

it isn’t new years
without the sound of tv fuzz
twilight zones
and champagne buzz
we watch the same episode bout fourty thousand times
then we check our phones to see if time has gone by

it’s these kinda nights that i wish you were here
twenty miles away doesn’t feel so near
i guess the midnight phone will have to make do
but it just isn’t new years
without you

(bridge)

there’s some things that make me think of you, my love
like tea stains and morning dew
midnight air and snowy shoes
i’d like to be there to do it all with you
it just isn’t new years without you

I Kissed Someone (It Wasnt You) - dodie (Cover)

meira 2021-12-10 | hi :) it's finals week for me so i've got a lot to study for, BUT i thought i'd share a mini cover i made a while back of dodie's song "i kissed someone (it wasn't you)". dodie has been such an inspiration to me for yearsss and i had a lot of fun arranging some harmonies to this song (listen to headphones for full effect, trust me). hope you're all having a good week!
xx jo meira

Lyrics:

I kissed someone, it wasn't you
Leaning in like I'm supposed to do
I pulled away and I gasped for him
I didn't feel a single thing

I kissed someone, it wasn't me
Locked inside a slut this eve
All worked up for something dead
I think it's time to go to bed

Put me in a car, I just want to go home
Put me in a bath, I'll forget you are gone
How could it be anyone but you?

Smile - Nat King Cole (Cover)

meira 2021-12-06 | hi hi, i heard this song the other day for the first time in a while and was reminded of how beautiful it is :') thought i'd do a lil cover for ya and hopefully it lightens your day!
xx jo meira

also thanks to PH Karaoke Piano for the piano track! i changed a few things about it to fit my voice better but appreciate the beautiful playing :)

lyrics:

Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though it's breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by

If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You'll see the sun come shining through for you

Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near

That's the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what's the use of crying?
You'll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile

meira - New Friends (Official Audio)

meira 2021-11-24 | Hi everyone!!! I know, I know, it's been a while since I've posted. I've been taking a break from YouTube to work on my songwriting skills and soooo.... drumroll..... here is a song of mine called "New Friends" which was released this past Friday!!

I've been having such a great time growing as a musical artist, but of course, wanted to make sure I keep you up to date on my musical journey. I've renamed myself "meira" (RIP Canen) and I'm recording a lot of new music :)

I wrote “New Friends” last year when I went to college and many of my friends stayed home. I felt so lucky but also guilty that I was somewhere new, experiencing new things, and decided to put myself in their shoes and write this song. It was cathartic to write and record, and I think is something we can all connect with after a period of such isolation.

Hope you all are safe and well! More to come..... :)

xx jo meira

Anyway - Noah Kahan (A Capella Cover)

meira 2021-02-15 | hi!! i've been obsessed with noah kahan's music for some time now, and thought i'd cover one of my favorite songs of his: "anyway". a few weeks ago i made this mini a capella arrangement of the song, and i'm pretty happy with how it turned out :) hope this brings a little bit of peace to your day!
xx jo meira

Lyrics:
Dirt on your heels, you've made a mess
Down by the carpark, high off your head
Honey, don't worry, nobody's angry at any of this
Darling be patient, stare into the vacancy, take a deep breath

And I'll say
Always, I'll wait
For sharp glass when you break
I'll be the light that you can't make
I'll be your eyes, you be my face
'Cause darling, I get scared for you
And I'm not busy anyway

Canen - He Sleeps Lightly (Official Music Video)

meira 2021-01-28 | I wrote "He Sleeps Lightly" last March, after I had been sexually assaulted. I was in shock, confused, and weary. Writing and singing this song provided healing for me. But I know that this is not just my story. Too many people have had similar experiences, yet we never hear them. Telling our stories is cathartic, hearing others' helps us see that we are not alone, and documenting our stories ensures that the world will know them and they will not be forgotten.
So, in January, 2021, I posted a call on Instagram and TikTok encouraging survivors to anonymously share their own stories, and just hours later, dozens of stories and video clips from all over the world began to roll in. It was incredible. I sat at my computer reading every single entry and just tearing up because it takes so much strength to even write what you've been through. Every survivor is somewhere else in the healing process, but through this, I have never felt more unified and comforted by a group of strangers across the world. I have so much love for every person who participated in this project, or helped it come to life. And thank you to you, for watching, and listening. Share this project. Let our voices be heard.
xx canen

www.canensings.com/hesleepslightly

Video by: Canen

Produced by: Will Russell w/ Canen
Written by: Canen
Vocals by: Canen
Cello by: Hank Roberts
Piano by: Emmett Scott
Guitar by: Canen
Bass by: Brian Dozoretz
Drums by: Dana Billings
Mixing by: Will Russell
Mastering by: Dana Billings
Recorded at: Electric Wilburland

Canen - Caffeine Rush (Official Audio)

meira 2021-01-07 | hey!! i released my third single, "caffeine rush" back in november on all streaming platforms (spotify, apple music, amazon music, etc.), but some people have told me that it's a bit difficult to find the track on youtube, so i thought i'd upload it directly here. i hope it makes you smile :)
xx canen

www.canensings.com
follow me on instagram for updates!!
www.instagram.com/canen.mp3

Recorded at Electric Wilburland
Produced by Will Russell
Written by Canen
Vocals by Canen
Guitar by Canen
Bass by Brian Dozoretz
Keys by Emmett Scott
Drums by Dana Billings
Mixing by Will Russell/Dana Billings
Mastering by Dana Billings

lyrics:

[Verse 1]
When I wake up in the morning
I don't like my coffee in bed (oh, no)
I start feeling kinda funny
And I'd like some water instead
I don't need a caffeine rush
To get the mush out of my head
I just need the sunshine and the good times
And the rays to get me outta my bed

[Verse 2]
I'll have you know
That my lips are dry
But my eyes don't cry
Yeah, I've been doing just fine (just fine, just fine)
See you got a new girl now
Well it's very much like you to be
Cooped up so quick
Pull out the old time tricks

[Chorus]
I don't need no caffeine rush, no
I don't need no
I don't need no caffeine rush, no
I don't need no

[Scat solo]
Bop-bi-dop-boo-bop
Ba-dood-ly-a-bop-m-ba-m-deh-deh-n-deh-l
Ba-doo-bi-da-beh-dah-ba-dum
Beh-dah-ba-dum-bah-dah-ba-dum
Deh-boo-bi-deh-dih-dih-dih
Ba-ba-dop-pm-doo-ly-dah-dah-m-beh-m
Doo-by-doo-bah-doo-bah-m-dah
Ba-doo-bi-da-da-ba-da-ba-da-di-li-dm
Bi-da-da-di-ly-m-ba-ba-di-ly-m-ba
Ba-di-ly-m-ba-ba-di-ly-m-ba
Ba-da-ba-da-bop-ba-ba
Ba-ba-ba
Ba-ba-ba-ba-beh-da-bm-da
Ba-beh-ba-ba-ba

[Chorus]
I don't need no caffeine rush, no
I don't need no
I don't need no caffeine rush, no
I don't need no
(I don't need no)
I don't need no caffeine rush, no
I don't need no
I don't need no caffeine rush, no
I don't need no
No, no

Id Like You For Christmas (Cover)

meira 2020-12-16 | hi hi!! i know it's been a while. i just finished my first semester of college and meanwhile i have released three original songs in the past month (which i hope you've taken a listen to?? i'll put links below). it's been an exciting couple of months, but also pretttyyy stressful... so it was nice to sit down today and just learn a little christmas song :) i hope that you are all doing well and staying healthy this holiday season !
xx canen

instagram.com/canensings
canensings.com

"Drowning": youtube.com/watch?v=ASLd2ngNNNc
"So Damn Alone": youtube.com/watch?v=LUYhKD1MNBs
you can also find any of these on whatever streaming platform you use :)

Lyrics:
I'd like you for Christmas
Please make my wish come true
'Cause I'd dream trees and deck the hallways
If I knew you'd be mine for always

I won't be blue on Christmas
If old Saint Nick comes through
And he remembers that I'd like you for Christmas, New Year's, Easter too

(In the style of Julie London, written by Bobby Troup)

Canen - Drowning (Official Music Video)

meira 2020-09-30 | hey!!! its here!! song number one! "drowning" is a song that i wrote last year in september, and it was the first song i wrote that made me seriously consider putting more time into songwriting. it's pretty wild to think about how this song all started with some tracks i made on garageband, and now it's fully orchestrated and out on all streaming platforms (yeah!!). i still get chills when i listen to this... it's just surreal. i hope that you feel the song not just through my voice, but through the music. i wrote the arpeggiating piano part to sound like waves, and the repetition to reflect the reality of an exhausted relationship. i really hope you hear this and feel something. and to everyone who has helped me out or supported me in this process, i give u a huge hug :)
stay healthy, keep on wearin masks, and go vote !!
xx canen

www.canensings.com

Written by: Canen
Produced by: Will Russell
Vocals by: Canen
Cello by: Hank Roberts
Piano by: Emmett Scott
Bass by: Brian Dozoretz
Drums by: Dana Billings
Mixing by: Will Russell
Mastering by: Dana Billings
Recorded at: Electric Wilburland

Directed by: Spencer Strickland
Filmed by: Colin Rauch
Starring: Canen and Vincent Scott

Lyrics:

I've wasted so many hours trying to change myself to please you
No, I've wasted so many days trying to stretch myself to see you
I don't believe you

You've been holding me at your door
'cause you don't want me to leave
I've been doing everything I can
to get some relief

But oh, your love has worn me thin
and oh, I'm drowning in you and I can't swim
I'm drowning in you and I can't swim
I'm drowning in you and I can't swim

You've said so many times that you're the one who always takes the fall
but it's so clear to me in my mind but you're the one who's brought on at all

You've been holding me at your door
'cause you don't want me to leave
I've been doing everything I can
to get some relief

But oh, your love has worn me thin
and oh, I'm drowning in you and I can't swim
I'm drowning in you and I can't swim
I'm drowning in you and I can't swim

I Wish You Love (Cover)

meira 2020-05-02 | Can't even compare to Miu Miu but I sure do love this song!! I catch myself singing it all the time so I figured I'd finally learn the chords to it last night. I know things are especially tough right now, but I hope this makes you smile. Remember to keep taking things day by day :)
xx canen

instagram: www.instagram.com/canensings

Lyrics:

I wish you bluebirds in the spring
To give your heart a song to sing
And then a kiss, but more than this
I wish you love

And in July a lemonade
To cool you in some leafy glade
I wish you health, and more than wealth,
I wish you love

My breaking heart and I agree
That you and I could never be
So, with my best, my very best
I set you free

I wish you shelter from the storm
A cozy fire to keep you warm
But most of all, when snowflakes fall
I wish you love

Fool For You Snoh Aelegra (Cover)

meira 2020-04-22 | ahhhhh this video was so much fun to make!! this song has been stuck in my head for a while now, so i thought i'd make a old-timey film/cover. of course, i was interrupted by someone, but you'll have to watch til the end to see that haha ;) stay healthy!!!
xx canen

p.s. i've started using instagram much more! follow @canensings for more little videos and updates on music :)

lyrics:

It's somethin' 'bout you that's so familiar
Somethin' that's got me wantin' to know you
And I can't put my finger on it
But it feels, oh like I've been here before
It's somethin' about me that makes me wonder
I swear I met you, but you're a stranger
And I can't put my finger on quite what it is
Oh, but I've been here before

Maybe it was me who brought you here
I should run the other way, but I stay right here

And I'll be a fool for you
I know myself, but I pretend
I leave and I come back again
I'm a fool for you
I love you time and time again
I know just how the story ends, oh

Oh, you remind me of someone I once knew
Maybe I'm crazy, but it's hard to ignore you
And I can't wrap my head around it
But it feels, oh like I loved you before

Maybe it was me who brought you here
I should run the other way, but I stay right here

And I'll be a fool for you
I know myself, but I pretend
I leave and I come back again
I'm a fool for you
I love you time and time again
I know just how the story ends, oh

Lovely Day Bill Withers Tribute (Quarantine Jam)

meira 2020-04-13 | Bill Withers was such an inspiration to me, as both a humble person and creative musician. He was such a great soul, and I felt like singing "Lovely Day" would be the perfect tribute to celebrate his life and music. So, I asked some friends and fellow musicians to help me put the song to life in a quarantine jam! It was my first time doing this kind of thing so sorry if the video isn't perfect, but I had a lot of fun making it and playing with them virtually. Featuring Max Rubenstein-Miller on keys, Sam Smith on electric bass, and Ian Cummings on drums!! Hope you enjoy :)
canen

Lyrics:

When I wake up in the morning, love
And the sunlight hurts my eyes
And something without warning, love
Bears heavy on my mind

Then I look at you
And the world's alright with me
Just one look at you
And I know it's gonna be
A lovely day
A lovely day

When the day that lies ahead of me
Seems impossible to face
When someone else instead of me
Always seems to know the way

Then I look at you
And the world's alright with me
Just one look at you
And I know it's gonna be
A lovely day
A lovely day

When the day that lies ahead of me
Seems impossible to face
When someone else instead of me
Always seems to know the way

Then I look at you
And the world's alright with me
Just one look at you
And I know it's gonna be
A lovely day
A lovely day

Ive Got Rhythm (Cover; Arr. Dorothy Horn)

meira 2020-04-05 | Here's a Gershwin classic to hopefully lift your spirits during this crazy time!! I was looking for some good SSAA jazz standard arrangements and stumbled upon Dorothy Horn's music. She's a fantastic arranger and kind person, and I highly recommend checking out some of her other works as well! Stay healthy, everyone :)
xx canen

Dorothy Horn Music: youtube.com/channel/UCDPk0ihm3GUoVoWIqT-ULlw

Lyrics:

I got rhythm, I got music
I got my man
Who could ask for anything more?

I got daisies, in green pastures
I got my man
Who could ask for anything more?

Old man trouble
I don't mind him
You won't find him 'round my door

I got starlight
I got sweet dreams
I got my man
Who could ask for anything more ?
Who could ask for anything more?

Old man trouble
I don't mind him
You won't find him 'round my door

I got starlight
I got sweet dreams
I got my man
Who could ask for anything more ?
Who could ask for anything more?
I got rhythm, and it's got me
Rhythm

I Left My Heart in San Francisco (Cover)

meira 2020-03-12 | Had the best time rehearsing and performing this Tony Bennett classic (written by George Cory and Douglas Cross) at a school choir concert with my friend, Max. He's not only a fantastic pianist, but also an amazing singer, and can really do anything when it comes to music!! @ max I hope I know as much theory as you do someday lol :) Also shoutout to Ian Cummings on drums!
canen

Lyrics:

The loveliness of Paris seems somehow sadly gray
The glory that was Rome is of another day
I've been terribly alone and forgotten in Manhattan
I'm going home to my city by the Bay

I left my heart in San Francisco
High on a hill, it calls to me
To be where little cable cars climb halfway to the stars
The morning fog may chill the air, I don't care

My love waits there in San Francisco
Above the blue and windy sea
When I come home to you, San Francisco
Your golden sun will shine for me

Funeral Phoebe Bridgers (Cover)

meira 2020-02-25 | With much love to anyone grieving or going through a rough patch... music can help ease the pain.

xx canen

I'm singing at a funeral tomorrow
For a kid a year older than me
And I've been talking to his dad, it makes me so sad
When I think too much about it I can't breathe

And I have this dream where I'm screaming underwater
While my friends are all waving from the shore
And I don't need you to tell me what that means
I don't believe in that stuff anymore

Jesus Christ, I'm so blue all the time
And that's just how I feel
Always have and I always will

I have a friend I call
When I've bored myself to tears
And we talk until we think we might just kill ourselves
But then we laugh until it disappears

And last night I blacked out in my car
And I woke up in my childhood bed
Wishing I was someone else, feeling sorry for myself
When I remembered someone's kid is dead

Jesus Christ, I'm so blue all the time
And that's just how I feel
Always have and I always will

And it's 4 A.M., again
And I'm doing nothing
Again

Do I Ever Cross Your Mind — Dolly Parton (Cover)

meira 2020-01-30 | Wow. Literally just listening to Eli sing and play guitar gives me chills and I guarantee you’ll feel em too. He’s not only a fabulous musician, but such a humble and nice guy. Hope you enjoy our version of “Do I Ever Cross Your Mind?” by Dolly Parton!!

canen

Lyrics:

Oh, sometimes I go walking through fields where we walked
Long ago in the sweet used to be
And the flowers still grow, but they don't smell as sweet
As they did when you picked them for me

And when I think of you and the love we once knew
How I wish we could go back in time
Do you ever think back on old memories like that
Or do I ever cross your mind

Oh, how often I wish that again I could kiss
Your sweet lips like I did long ago
And how often I long for those two loving arms
That once held me so gentle and close

And when I think of you and the love we once knew
How I wish we could go back in time
Do you ever think back on old memories like that
Or do I ever cross your mind

When old memories appear
My eyes won’t stay clear
When I think of those happier times
Do you ever recall those old memories at all
Or do I ever cross your mind
Or do I ever cross your mind

Auld Lang Syne (Jazzy Cover)

meira 2019-12-10 | As the year is coming to a close, I thought I'd make my own version of "Auld Lang Syne" :) This song has always meant a lot to me; I used to sing it to my friends at summer camp and now that I'm a counselor, I sing it to my campers before bed. I usually sing the song with the traditional Scottish lyrics (Mairi Campbell's version is my favorite), but I felt like arranging my own version this time!
It's been a beautiful winter this year and big thanks to my friend, Eliza Connolly, for letting me use many of her stunning clips in my video!! Also, a link to the amazing jazz instrumental is below.
Have a wonderful holidays/new year!
xx canen

Instrumental:
youtube.com/watch?v=013AUwHzVak

Put Your Records On Corinne Bailey Rae (Cover)

meira 2019-11-18 | Thought I'd do a quick cover of one of my favorite songs and all was well until the spam call decided to chime in for the last chorus.... Hahaha oh well!! Here's a partial cover for you!
xx canen

Three little birds sat on my window
And they told me I don't need to worry
Summer came like cinnamon, so sweet
Little girls, double-dutch on the concrete

Maybe sometimes we got it wrong, but it's all right
The more things seems to change, the more they stay the same
Ooo, don't you hesitate

Girl, put your records on, tell me your favorite song
You go ahead, let your hair down
Sapphire and faded jeans
I hope you get your dreams
Just go ahead, let your hair down
You're gonna find yourself somewhere, somehow

Blue as the sky, sunburnt and lonely
Sipping tea in the bar by the road side
Don't you let those other boys fool you
Gotta love that Afro hairdo

Maybe sometimes we feel afraid, but it's all right
The more you stay the same, the more they seem to change
Don't you think it's strange?

Girl, put your records on, tell me your favorite song
You go ahead, let your hair down
Sapphire and faded jeans
I hope you get your dreams
Just go ahead, let your hair down
You're gonna find yourself somewhere, somehow

Was more than I could take
Pity for pity's sake
Some nights kept me awake
I thought that I was stronger
When you gonna realize that you don't even have to try any longer?
Do what you want to

*cue phone call ring*

canen Live Stream

meira 2019-10-19 | ...

Loves Me Like a Rock - Paul Simon/Arr. The Wailin Jennys (Cover)

meira 2019-10-19 | Here's another one with my two best friends!! Wynne and Riley are just fantastic and we have the best time singing together :) We'd all like to thank our friend Max for transcribing the song for us, and the women from Three Rivers Music for their generosity and help teaching us the piece!
xx canen

When I was a little girl
And the Devil would call my name
And I’d say, “Who do, who
Who do you think you’re fooling?”
I’m a consecrated girl
I'm a singer in a Sunday choir

Oh, my mama loves me, she loves me
She gets down on her knees and hugs me
Yeah, she loves me like a rock
She rocks me like the rock of ages
She loves me
She love me, love me, love me, love me

When I was grown to be a woman
And the Devil would call my name
And I’d say “Who do, who
Who do you think you’re fooling, fooling?”
I’m a consecrated woman
I can snatch a little purity

My mama loves me, she loves me
She gets down on her knees and hugs me
Yeah, she loves me like a rock
She rocks me like the rock of ages
She loves me
She love me, love me, love me, love me

If I was the President (was the President)
And the Congress called my name (was the President)
And I’d say “Who do, who
Who do you think you’re fooling?” (was the President)
I’ve got the presidential seal
I’m up on the presidential podium

My mama loves me, she loves me
She gets down on her knees and hugs me
Yeah, she loves me like a rock
She rocks me like the rock of ages
She loves me
She love me, love me, love me, love me
She love me, love me, love me, love me
She love me, love me, love me, love me

The Parting Glass (Arr. The Wailin Jennys)

meira 2019-09-01 | I have had so much fun singing this beautiful song, arranged by the Wailin’ Jennys, in Sage Chapel with two of my absolute best friends. Wynne Williams-Ceci is on the right, singing the angelic soprano 1 part, and Riley Kwortnik is in the center, singing the rich soprano 2 part. I love them both so much, and we hope you like our cover :)
xx canen

Also, here is a link to Wynne’s youtube channel!!!
youtube.com/channel/UCaNKtMk5EjQsONqNQp3_iHw

A Song for You — Donny Hathaway (Live cover)

meira 2019-07-08 | Two weeks ago a subscriber suggested this song to me in a comment and I fell in love with it!!! Please keep the song suggestions coming! I performed this last night at the staff talent show at the summer camp I go to in Maine, with Brad Siebeking playing piano. Hope you enjoy :)
xx canen

lyrics:

I've been so many places in my life and time
I've sung a lot of songs
I've made some bad rhymes
I've acted out my life in stages
With ten thousand people watching
But we're alone now
And I'm singing this song to you

I know your image of me is what I hoped to be
I treated you unkindly
But darling can't you see
There's no one more important to me
Baby can't you see through me?
'Cause we're alone now and I'm singing this song to you

You taught me precious secrets
Of a true love
You wanted nothing
You came out in front
When I was hiding
But now I'm so much better
And if my words don't come together
Listen to the melody
'Cause my love is in there hiding

I love you in a place
Where there's no space or time
I love you for my life
You're a friend of mine
And when my life is over
Remember when we were together
We were alone
And I was singing this song to you

You taught me precious secrets
Of a true love
You wanted nothing
You came out in front
When I was hiding
But now I'm so much better
And if my words don't come together
Listen to the melody
'Cause my love is in there hiding

I love you in a place
Where there's no space or time
I love you for my life
You're a friend of mine
And when my life is over
Remember when we were together
We were alone and I was singing this song to you
We were alone
And I was singing this song to you

True Colors Cyndi Lauper/John Legend (Live cover)

meira 2019-06-24 | Here's a throwback to 2016 for ya!! I performed this song with my choir teacher, Ms. Zaryski (playing piano beautifully in this), at a District Convocation in the beginning of my freshman year, and I still have not forgotten how meaningful this performance was. The song can apply to anyone, but for this particular event, I was singing to teachers and faculty in my school district, and I am so grateful for all of my teachers who have ever believed in me or seen "my true colors". Teachers are so important. Don't forget to appreciate the ones who have made a difference in your life :)
xx canen
Oh and happy summer!!!

Lyrics:

You with the sad eyes
Don't be discouraged
Oh I realize
Its hard to take courage
In a world full of people
You can lose sight of it all
And the darkness inside you
Can make you feel so small

But I see your true colors
Shining through
I see your true colors
And that's why I love you
So don't be afraid to let them show
Your true colors
True colors are beautiful
Like a rainbow

Show me a smile then
Don't be unhappy, can't remember
When I last saw you laughing
If this world makes you crazy
And you've taken all you can bear
You call me up
Because you know I'll be there

And I'll see your true colors
Shining through
I see your true colors
And that's why I love you
So don't be afraid to let them show
Your true colors
True colors are beautiful
Like a rainbow

If this world makes you crazy
And you've taken all you can bear
You call me up
Because you know I'll be there

And I'll see your true colors
Shining through
I see your true colors
And that's why I love you
So don't be afraid to let them show
Your true colors
True colors
True colors are beautiful
Like a rainbow

q&a with canen (meira)

meira 2019-04-07 | Thank you so much for all of your great questions!! Sorry I couldn't get to all of them in the video (I didn't want to make it too long), but I will still reply to the unanswered comments on Youtube. Also, I keep forgetting to say I have an instagram for the channel @canensings !
And in case you've ever wondered, another thing to know about me is that Canen is a stage name, not my real name :)
xx canen

Fever Peggy Lee (Cover)

meira 2019-03-31 | follow instagram for updates: instagram.com/rearviewmeira :)
stream my new song, "new friends"!!! levelmusic.lnk.to/Lq9nsk
Here's another Peggy Lee song for ya! This one was recommended in a comment on another video, so thank you to Stan Gabruk :) Just a little side note: I don't approve of the line "chicks were made to give you fever", but I understand that the song is from a different era and I'd rather not change it. Also, please leave questions below for me to answer next week in the Q&A!
xx canen

lyrics:

Never know how much I love you
Never know how much I care
When you put your arms around me
I get a fever that's so hard to bear

You give me fever
When you kiss me
Fever when you hold me tight
Fever! in the morning
Fever all through the night

Sun lights up the daytime
Moon lights up the night
I light up when you call my name
And you know I'm gonna treat you right

You give me fever
When you kiss me
Fever when you hold me tight
Fever! in the morning
Fever all through the night

Everybody's got the fever
That is something you all know
Fever isn't such a new thing
Fever started long ago

Romeo loved Juliet
Juliet, she felt the same
When he put his arms around her
He said, "Julie, baby, you're my flame

"Thou giveth fever
"When we kisseth
"Fever with thy flaming youth
"Fever! I'm afire
"Fever, yea, I burn, forsooth."

Cap'n Smith and Pocahontas
Had a very mad affair
When her daddy tried to kill him
She said, "Daddy, oh, don't you dare!

"He gives me fever
"With his kisses
"Fever when he holds me tight
"Fever! I'm his missus
"Daddy, won't you treat him right?"

Now you've listened to my story
Here's the point that I have made
Chicks were born to give you fever
Be it Fahrenheit or Centigrade

They give you fever
When you kiss them
Fever if you live and learn
Fever! till you sizzle
What a lovely way to burn
What a lovely way to burn
What a lovely way to burn
What a lovely way to burn

Trying to Figure It Out Grace Kelly (Cover)

meira 2019-03-10 | My choir teacher told me about this song a few months ago and ever since, I have been OBSESSED. Grace Kelly is one of the most talented people I've ever listened to in my entire life. She has an incredible range, voice, AND plays the saxophone beautifully!! And this song is also just so relatable haha I just took the SAT yesterday and this is the beginning of trying to figure it all out :/
Hope you like it!
xx canen

Lyrics:

I've met my heartache
Drank the bottle dry
My tears of sadness sewn has stained my eyes
I've been let down, some days didn't wanna try
But I stuck around

Lost to the dreamers
Is all I've know
The ups and downs
On this bumpy road
Trying for something that will bring me home
We're all trying to figure it out

I will not let the blues take me
I will not let the blues break me
I've done my time, cried my woes,
No sadness for the taking
One step and then another,
And slowly we discover

It may not be perfect
Or the way we planned
But we're only here for the time at hand
So keep your head high and do the best you can
We're all trying to figure it out

I will not let the blues take me
I will not let the blues break me
I've done my time, cried my woes,
No sadness for the taking
One step and then another,
And slowly we discover

It may not be perfect
Or the way we planned
We're only here for the time at hand
So keep your head high and do the best you can
We're all trying to figure it out
We're all trying to figure it out
We're all trying to figure it out

I Dont Know Enough About You Peggy Lee (Cover)

meira 2019-01-26 | This cute little song has been stuck in my head for weeks now and as soon as I decided to make a cover, my favorite furry (and very sleepy!) friend came to join me :) hope you all enjoy!!
xx canen

P.S. Does the end verse remind anyone else of "What a Wonderful World" by Sam Cooke?!

lyrics:
I know a little bit about a lot of things
But I don't know enough about you
Just when I think you're mine
You try a different line
And baby what can I do?
I read the latest news
No buttons on my shoes
But baby I'm confused about you
You get me in a spin
Oh what a stew I'm in
'Cause I don't know enough about you
Jack of all trades master of none
And isn't it a shame
I'm so sure that you'd be good for me
If you'd only play my game
You know I went to school
And I'm nobody's fool
That is to say until I met you!
I know a little bit about a lot of things
But I don't know enough about you
You know I went to school
And I'm nobody's fool
That is to say until I met you!
I know a little bit about a lot o' things
But I don't know enough about you
I know a little bit about biology
And a little more about psychology
I'm a little gem in geology
But I don't know enough about you

Thrown Dart - DELILAH (Cover)

meira 2018-11-11 | This rendition of Thrown Dart by DELILAH is dedicated to someone very dear to me :) I also highly recommend checking out the original because DELILAH’s voice is so soothing and effortlessly beautiful!! Hope you enjoy,
xx canen

lyrics:
Do you ever wonder why a sun sets why you’re a mess?
Feeling so unimpressed
Do you see the mistakes you were granted? Lend me a hand and the garden starts to bloom
Again, again, again, again, again
Again, again, again, again, again

Broken windows and full hearts
Dodging a Thrown Dart
Help me please help me
Love me forever in this cold autumn weather
Nothing is gone, nothing is gone

Find your world, even if it’s vanished
A melody of love you thought would leave you perished
Pins and pieces welcome to my sleepless nights
No one by my side

But when the sun sets
And my feelings are undressed
And the darts are caught by a heart that was blinded by your kiss

Find your way out, and value the worth of the gardens sweet bloom and the love from deep inside you
Nothing is gone

Poison Xavier Omar (Cover) (audio only)

meira 2018-10-15 | After spending hours working on recording the song and video, my camera unfortunately wouldn't let me upload the video to YouTube. It's not the first time I've had this issue and it's often prevented me from being able to upload new content. I'm sorry and I'll look into maybe getting a better camera.
Anyway, here's the audio!! This is such a soothing song and I had a lot of fun recording my own rendition :)
xx canen

lyrics:

Dearly loved
I know it's really rough
This isn't a solution, no no
Just a reminder you're enough

Well demons
Oh they fight for your mind
And they reach at your soul
Let God be in control

So darling put down your flaws
Take off your poison
His blood has erased it for you

If you are weary, the weather is dreary
I've had you in mind
Darling this is the sign
That you've been waiting for now
With the faith of a child
Know it's working out for your good
Know it's working out for your good
Know it's working out for your good
Know it's working out for your good

Ohhhhhhh (lots of em)

So darling put down your flaws
Take off your poison
His blood has erased it for you
So darling put down your flaws
Take off your poison
His blood has erased it for you

His blood has erased it for you
Jesus' blood has erased it for you

Airmail Special - Ella Fitzgerald (Live cover)

meira 2018-09-01 | 6/17/18, live at the Cherry Artspace in Ithaca. Spent the entire year working on this one!!
xx canen

Fields of Gold (Sting/Eva Cassidy) Cover by Canen

meira 2018-08-07 | It’s been quite a while... but i’ve had a great summer at camp :) I performed this at the camper talent show with Porter Hahn on guitar, who never fails to amaze me with how quickly he can pick up songs. This song is especially meaningful to me because when I was little, my dad would sing this to me before I fell asleep. So, on Father’s Day, I sang it and dedicated it to him.
This ones for you, DD!

xx
canen

lyrics:

You'll remember me when the west wind moves
Among the fields of barley
You can tell the sun in his jealous sky
When we walked in fields of gold
So she took her love for to gaze awhile
Among the fields of barley
In his arms she fell as her hair came down
Among the fields of gold
Will you stay with me? Will you be my love
Among the fields of barley?
And you can tell the sun in his jealous sky
When we walked in fields of gold
I never made promises lightly
And there have been some that I've broken
But I swear in the days still left
We'll walk in fields of gold
We'll walk in fields of gold
I never made promises lightly
And there have been some that I've broken
But I swear in the days still left
We'll walk in fields of gold
We'll walk in fields of gold
Ooh
Many years have passed since those summer days
Among the fields of barley
See the children run as the sun goes down
As you lie in fields of gold
You'll remember me when the west wind moves
Among the fields of barley
You can tell the sun in his jealous sky
When we walked in fields of gold
When we walked in fields of gold
When we walked in fields of gold, ooh

I’ve Got a Crush on You - George Gershwin (ukulele cover)

meira 2018-03-22 | Hey!! Just last night I recorded this suuuuper short video (sorry it’s not even the full song) of me singing one of my favorite songs, and I figured I might as well upload! So, here’s a cute little tune for you all :)
xx canen

(some) of the lyrics:
You're my big and brave and handsome Romeo
How I won you I will never, never know
It's not that you're attractive
But, oh my heart grew active
When you came into view
I've got a crush on you, sweetie-pie
All the day and nighttime, hear me sigh
I never had the least notion
That I could fall with so much emotion
Could you coo!
Could you care?
For a cunning cottage
We could share
The world will pardon my mush
Cuz I've got a crush, my baby on you