Ben Hazlewood's gorgeous voice has always stood on its own, but with "Grave Relief" he brings a new layer to his music. The song is deeply personal but important for his fans, and everyone, to hear.
Tell me about your song "Grave Relief” what’s the story behind it?
Ben: Grave Relief is a song about my journey with mental health, reflecting on where I am now, and where I was at the age of 14; when we lost my eldest brother James to suicide.
Grave Relief is an honest insight to our story, which is sadly not only our story, many families have been through this. It’s about my family’s grief and pain, but it is also a message of hope and inclusivity in grief and I really hope that this message is a reminder to be supportive of others that are dealing with this illness, and also, to reach out if you are going through this anguish.
Why is it important to talk about mental illness?
Ben: My hope for this song Grave Relief is that people who have lost someone they love may relate to the personal story that Grave Relief touches on about my struggles with mental illness and the tragedy that my family has lived through in losing a brother and a son. By sharing our story and talking openly about this issue, I hope it encourages others to reach out and get help if they are struggling.
Do you use music as a form of therapy? Does it help process emotions?
Ben: Music is the one place I know I can always feel alive and be truly honest. It has helped me speak the words that I could never quite explain by just simply talking. There is a power and beauty in creating something from a dark place that you maybe don’t even understand yourself at the time.
It has helped me rally through some of the hardest moments.
What’s your best piece of advice for someone going through tragedy?
Ben: Reaching out and asking for help in the time that you need it. It is absolutely the most difficult thing to do especially when you are vulnerable. But the more you do it the easier it becomes. Do not give up on speaking up and reaching out, it is ok to ask for help.
What else is coming up for you this year?
Ben: I am currently recording with the plan of releasing several more singles this year. I have been consistently writing and looking forward to sharing my new music online and live in the coming months.
Follow Ben on Twitter and Instagram and listen to the song now.
[widgets_on_pages id=Emily-Treadgold]