When Words Fail...Music Speaks

In today’s episode, host James Cox sits down with Chicago‑born jazz virtuoso Brian Culbertson – a multi‑instrumentalist, composer, producer, and the man behind the acclaimed album “Day Trip.”From Brian’s early days tinkering on piano at eight, picking up trombone in the school band, and discovering the magic of a home studio at twelve, to his modern‑day workflow that blends live horns, synth‑laden beats, and the Output Arcade plug‑in that sparked the track “Sandcastles,” the conversation drifts through:The instrument journey: why piano became his songwriting hub, how drums shaped his groove sense, and the challenge of playing piano passages that push his limits.Music theory & learning: a down‑to‑earth take on why theory is “baby steps” and how a good teacher can make it approachable for anyone.Creative influences: everything from Earth, Wind & Fire and Tower of Power to classical, EDM, Mongolian metal (The Hu) and dark hip‑hop—showing how eclectic listening fuels fresh ideas.Production vs. performance: why the studio feels like home, the painstaking process of polishing a record, and the tricks he uses to translate studio vibes to a live stage.The “Day Trip” story: how nine songs were written in just four days with co‑writer Nicholas Cole, and the emotional contrast between rapid bursts of inspiration and years‑long labors of love.Beyond the music: Brian’s passion for wine, the creation of his signature blends, the Napa Valley Jazz Getaway he co‑hosts, and the balance of artistry with entrepreneurship.Get ready for a deep dive into a musician’s mindset, a handful of quirky anecdotes (no secret studio rituals—just a shower and a good vibe), and plenty of tips for anyone who dreams of turning a musical spark into a polished record.Press play, lean back, and let the conversation remind you why, when words fall short, music always finds a way to speak.

Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Speaks, the show that explores how music can lift us out of depression, anxiety, and everyday struggles. In today’s episode, host James Cox—your “professional handicapped” guide to the power of sound—sits down with Grammy‑winning arranger, composer, and multi‑instrumentalist Fletch Wiley.We dive deep into Fletch’s remarkable story: a childhood trumpeter from Seattle who chased his dream to the University of North Texas, survived a battle with drugs, found a life‑changing conversion to Christianity in 1971, and has since devoted his talent to ministry, touring the world with his wife under the Heart and Art initiative.From the nuts‑and‑bolts of jazz—Fletch’s recommendations for newcomers (Chuck Mangione, Kirk Whalum, Chris Bodie) and his take on the “all‑wrong‑notes” myth—to the art of arranging across genres (worship, film scoring, children’s music, theater, and big‑band projects), the conversation reveals why he believes jazz is “the highest form of music” because it demands real‑time improvisation, listening, and technical mastery.Listeners will also get practical tips for getting into jazz, a behind‑the‑scenes look at his global benefit concerts (Turkey, Egypt, Albania, Nigeria, South Africa), and a few lightning‑round fun facts that showcase his personality—favorite coffee, dream super‑band lineup, the instrument that would complain the most, and the single piece that moves his soul (Beethoven’s 2nd Movement of the 7th Symphony).Whether you’re a seasoned jazz aficionado, a country‑music lover, or simply searching for the therapeutic resonance of melody, this episode offers inspiration, humor, and a heartfelt reminder that music really does speak—and can heal. Tune in, settle in, and let Fletch Wiley’s story and wisdom harmonize with your own journey.

Welcome back to When Words Fail, Music Speaks, the show that explores how music can lift us out of the valleys of depression and anxiety and into brighter emotional terrain. In today’s episode, host James sits down with pianist, composer, educator, and prolific writer Kurt Ellenberger for a deep‑dive into the world of jazz, its pedagogy, and its power to heal.We’ll hear Kurt recount his path from a performing career in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to a long‑standing faculty role at Grand Valley State University where he teaches everything from “Jazz in the Culture” to a beloved interdisciplinary course, “Music, Culture, and Aesthetics.” He shares practical advice for newcomers who feel intimidated by jazz—starting with the universally‑accessible Miles Davis classic Kind of Blue—and explains why jazz demands full, focused listening in the way classical music does, unlike the background‑friendly nature of pop or country.Kurt also opens up about his parallel life as a writer and managing editor of the Journal of the International Association of Jazz Educators. From a blog that caught the eye of the Huffington Post to a series of essays that demystify everything from why Christmas music feels “jazzy” to the emotional weight of minor chords, his mission is simple: turn scholarly insight into stories anyone can enjoy.We’ll explore how jazz varies across continents, why European and Australian approaches sound distinct yet remain unmistakably jazz, and why the genre is less a fixed style and more an improvisational mindset. Kurt even reveals a surprising non‑musical talent—his knack for home‑repair and hammer‑work—that keeps him grounded when the academic world gets heavy.Finally, we close with Kurt’s personal “Rushmore” of musical heroes—Genesis, pianist John Taylor, composer Paul Hindemith, and David Bowie—plus a secret, deeply moving piece that leaves him speechless every time he hears it.If you’ve ever wondered how to get into jazz, why it’s sometimes dismissed as “wrong notes,” or simply want a heartfelt conversation about music’s therapeutic power, you’re in the right place. Grab your headphones, set aside the background noise, and let’s tune into the conversation that proves—once again—when words fail, music truly speaks.

Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Streaks, the podcast where we battle depression with the transformative power of music. I’m your host, James Cox—your “handicapped” guide through the stories that keep us moving when life gets heavy.In today’s episode we sit down with award‑winning writer, filmmaker, playwright, and cultural documentarian Alan Govnar (who kindly corrects us on the title of his newest novel, Come Round Right). Alan’s career spans more than three decades of preserving the music of everyday people: from his landmark 1984 Living Texas Blues project for the Dallas Museum of Art, to an intimate portrait of blues scene in Deepum, to his groundbreaking documentaries that put disability‑rights narratives front‑and‑center.We’ll explore hotly debated questions like: Where did the blues really begin? — Texas, the Mississippi Delta, or Memphis? — and hear Alan’s compelling argument that blues emerged from the African diaspora and found early written references in Texas.Beyond blues, Alan reveals how his personal hearing of Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Parker, and New Orleans R&B as a four‑year‑old sparked a lifelong quest to document music that speaks to the soul, no matter how “un‑virtuosic” it may seem. His stories range from a hunchback dwarf tattoo artist in a wheelchair to the polio‑stricken African drummer Siddiqui Conde, whose student Aaron Phillips (now a trans Vogue cover model) turned a Tumblr following into the inspiring memoir This Kid Can Fly.We’ll also get a sneak peek at Alan’s newest feature, Quiet Voices in a Noisy World: The Struggle for Change in Jasper, Texas, premiering at Cinema Village in New York this November—a powerful look at a community healing from the trauma of a 1998 lynching.If you’re a fan of music history, social justice, or simply crave stories that turn hardship into hope stay tuned. Grab your headphones, let the rhythm lift you, and get ready for a conversation that proves music can indeed speak louder than depression. 🎙️✨

Welcome back to When Words Fail, Music Speaks – the podcast that battles depression one riff at a time. In today’s episode, host James Cox sits down with the charismatic front‑man of the 80s‑metal‑infused outfit All Singers (aka Mike Golarz) for a deep‑dive into the healing power of music, the quirks of self‑teaching, and the raw joy of live performance.We kick off with Mike’s origin story: a childhood of backyard jam sessions, a classically trained girlfriend who nudged his vocal chops, and a love‑letter to the acoustic guitar that still shapes his songwriting today. He shares practical tips for aspiring guitarists—why Tom Petty’s simple chords are the perfect launchpad, how to survive sore fingertips, and the surprisingly effective “belly‑rub” superstition he uses to keep his airflow in check while recording.From there, we trace the band’s unlikely formation during the pandemic—how an 80s hair‑metal cover group morphed into All Singers, the serendipitous connections that landed them opening for legends like Ace Frehley, L.A. Guns, Queensryche, and even two versions of Queensryche. Mike reflects on the thrill of sharing the stage with his childhood heroes and the humility that keeps those icons grounded.The conversation then shifts to their upcoming record “We Own the Night,” slated for a November 14, 2025 release, and the quirky rituals that fuel Mike’s creative process. He also reveals his “unskippable” album list — from Soundgarden’s Bad Motorfinger to James' pick "Black Sabbath’s Dehumanizer" — and the one record that still moves him to tears: Stevie Ray Vaughan’s Texas Flood.Whether you’re a budding musician, a metalhead, or simply seeking a soundtrack for life’s ups and downs, this episode delivers a hearty mix of humor, honesty, and hard‑earned wisdom. Grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and let the music speak. 🎸✨

Hey there, music lovers! I’m your host, James Cox, a professional therapist who’s also a bit of a country‑music junkie. In this episode, we’re diving deep into how songs can lift us out of the darkest moments and bring sunshine into our everyday lives.We’re thrilled to welcome Re Mattei, a breakout country artist who’s already turning heads on the road and in the studio. From playing legends’ covers to writing heartfelt originals like “Mama Always Knows,” Re shares:How she used music as a lifeline during her own bouts of depressionThe magic of touring in Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, and the U.S. military bases—where a simple “Elvis” concert can feel like a hometown eventThe story behind her latest love‑for‑moms anthem and the emotional truth behind a song dropped a day before Mother’s DayThe everyday rituals that keep her creative birds flying—think acoustic guitar, a red Buckees cup, and a dash of “coffee at the kitchen table” vibe—plus what her guitar would say if it could talkHer upcoming album, set for a March drop, and the careful, soul‑searching choices that go into naming a recordHow authenticity is the secret handshake of Nashville’s music scene, and why you should stay true to yourself if you’re chasing a dream in Music CityWe end the conversation on a tender note about the songs that can touch your soul without a single word—because sometimes, music is the only language that matters.So if you’re looking for an honest, heart‑centered, and instant‑enchanting episode, hit play and let the music do the talking. 🌟🎸

Welcome back to When Words Fail, Music Speaks—the show that battles depression one riff at a time. I’m your host, James Cox, a proud “handicapped” rocker on a mission to prove that music has no language barriers.In today’s episode we sit down with Askhan, the visionary founder, vocalist, and creative force behind Nine Treasures, the Mongolian folk‑metal outfit that’s been turning heads worldwide. Fresh off the release of their new album and a landmark signing with Metal Blade Records, Oscar shares how the band fuses ancient Mongolian melodies—complete with the haunting horse‑head fiddle—into thunderous modern metal.We’ll explore how Askhan balances reverence for his cultural heritage with personal storytelling, the Buddhist ideas that quietly shape his songwriting, and the collaborative shift that let his bandmates take the reins on half the new record. From his favorite global metal influences—Pantera, Megadeth, In Flames, and Children of Bodø—to his secret love of liquid drum‑and‑bass for relaxation, Askhan reveals the eclectic soundtrack that fuels his creative engine.Finally, we ask the big “what‑if” questions: which dead‑or‑alive artist would he love to collab with (hint: think Limp Bizkit), what message he wants the next generation of Mongolian metal musicians to carry forward, and the most powerful fan moment that proved music truly saves lives.Grab your headphones, settle in, and let the fusion of myth, metal, and mindfulness guide you through another powerful conversation—because when words fail, music always speaks.

Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Speaks, the podcast that dives deep into the healing power of music, mental‑health battles, and the stories behind the riffs. In today’s episode we sit down with CJ Pierce, co‑founder and guitarist of Johnny Pool (the band you’ve heard on “Madness,” “Tearaway,” and countless sold‑out arena shows).CJ shares what life on the road looks like after COVID—a whirlwind UK tour with 13 dates, a new record slated for release by year‑end, and the relentless grind of writing, recording, and performing while juggling a daytime trade in electrical work. He explains the evolution of the track “Tearaway” — how its meaning has shifted for him over 25 years — and gives us the inside scoop on the iconic opening riff (phaser‑flanger mash‑up, Digitech 2101, and a spontaneous jam with Dave Williams).We also explore how Johnny Pool’s music has become a lifeline for fans facing depression, with songs like “37 Stitches” and “In Memory Of” resonating on a deeply personal level. CJ talks about the band’s charitable side, from Toys‑for‑Tots shows to USO performances, and reveals his favorite gear—from vintage BC Rich guitars and Marshall stacks to the hidden‑treasure signature pedals that stay safely at home.Whether you’re a metalhead craving a fresh riff, a listener seeking comfort in heavy music, or just curious about the behind‑the‑scenes hustle of a touring act, this episode delivers a candid, electrifying look at how music speaks when words fall short. Grab your headphones, crank the volume, and get ready to feel the pulse of Johnny Pool’s journey.

Welcome back to The When Words Fail Music Speaks, the podcast where we turn the volume up on the power of music to lift us out of the darkness. In today’s episode, host James Cox sits down with the unstoppable Mz. Coxx —singer, songwriter, actress, and all‑around creative force—just a year after their last chat.From the buzz around her breakout single “Headboard” (feat. Lil Durks) to a brand‑new EP dropping on 11/11, we dive into her whirlwind year of global touring, a looming movie role, and the next chapter of her Panamanian‑Georgia‑infused sound. Mz. Coxx opens up about the emotions she’s yet to explore in her music—sadness, love, and raw vulnerability—while sharing the quirky rituals that shape her studio sessions (candlelight, tequila, and occasional party vibes).We also get the low‑down on her upcoming cruise gigs, favorite influences (Missy Elliott, Usher, Lil’ Kim, Chris Brown), and the one song that still moves her to the core—Usher’s “Superstar.”Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her sound, this conversation is a reminder that when words fail, music always speaks. Stay tuned, hit play, and let the healing begin. 🎧✨

In today’s episode we sit down with award‑winning author Heather Snodgrass, creator of the genre‑bending novel A Love Letter to Reading. Heather blends thriller, identity, and transformation with a meticulously curated playlist that runs 99 hours long—every chapter is anchored to a song, a TV theme, or even a wrestling reference.We’ll hear how the book started as a screenplay, morphed into a full‑blown novel, and why the Leon Bridges track “River” is the story’s heartbeat. Heather shares her creative ritual—listening to everything from the Beatles to Taylor Swift, avoiding jazz and country, and letting lyrical storytelling guide her prose. She also reveals the quirky details that make her world unique: a pediatric oncology‑nurse‑by‑day, assassin‑by‑night protagonist named Mariana “Scorpion” Rossi; a love for Final Fantasy XIV!We’ll dive into the playlists that live inside the book, discuss how music and reading evoke different emotions, and ask Heather the fun, rapid‑fire questions every fan loves—her must‑have desert‑island albums, the live act she’d book for her launch (the Beatles, of course), and the secret song that moves her soul on a deep level.Whether you’re a writer seeking a soundtrack, a music lover looking for the next great novel‑playlist hybrid, or simply someone who believes “when the words fail, music speaks,” this episode has something for you. Grab your headphones, press play, and let the conversation between narrative and melody begin.

*Welcome back to The When Words Fail Music Speaks, the podcast where we explore how music heals, connects, and changes lives. In this episode we sit down with Joshua  Gale, front‑man of the family‑filled, faith‑driven band Gale Bird. After a magical outdoor show at Charleston’s historic Poor House, Josh and host James dive deep into the stories behind the songs that keep their family and fans moving forward.We’ll hear:The origin of the “Gale Bird” nickname and the tight‑knit friendship with guitarist/producer Sean, the band’s “go‑with‑the‑flow” rhythm section, and the secret musical hook that ends every “Roses” track.How the band balances touring, family life, and a full‑time ministry while staying true to a label that actually cares.The raw, personal moments that inspired songs like **“Roses,” “My Lines,” and the worship‑filled “Your Presence,” and why those tracks are written first for the band’s own healing before they reach listeners.A candid look at the modern music business—streaming vs. merch, the power of live‑show etiquette, and why the band refuses to let phones dominate the moment.A quick “Mount‑Rushmore” of the band’s current musical heroes—from the raw energy of Need to Breathe to the storytelling of Chris Stapleton—plus a surprise shout‑out to fans and a reminder to “keep the six‑week rhythm” in life.Whether you’re a musician, a parent, or just looking for a song that speaks straight to the soul, this episode gives you a front‑row seat to the love, faith, and humor that fuels Gale Bird’s music. Press play, breathe, and let the music speak. 🎙️✨

Welcome to “When Words Fail, Music Speaks” – the podcast that harnesses the healing power of song to combat depression, anxiety, and everyday heartbreak.In today’s episode we sit down with the multitalented Mark Firehammer—author of the genre‑blending novel The Echo and The Voice, creator of the wellness system Feelness, and a seasoned songwriter whose career spans from Florida coffee‑houses in the ‘90s to AI‑driven studios today.Mark shares the wild road‑trip story of his early touring days, the unexpected love affair he’s had with the legendary Cronut, and the pivotal moment when he realized his next album would have to be built without a band. We dive deep into his groundbreaking Artist‑Imagined series, a quartet of AI‑crafted albums—Heartlands (country), Heartthrob (dance), Heartstrings (alternative) and Heartbeats (rock)—and explore how he trains machines to sing in the voices of imagined artists while preserving his own lived experiences.Along the way, we touch on:The rise and challenges of independent musicians in the streaming eraThe moral and creative debates surrounding AI‑generated music and Spotify’s new disclosure rulesHow Mark’s nonprofit aims to turn music, theater, film, and visual art into a collaborative network centered on human connectionFavorite childhood influences—from Cat Stevens and James Taylor to the awe‑inspiring voice of Freddie Mercury—and the songs that still move him to tearsWhether you’re a songwriter stuck in a creative rut, a fan of cutting‑edge tech, or simply someone looking for a musical pick‑me‑up, this conversation offers a blend of nostalgia, practical insight, and forward‑looking optimism. Grab your headphones, cue up a fresh track, and let Mark’s story remind you that when words fall short, music always finds a way to speak.

Welcome to “When Words Fail, Music Speaks,” the podcast that battles depression one riff at a time.In this episode, host James Cox—a proud “professional handicapped” broadcaster who knows a thing or two about turning struggle into song—sits down with Krysis, the charismatic front‑man of the newly‑emerging metal‑core collective Under Black Sky.Together they explore:Why music is a lifeline for anyone navigating life’s highs and lows.The genre‑spanning influences that shape Krysis' songwriting—from hard‑rock roots to a love of country.The immersive world‑building behind Under Black Sky’s mythic lore, complete with prophetic titles like “The Prophet,” “The Executioner,” and “The Redeemer.”How the band’s debut concept album, Bad Blood Chapter 1—dropping on October 24th— is more than a collection of songs; it’s a narrative experience, a visual codex, and soon, a limited‑edition crimson‑red vinyl.Their strategy for cutting through the streaming noise, fostering fan participation through a Discord‑style “Codex” community, and confronting the harsh realities of the music‑industry pay‑scale (Spotify vs. Apple Music, the value of live shows, etc.).The importance of authentic connection—from the stage’s raw energy to the personal stories fans share about how a single lyric can change a life.Whether you’re a die‑hard metal head, a country‑playlist addict, or simply someone looking for a musical boost, this conversation offers a vivid snapshot of a band determined to turn darkness into light—and invites you to join the saga before it even hits the speakers.Stay tuned, press play, and let the next chapter of Under Black Sky’s story begin. 🎸✨

Welcome back to the When Words Fail Music Speaks Podcast, where we dive into the power of music to lift us out of depression, break genre walls and rewrite the rules of the industry.In today’s episode, host James Andrew Cox sits down with Seattle‑based, multi‑award‑winning singer‑songwriter Lady Miranda—a soulful vocalist who fuses R&B, rock, hip‑hop, and more into a sound that’s unmistakably hers. We’ll hear how she turned childhood poetry into a career that’s as boundary‑defying as it is deeply personal, and why she refuses to follow anyone else’s “songwriting template.”Beyond the music, Miranda opens up about her late‑life diagnoses of autism and ADHD, sharing how hyper‑focus fuels marathon‑writing sessions while also posing everyday challenges—from stage lighting to studio fatigue. She also spotlights ISSA (the International Society of Artists & Musical Professionals with Disabilities), an organization fighting for a more inclusive music world.From grunge‑era Seattle roots and favorite bands like Nirvana and Soundgarden, to surprise rap verses tucked into her tracks, Miranda’s story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and community. Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a mental‑health advocate, or simply a fan of genre‑bending music, this conversation will inspire you to let the melody speak where words fall short.Stay tuned—your next dose of musical inspiration starts now. 🎧✨

Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Speaks, the podcast that battles depression one chord at a time. In today’s episode, host James “the professional handicapped” Cox sits down with a remarkable guest whose life reads like a soundtrack of survival—Tony Kessel.Born in North Dakota, raised in a foster home, and now a full‑time National Guard officer, husband, and father of five, Tony has turned his tumultuous journey into a compelling memoir, "It’s All in the Lyrics". Together, James and Tony unpack how music became Tony’s lifeline—from the first Garth Brooks radio hit that soothed an eight‑year‑old in a foster home, to the heavy‑metal anthems that carried him through combat engineer training, to the faith‑driven Christian rock that guided his post‑military healing.We’ll hear:The raw, honest story of Tony’s childhood trauma and how specific lyrics acted as his personal therapist.The way his 22‑year military career reshaped his relationship with sound—because sometimes a rifle’s cadence feels like a drumbeat.A deep dive into his “Side A – Matters of the Head” and “Side B – Matters of the Heart” concept, the two‑album project he’s crafting to chronicle the mental and emotional battles he’s faced.The songs that would make a rescue playlist for his younger self—Garth Brooks’ Unanswered Prayers, The Dance, and 12 Stones’ “Running Out of Pain.”A candid confession about the one track he can no longer listen to, the moment it intersected with a suicide attempt, and why sharing that pain matters for listeners battling their own darkness.Tony’s story is a vivid reminder that when words fail, music speaks—bridging gaps, offering a voice, and building a community where no one has to fight alone. Whether you’re a veteran, a foster‑care survivor, or simply someone looking for a song that can lift you out of the fog, this conversation is a beacon of hope.Stay tuned, turn up the volume, and let the healing power of music guide you through today’s episode of Woodward’s Music SpeaksGo to:https://dualistmedia.com for more info!

Welcome back to When Words Fail, Music Speaks, the podcast where we explore how melody, rhythm, and lyrics become lifelines in our darkest moments. In today’s episode host James Cox sits down with the enigmatic industrial‑metal duo behind Deadly Apples—vocals‑guitarist Alex Martel and powerhouse drummer Antoine Lamothe.The conversation roams from the raw energy of playing massive arenas (remember that 80,000‑strong show opening for Ozzy in Mexico?) to the intimate intimacy of cramped clubs, where the band feels the weight of every single fan’s stare. Alex and Antoine break down their genre‑bending sound—dark, heavy, yet surprisingly melodic—explaining why they refuse the “industrial metal” label and how they weave ambient, love‑song moments into a single, unclassifiable vibe.Listeners will get a behind‑the‑scenes look at touring with legends like Rammstein, Rob Zombie, and Korn, hear the surreal lessons learned on the road, and discover the band’s personal mental‑health playbook: staying fit, skipping substances, and carving out rest amid relentless travel.We also dive into their upcoming opus Distress, slated for a December 2025 release, and the strategic dance between dropping singles versus unveiling a full‑album narrative in today’s fast‑paced streaming world.If you’ve ever wondered how a modern metal act balances colossal stage productions with the quiet struggle of anxiety, or how a horror‑film‑loving drummer crafts scores for the screen, this episode has the answers. Tune in, and let the conversation remind you that when words fall short, the music—and the stories behind it—always speak.

In today’s episode we sit down with visionary filmmaker Wilson Hickman, the writer‑director‑editor‑cinematographer‑drone‑pilot behind the faith‑infused fantasy proof‑of‑concept series “The Lost Healer.” Wilson shares how a Bachelor of Science in Film Production, countless YouTube tutorials, and a whisper of divine nudging converged into a visually stunning, award‑winning pilot that’s now touring the festival circuit.We’ll dive into his creative workflow—from crafting dialogue‑light scripts that let music and images carry the narrative, to the challenges of editing massive amounts of footage and deciding what stays on the cutting‑room floor. Wilson reveals the story behind that unforgettable opening drone shot, the practical magic of Adobe Premiere, DaVinci Resolve, and After Effects, and how his first collaboration with composer Ben Devine shaped the episode’s emotional heartbeat.Along the way we’ll hear about his journey from teenage novelist to classroom filmmaker, the importance of a solid crew, the role of a certified drone license, and the music that fuels his own spirit—Jeremy Camp’s Deeper Waters and rising artist Natalie Lane.If you’re a budding filmmaker, indie composer, or anyone who loves fantasy that deepens the spiritual fight between good and evil, stay tuned. We’ll also share how you can support “The Lost Healer,” catch the pilot at thelosthealer.com, and keep the conversation going on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.Grab your headphones, press play, and let the story—and the music—speak. 🎙️✨

Welcome back to When Words Fail – Music Speaks, the show where we explore how melody, rhythm and lyrics become lifelines for anyone battling the ups and downs of life. I’m your host, James Andrew Cox, and today we’re diving deep with the powerhouse rock trio behind Lands Down—guitarist and co‑founder Shaun Lichtenstein and front‑man John Ritchie.From their early days grinding out shows in Boston to headlining for U.S. troops in Afghanistan, LandsDowne has turned raw, heartfelt songwriting into a conduit for connection—whether it’s a Roomba‑building robotics firm, an NFL broadcast, or a gritty battlefield stage. In this conversation they break down the evolution of the music business, the creative spark behind their albums Blue Collar Revolver and Medicine, the thrill of writing for other artists like Pop Evil, and the gritty reality of life on tour. Most importantly, Sean and John share personal strategies for using music as a mental‑health tool—tips that can help anyone push through depression, anxiety, or that “stuck” feeling.Stay tuned as we uncover the stories behind their most beloved tracks—“Holding On,” “Four‑Wheeled Freedom,” and the new single set to drop next spring—while getting candid advice on balancing art, business, and everyday life. Grab your headphones, press play, and let the music speak. 🎧✨

Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Speaks, the podcast where we battle the darkness of depression with the undeniable power of music. I’m your host, James Cox, a self‑declared “professional handicapped” champion of mental‑health advocacy, and today we’ve got a truly inspiring guest who lives the mission we preach.Joining us is Craig Jamieson—the creative force behind the Canadian pop‑rock outfit Craig Jamison & the Lucky Winmore Band. Craig blends 80’s synth nostalgia, modern hooks, punk‑edge chords, and indie‑rock flair into a sound that’s as eclectic as his influences— from Bon Jovi and Michael Jackson to The Weeknd’s synth‑wave vibes.In this episode we’ll:Dive into Craig’s latest releases—the bright, hook‑laden single “Honey,” the heartfelt follow‑up “Get to You,” and the mantra‑driven anthem “Come Around,” which serves as the theme for his Dance Away Depression charity event.Explore his personal journey with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression, and how songwriting became his lifeline—turning depersonalization and chemical‑imbalance battles into lyrical mantras that help listeners “weather the storm.”Highlight his partnership with radio‑promo guru Caden Gordon and Big Records, the upcoming “Perfect Timing” track, a forthcoming Christmas EP, and a mysterious, world‑concern‑driven song titled “Doomsday.”Spotlight his mental‑health work with the Canadian nonprofit Mind Your Mind and the Dance Away Depression fundraiser, showing how music can raise both awareness and resources for youth battling depression.Uncover his creative process, from the 80’s posters that still line his teenage bedroom walls to the way he lets each song’s vibe dictate genre—pop‑punk, synth‑wave, folk, even swing‑jazz.Whether you’re a fan of nostalgic synths, a songwriter looking for a mental‑health ally, or simply someone who believes “when words fail, music speaks,” this conversation is a reminder that a single chord can connect, move, and heal.Stay tuned—because after this interview you’ll hear snippets of Craig’s tracks, learn how you can support his charitable events, and get the exact URLs to stream “Honey,” “Get to You,” and “Come Around.”Let’s turn the volume up and let the music do the talking. 🎧✨

Welcome back to When Words Fail Music Speaks, the show that proves that when words fall short, music says it all. In this episode, host James Cox sits down with longtime friend and blue‑grass powerhouse Carolyn Routh for a deep‑dive into the moments that shaped her life and career.From church choirs in Siler City, N.C. to the national blue‑grass stage – Carolyn recounts her first “two‑front‑teeth” talent‑show debut, the high‑school musical years, and the pivotal switch from contemporary Christian music to the blue‑grass world of New Blue.Trials and triumphs – a 2003 stroke that stole her speech and mobility, the grueling rehab that birthed the anthem “Make Me Whole Again,” and the gospel‑driven “Nail‑by‑Nail” that marked her comeback.The art of the song – why a good song matters more than genre, her love for everything from contemporary Christian, bluegrass, and even a reluctant respect for rap, plus the “caramel‑colored” timbre of her voice.Behind the scenes – the family‑run restaurant legacy, the quirky band dynamics (the “quick‑shower” Daniel, banjo‑player Austin, mandolinist Justin), and the creation of Bluegrass Ridge TV, the world’s largest blue‑grass TV channel.Favorites & “can’t‑tell‑me‑how‑I‑feel” moments – from the haunting “Resurrection Song” to the “Knocking on Heaven’s Door” cover that started a fan‑favorite tradition.All this and more—tour dates, a caramel‑sweet dessert, a caramel‑colored voice, and a promise that the road never stops—are waiting for you. Grab your headphones, press play, and let the music do the talking. 🎙️✨