1. Backstory
Dopey Volunteer was formed in 2012 when four college friends from the University of Washington decided to put their shared passion for music into practice. The original members – lead vocalist Jaxson McDowell, guitarist Lenny Harper, bassist Nick Riddle, and drummer Caleb Reynolds – were volunteer workers in a local charity shop (a rather ‘dopey’ one according to them), hence the name of the band. Their first gig in a small Seattle bar was a success, and soon they found themselves performing in bigger venues around the city, accumulating a loyal fan base. In 2015, they caught the attention of a local indie record label, Green Leaf Records, which resulted in their first album, “Thrift Store Symphony”, hitting the stores that same year.
2. Music Genre
Dopey Volunteer falls under the indie rock genre, with influences from alternative rock and a hint of pop punk. They have a distinctive sound characterized by catchy guitar riffs, powerful drum beats, and emotive lyrics, often drawing inspiration from their volunteering experiences, making their music relatable yet unique.
3. Song Title
“Second Hand Heart”
4. Song Lyrics
Verse 1:
In the corner of this thrift shop find,
There’s a heart that’s worn, but it’s mine,
Tattered edges, faded lines,
It’s a second-hand heart, but it’s mine.
Chorus:
Second hand heart, skipped a beat,
In a dusty corner, yet it feels so sweet,
Rusty cogs, yet it’s complete,
It’s my second hand heart, on repeat.
Verse 2:
Broken gears, a missing part,
A couple of cracks, that’s the art,
It’s a second hand heart, but it’s smart,
It’s my second hand heart, it’s my start.
Chorus:
Second hand heart, skipped a beat,
In a dusty corner, yet it feels so sweet,
Rusty cogs, yet it’s complete,
It’s my second hand heart, on repeat.
Bridge:
It’s been used, it’s been torn,
It’s been loved, it’s been worn,
But it’s still got fire, it’s still got heat,
It’s my second hand heart, with a beat.
Chorus:
Second hand heart, skipped a beat,
In a dusty corner, yet it feels so sweet,
Rusty cogs, yet it’s complete,
It’s my second hand heart, on repeat.
5. Chord Progression
The chord progression for “Second Hand Heart” is C Major, G Major, A minor, and F Major throughout the song. The band uses these chords to express the emotion in the lyrics, creating a melancholic yet hopeful atmosphere.