Songbird

The Story Behind “Songbird”

This track was inspired by a wood thrush and a series of experiences in my life during 2023.

I spent a lot of time sitting on my deck, watching birds gather at the feeder and fly overhead. Around that same time, I visited Rockwell Retreat, the home where Norman Rockwell lived and created his work from 1939–1953.

While I was there, I read a children’s book he wrote and illustrated called Willie Was Different. It tells the story of a wood thrush with a unique singing voice, and his journey of trying to measure up to society’s standards, burning out, and eventually healing.

The parallels to my own life at the time felt impossible to ignore. It felt like a message meant just for me.

I was experiencing burnout and trying to survive in a world that has always felt like a dress two sizes too small and the wrong color. Somewhere along the way, I had forgotten to take care of myself, to honor my gifts, and to actually ENJOY my life.

Writing this song became a cathartic release. Watching Willie choose his own path, the one that brought him joy, felt like a clear and gentle reminder that I needed to do the same.