“Love Is The Secret” is the second studio album by musician Carlos Simpson, released as part of his self-directed “My 2020 Lockdown Project” on November 29, 2020. This project includes four albums with a total of 68 songs and an 184-page book (available on Amazon). The album is all improvised and portrays the artist’s experience through the COVID-19 lockdown. “This is a historical piece because it represents a historical moment in human history”.
• November 29, 2020 – Love Is The Secret – UPC/EAN 5059580646875
Love Is The Secret:
- Album by Carlos Simpson
- Language: English
- Label Carlos Simpson Music Production
- Explicit No
- Copyright © 2020, CARLOS SIMPSON
- UPC/EAN 5059580646875
- Primary genre Alternative
- Secondary genre Experimental
- Release November 29, 2020
Carlos Simpson’s Love Is the Secret is a profound and introspective album that delves into the complexities of human emotion, existential reflection, and the search for personal freedom. Through a series of deeply personal tracks, Simpson explores themes of vulnerability, longing, and the interplay between control and surrender.
Each song on the album presents a unique narrative, reflecting on the delicate balance between self-expression and the constraints imposed by life and circumstance. From evocative calls for freedom in tracks like “Venezuela” to the haunting self-reflection in “Losing Control,” Simpson’s lyrics offer a candid look at the struggles and triumphs of navigating one’s inner world.
The album’s standout track, “Imaginary Friend,” combines elements of admiration and escapism, capturing the essence of finding solace in a constructed reality amidst life’s challenges. Meanwhile, “My Butterfly” and “Mother” articulate a yearning for personal liberation and the embrace of one’s true self, intertwined with a poignant commentary on life’s transience.
Simpson’s Love Is the Secret stands out not only for its lyrical depth but also for its emotive musicality. Each song serves as a testament to the artist’s ability to translate complex emotional states into resonant melodies and thoughtful arrangements. The album invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys, offering both solace and insight into the universal quest for meaning and connection.
In essence, Love Is the Secret is more than just a collection of songs; it is a reflective exploration of love, control, and the pursuit of authenticity in a world that often feels out of our grasp. Simpson’s work stands as a powerful reminder of the beauty and pain of the human experience, making this album a compelling addition to any music lover’s collection.
Songs
- Song by Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Released: 2020
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- ISRC UKXN21990420
2 – Lithium
Love Is the Secret
(album cover)
The song “Lithium” by Carlos Simpson delves into the themes of self-affirmation and emotional stability through its repetitive and reassuring lyrics. By frequently stating “I’m doing alright now” and “I’m just fine now,” the song functions as a mantra, emphasising the protagonist’s effort to maintain a sense of normalcy and control despite underlying struggles.
The title “Lithium” alludes to the medication used for mood stabilisation, subtly connecting to the song’s exploration of emotional regulation and mental health. The repetitive affirmations echo the stabilising effects of such medication, suggesting a method for managing fluctuating emotions and maintaining equilibrium.
Imagery of “angels on my shoulders” introduces a spiritual or protective dimension, implying a need for comfort or guidance in the face of life’s challenges. While the protagonist outwardly projects calm and stability, the constant repetition of “doing alright” hints at an underlying fragility and the necessity of self-deception to sustain this façade.
“Lithium” captures the tension between outward appearances and internal struggles, reflecting the complex reality of seeking emotional balance and the personal efforts required to navigate one’s mental state amidst adversity. The song serves as a poignant reminder of the human tendency to use self-talk and affirmations as tools for emotional coping.
- Song by Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Released on: 2020-11-29
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- ISRC UKXN21990442
3 – Blame
(album cover)
The song “Blame” by Carlos Simpson is a poignant exploration of the human tendency to shift responsibility onto others rather than confronting personal accountability. Through its repetitive and cyclical lyrics, the song captures the endless loop of blame that people often fall into, where assigning fault becomes a way to avoid self-reflection and maintain pride.
The lyrics emphasise the ease with which blame is passed around—blaming each other, external circumstances, or even intangible things like the stars or the world itself—while the underlying message is clear: blaming others is a defense mechanism to protect one’s ego and avoid facing uncomfortable truths.
The song also highlights the futility of this blame game, as it ultimately leads nowhere, offering no resolution or growth. The refrain of “Blame, blame, blame” underscores the emptiness of this exercise, leaving the listener with the realisation that in the end, all that remains are the colourful memories, untouched by the blame that has been scattered.
“Blame” serves as a mirror to our own behaviours, inviting introspection on how often we fall into the trap of blaming others instead of confronting our own roles in life’s challenges. The title “Blame” aptly reflects the central theme, reminding us that the act of blaming is often more about avoiding self-accountability than finding real solutions.
- ISRC UKXN21990419
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Blame · Carlos Simpson
- Love Is The Secret
- Released on: 2020-11-29
Oh Lord (single art cover)
The song “Oh Lord” by Carlos Simpson is a soulful exploration of change, regret, and the relentless passage of time. Through its introspective lyrics, the protagonist reflects on how time has transformed them, leaving a deep sense of disconnection from the past and a feeling of being lost and confused. The repeated invocation of “Oh Lord” highlights a yearning for understanding and guidance amidst life’s complexities and the irreversible flow of time.
The song addresses the impact of past mistakes and the sobering realisation that the justifications we create often hold little weight in the broader context of life. Despite observing the ongoing cycles of human behaviour—fighting, killing, loving—the protagonist is overwhelmed by how quickly life moves, struggling to grasp its full meaning.
“Oh Lord” is a poignant meditation on the human condition, capturing the struggle to find stability and purpose in a world where time slips away too quickly, leaving us to confront the remnants of our past and the uncertainty of our future. It resonates with the universal experience of grappling with time’s passage, the weight of past actions, and the search for meaning in a confusing and overwhelming world. This deep reflection reveals how our perceptions can be distorted by emotions and experiences, leading us to question the very nature of reality.
- Song by Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Released: 2020
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- ISRC UKXN21990450
(album cover)
“Promises and Surreal Dreams” by Carlos Simpson is a hauntingly introspective track that delves into the disillusionment of love and the fleeting nature of human aspirations. The song weaves a tapestry of existential reflection and personal regret, capturing the tumultuous journey of navigating relationships and the inherent contradictions of life.
The lyrics present a narrative of longing and loss, juxtaposing the idealism of promises and dreams with the stark reality of solitude and self-reckoning. Simpson’s poignant exploration begins with a call to embrace life’s brevity and the urgency to follow one’s desires despite societal constraints. The recurring imagery of angels and shadows reflects a deep sense of searching for meaning and guidance amidst personal turmoil.
The title, “Promises and Surreal Dreams,” encapsulates the tension between the lofty ideals of what could be and the often disappointing reality of what is. The song contrasts the enchanting allure of dreams with the sobering experience of isolation and introspection. The repeated refrain of “promises and surreal dreams” underscores the cycle of hope and disillusionment that defines the protagonist’s emotional journey.
Musically, the song’s contemplative tone is enhanced by its reflective lyrics, which convey a powerful sense of existential struggle. Simpson’s evocative storytelling invites listeners to confront their own experiences of love, loss, and the relentless pursuit of meaning in a world that often feels ephemeral and elusive.
In “Promises and Surreal Dreams,” Carlos Simpson crafts a deeply emotional and thought-provoking piece that resonates with anyone who has grappled with the dichotomy between dreams and reality. The song stands as a testament to the human condition’s complexity, offering a profound meditation on the nature of our desires and the inevitable passage of time.
CREDITS (Promises and Surreal Dreams)
- Song by Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Released: 2020
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- ISRC UKXN21990455
6 – Delusional Perception
(album cover)
“Delusional Perception” by Carlos Simpson is a poignant exploration of the human condition, caught between dreams, promises, and the harsh reality of life’s fleeting nature. The lyrics portray a journey of introspection, where the protagonist reflects on their experiences, relationships, and the cyclical nature of creation and destruction.
The title “Delusional Perception” suggests a disconnect between the idealised dreams and promises we hold onto and the reality we face. The song captures the sense of being lost in one’s thoughts, trapped in a loop of hope and disappointment. The protagonist’s longing for connection, symbolised by the “beautiful princess” and “tropical flower,” is met with the stark realisation that life is transient, relationships are fragile, and the self is often left alone, returning to its original state.
Throughout the song, there’s a tension between action and reflection—between the desire to create and the inevitability of destruction. Repeated phrases like “dreaming and making” and “promises and surreal dreams” highlight the repetitive cycles we go through, trying to make sense of life while constantly being reminded of its impermanence. In the end, the protagonist seems to come full circle, acknowledging their solitude but also finding a sense of freedom in returning to who they were before, free from the delusions that once clouded their perception.
This song is a deep meditation on the ephemeral nature of life and the often illusory nature of our hopes and dreams, urging listeners to confront the reality of existence while recognising the patterns that define our lives.
- Song by Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Released: 2020
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- ISRC UKXN21990506
7 – Love Is The Secret
(album cover)
“LOVE IS THE SECRET” by Carlos Simpson explores the profound and transformative power of love, portraying it as the fundamental force that underpins all aspects of life. The song’s lyrics, through their repetitive emphasis on the word “Love,” convey a message of love’s omnipresence and its essential role in human existence. It suggests that love is more than just a fleeting emotion—it’s a deep, sustaining force that can heal, connect, and guide us through life’s challenges.
The repetition in the lyrics reinforces the idea that love is a constant, something that must be felt, given, and embraced in every situation. Whether in moments of need, joy, or despair, love remains the secret key to finding true happiness and meaning. The song also touches on the idea that love is not just an abstract concept but a practical tool for personal and collective growth. By feeling, sharing, and living through love, we unlock the potential to lead a fulfilled and harmonious life.
The title, “LOVE IS THE SECRET,” encapsulates the essence of the song, pointing to love as the hidden truth that, when embraced, can transform our lives. It invites listeners to recognise and prioritise love as the ultimate answer to the complexities of existence, urging them to love deeply, fully, and unconditionally.
- Song Love Is The Secret by Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Released on: 2020-11-29
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- ISRC UKXN21990447
8 – Joker
(album cover)
The song “Joker” by Carlos Simpson is a poignant reflection on the dichotomy between external appearances and internal realities, exploring themes of disillusionment, love, and the search for genuine connection amidst chaos. The title “Joker” hints at the complexity and unpredictability of emotions and relationships, much like the multifaceted persona of the Joker in popular culture, who represents both chaos and charm.
The lyrics juxtapose the notion of living in “paradise” with an internal struggle characterised by hate and pain. This contrast highlights the dissonance between a seemingly idyllic life and the profound inner turmoil that persists. The repeated plea of “F…k the world” underscores a frustration with external societal attitudes and a desire to escape from them, while simultaneously expressing a deep appreciation for personal moments of intimacy and connection.
The song’s refrain, “Please take it easy,” juxtaposed with the harsh reality of “F…k the world,” reflects a yearning for simplicity and peace amid the complexities of life. Despite the external chaos and disillusionment, the protagonist finds solace and beauty in the presence of a loved one, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from personal relationships rather than external validation.
Overall, “Joker” captures the tension between societal dissatisfaction and personal contentment, offering a raw and honest look at the emotional conflicts that define the human experience. It serves as a reminder that even in a world full of contradictions, love and personal connections can provide a sanctuary from the chaos.
CREDITS (Joker)
- Song: Joker · Carlos Simpson
- Songwriter: Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- Released on: 2020-11-29
- ISRC UKXN21990433
℗ Carlos Simpson
9 – Real Friend
The song “Real Friend” by Carlos Simpson is a heartfelt tribute to the enduring qualities of genuine companionship and the profound impact of a true friend. The title “Real Friend” encapsulates the essence of the song’s exploration of deep emotional bonds and the yearning to preserve meaningful connections.
The lyrics paint a poignant picture of admiration and longing, directed towards a figure who embodies both beauty and inner light. Described as a “beautiful girl” with a “wonderful smile,” the protagonist’s feelings are marked by a blend of affection and melancholy, underscoring the significance of this person’s presence in their life. The repetition of “Don’t go, please stay” reveals a deep fear of losing this cherished connection, emphasising the emotional weight of their departure.
The imagery of the girl “following me like the moon” and walking “in silence” suggests a sense of quiet devotion and introspection, while her actions—bringing love to her enemies and light to life—highlight her positive and impactful nature. These qualities elevate her beyond mere companionship, portraying her as a guiding light and a source of inspiration.
Overall, “Real Friend” is a moving ode to the value of true friendship and the bittersweet nature of holding onto someone who profoundly affects our lives. It reflects the universal desire to cherish and maintain the bonds that bring light and love into our existence, even as we grapple with the inevitability of change.
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- Songwriter: Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Released on: 2020-11-29
- ISRC UKXN21990460
10 – Venezuela
(album cover)
The song “Venezuela” by Carlos Simpson is a stirring ode to freedom and human rights, using the title as a symbol for universal liberation. The lyrics are a compelling call to action, advocating for the unrestrained freedom of children, women, and all individuals. By repeating the phrases “Let the kids run” and “Let the girls be free,” the song emphasises a vision of an equitable society where every person has the right to live fully and without constraint.
The repetition of these phrases underscores a passionate plea for universal freedom and equality, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to dismantling barriers and promoting a world where everyone can thrive. The song’s message extends beyond specific contexts to a broader advocacy for human rights, suggesting a universal aspiration for freedom that transcends borders.
“Venezuela” captures the essence of a collective desire for liberation, presenting a hopeful vision where people are empowered to express themselves, live freely, and love without limitations. Through its evocative lyrics, the song resonates as a powerful reminder of the fundamental right to freedom and the importance of advocating for a world where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.
- Song by Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- ISRC UKXN21990510
- Released on: 2019-05-16
11 – Mother
(album cover)
The song “MOTHER” by Carlos Simpson is a profound exploration of freedom, identity, and the existential search for meaning. The lyrics reflect a yearning for personal liberation and authenticity, as the repeated calls to “Let them be” and “Let us free” emphasise a desire to break free from societal constraints and rediscover one’s true self.
The invocation of “Mother” serves as a symbolic plea for nurturing and acceptance, representing both a literal and metaphorical call for guidance and unconditional love. This emotional cry for freedom and self-expression is intertwined with a deep sense of seeking direction and purpose, highlighted by the imagery of people wandering the streets in search of answers.
The song’s repetition of phrases like “Let it end” and “Just try to do it again” conveys a cycle of hope and resignation, reflecting the ongoing struggle to make sense of life’s challenges and the inevitability of its end. The contrast between the urgent desire to live fully and the resignation to life’s transient nature underscores the tension between existential despair and the determination to persist.
“MOTHER” encapsulates the human condition’s complexities, capturing the interplay between the quest for freedom, the search for meaning, and the acceptance of life’s impermanence. It resonates with those grappling with the duality of seeking autonomy while confronting the inescapable reality of life’s fleeting nature.
- Song by Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- ISRC UKXN21990449
- Released: 2020
12 – Left You Alone
The song “Left You Alone” by Carlos Simpson is a poignant reflection on fleeting connections and the journey from emotional entanglement to self-realisation. The lyrics explore the profound yet transient impact of a significant person in the protagonist’s life, portraying a mixture of awe, confusion, and eventual liberation.
The song begins with an introspective tone, describing the experience of encountering someone unexpectedly special, who evokes a mix of wonder and fear. This “tropical flower,” symbolising beauty and uniqueness, brings a sense of both enchantment and uncertainty, leading the protagonist to grapple with their own emotions and internal struggles.
As the narrative unfolds, the protagonist reveals their journey from being captivated by this person to ultimately confronting solitude and self-awareness. The repeated refrain of being “trapped in my own thoughts” highlights the introspective nature of the experience, where the protagonist initially finds solace and inspiration but ultimately faces the reality of being alone.
The transition from being “lost” and “trapped” to feeling “free” signifies a personal evolution, as the protagonist acknowledges their own role in the emotional turmoil and finds a sense of closure. The closing lines, which express a wish for the best for the person who left, reflect a mature acceptance of the end of this chapter and a return to self.
“Left You Alone” captures the essence of dealing with the aftermath of a profound yet ephemeral connection, offering a narrative of growth, acceptance, and the complex interplay between love, self-discovery, and solitude.
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Album: Love Is The Secret – ISRC UKXN21990426
- Album: Tribal Soul – ISRC GBLFP2109781
- Released on: 2020-11-29
13 – Imaginary Friend
(album cover)
The song “Imaginary Friend” by Carlos Simpson explores the themes of idealisation, escapism, and the search for perfection in a world fraught with deception and struggle. The lyrics celebrate the beauty and uniqueness of an “imaginary friend,” reflecting the protagonist’s longing for an idealised presence amidst life’s complexities.
The song opens with a series of affirmations—“Gorgeous,” “Pretty,” “Unique”—highlighting the protagonist’s intense admiration for this imagined figure. This repeated praise underscores the role of the imaginary friend as a symbol of perfect beauty and perfection, a stark contrast to the imperfections and deceptions of the real world.
As the narrative unfolds, the song delves into the darker side of this idealisation, acknowledging the disillusionment with reality (“this life is full of lies”) and the struggles (“tries and lies and tries”). The imaginary friend becomes a refuge from these harsh truths, representing an escape into a fantasy where everything is ideal and comforting.
The juxtaposition of the protagonist’s dissatisfaction with reality and their blissful existence within their daydream emphasises the seductive nature of escapism. The lyrics reveal a deep yearning for a world where the protagonist can find solace and perfection, even if it means living in an imagined reality.
Ultimately, “Imaginary Friend” captures the allure of creating a perfect companion to counteract life’s disappointments, offering a poignant reflection on the human desire to escape into a world of fantasy and idealisation. The song’s repetitive praise and acknowledgment of reality’s harshness reveal the delicate balance between escapism and self-awareness.
- Song by Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- ISRC UKXN21990431
- Released on: 2020-11-29
14 – My Butterfly
(album cover)
The song “My Butterfly” by Carlos Simpson is a vibrant ode to individuality, self-expression, and the pursuit of personal dreams. Through its lyrical content, the song champions the idea of embracing one’s true self and following one’s own path, symbolised by the recurring imagery of a butterfly and the sun.
The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to “let them fly” and “let them be themselves,” emphasising a theme of freedom and authenticity. This message is reinforced by the repeated calls to “follow the sun” and “follow your dreams,” which serve as metaphors for pursuing one’s passions and living a life true to oneself.
The metaphor of the butterfly represents transformation and beauty, with the protagonist’s “beautiful colours” symbolising the uniqueness and diversity of individual experiences. The rain imagery suggests a cleansing or renewal process, urging listeners to let go of external pressures and allow their true selves to emerge.
The song’s chorus repeatedly questions, “Can you be different from the others?” and “Can you follow the sun?” This introspective questioning invites listeners to reflect on their own journey toward self-discovery and the courage it takes to stand out and follow their dreams.
Overall, “My Butterfly” is an uplifting anthem that celebrates personal growth and the pursuit of one’s passions. It resonates with anyone who has ever felt the need to break free from conformity and embrace their individuality, offering a hopeful reminder to follow one’s dreams and be true to oneself.
CREDITS (My Butterfly)
- Song by Carlos Simpson
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- ISRC UKXN21990423
- Released: 2020
- Record Record: Carlos Simpson Music Production
℗ CARLOS SIMPSON Design Studio | All rights reserved
15 – Losing Control
(album cover)
The song “Losing Control” by Carlos Simpson is a poignant exploration of vulnerability and the passage of time amidst emotional turmoil. The repetitive declaration of “I’m losing control” serves as a mantra that underscores the protagonist’s struggle to manage their emotions and situations as they unravel.
The lyrics express a profound sense of helplessness and anticipation, with the protagonist grappling with their inability to influence the circumstances around them. The continuous refrain of losing control over the situation reflects a deep-seated anxiety and the feeling of being overwhelmed by life’s unpredictability.
The repeated references to waiting and the passage of time—“And time flies,” “Time goes away,” and “Life is fading with time”—highlight the existential theme of watching life slip away while waiting for someone or something that seems elusive. This adds a layer of urgency and resignation to the narrative, emphasising how time and inaction compound the protagonist’s sense of losing control.
Simpson’s use of the song’s repetitive structure mirrors the cyclical nature of anxiety and waiting, creating a hypnotic effect that draws the listener into the protagonist’s emotional landscape. The lyrics evoke a sense of longing and persistence despite the encroaching realisation of life’s impermanence and the fading of opportunities.
Overall, “Losing Control” captures the tension between the desire to regain command over one’s life and the inevitable drift of time, reflecting the universal experience of feeling adrift and waiting for change while grappling with the relentless passage of time.
- Artist: Carlos Simpson
- Album: Love Is The Secret
- ISRC UKXN21990443
- Released on: 2020-11-29
