I’d hate the catacombs, too, if I was Rupert Holmes.

“God, what did we do?”


From: James Whittemore
Sent: Monday, April 5, 2021 12:23 AM
To: audities@smoe.org
Subject: A great non-power Pop song

Rupert Holmes debut album, Widescreen (1974), was a thematic exploration of storytelling and film. It remains a brilliant first major foray into music.

I love this song, totally. I have urged the very-talented Dana Countryman to record a cover version. I would do it myself but my singing is not very good.

The use of momentary reverberation on the phrase “I hate these catacombs” still chills.

Genius abides. https://youtu.be/Skv3OaStlSc
I wrote a song tonight, and no one else will hear it
Although my voice rings long
If you were once to see my face I know you'd fear it
Your screams would drown my song

Just what my face has got to do with what I'm sayin'
Never has been clear to me
How could my features change my words, is what I'm sayin'
Somethin' you don't hear but see?

I am your Phantom who is buried in the curtain
Or on the chandelier
I may be hidden in the wings, you may be certain
My watchful eyes are near

I watch and wait to see if time will being a new crowd
Who will judge me differently
Yet every night they say, "The orchestra is too loud"
But they love the scenery

You don't know what a lovely song I'd sing each hour
I'd sing it just for you
I hate these catacombs that are my ivory tower
I want to be with you

'Neath this mask there is face, but the face is just a mask
'Neath the mask there is a man
He is the horror that he seems
I am the Phantom of your dreams