
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.
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.”
This song is about surrender. It begins with the recognition of struggle and turmoil; it acknowledges the lack of control over one’s life. Yet, it leads to surrender, giving over control, allowing for help. I think a lot of people are carrying a weight around, loads of guilt or bitterness or angst. We’re walking alone, despite being surrounded by people, bearing our burdens. – Stonehocker