Stephen the Younger

I grew up in music. There was always music in our home, and we all played and sang in the church my father pastored. I started playing “the circuit” when I was 15. I was well acquainted with nearly every dive-bar and punk rock club in the northeast by the time I graduated high-school. I was always chasing something. Blues guitarist, punk singer, folk songwriter, hip hop producer, whatever the flavor of the month was at the time. It’s all a little embarrassing now, and I often shy away from conversations about it. The truth is, when I was a young man I was so determined to follow my own desires. Several times it felt like doors would open, only to be slammed shut as soon as I took a step towards them. Music became something that consumed me, and took focus from my what should have been my priorities. It became an enemy. 6 years ago, I put it down and honestly felt I’d never touch it again. I did everything I could to scrub my small existence as a musician from the world and leave no trace behind. I felt it only brought hurt and I couldn’t ever really balance what it meant to be a musician and a husband. Looking back, I wonder what it was God was protecting me from. Or maybe He just wanted to make way for me to become the husband, father, and man He wanted me to be. I’m grateful for the time He’s given me to grow and I wouldn’t trade a single day of the past 6 years for even a second of notoriety. I recently began writing again. It’s become a type of therapy. An outlet where I can explore my faith, pain, joy, and relationships. I’m going to start sharing more of these songs with you. My hope is that these songs might resonate with someone, and make them feel there are other broken people looking for answers, hope, and inspiration too. All Love, Stephen Psalm 150 💃🏻