you're my friend

This song celebrates friendship. It is dedicated to Christine Bougie, my good friend and past music partner. In 1998 when I first ventured forth to sing my own songs in public (after years of backing up other people's material), Christine accompanied me on guitar. At the time, she was only 16 years old, a young virtuoso who played with more soul and maturity than anyone I had ever heard. We eventually created an ensemble—The Turton Bougie Band—that played my original songs and extended blues, soul, and funk jams. Christine went on to graduate from Humber College of Music and is making a name for herself in Toronto.

Friendship is a precious thing, and too often we don't bother to express our love and appreciation to those who matter most. This song is a musical hug and a smile to Christine, whom I was fortunate enough to get into the studio to play on this track. I just love her style.

The melody and music for this song is hybrid Motown/Beatles. It comes from a long tradition of purely happy, finger-poppin' tunes intended to make us feel good.

Sam Turton: lead vocal, acoustic rhythm guitar
Christine Bougie: lead electric guitar
Jesse Turton: bass guitar
Peter Grimmer: drums, percussion
Drew McIvor: acoustic piano
Jane Lewis: harmony vocal