To say that I was a madman, die hard, full-on Styx fan would be an understatement. In junior high I glued all of my Styx albums to the wall (much to my mom’s dismay). I cranked albums like Paradise Theater, The Grand Illusion and Crystal Ball at top volume (also to my mom’s dismay). I even made it from the far reaches of my suburban home to the center of Philadelphia to experience the Kilroy Was Here tour.

 

The other day I connected with a guy in the music biz called Jerry Lembo. Totally cool dude. He was a big time radio promoter for decades. Before we got on a call I clicked over to check out his website. He’s worked with tons and tons of amazing bands including some of my all time faves. Like the 70’s rock band Styx. OMG.

 

As it turns out, Jerry is still friends with the lead singer, Dennis DeYoung. He offered to hook me up with Dennis’s mailing address.

 

I wrote a letter to Dennis detailing my love for Styx music. How it lit me up and inspired me to question authority, stay positive and want to rock. I told him that his music influenced my life at the core.

 

Isn’t that what great music does? It taps into us in some way. It affects us. Communicates something to us. And when the right song hits us at the right time, it’s a f*ing miracle of cool. Transformative. Ecstatic.

 

I know you know what I’m talking about.

 

It’s been a few weeks since I sent that letter. I have to admit that I’m kinda holding my breath every time I check my mailbox.

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Which musical artists have affected your life at the core? Transformed you? Opened you to bigger worlds? Write me and tell me your stories. I want to publish your ideas on future newsletter and blog posts.