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Concert Reviews

Hip Hop Legend, Snoop Dogg, Fires up Sold-Out Crowd in Detroit

Long Beach Legend, Snoop Dogg, rolled into Detroit with his impassioned presence that carries out good vibes and positive energy to ring in a celebration at The Fillmore in Detroit. In honor of his latest full-length album release, ‘I Wanna Thank Me’, Snoop came through for a sold-out crowd that sang along to every note as he took hella tokes on stage. If you’re talking longevity in the game, one major part of Snoop’s claim to fame is his ability to dive into the past with diehard fans by playing tracks such as “Forgot About Dre”, “Lay Low” and “I Wanna Fuck You”.

As an entrepreneur and business mogul, Snoop Dogg has his hands in a variety of endeavors within the Cannabis world including his recent collaboration with Israel-based business, Seedo. Snoop has also ventured into the Vegan and plant-based world and has teamed up with Beyond Meat and Dunkin’ Donuts to roll-out his ‘Beyond D-O-Double G’ Sandwich. Grab tickets HERE to catch the Long Beach Legend, Snoop Dogg, along the remaining overseas dates on his ‘I Wanna Thank Me’ tour.

ALL PHOTO CREDIT: Jessica Golich

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Music Reviews

Indie Pop Singer, Sarah Schonert, Releases New Album: ‘Songs About Sounds’

Indie Pop Singer, Sarah Schonert, has released her deeply feminine and serene self-produced album, ‘Songs About Sounds’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “All This Noise”, Sarah eases listeners in with instrumentals that sound akin to Death Cab For Cutie as she creates an array of sound that meshes with the lyrical idea of the world being abounding with noise yet there is pleasure in stillness and silence. The second track, “Chamade”, lyrically addresses a relational conflict that has led to disconnection as Sarah attempts to slow down and face the friction. “The Sound of Falling Down” is the third track in which Sarah’s vocals come forward as a highlight through her delicacy that cunningly meshes with the lyrical trajectory that faces a period of indecision. The fourth track, “Not Swearing”, kicks it up a notch instrumentally as Sarah dabbles with a variety of sounds while tying in the piano which creates harmony in the mind of listeners. “Formular” is the fifth track which showcases Sarah’s production skills as she fluidly meshes a variety of instruments and Electronic sounds to create a slow dose and ooze of tranquility.

The sixth track, “Waffles Over Pancakes”, slows it down to metaphorically lyrically face the highs and lows that come through love as Sarah contemplates bringing forward what is truly resting on her heart. “Where Were You” is the eighth track in which Sarah lyrically tackles the inner conflict that she has faced while accepting the fact that another that she extended her hand for simply wasn’t there for her when she needed them. Closing out with “Oh Gretchen”, Sarah ends from a space of peace as a sonic landscape is brought forward with ease.

If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Tori Amos, Bat For Lashes and The Field then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Sarah Schonert on SoundCloud.

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Music Reviews

Russia Rock Band, Apache Rose, Release New Single – “Tiny Love”

Russia Rock Band, Apache Rose, lead listeners to flow fluidly into a state of ease throughout the release of their soul-infused new single, “Tiny Love”. Lacing feelings of lust throughout instrumentals that are abounding with spunk, Apache Rose is a band that is full of talented musicians that have come together for their genuine love for making music. Stemming from Moscow, “Tiny Love” is a track that is full of high energy that stems from their underground movement yet their lyricism focuses on utilizing the English language to attract further listeners in North America. The songwriting style by Lead Vocalist, Ilya Novokhatskiy, is simple yet precise and hits the nail on the head for the overall Rock niche that the band fits into.

Embodying the energetic and loose energy that the world of Rock needs, Apache Rose is a promising act that is bound to make their music spread far and wide throughout 2020. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Cage The Elephant, The Black Keys and Foster the People then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Apache Rose on SoundCloud.

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Interviews

Interview: A Hundred Drums

Denver-based Musician, A Hundred Drums, is an educator beyond the music and has used her ever-expanding skillset to aid in the development of fellow artists. In celebration of the upcoming February 14th, 2020 release of her self-titled album, I caught up with A Hundred Drums to discuss the importance of eating consciously, creating her original sound through going back to her roots, building a community and tribe through her music and more.

Congrats on the upcoming release of your new self-titled album. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout the release.

Thank you! I am really excited about it. My intention with this album is to finally share my own, original sound. I grew up listening to Jazz music. That was my mother’s jam. From there, I started playing instruments as a young kid. Clarinet, Saxophone, flute and of course, the drums. Drum kit, hand drums, and all top percussion. I want to infuse my background into what I love today, really creating my very own sound. Aside from my classical training, I fell in love with Deep Dubstep, reggae, and Psytrance. Put that together, you get… my album. 

Though a broad question, what have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through working with Gravitas Recordings?

I’d love to start off by saying, thank you to Gravitas Recordings for their continued support and believing in me and my music. One of the most significant pieces through this experience is really seeing what it’s like to work with such a strong team in a professional way. 

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time? 

With access to people’s lives at your fingertips, it’s easy to get lost in doubt and comparing ourselves to others. To curb this, I check in myself, have a drop in and take a moment to reflect.

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in. 

I take pride in the community that I surround myself with. Being around a tribe of other driven and motivating people that drive and motivate each other, circles back to feed the community. 

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus and explore throughout the new album, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

I believe food to be top of my list of ways to maintain my mental and physical health. Healthy body, healthy mind. I’m always happy when I get to cook one of my recipes from my HelloFresh boxes! 

If you could take yourself back to a time in which your mind, body, and spirit experienced pure bliss, where would you go? 

I mentioned earlier that my mother listened to Jazz music. I remember a time when we were driving in the car, and one of her favorite songs by Peter White came on. I played one of the parts on my Clarinet and nailed it. I remember her being happy…and remember being proud of myself. That sure is a moment I wouldn’t mind revisiting.

Header Photo Credit: Banana Cam Photo

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Presave A Hundred Drums New Self-Titled Album HERE and grab yourself a beanie while you’re at it—-Photo: Sean Snow

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Interviews

Interview: Lil Eddie

Puerto Rican Musical Guru, Lil Eddie, is as dynamic as it comes as his creative prowess ranges from hit-making Producer, 11x Grammy-Nominated Musician/Songwriter and more. The wide variety of genre-bending bangers that have Lil Eddie’s touch on them will astound you, and it is our pleasure to catch up with the man to discuss his roots growing up in NYC, the entire world being in the palm of our hands, overcoming poverty, adversity and more.

Let’s talk about the new video teaser that you posted about on your Instagram with that yellow drip on. What do we have to look forward to?

Ahhhhh maybe a dope video in Greece with the Acropolis in the backdrop! #GITANA

Let’s talk about your current life in New York. How do you balance the constant hustle of the city with ensuring to take some downtime to focus on your creative work?

I live in London and LA now but grew up in NYC, that city life is real! London is very similar to the city and commuting around the city. I say the creativity is inspired by my daily commute. The music is in the streets on the trains, busses, Uber rides everywhere we turn.

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?

I will say the feeling of loneliness. I’m a single man so sometimes the work takes all of me and I rarely get to do anything so love can’t come being trapped away which leads me to then tell myself that the music will get me to where I need to be, so I focus on that.

What is your perception of the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

We are in a very interesting time! Social media can have its cons but I see so many pros! The entire world is in the palm of our hands. We can reach further than ever at any given time. That alone is unbelievable.

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.

I take pride in being a Latino American! Overcoming poverty, adversity, a dysfunctional home and so many odds against me from being homeless and all! I believe my spiritual connection with the man; upstairs and respect for the powers of the universe that got me where I am.

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

I find it important to speak to people! Writing helps me, daily affirmations, searching for positivity is important for me! Keeping incredible people around not a lot of people but quality people! Lifers, lovers, preserving my energy and being conscious about who I share my energy with.

As a veteran in the game, what are some words of wisdom that you can share with fellow musicians attempting to follow in your footsteps?

I would say to the inspiring class of musicians that on the way up to never stop! Consistency is a big part of this race! Master your craft! Find the 25th hour of the day, 8th day in the week to devote to your art! Get in touch with your spirituality! Stay connected with the creator! For the universe hands out the rewards in life!

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!

Thank you all for supporting me on this journey! I hope I’m inspiring people in my art! Stay blessed and keep it locked with ya boy so much more music to come!

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Concert Reviews

Concert Review: FEVER 333 Enlivens the Crowd in Detroit

Rising Rockers, FEVER 333, have created a powerful movement through their artistry that is laced around equality and opportunity for all. Having built a following through spending sincere time with their fans and taking a stand for what’s right throughout society, FEVER 333 shut down the house in Detroit with a balls-to-the-wall performance that was full of passion. Running around and making his way into the crowd, Lead Vocalist, Jason Allen, gave everyone a run for their money as he was climbing rafters, jumping into mosh pits, letting fans sing their hearts out into the mic and more which left both media members and the crowd absolutely floored as to the performance that stood out from the roster for the night.

All Photo Credit: Jessica Golich

“People of all ages, different colors, beliefs, and genders. One of the most eclectic gatherings I have ever witnessed. And they seem to be here in the name of progress for all people.” – FEVER 333

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Interviews

Interview: Desert Dwellers

Tribal House Duo, Desert Dwellers, continue to invite long-time listeners into their world of eccentricity and meaning that is expressed through their artistry. I caught up with Amani and Treavor for a great chat about the meaning behind their latest release, ‘Breath Reimagined Vol. 1’, the spiritual connection that naturally stems through listening to Desert Dwellers, returning to a space of gratitude within, eating healthy and mindfully on the road and more.

Congrats on the release of ‘Breath Reimagined Vol. 1’. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout this release.

We aimed to bring a message of unification, by collaborating with producers from many various countries and parts of the world, and also producers working in a diverse range of downtempo and psychedelic chill out influences as well. The 14 remixes run the spectrum from ambient dub to haltime to glitch to psy bass, yet all the offerings work together in unity, creating a dynamic journey for the listener. We also have 3 volumes of Breath remixes planned, the 2nd release are re-imagined into Slow BPM House and Electronica styles feat artists like Coss & Iorie, Rapossa and Luca Bacchetti. The 3rd and final one is uptempo Deep/Progressive House versions by the likes of Djuma Soundsystem, D-Nox and Uone to name a few.

Listeners of Desert Dwellers commonly are able to further tune into their spiritual nature through engaging deeply with your music. Tell us about your spiritual connection with your artistry. 

We really admire the power that sound and music has to transport the listener and help them find a sense of calm. This innate and mysterious power of music has been a cross-cultural phenomenon for eons and It goes beyond language or borders. We often create journey-focused soundscapes that dissolve the everyday stresses of life and helps people access the core feelings of gratitude, compassion, love, and peace. The world needs people focusing on these qualities now more than ever. 

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time? 

We are living in interesting times. What is happening on the planet both politically and environmentally is deeply disturbing and creates a lot of anxiety and fear for the future. Deep down we wish we could do something more, to change these events somehow with our actions. To do better. Yet we feel stuck like we are living in a nightmare that is a result of human greed and over consumption. It’s pretty difficult to overcome these feelings and what’s happening without ignoring them or self medicating. The best we can do is to keep finding inner peace and sending love to all our connections, and to keep trying our best in whatever small way we can to make an impact in people’s lives and to help the world right now. This time is “all hands on deck” as Paul Stamets has said. Instead of feeling despair, start each day by coming back to what we are grateful for and expanding from that place to help other beings and the planet in some way. 

What is your perception of the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

The digital network tools are not inherently good or bad, they are just tools. We all have a choice in how we want to use them, to create unity and community, or create division and separation. We truly live in an amazing time, and being able to connect with people all over the world like this is unprecedented. Personally we utilize the power of connection to create new and interesting music projects and collaborations, and we certainly wouldn’t be able to do what we do without these tools. But like everyone, we often feel the isolation and lack of human connections as we edge further into this virtual hive mind. Collectively, we are both losing and gaining at the same time, and we need to be aware of that as we continue to move forward. 

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in. 

Aspects of us other than music? Let us get back to you on that!

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

Neither of us drink alcohol which we believe plays a big role in our mental and emotional health. We try to eat as healthy as possible and get as much sleep as possible too. It’s not always easy, and we go through ups and downs, but that’s really the jist of it. Oh, and a good sense of humor helps us a lot too!

If you could trade existences with your favorite cartoon character growing up, who would you choose and why? 

Maybe the Road Runner, because he gets to run free in the desert and always escapes harm’s way! He’s also the state bird of New Mexico where Amani grew up and Treavor has spent a lot of time as well.  

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?

We are forever grateful to have this opportunity and to have so much support from our devoted fans, to be able to do what we do, and to travel around the world sharing our music! we will keep on going as long as you all keep dancing with us! Live in love. 

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Concert Reviews

Rock Powerhouse, Halestorm, Tears Down the Roof in Detroit

Rock Powerhouse, Halestorm, took Detroit by storm with a performance that created a memory of a lifetime within diehard fans that stood outside in the cold to catch a glimpse of Lzzy Hale and the gang. As one of the leading and most prominent Rock bands of the past decades, Halestorm has ingrained their ‘Vicious’ energy into the legendary ranks with tracks such as “Uncomfortable”, “Do Not Disturb”, “Freak Like Me”, “Amen” and “Here’s To Us”. Co-headlining with In This Moment for a balls-to-the-wall fury of female Metal, Lzzy Hale’s energy is palpable and can uplift any room as her vocals soar and created a widespread mosh pit of frenzied Halestorm freaks.

Catch Halestorm along one of their remaining USA dates and grab tickets HERE while you still can.

All Photo Credit: Jessica Golich

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Adult Contemporary Artist, Rob Alexander, Releases New Album: ‘Being Myself’

Adult Contemporary Musician, Rob Alexander, laces his South Florida style and smooth approach throughout his latest full-length release, ‘Being Myself’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “This Hollywood Road”, Rob lyrically travels down the road of highs and lows that naturally comes through working in the music industry as instrumentals that are upbeat and fun uplift listeners with a sense of freedom. The second and title track, “Being Myself”, highlights Rob’s deep vocals that carry immense depth as he lyrically takes a deep look into himself to find pieces of wealth beyond the shield of materialism. “We Own This Town Tonight” is the third track which instantly mimics the likes of Elton John as Rob lyrically talks about a fun night out on the town where freedom reigns and innocence is at the peak of his interests. The fourth track, “Life as We Know It”, slows it down into a smooth expression of reflection as the piano gently soothes the senses of listeners who are enamored by Rob’s charm. “Never Gonna Let You Go” is the fifth track that instantly mimics the likes of Tears for Fears and swiftly shifts into a slow balled that is abounding with lyricism that is laced with feelings of love and longing for a friendship that is gone too soon. The sixth track, “Friend Of Mine (Elton’s Epic)”, is an uncanny dose of lyricism that speaks of the memories that Rob carries with him as he gently mourns the passing of someone near and dear.

The eighth track, “We’re Living in a Dream”, picks up the pace and takes listeners back to a space of contemplation as Rob lightens the mood with lyricism that highlights the importance of living in the present. “Fed Up” is the ninth track which begins with a smooth guitar gently pouring forward serenity as Rob lyrically travels down the path of frustration. “American Love Song” is the tenth track which sends an ode of strength into the hearts of listeners as Rob speaks of the peace that he attempts to find within the death of his dear friend. The eleventh track, “I-O-U”, showcases Rob’s dynamic approach as he revs up the mood with a sultry instrumental groove that is appealing to a variety of listeners both young and seasoned. “Another Love Affair” is the twelfth track which lyrically highlights Rob’s perspective on love swiftly shifting as he aches for a more firm and settling experience of romance. The thirteenth track, “Secrets & Lies”, lyrically approaches lust with an open mind as lines such as “catering to sinners” reminds listeners that Rob is a bundle of soul that won’t settle for a dull and cold fling. Closing out with “Loved By You”, Rob ends with charm and grace as he lyrically welcomes love into his life with open arms even though one single experience didn’t work out the way the two thought it would.

If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Elton John, Billy Joel and Rod Stewart then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Rob Alexander on Apple Music.

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Interviews

Interview: Beware of Darkness

Los Angeles Musician, Beware of Darkness, is on an uncanny human journey that aids in providing both wisdom and a sense of lightness that overcomes his fans with joy. I caught up with Kyle for an in-depth conversation about spiritual practices that have aided in him finding peace within, growing and shifting perspectives through the ever-changing tide of social media, the release of “Bloodlines” and more.

Congrats on the upcoming release of your new single, “Bloodlines”‘. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout the new track.

It’s just a simple and fun song about sticking together with someone you care about, whether that’s a friend, family member, loved one, or even yourself. There are some subtle undertones that humans and civilization are destroying the planet and if we’re going to change anything we need to rethink capitalization and raise human consciousness, but other than that it’s a cute song to play at family barbecues.

Though a broad question, what have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through working in the music industry.

I think that most unexpected and profound thing I’ve learned from the hardships, let downs, pain, devastations, collapse, emotional abuse, and violent uncertainty of the music industry is that I am spiritual being. All these emotions and energies had to be dealt with in some way, and I was lucky enough to know my body couldn’t handle drinking or drugs so all these uncomfortable situations and “failures” in the music industry led me down a spiritual path of meditation, Zen and Buddhism, yoga, and plant therapy. Thank you for asking this, because it’s the first time I’ve put these two things together. It’s almost like all the pain alchemized and became purpose. I’m now seeing a spiritual practice as a wild and unexpected fruit borne of songwriting. Working in the music industry has been a master class in how to listen to yourself and how to handle yourself when everything is falling apart and everyone is selling you a different way forward. I think it’s also taught me how to be resilient, how to have grit, how to be smile in the face of madness, how to deal with change, trust your gut, and especially how to handle uncertainty. I’ve also dealt with just the most ridiculous stunningly absurd bullshit, which has also been a blessing, because it’s helped me remain a calm frivolity in the day to days of life. 

Photo Credit: Scott Schumaker

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time? 

The most challenging thought I’ve ever faced is one that simply says, “Kill yourself”. It doesn’t scream or shout, it just appears there with the same banal tone as someone asking “Can you pass the butter knife?” It was present with blaring frequency that past 2-3 years of my life, every day, often multiple times a day. It was the first thought when I woke up, last when I went to sleep. It appeared as I was pouring coffee, between chattarangas in yoga class, during sex, subconsciously in every lyric I wrote, and it slipped between every heartbeat, became of part of me and it wrecked me. It added so much more weight to my already present depression and made it life unbearable. That one single thought, I’d compound with guilt, shame, fear, anger, until it became this daily depression tornado of death,  and I didn’t know what to do with it. Thank god, this year I found therapy, anti-depressants, mindfulness meditation, and ayahuasca, which have all help me sit with that thought, get to the actual root of the thought and problem, and now if and when it comes, I can almost befriend it. Now when it comes, I recognize it is only a thought, and I don’t need to label it good or bad, or do anything with it really. I found that when I gave it space, and asked simple questions like, “Who are you? Do I have any control over you? Why are you here?” Its power and grip over my life loosens, and now it barely comes and when it does I treat it like an old friend, and ask, “What can you teach me today? Why are you here?”

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

I have a lot of feelings and opinions on it. I understand how great social media can be if you are capable of mindfully using it in a healthy way, but I also understand how damaging it can be and how it can wreck your moods or life. I think you have to be very, very, awake and aware to use it in a positive way.

First off, realize that companies build these apps to be as addictive as possible to keep us logged in 24/7. It’s as if we were all handed these 24/7 casinos in our pockets, developers spend billions of dollars on studying how the human brain works to make them as enticing and addictive as possible, finding out what sets off our dopamine receptors in the quickest possible way, while making it so easy and as immediately satisfying for you to gamble all the time, and they smile and say, “Go ahead, just play one hand.” And you, you’re a nun who’s never stepped inside a casino and has never heard of gambling addiction. How do you win? This is what I don’t think most people understand yet. I am aghast when I see small children glued to devices. The CEOs of some of the biggest tech companies have recently come out saying, “We don’t give these devices to our kids because we realize the detrimental effect they have.” You have a classic case of the dealer selling drugs but not using.

We don’t need access to ANYTHING 24/7, and we don’t need Facebook on all 6 devices we own, so I think self-imposed limits and restrictions is key. I also think social media is a mirror. It shows you exactly who you are. I do like that part. If scrolling through and seeing someone else’s “happiness” makes you feel bad about yourself, you now know you have self esteem issues to work on. You can blame social media for wrecking the world or you can take responsibility for yourself, how it makes you feel, and change your habits. Instagram doesn’t care if it makes you feel terrible about your life or gives you low self esteem no matter how many hours you give it, or how many followers you have. Self-awareness is key. Be honest with yourself and how it makes you truly feel, then adjust. Unfollow anyone who doesn’t bring you joy. I also think a lot of social media is theatre. It’s people showing the world who they want to be, instead of who they actually are, and I don’t think that’s healthy.

Years ago, I was asked to played a beauty launch at what was rumored to be David Lynch’s mansion. There were around a 100 people there, and every single room had a photo booth in it. No one talked to each other, everyone looked sullen, and they’d walk into a room to take a content photo, and when the camera was up they’d put up the “I’m having the time of my life with all my friends” face, and when the photo was done they went back to being lifeless drones, and would repeat that throughout the night. I thought, oh my god, it’s all smoke and mirrors. It’s all bullshit. Social media is about sacrificing real experience you can give the illusion to a stranger of an experience. 

I think of the girl in the Midwest who looks up to these “influencers.” She doesn’t see the makeup, professional cameras and lightening, touch up and edits, and the overall isolation in the room. She just sees someone having fun and will probably compare how lame her life with how glamorous their lives are. And it’s all bullshit.

For years, I was addicted to social media.  I let it wreck my moods, ruin my self worth, and hurt me. I was on it all the time, thinking it mattered. I hated it, and I’d use it and feel terrible about myself. It wasn’t until an ayahuasca journey where I truly saw how it made me feel, and was able to have the clarity to become free of the addiction, and now it’s something I can enjoy. I took immediate change and put all my social media on an iPad that never leaves the house and I’ve never been happier. 

Photo Credit: Nick Smalls

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in. 

I love reading books. This year I started reading through Don DeLillo’s books. Mao II was spectacular. I’m now pouring through Tom Robbins entire collection. A friend recommended Still Life with Woodpecker and it floored me. I’ve never read anything like it.

I am a diehard Nintendo and video game fan. I love been taken to other worlds and living inside their stories for a while. Some of my favorite games are Breath of The Wild, Sonic Adventure 2, Ocarina of Time, Fire Emblem Awakening, Skyrim: Elder Scrolls.

When the band was falling apart in 2016 I clumsily started a daily yoga practice, because it was the only thing that reduced my depression and anxiety at the time. I’d show not knowing how to do any of the poses, not doing anything right, but kept at it, and over the past 3 years, yoga has blossomed into one my life’s passions. I did a 200 RYT teacher training and became a certified teacher. To this day it’s so much more than a physical practice but has become a way of life for me.

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

Well the short story is I didn’t. I got high. I got depressed and suicidal. I broke down. I developed such an uncontrollable anger problem that my own band and crew were afraid of me, afraid to go near me or confront me. When we toured with the Smashing Pumpkins I took so much anger on stage, their tour manager forcibly grabbed me after our set, and said, “What the hell are you doing? You’re gonna kill yourself, and it’s not helping anyone.” It was a lesson I had to learn the hard way, and it took me years. 

Here’s my advice:

Make taking care of your mental and emotional health a priority whether you’re touring or not. Reminds of the quote by Bruce Lee, “I’d rather be a warrior in a garden, than a Gardner in a war.” I’d suggest meditation, yoga, eating right, exercise, being sober(especially on the road), finding a therapist, and making sure you have an attitude of gratitude, and have the right perspective. There will be hard days no matter what your job is, and just remember every single day how much of a blessing and miracle it is that you are a musician on the road.  It doesn’t matter whether your crowds are 3 or 3,000 people. For years, I have been pre-buying my food for tours so I can ensure I’m eating healthy on the road. It’s also much, much cheaper.  Also if you need to stop, stop, because no amount of followers, fame, or success is worth your mental health and well being. 

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way. 

Treat people well.  I mean everyone. You’d be horrified to know how many of your favorite bands treat their members and crew like disposable pieces to a financial puzzle instead of real humans. Some of the stories are shocking and heartbreaking. People don’t want to help you if you’re a dick, and its marvelous how much the world will open up to you if you’re kind. I just ask you, “What kind of legacy do you want to build? What do you want people to say about you?” How about you make every show, every night the best experience for everyone involved; fans, promoters, bands, local hands? My dream is to build an empire on kindness and treating people well, curating an environment that is healthy and nourishing where everyone wins.

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?

I deeply and truly love and care about my fans as people. I want to make them happy, to see them win, I want to give them the best experience possible, and want you to know I’m on your side, on your team, and I support you.

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