Behind the Lyrics
Discover the stories and creative sparks that inspired Joya Skye's songs.
Explore the stories, inspirations, and creative processes behind Joya Skye’s music. In this collection of reflections, Joya shares how her songs came to life—revealing the personal experiences, artistic influences, and moments of magic that shaped her work. Whether it’s a chart-topping hit or a deeply personal track, every song has a story waiting to be uncovered. Dive in and discover the heart behind the music.
Wild Horses
For some of us, the drive to protect Mother Earth is non-negotiable. It is a burning need to stop the destruction and to nurture that which nurtures us.
Long Time Comin'
I wrote this song for my mom. She was a "stage mother" who only wanted me to be famous. She wanted me to achieve the acclaim she couldn't. I have not been easy on her.
At the Crossroads
I wrote this song for a friend who was directing a play by the same name. It followed young people graduating from high school --the decisions they made and where those decisions took them in their lives. It made for a rich and and deep experience. It's one of my favorites.
Dream of Me
Sometimes we're just on different pages when we meet that person who feels like "The One". We also sometimes do better dreaming about that relationship than actually having it. Commitment is often antithetical to what some folks feel is their "freedom". I have never felt that way but many people do. See (And Still Be Free). Sometimes the dream of someone is as good as it gets.
And Still Be Free
This is a very old song that practically wrote itself. It was an aspiration of mine to achieve freedom within a committed relationship.
Thank You Lord
This song is so fun to sing! Writing it was fun as well. I don't really feel that "God", god whatever, really orchestrates every move in our lives, but sometimes it really feels that way. Hence the perception that we must be grateful for whatever is given to us. And that gives us a chance to poke fun at ourselves and even "God" when things go south.
Nothing to Lose
This song explains itself and it's fun to play. Sometimes, especially as we age, folks will quit taking chances in life and settle for what feels safe and easy. I feel we need to stay flexible and open, welcoming to a vibrant life that motivates us to move forward.
Too Little Too Late
I’m one of those people that “when I’m done, I’m done”. I don’t do do-overs. In a way that’s a drag. But it’s just the way some of us roll.
Tried and True
I always marveled at folks that had good, loving sustained relationships. They seem to be few and far between. This song was about a couple I knew who had this going for them. I've known many couples who have had this. But not me. It was something I wanted above all else. But it was never to be mine.
Broken Man
I wrote this song for John Denver. I had just read his biography learning, among other things, that we were both born in the same Army hospital in Roswell, New Mexico. I had some connection with him I can't quite explain. I had the opportunity to massage one of his best friends and played Broken Man for him and he said it was "spot on"!
Simple Dreams and Simple Pleasures
I wrote this song for someone who turned out to be one of those "beautiful losers". It was lovely for a minute. I love the humility and hope this song presents. Still looking for that one.
Beautiful Losers
This is a "self-bust" song if I ever wrote one. Most of us have gone for one of these types. They look great at first and we go all in. Somewhere the truth surfaces and we have to dig ourselves out. Ouch!
Playing to Empty Chairs
I wrote this song for myself and every other performing musician on the planet at one point or another. It's also a cross reference to our relationships. Most of us have had this experience somewhere along the line. I certainly have.
This Is Not A Love Song
Some of us have had a bad experience or 2. And sometimes we are so freaked out that we tell ourselves we don't want anything to do with it. I had such a relationship (short) and this was my reassurance to him. Hahaha.
Ride Away
My love for horses is epic. I have adored them since I was three and my grandpa put me on one. I remembered that little scene all these years. The freedom I feel when I can give a horse it's head and just let it run feels like it washes me clean of all the human stuff that gets stuck in my head. Shaman's Dancer was a palomino/paint stallion who was breathtakingly gorgeous. I never got to ride him but I did get to imagine what it would feel like in this song.
Everybody's Looking For Love
We can call it whatever we want, but it is love that motivates us and heals us like nothing else.
Discover Even More of Joya’s Music
Enjoyed diving into the stories and listening to the featured songs? Joya Skye’s catalog is filled with even more timeless tracks, waiting to inspire and delight you. Explore the full collection and uncover the breadth of her creative journey.