Music: Jonathan Larson
When I was nine
Michael and I
Entered a talent show down at the Y
Nine a.m., went to rehearse by some stairs
Mike couldn’t sing
But I said, “No one cares”
We sang, “Yellow Bird”
And “Let’s Go Fly a Kite”
Over and over and over
’Til we got it right
When we emerged from the YMCA
Three o’clock sun had made the grass hay
I thought
Hey—what a way to spend a day
Hey—what a way to spend a day
I make a vow—right here and now
I’m gonna spend my time this way
When I was sixteen
Michael and I
Got parts in “West Side” at White Plains High
Three o’clock, went to rehearse in the gym
Mike played “Doc”—who didn’t sing—
Fine with him
We sang “Got a Rocket in Your Pocket”
And “The Jets are Gonna Have Their Day—Tonight”
Over and over and over
’Til we got it right
When we emerged—wiped out by that play
Nine o’clock stars and moon lit the way
I thought
Hey—what a way to spend a day
Hey—what a way to spend a day
I made a vow—I wonder now
Am I cut out to spend my time this way?
With only so much time to spend
Don’t want to waste the time I’m given
“Have it all—play the game” some recommend
I’m afraid it just may be time to give in
I’m twenty nine
Michael and I
Live on the west side of Soho, N.Y.
Nine a.m. I write a lyric or two
Mike sings his song now on Mad Avenue
I sing,
“Come to Your Senses,defenses are not the way to go”
Over and over and over
’Til I get it right
When I emerge from B minor or A
Five o’clock—diner calls
“I’m on my way”
I think
Hey—what a way to spend a day
Hey—what a way to spend a day
I make a vow—right here and now
I’m gonna spend my time this way
I’m gonna spend my time this way