2025 Competition Lyrics Entry:

Down by the Shore by David Semark-Jullien

Lyrics

AAAA\DOWN BY THE SHORE – Capo 3 – Harp Bb –

Harp intro on verse
G C
1. Some days feeling blue
G
Thinking what shall I do
D
Stay here, stare out of the window
C G D G
No, it’s down to the shore I go

Chorus –
G C
Down to the shore is where I want to be
G
See the waves and look out to sea
D
Hear the surf, feel the salt air
C G D G
Smell the ozone wind through my hair

2. Childhood memories flooding back to me
Family trips to the sea
Sand castles to dig and show
Down by the shore is where I want to go

3. Something about a shore that clears my mind
Good for my soul, a place I find
Calming, healing, somewhere to be
With someone I love, just feel free

Harp on verse, then Chorus


4. Strolling along the shore with bare feet
Soft sand, smooth pebbles, so complete
Let’s have a paddle or jump in the sea
Oh, it’s down by the shore I want to be

5. Long summer days, wintry storms
Weather on the shore takes all forms
Looking for that special pebble or shell
To treasure, memories to tell

Chorus

6. When my time has come and I am no more
Take me down to that shore
My journey ends so set me free
And scatter me away to the sea

harp outro on last verse (x 2, no vocal)

Bio

I have been playing guitar and singing since I was 18 years old, have played in various bands, groups, solo, choirs, shanty, etc
Fairly late to songwriting, the lockdown really got me going on that.
My love of the sea (I am ex Royal Navy) is often reflected in my songs

Co-author(s)

Lyrics Competition Results

Emotional Impact:
9/ 20
Technical Skill:
7/ 20
Memorability:
6/ 20
Storytelling:
12/ 20
Imagery:
8/ 20
Total Score:
42/ 100
Commended

Leave a comment

Tell us where you're based!

We’re rolling out something exciting — but first, we need to know where you’re based. It only takes a second, and you’ll only ever need to do it once!

You can choose who sees your information —
set it to ‘Only Me’ or make it public.
It’s up to you!