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Stuck Here in a Box

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I wrote and recorded this song over Memorial Day weekend during the covid-19 pandemic in 2020. I first recorded the song live and created a live video, but then I went back and created a more elaborate version (using the original live vocal) and modeled this new video after a Zoom screen—that's what the "box" in the title refers to.

Stuck Here in a Box
Words and music © Jonathan Ochshorn 2020

Verse 1
I'm stuck here in a box
There's nowhere else to go
My keys don't fit the locks
My luck is running low

I'm stuck here in a box
In denial mixed with doubt
Replenishing my stocks
In case I can't get out
In case I can't get out

Verse 2
I'm stuck here in a box
My neighbors right next door
Responding to this pox
Like prisoners of war

I'm stuck here in a box
Resigned if not enthralled
Prepared for aftershocks
My Roku is installed
My Roku is installed

Half bridge
Virtual backgrounds appear on Zoom
Flowers missing their perfume
Ironic scene—iconic room

Instrumental break

Full bridge
Virtual backgrounds appear on Zoom
Flowers missing their perfume
Ironic scene—iconic room
Fantasies from a former life that I reprise
As if an image could disguise
Something that I'm just only beginning to realize

Verse 3
I'm stuck here in a box
Yeah I could take a ride
Or walk around these empty blocks
Then hurry back inside

I'm stuck here in a box
Texting my love to you
It's a bit unorthodox But baby what else can I do
What else can I do


Production notes:
Music arranged and produced by J. Ochshorn
Recorded with Logic Pro X software
Vocals: J. Ochshorn
Software instruments played live on midi keyboard: J. Ochshorn (piano, bass, drums)
Real instruments: J. Ochshorn (guitar)
Recorded at home in Ithaca, NY, May 2020.