I'm producing music again.

Music has been the core of my life for as long as I can remember. As a kid, the first time I picked up a guitar, I knew: This is it. But over the last couple of years, that passion began to fade, and I wasn’t sure I’d ever get it back.

I’d chased the dream of opening my own recording studio under the Dead Wing Recordings moniker—an homage to my hardcore band, Dead Wing. In retrospect, I see all the ways I could have approached it differently. The harsh truth? I almost lost my love for the art in the process, thanks to three things:

Ego, lack of planning, and lack of execution.

Ego got in the way

I was chasing fame—trying to be the next Andrew Wade or Will Putney. I had friends hyping me up, saying I was a gifted guitarist and songwriter. It felt great, but I let it go to my head.

I thought, If I’m this good, people should be lining up to work with me, right? Wrong.

The reality? I was posting cringey marketing fluff on social media and obsessed with the vanity of being a “producer.” I focused on having the right website, gear, and image instead of doing the real work—networking, attending shows, and genuinely connecting with musicians. I even gave YouTube a shot but quickly realized my lack of planning held me back from creating quality content.

Burnout hit hard

At the same time, I was juggling a stressful day job. My lack of planning and failure to execute led to extreme burnout. It wasn’t long before resentment started creeping in. Music, the thing I loved most, became a chore. I’d fallen in love with the idea of being a famous producer instead of putting in the necessary work to earn my place in this unforgiving industry.

Finding my way back

Recently, I took a step back and reevaluated where music fits in my life. And it was the best thing I could’ve done.

I started a new band, Homesick Highway, with three of my best friends. I’m producing our EP and working on some projects with close friends (coming soon!). More importantly, I feel genuinely happy when I pick up the guitar. No pressure, no ego—just the joy of creating music.

All of this has taught me a crucial lesson: talent is only one small part of the equation when it comes to monetizing your creative passion. And honestly? It’s okay if you don’t. Not everything has to be monetized. Some things—like making music—are simply meant to be enjoyed.

If an opportunity arises, awesome. But for now, you can catch me in my home studio writing some new tunes with some talented friends — No strings attached.

Do what you love.

Paps.

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