Story Behind The Song

My uncle Charlie, who was a real life cowboy, succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning from a faulty heater in his RV while on a camping trip. He was the oldest of his 8 siblings and the leader of the family. The sudden loss was devastating. He and I were very close, even though we lived 2,000 miles apart.

Song Description

Charlie died suddenly, and alone, and was unable to say goodbye to those left behind. This song is from his point of view, saying goodbye to his family and trying to explain what happened. "I guess we're all better off to never know when it will be over."

Lyrics

Charlie's Song

By Steven M Skinner

Movement 1

I've gone to one last round-up
I'm sorry I didn't say goodbye
I was called away quite suddenly
I never asked why

The man upstairs said I need your help
I told him that I was able
he said I'm sorry for the inconvenience
then he laid his cards on the table

Lived my life as a cowboy
the rules I made were my own
lived by a code of honor
let no man stand alone

Remember those days
in old Mexico
times they were tough
and the country was rough
worked hard all day
sang and played at night
we always did what we thought was right

Movement 2

I've left and gone away
to a place so far away, I didn't know
and all you take along
are memories and a song
so lord knows I've been blessed
'cause I've got more than all the rest

I'm sorry I didn't say goodbye
I know how you feel
I really love you all
if only we'd had more time
that would be harder still
I guess we're all better off
to never know when it'll be over

Goodbye, goodbye
take care all of you
hang in tough
I'll see you soon enough
never say I'm sorry Charlie

Goodbye, goodbye
take care all of you
hang in tough
I'll see you soon enough
never say I'm sorry Charlie

Goodbye, goodbye
take care all of you