Boothbay area author and now songwriter Skip Simonds has released his second original music album, "Walking on Water."

Simonds, best known locally as a published science fiction author, began writing and recording original music in retirement. Since then, music has become an increasingly important part of his creative life. His first album, "Get Outta the Boat," was well received.  Simonds reported there were even overseas sales: one copy of his album was downloaded in India and another in Australia.

“I guess that makes me an international recording artist!” Simonds laughed.

The new album,"Walking on Water," is a collection of original songs that mixes humor, reflection, relationships, and the accumulated wisdom that comes from having lived a while.

“I’m 78, so it’s tempting to write about aging. I’ve tried to resist that,” Simonds said. “I’m writing about being alive. I just happen to have a lot more material to work with than someone in their 20s.”

The album ranges from tender and introspective to decidedly irreverent.  One of the more unusual tracks is “I Still Got It,” which Simonds playfully describes as his contribution to a new musical genre: “old guy rap.”

Another, “I Know You”, a love song to his wife, was recently performed live for the first time at the Afternoon Concert at Southport Methodist Church. Simonds credits much of his musical development to his wife, Betsey deGroff, a voice teacher and singer who has been both a musical influence and a strong supporter of his songwriting.

“Am I the next Sinatra or James Taylor?  Heck, no,” Simonds said. “But people seem to like the music and I’m having fun writing and performing it.  At this point in life, that seems like two pretty good reasons to keep doing something.”

"Walking on Water" is available on major streaming platforms like Spotify, AppleMusic, and Pandora.  The album is available for download online at the iTunes store and other sites.  Physical CDs are available for purchase directly from Simonds.  Email skip.music25@gmail.com for ordering information.

Free preview clips of both his albums are available at skipsimonds.hearnow.com/walking-on-water.