Canadian chanteuse Christina Martin releases her poignant new single Golden Tears, born from the heartfelt United Way Halifax’s Songs of the City initiative. The project pairs songwriters with local storytellers to transform lived experiences into original music. Written in an afternoon after being introduced to one woman’s deeply moving story of grief, transformation, and resilience, the song captures the profound beauty that can emerge from pain. “When I heard JoAnn’s story, the song came in an afternoon,” shares Martin.
A true Atlantic Canadian collaboration, produced by Dale Murray in Port Howe, NS, the track features vocals on the chorus from Jessica Rhaye, one of Martin’s favourite Canadian singer-songwriters. Martin’s impactful lyrics and striking vocals are elevated by a stellar lineup: Dale Murray (electric guitar, bass, pedal steel, backing vocals), Emily Kennedy (string arrangement, violins, cello), Mark Kleyn (viola), and Hannah Melanson (piano). Mastering was done by John McLaggan at Parachute Mastering.
At the heart of Golden Tears is the role of the Elizabeth Fry Society of Mainland Nova Scotia, whose programs provide dignity and compassion for women navigating the justice system. This song is a tribute to that transformation — and to the people who walk alongside others through their darkest moments,” says Martin.
With soaring vocals, evocative strings, and emotional depth, Golden Tears is both a balm and a beacon. “Whether you’ve known deep loss, or simply needed a friend to hold your hand through a tough chapter, I hope this song resonates,” says Christina.
lyrics
Golden Tears
Verse 1
Elizabeth, you held my hand when I got the call
Though I am scared, I’ve got friends who will soften my fall
There’s faith from you showing me how to be loving
We’ve worked hard on this
I’m grateful for knowing
Your kindness is glowing — I know I’m blessed
Verse 2
I could have used you, Elizabeth, when I lost my child
Pain drove my way fast, told me he’d love me for miles
I turned to a stranger I promised myself I’d avoid
Damaged my family, myself, my whole precious world
Chorus
When I cry, they are golden tears
Over my scars, mending the years
When I cry, I cry golden tears
Verse 3
Elizabeth, we’ve come a long way — now I see the light
You’ve helped me grow wings, with a plan I’ll continue to fly
I’ll question the things that don’t feel right inside of my heart
Challenge the negative thoughts, I’ll hold on to good parts
Chorus
When I cry, they are golden tears
Over my scars, mending the years
When I cry, I cry golden tears
When I cry, I cry golden tears
Instrumental break
Chorus
When I cry, they are golden tears
Over my scars, mending the years
When I cry, I cry golden tears
When I cry, they are golden tears
Heartbreak to love, mending the years
When I cry, I cry golden tears
When I cry, I cry golden tears
credits
Backing Vocals – Dale Murray, Jessica Rhaye
Bass Guitar – Dale Murray
Electric Guitar – Dale Murray
Engineering, Mixing, Production – Dale Murray
Lead Vocals – Christina Martin
Mastering – Parachute Mastering
Pedal Steel – Dale Murray
Piano – Hannah Melanson
String Arrangement, Violins, Cello – Emily Kennedy
Viola – Mark Kleyn
