Of all the additions to Portland in the last decade or so, I think I’m most fond of the aerial tram that connects the South Waterfront area to OHSU.  Sure, we didn’t know if we needed it, and it was an expensive and time-consuming project.  But now that we have it, isn’t it just COOL?  To say nothing of being fun to ride.  So this week’s song, “Aerial Tram (On The Top Of The World),” celebrates the tram.  Incidentally, if you know The Carpenters’ song “Top of the World,” you’ll know that this song is very closely modeled on it (dare I say stolen? -- let’s call it a homage).  Enjoy!

Lyrics:

Going to the Old Spaghetti Factory

On a one-hour lunch break from OHSU --

Well that used to be impossible,

But now it’s downright doable,

Just hop aboard they’ll have me down in a few.

I’m on the top of world lookin’ down on Portland,

Riding on the aerial tram.

Going up, coming down,

I can look across the town.

I’ll be there before you can say “Shazam.”

Suddenly commuting up to the hospitals

Doesn’t mean a car on old Terwilliger,

Now it’s a simple trip up on a wire,

Taking in the view as we go higher --

Makes me feel like a visual pillager.

I’m on the top of world lookin’ down on Portland,

Riding on the aerial tram.

There’s a swing when we pass the pillar,

Stay in your seats, ‘cause it’s a thriller,

And we’d hate for you to take a nasty slam.

Riding the tram, tram!

Riding on the aerial tram.

Riding the tram, tram!

Wham, bam, thank you, tram.

I’m on the top of world lookin’ down on Portland,

Riding on the aerial tram.

Riding on the aerial tram.

So whether you are working there or visiting,

There’s a better way to climb up Marquam Hill.

So bring the kids, the view is bliss.

We’ve Portland to thank (and of course, the Swiss)

For giving us this wonder that’s a thrill.

I’m on the top of world lookin’ down on Portland,

Riding on the aerial tram.

The South Waterfront is now connected

To a school that’s well-respected --

I’m proud to be in Portland, yes I am!

I’m on the top of world lookin’ down on Portland,

Riding on the aerial tram!