Through honest writing of individual personal memoirs, Stonehocker crafts songs that explore and express the pain and joys of life. In a society where mental health issues have become even more prevalent, his goal is to be open, honest and inspire people to have the courage for self-discovery. The musical journey began in a small northern Alberta town and can be traced through the lyrics of the four full-length albums that have been released. Today, the music finds life through Stonehocker‘s sparse Calgary home studio that has slowly come to be.
His vocals are the focal point of the show – complemented by acoustic guitar, underlined by minimalistic beats with samples placed throughout to highlight each song’s alternative edge. All the samples come straight from the recorded music, making Stonehocker’s shows custom and unique. His latest releases are the culmination of years of songwriting and many live shows. Throwing caution to the wind, Stonehocker has poured out his soul and committed everything to the goal of getting their music to those who want to listen.
Latest offering, “Take Everything,” is a purposefully sparse song that allows the emotional vocals and lyrics to take focus. It continues the songwriter’s vein of self discovery and acceptance of what you find. “When I wrote those words, ‘Take Everything,’ it’s like a weight being lifted,” Stonehocker explains. “My burdens broke me. It was inevitable, yet I’m still here to sing this song; because I surrendered.”
What can you share with readers about your new project?
I’ve been working on a new album with 12 songs for the last year, almost 2 years! Both my singles, I Am Divided and Take Everything, are part of it. I plan to start pre-sales for the album in December, so keep an eye out for that. The album is titled ‘Hello Mr. Hyde’ and there’s 6 art pieces to go with it, the cover art for the singles are part of this too, creating a collage in the end.
How does this release compare with your other projects you had in the past?
Musically, I think it’s a major step forward, both in production quality and songwriting. Feedback from people in the industry about my new songwriting is what pushed me forward actually with my release efforts. I’ve invested more time and energy into the release for this music than I ever have before. I want to make sure I’m connecting with everyone who likes my music!
What about this single makes you most proud? I love that it offers something more than pain and struggle, or a question with no answer. Take Everything presents a solution that has meant a lot to me personally. I’m proud of the simplicity of the words, the honesty, and the hope.
Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?
The previous single had a great musical hook, it was catchy, it posed a question with no real answer. I wanted Take Everything to really emphasize the lyrical depth that’s coming with the impending album. There’s going to be a lyrical movement from I Am Divided to Take Everything (which will be the final track of the album).
What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?
I did a personality test (16 Personalities) that labelled me as a Mediator, which made sense when I picture how often I can find myself just sitting and thinking. Lost in thought, music often comes from those moments. Sometimes it builds up slowly, taking weeks to percolate and become a song. Other times, it just pours out. I’ve found it’s important to leave time and space in this busy world to allow time for the music. I need purpose in what I do, and money is not purpose. That’s why it’s so important for me to try to connect with my listeners, it’s my motivation.
If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out. I’m actually trying to coordinate a collaboration with my cousin, Liam Biggs. We have a long time musical connection and he keeps telling me how much I’ve inspired him! So there’s a connection and motivation, which gives purpose to a collaboration. He’s rap and hip hop, so it would create a pretty interesting sound I think. https://www.youtube.com/@liambiggsbeatsby
What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?
The actual last song I listened to was “Change” by Jordane Tumarinson, I often listen to piano music to help me “quiet my mind”. Before that I’d been listening to albums by Sly Jr, Shebad, and Anna Justen. I’m a big fan of Young the Giant, if they release something I listen to it! COIN is also another big favourite.
Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?
My YouTube channel @seestonehocker has become a platform I really enjoy, it has space for my music, my videos, my posts. It’s well rounded. Instagram (@seestonehocker) is also good, it’s the one where I find I connect with people the most.
I really appreciate your time. Is there anything you’d like to share before we sign off? Just that I’m very grateful that people listen to my music. I really hope I can get to everyone in their little corner of the world, wherever that may be.
