"Hysteria," was inspired by the predictability of the media. We turn on our TVs to watch the same helpless fear, the same finger-pointing, and the same suggested solutions as if we are watching reruns. These talking points could be applied to any tragic event. We watch as everyone has their part to play: the news anchors, the talk show hosts, the writers, and then, us, the viewers repeating these sound bites back and forth to one another without question, stirring up mass hysteria. Occasionally a new perspective finds its way into the narrative —an unexpected meme, a realistic solution, or missing facts. These things come and go and that’s all there is to them until the next orchestrated catastrophe...and there is always another catastrophe.   

I never would have imagined the world would be how it is now. Rights given up so willingly—without a fight, without a valid explanation, the disregard for religious freedom, the contempt for those who exercise their individual thought and those with disabilities. There continue to be situations that make me ponder if I am caught up in hysteria. Are you caught up in hysteria? Is everyone caught up in hysteria? I think it’s healthy to wonder and to be honest with ourselves about the true answer. Then we can move on, be free, and achieve our purpose and potential with dignity and honor.

The chords to this song are unusual, inspired by a dream about a circus.  They work together to create an eerie feeling of something not quite right. The bridge begins with a kazoo juxtaposing the soft and kind space of the verses. Electronics begin with a piano base and grow into a creepy yet charming reflective pop composition. 

My goal for Hysteria is to expand hearts and minds to see beyond the emotional frenzy the news repeats over and over again, to encourage questions, and to reveal plot holes that seem to be purposefully keeping us in a state of hysteria.