Don, I appreciate the comments. In my mind the notes are flying and free, but when they come out my mouth they are grounded and hindered . I worked with a vocal teacher for a period, so I know that I need to refrain from going outside of my range, but like the old song says "..momma always told me not to look into the eye of the sun, but momma, that's where the fun is".

The songs melody, when song straight in the key of C, goes from an A up over an octave to a D. I feel I am comfortable with that range and I don't think I strained when I sung it straight (the first time through) - which is what my vocal couch would tell me to do. But, when she is not listening I want to push the boundaries. In the second time through at the end of the song, I do venture up to an E and then to even an F. While I think I tend to hit it, I do admit it sounds strained! ugh! Lowering the key is not an option as the bass note becomes too low for me (at least I think so. I should probably try this).

Thanks again, of course all comments are welcome.