There must be something in the air regarding music, conversation, and community. As a singer / songwriter who has struggled with anxiety and depression all my life, I recently came to realize that the answer for me is in community, that healing happens in community.
Music is a vital part of community building, and in helping others know they are not alone when they connect through a musical experience.
I recently decided to devote my songwriting to inspiring others, and to helping artists and musicians make meaning in their lives. Anxiety and depression have been the major barrier for me in so many aspects of my life, preventing me from living the life I truly want to live. So I’m putting my own music out there onto YouTube at last — having performed quite a few covers in the past year, with which I’m quite comfortable. I’ve performed on stage for years as the front man for cover bands. But what I really wanted to do is write, tell stories, and inspire others.
Putting my own work out there was (and sometimes still is) terrifying for me. I’ve been fortunate, after quite a financial tumble a few years ago, to wind up in a little town (Morganton, NC) where music is a significant part of our lives. I’ve made wonderful friends, found my “tribe” of singer-songwriters, and have found healing as a result.
I thought I’d share a song with you I wrote last week, “1000 Pound Guitar.” It came to me whole as I was driving home from a visit with a couple of friends, and I wrote it out as soon as I got home.
If it serves, please feel free to share it with musicians and artists you know who suffer from anxiety and depression. They may see themselves in the story, and know they are not alone.
I’ll be releasing more videos of all my material, as they’re all in some way about standing up in the midst of adversity and fear. I haven’t the slightest idea where this will all lead me, but I know I can no longer be silent. Silence kills.
Healing happens in community.