For Always is a song about one of Roberta’s sisters, Susan Kolowski, who passed away in 2011. This is a simple, but extremely beautiful song, and was written as if Roberta’s sister, Susan. Susan’s soul is floating above the congregation, telling family and friends not to be sad; that she’ll be watching over them, until they meet, again. Roberta’s lyrics are poetic and pure, and as she sings this beautiful song, you can feel the love she has for her sisters and family.
In terms of song composition and arrangement, this is the only song on the album that does not have a bridge, as we felt it did not need one. I didn’t know how to play the mandolin; however, I rented one for 3 days in order to play the simple melodic line that is heard in the song. The sound effects in the beginning of the song represent heaven momentarily opening its pearly gates for Susan to emerge and be seen and heard by the congregation. After Susan delivers her loving message, the sound effects at the end of the song represent Susan retreating through the closing pearly gates that gently fade from sight.
Song: For Always
Words and Music by
© 2013 Roberta Brinkman & John Whitworth
Originally Written in March-2011
Musical Arrangement by John Whitworth
In memory of Susan Kolowski