The idea of the same characters running through the songs on my new album is an intriguing possibility. So far, I have the following three couples in mind…
Kevin and Carol (both in their mid twenties)
Dawn and former partner Nathan (both in their early thirties).
Courtney and Jade (both in their late thirties)
Opening: Waterloo Sunrise (theme)
Falling off the edge of the world
A tracking shot of the Thames from the Southbank. A couple on the riverside, Kevin and Carol, express their newly found desire for each other. Also introduces all the characters who contribute with harmonies
Head above water
Dawn, a single mother, in her flat. She wonders if the father, Nathan, will make an appearance. One lyric hints at her harbouring dreams of a couple she knows (Courtney and Jade). Sung by Jade and chorus
Trust
Later that night, Kevin is in the Prince William Henry pub in Southwark with his mates. His girlfriend Carol is out with a friend in Waterloo Road (The Wellington). Sung by Courtney and chorus
Quids in
Sung by Nathan, having been ejected from a club in Leake Street by door manager Courtney.
She reminds me of you
Courtney may be living with Jade, but Dawn is on his mind. Location: Lower Marsh Street.
The girl I never had
Carol imagines the kid she could have had with a previous lover. Perhaps Courtney?
Love on a summer’s day
Nathan – the former partner of Dawn – walking along the Southbank and thinking about their daughter whom he only sees occasionally.
Farewell to your valentine
Courtney ends his relationship with Dawn, choosing to stay with Jade.
Promises at midnight
Carol keeps Kevin at bay.
(London never will be) Nashville Tennessee
Kevin is disheartened by the corporate commercialisation of the area he loves.
Girl on the train
Carol and Nathan on the concourse at Waterloo Station. Sung by Dawn and chorus
Caring soul
The male characters express their commitment to their partners. Kevin to Carol and Courtney to Jade and Nathan to Dawn. (One verse each). Location: Roupell Street.
In the comfort of strangers
Finale: everyone together at a memorial service at St John’s Church. Hint at who passed? Sung in chorus. Lead vocals: Dawn and Jade
Waterloo sunrise (theme)
Shots of the Southbank and Thames
N.B. There is also the option of including elements of the Birdcage album