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John Vento Honors Suicide Prevention Awareness Month With Latest Single
John Vento’s “Sweet Cheslie” tells the tragic story of former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst, while raising awareness about suicide prevention.
Music Veteran, John Vento is well-known for both his award-winning brand of rootsy rock and roll, as well as his work with multiple charitable causes. Not only is John the co-founder of non-profit, Band Together Pittsburgh, working with those on the autism spectrum, but he is also heavily involved with the Remember Me Rose Garden, in memory of the Flight 93 Heroes. Now, Vento is releasing a new song to bring awareness to Suicide Prevention Month, “Sweet Cheslie.”
“Sweet Cheslie” is dedicated to the life and memory of former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst. The recording brings together notable artists from the Pittsburgh area, including Shane McLaughlin (guitar/vocals), Bob Zigerelli (vocals), Cherylann Hawk (vocals) and David Granati (guitar/bass/vocals.) The song was written by Vento, McLaughlin and Granati, with lyrics by Matt Wohlfarth.
An accompanying music video for the song is in production.
John Vento said, “This track is dedicated to the memory of Cheslie Kryst, who was an American television correspondent, model, and beauty pageant titleholder who was crowned Miss USA 2019. As Miss USA, she represented the United States at the Miss Universe 2019 competition and finished in the Top Ten. Kryst was also an attorney and had served as a correspondent for the TV program “Extra” from 2019 until her death.”
Vento continues, “On January 30. 2022, Cheslie jumped to her death from The Orion, a 60 story high rise apartment building in Midtown Manhattan. Though the world was shocked by her suicide, it once again highlighted the mental health crisis facing our society. After her death, Cheslie’s mother released a statement that her daughter had suffered from high- functioning depression.”
Living in a city of eight million
But you still somehow felt alone
Searchin’ for that rest and peaceful feelin’
May your light continue to shine
Oh sweet Cheslie,
Why didn’t you just come home
Oh sweet Cheslie,
Why we’ll just never know
Ohhhhh Cheslie,
Why didn’t you just come home
You could always come home
Deep beneath your beautiful brown eyes
There was a darkness that fooled us all
Wish we could have reached out and held your hand
Before you took that fall
Oh sweet Cheslie,
Why didn’t you just come home
Oh sweet Cheslie,
Your mama wants to know
Ohhhhh Cheslie,
Why didn’t you just come home
You could always come home
People have a need for love
That they can’t always show
Thirty seemed so old to you
With nothing else to do
Ohhhhhh Cheslie,
Why didn’t you just come home
Ohhhh Cheslie,
Your daddy wants to know
Oh, sweet Cheslie,
Why didn’t you just come home
You could always come home
You could always come home
You could always come home
You could always come home
Come home
Through this song, the artists are doing their best to cherish the loving memory of Cheslie Kryst, while also hoping that they can somehow make an impact in someone’s life during a time of need. More details about John Vento can be seen at http://www.johnvento.com
For more information about Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, please visit https://nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Suicide-Prevention-Awareness-Month-(SPAM)
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Fiery And Unapologetic: Pamela Hopkins “Burn It Down”
Pamela Hopkins’ new single “Burn It Down” is a fiery and unapologetic anthem of empowerment that takes the listener through an emotional journey of betrayal and reclamation. With co-writers Dave Lenahan and Scott Barrier, Hopkins crafts a narrative that diverges from the typical revenge tale by focusing on the protagonist’s decision to seek liberation rather than retribution.
The song starts with a somber acknowledgment of trust broken by both a partner and a friend, setting the emotional tone for the track. Hopkins’ lyrics are direct and vivid, painting a picture of the protagonist’s internal struggle before she chooses to rise above the ashes of her past. The phrase “throwing a match on kerosene” is a striking metaphor that encapsulates the explosive nature of betrayal and the drastic emotional consequences it entails. However, instead of wallowing in revenge, the protagonist claims her power back by letting go of what once was, symbolized by the metaphorical burning of the life she built with her partner.
Musically, “Burn It Down” features Hopkins’ signature blend of country grit and emotional depth. Her vocal delivery is compelling, capturing the rawness of the song’s theme with a blend of anger, sadness, and eventual resolve. The instrumentation complements the narrative, with a driving rhythm that mirrors the protagonist’s journey from shock and anger to empowerment. The chorus is particularly impactful, with its catchy and defiant lines that echo the protagonist’s determination to take control of her fate: “Bet your ass I’m goin’ out in a blaze.”
Hopkins’ performance in “Burn It Down” is a testament to her skill as both a vocalist and a storyteller. She navigates the song’s emotional complexity with grace, allowing listeners to feel the protagonist’s pain and her subsequent empowerment. The song’s bridge is a highlight, as it portrays a sense of closure and finality, culminating in the protagonist watching her past go up in flames, not with regret but with a sense of pride and self-worth.
What sets “Burn It Down” apart from other songs in the revenge genre is its emphasis on personal strength and the idea of starting anew. The protagonist isn’t looking for revenge in the traditional sense; she’s seeking a clean slate, a chance to rebuild without the shadows of her past holding her back. This theme is universal and resonates with anyone who has faced betrayal and found the strength to move forward.
Pamela Hopkins continues to establish herself as a significant force in the country music scene with this release. Her ability to infuse personal experience and emotional storytelling into her music allows her to connect deeply with her audience. “Burn It Down” is a powerful addition to her discography, showcasing her vocal prowess and her knack for crafting songs that are both relatable and cathartic.
In summary, “Burn It Down” is more than just a song about betrayal; it’s an anthem for anyone who has ever had to pick up the pieces and find strength in the aftermath of a broken relationship. Through her storytelling and commanding vocals, Pamela Hopkins delivers a song that is both a personal catharsis and a rallying cry for empowerment.
-Frank Fantina
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Staying Positive While Looking for a Kidney: The Inspiring Journey of ATown
In the spotlight of social media, ATown has captivated audiences with his unique talent—a birdcall that has become synonymous with his brand. Known not only for his distinctive sound but also for his connections with big names like Meek Mill and Snoop Dogg, ATown once basked in the glow of fame and fortune. However, life took an unexpected turn, and the Instagram celebrity now finds himself in a challenging battle for his health, desperately searching for a kidney.
Despite the gravity of his situation, ATown has chosen to focus on the silver linings rather than succumb to despair. His resilience and positivity are truly inspiring. Rather than retreating from the public eye, ATown is actively engaging with his fans and continuing to create music. His latest single, “Konnichiwa,” has garnered over 50,000 views on YouTube, showcasing his unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to connect with his audience, even in tough times.
ATown’s journey is a testament to the power of positivity and the human spirit. Instead of allowing his health struggles to define him, he remains proactive in his search for a kidney while continuing to pursue his passion for music. By sharing his experiences through social media, he not only raises awareness about organ donation but also inspires others who may be facing similar challenges.
His ability to maintain a positive outlook has resonated with many of his fans, who admire his strength and determination. Through his posts, ATown often reminds his followers to cherish their health and support one another, creating a community of encouragement and love.
For ATown, music has become more than just a career; it’s a form of therapy. Each song he releases serves as an expression of his emotions and a way to cope with the uncertainty surrounding his health. His fans have rallied around him, providing support and sharing his music to help spread the word about his journey.
Through his artistry, ATown continues to show that creativity can thrive even in adversity. His latest tracks not only entertain but also empower, reflecting his journey and the hope that accompanies it. Whether he’s collaborating with fellow artists or working on solo projects, ATown’s music remains a beacon of hope and resilience.