YouTube

I don’t know how much of this song is autobiographical, but it has a ring of truth that’s heart-wrenching and undeniable. I was tempted to call it the saddest song I’ve ever heard, but if it is autobiographical, Bob Schneider has pulled up out of that nose dive and built a library of work that’s nothing short of wonderful.

So yeah, it’s sadder than hell. But it’s also a reminder that redemption is always possible, if you want it enough.

This song is on the album Lonelyland.

(The audio track is pretty quiet, so you may want to turn up your speakers.)

The year is 2002
I’m doing exactly what I wanted to
Baby I don’t even think about you anymore

Just thought I’d drop you a line
Let you know I was doing fine
Baby it’s been a long, long time
Since you walked out my door

It took me some time I must confess
For a while there I was feeling less than my best
Had to get out of town so I headed out west
Ended up in Seattle

I thought I’d start a brand new band
Thought I might call it Lonelyland
Things got a little out of hand
Ended up hooked on heroin

So ended up moving back over to Germany
Living with my folks baggin’ groceries
The time I had was mostly free
I spent most of it drinking

Got myself in a jam or two
Guess that’s what I had to do
Late at night I’d still think of you
I felt like I was drowning

Got arrested once, but never convicted
Parents eventually had me evicted
Tried your number, it’d been disconnected
I guess I should’ve known

I heard you got married and you moved away
Called up your folks but where they wouldn’t say
Said it’s probably better that way
So I just let it be

Moved back to Austin ‘bout a year ago
Drive a school bus now I don’t drink no more
Go out every once in a while and see a show
But mostly I just watch TV

So I don’t know where I’m gonna send this letter
I doubt things are ever gonna get much better
Seems like life’s one big whatever
Anyway

Just thought I’d drop you a line
Lie and say I was doin’ fine
‘Cause baby it’s been a long, long time
Since you walked out my door