Borrowed Glory

Music became woven into the fabric of my life, early. I was eight years old when given the privilege of learning to read music. By fourteen, I had learned my way around five instruments—guitar, bass, accordion, trumpet and baritone. 

There were marching bands and school orchestras, rock bands and gospel bands, rehearsals in forgotten rooms and performances beneath bright lights. There were songs written late at night, melodies discovered almost by accident, recording studios, stages, churches and more miles than I can remember. Through it all, I wrote and recorded my own music, always chasing that elusive moment when words and melody somehow become more than either could ever be alone.

There is no complicated reason for choosing these, specific songs. I chose them simply because, in one way or another, they move me. They have followed me home. They have lingered after the last note faded. Some stirred memories, some awakened old emotions and some reached into those quiet places where music becomes something like prayer.

I call this collection, my first recording of “covers,” Borrowed Glory.

So, for a little while, I will borrow their words, borrow their melodies and borrow a little of their glory. The music tracks are completed, the vocal work has started. First tracks are anticipated by December 1, 2026.

          • Tower of Song
          • Waiting for My Real Life to Begin
          • It’s Probably Me
          • If I Should Fall Behind
          • Shakey Ground
          • Bad as I Used to Be
          • Shelter Me
          • Ain’t No Grave
          • Superstition

HOME BEFORE MIDNIGHT, LLC | PUBLISHING
Cleveland, Ohio

Books · Articles and Essays · Music and Lyrics · Contact
© 2026 Home Before Midnight, LLC / Joe Markko. All rights reserved.