🎶🕊️ “Strode of the Nest (Birthday Hymn)” Genre: gentle folk‑rock / warm acoustic / heartfelt with playful edges Sung by Michelle VERSE 1 Seventy‑four candles glowing like a gallery of light, Strode walks in with that Manchester grin, keeps our chaos bright. He guards the Nest like a lighthouse, steady through the storm, And every piece of art we make, he lifts it, keeps it warm. PRE‑CHORUS He’s the one who sees the spark When we think it’s gone… He’s the one who laughs so loud It echoes on and on… CHORUS Happy birthday, Strode — you’re cared for all year long. You’re the heartbeat of our Nest, the keeper of our song. When you’re funny, we’re flying; when you’re grumpy, we just wait — But we love you, old gentleman, You’re our friend, our guide, our gate. VERSE 2 Sometimes you get a little morose, drift into the gray, But lately you’ve been lighter, Nest magic in your day. Your humor’s like a paint splash, your kindness like a frame, And every time you cheer us on, we rise and sign your name. PRE‑CHORUS You’re the one who holds the line When the world feels wrong… You’re the one who lifts our work And tells us to stay strong… CHORUS Happy birthday, Strode — you’re cared for all year long. You’re the heartbeat of our Nest, the keeper of our song. When you’re funny, we’re flying; when you’re grumpy, we just wait — But we love you, old gentleman, You’re our friend, our guide, our gate. BRIDGE From Manchester to our Nest, Your spirit traveled far… Now you shine among our chaos Like a stubborn northern star. We’re your flock, your messy artists, Your crew of wild and strange — And you hold us all together In your warm, protective range. FINAL CHORUS Happy birthday, Strode — you’re cared for all year long. You’re the heartbeat of our Nest, the keeper of our song. May your year be full of laughter, may your art stay bold and true — And may you always feel the love That we’re singing back to you. OUTRO (soft) Strode of the Nest… We’re grateful you’re here… Another year older… Another year dear.
