Music has always been the most natural part of me. Maybe I was too afraid to share what helped me escape, but that’s clearly not a concern anymore. I’m ecstatic and unconditionally proud of where we are today, and of each and every person who helped along the way. I have the utmost respect for all of you brilliant, humble, beautiful people. Love you guys. 　　 　　My musical influences… I don’t really know where to start. There are so many. Growing up, my parents didn’t especially like listening to current music. In short, my siblings and I probably knew more oldies at the age of 8 than the average 40 and 50 year olds. I loved anything from Marvin Gaye, Dionne Warwick, The Jackson 5 and Earth, Wind, and Fire to The Beatles, Chicago, Whitney Houston and just about everything in between. Around the time I was about 10, I had enough of only listening to oldies though. I sat in front of the computer and listened to every new song that I could find. Genre typically didn’t matter. The song’s feel is how I related. Some of my favorite current artists include Alicia Keys, John Legend, Boyz II Men, Coldplay, Beyonce, Adele, Sara Bareilles, Maroon 5, Marc Broussard, and James Morrison. 　　 　　My music is all about the energy. As you listen, the tension gradually transforms from inner turmoil to a peaceful certainty. Instead of being the one who needs the consoling, I managed to ground my head and my heart at least enough to have the strength to be a consoler. I strive for self-awareness, and one thing recurs as blatantly obvious to me: Music is medicine for my soul in the highest and lowest points of my life. 　　 　　Peace.