Mandalgov by Mornin'

I find myself singing a lot here in Mongolia, especially when doing chores. Washing the dishes, wiping down the table, hanging laundry, all tasks which seem to call for a song (I've found this doesn't translate to outside chores because the cold chokes off your voice within the first few words).

My playlist at the moment generally consists of songs about home (like "Songs About Texas" by Pat Green), songs of inspiration ("Don't Stop Believin'" Journey), or songs that have made the playlist through sheer winter-time, cabin fever, The Shining style insanity ("I Don't Wanna Wait" Paula Cole).

The other night I was singing a classic song, "Amarillo by Mornin'" by George Strait when I was inspired to imitate the great John Russell and adapt a classic about the homeland into a Mongolian hit. I call it, "Mandalgov by Morning."

Mandalgov by mornin', up through Omnogov
Everything that I've got, I burned in my stove
Well the sun'll be high in that Gobi sky, and I'll be hiding in my ger
Mandalgov by mornin', Mandalgov I'll be there

They took my wallet in UB, broke my shades in Uliastay
Lost my bag and a cell phone, somewhere along the way
The mikr's supposed to leave at 8, but I know they'll be late
And I'm hoping that driver ain't blind
Mandalgov by mornin', Mandalgov is on my mind

Mandalgov by mornin', up through Omnogov
Everything that I've got, I burned in my stove
Well, I'm monggui, but I've got all I need
I ain't rich, but lord I'm free
Mandalgov by mornin', Mandalgov's where I'll be
Mandalgov by mornin', Mandalgov's where I'll be

Mongolian Billboard Top 40 anyone? I think so.