By: Paul K. Barnes
There is a different level of emotional connection that can come with vulnerable songwriting. Joesph Blue’s track “Summer Nights Goodbye” is more than a song. It is a personal reflection. The track recalls the night a wife and mother passed away as her husband and children faced a heartbreaking moment. While the composition is somber in tone, it is meant to offer encouragement for listeners who may have been through a similar experience.
Honest songwriting has long been a way for artists to connect with listeners. The more personal the storytelling, the more likely it is to feel familiar to someone hearing it. For listeners who connect with the song, its message may stay with them in a meaningful way.
The red dirt country track “Summer Nights Goodbye” comes from the mind and heart of Gary Godeaux. His wife passed away the day after their 19th anniversary. The situation was heartbreaking for Gary, who shared that he could not sleep for four days. Writing the song became a way for him to put his grief into words through an outlet that was already familiar to him.
Coming from a collaboration between his label Black Sheep Records Music LLC and Beard Music Group, Gary knew he wanted to tell the story as honestly as possible. One of his rules for songwriting is, “Tell the truth and let it bleed,” and that is the approach he brought to the song. The storytelling and level of detail are deeply personal as specific pieces of the situation are shared. The song is intended to meet listeners in their grief and offer a sense of encouragement without rushing the process.
“I want people to know that no matter what they’re going through, no matter how hard it is, there is light at the end of the tunnel. I hope my story helps them realize that,” he said.
Gary already knew he wanted to share his story with the world, but upon learning there was already a subgenre for the type of music he wanted to release, he gained even more confidence. Called “red dirt country,” this lane is built around the vulnerable songwriting he values. In his next release, he wonders what his wife is doing in the afterlife.
“Across the song I’m asking her how things are going up there, if the sun is shining brightly and if she’s met my grandpa,” he said.
As a songwriter, Gary believes truth can appeal to people because of the relatability it carries. He wants to continue being a voice for people going through life’s difficult situations and offer music that can keep them company during those seasons. He hopes people share his songs with others so the messages of hope can continue to be passed on, with each listener finding something meaningful in the music.
Songwriting is also a sentimental family legacy for Gary since his father wrote songs too. He wants to use his music to build a legacy for his children and continue to show them how powerful sharing the truth through music can be. He believes truth can last, much like family, because it remains present through different moments in life.
“My wife’s aunt actually paid for the funeral because we didn’t have any life insurance. She raised her like a daughter after her brother passed away. She told me this is what family is all about,” he said.
There are more songs from Gary’s heart and soul on the way that are not as sentimental. They capture a range of emotions and serve different purposes because there is a time and place for many kinds of music. Still, these songs are written with care and meant to evoke a connection from the listener.
“Music helps moods. It can bring you up or bring you down. It all depends on the situation. I wanted to release this one first because this is my story. This is my truth,” he said.
“Summer Nights Goodbye” by Joesph Blue is available on streaming platforms now.
Listeners can follow Joesph Blue on these platforms.
The Starlight PR Team thanks Joesph Blue for taking the time to speak with us.
