Valerie
Track Inspiration
“Valerie” is a tender tapestry of brotherhood and nostalgia, woven from Bruno James’s memories of 1990s Atlanta. While double-majoring in Music and Biology at Emory University, James shared a formative chapter of his youth with his brother, Paul. Though he initially pursued a career in science, the stillness of the pandemic ultimately guided him back to his true calling: music.
This piece evokes the golden, sunlit days of their shared past—from the waters of Lake Lanier and the heights of Stone Mountain to the vibrant energy of downtown Atlanta and Mountains of Helen, Georgia. Set to the cultural backdrop of Steve Winwood’s music, “Valerie” captures a profound sonic nostalgia in a more contemporary format while still preserving the 80’s vibe. Ultimately, the track exemplifies the timelessness of 1980s music, proving its unique power to transcend multiple generations and resonate deeply with young listeners today. This song stands as a heartfelt dedication from the artist to his brother.
Inspired by
Cover version of a song written/performed by Steve Winwood. This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by Steve Winwood.
Lyrics
So wild, standing there
With her hands in her hair
I can’t help remember
Just where she touched me
There’s still no face
Here in her place
So cool, she was like
Jazz on a summer’s day
Music, high and sweet
Then she just blew away
Now she can’t be that warm
With the wind in her arms
Valerie, call on me
Call on me, Valerie
Come and see me
I’m the same boy I used to be
Love songs fill the night
But they don’t tell it all
Not how lovers cry out
Just like they’re dying
Her cries hang there
In time somewhere
Someday, some good wind
May blow her back to me
Some night I may hear
Her like she used to be
No, it can’t be that warm
With the wind in her arms
Valerie, call on me
Call on me, Valerie
Come and see me
I’m the same boy I used to be
SAX SOLO
So cool, she was like
Jazz on a summer’s day
Music, high and sweet
Then she just blew away
Now she can’t be that warm
With the wind in her arms
Valerie, call on me
Call on me, Valerie
Come and see me
I’m the same boy I used to be
I’m the same boy I used to be
