If this meant something to you, please let Eric know in the comments. I for one needed this today. Keep moving forward, keep pressing the button. We all go together.

@ericgates297

3 ай бұрын

One line in and I wanted to hear Colter Wall sing this. I love it. I fight it every day myself.

Thanks again Michael for sharing my song. And thanks to everyone in the comments for your kind and encouraging words. One day at a time.

@NWLee

3 ай бұрын

Good luck with your life, don't give up. When you communicate your struggle, you give strength to others. Thanks!

@Area_5150

3 ай бұрын

Inner strength, faith, and six strings. Great melody, great chord scheme, jus' keep'em comin' my friend.

@OldManClanMusic

3 ай бұрын

Being A Good Man, is cooking, cleaning, providing, guiding, raising children, being a role model, a leader. We are less forgiving on ourselves than others might be. We take on extra weights of existing but we don't shed any burdens. We stay strong for everyone around us. But like the strongest castle walls or sea defences we are eroded. Our traditional bonds are harder to nurture and hold on to, and every mistake feels like it could be critical to our foundations. We keep fighting to stay robust, but sometimes it's not achievable. So finding a contentedness is where I find most benefit. You have our love and support of (often unspoken) shared experiences. Matt // OldManClan

@guyfyffe5920

3 ай бұрын

One day at a time indeed my brother.

@gratefulhikes

3 ай бұрын

Inspiration move me brightly. Light the song with sense and color hold away despair. You are such an inspiration. Thank you for sharing your love and energy ❤🙏 One day at a time my brother

Great song, vocals and amazing lyrics. 65 days sober for the first time in 20+ years. We all struggle with something. Thanks for being brave enough to share

@rjh1226

3 ай бұрын

My gf 16 clean years on New Years…. Heading into her 17th year. Good luck

Just over 100 days sober. Making good music is a huge part of my motivation.🙏🏼

"Music soft and low, the Devil I know" 🔥killer line

This GG community is the least toxic, most chill community online. I love that everyone encourages each other in the context of this video. The fact Eric was comfortable enough to post knowing he would get something positive from it.

@hosoiarchives4858

3 ай бұрын

What is the GG community

Anybody who has rode the whiskey river knows it's hard to make it back to the shore. A hell that is handed to you is way better than the one you create for yourself. To be the creator of your own destruction while everyone is looking is a hollow feeling. Eric great song my man keep it up.

Amen brother I felt every line deeply and lived them. 11 years sober and this song brought me right back to why I’m grateful to be sober. After awhile I seem to forget how bad my life was 11 years ago this reminds me. Thank you sir 😢

Thank You for sharing. This song is very touching. There is a story behind every song. We all have something we struggle with in our lives that affect us greatly. To All....Keep pushing forward!!! Our Purpose may not be known yet but, we all have one and WE ARE ALL IMPORTANT!!! 💜🎶👊🏻🤘

Eric, thank you for that beautiful song! My son is fighting that same demon. He is seven months sober! Stay strong

I've discovered that there is nearly nothing better for the heart than a ringing open G chord pressed to your chest.❤

Struggle with the drink is a daily struggle

Wow, some powerful words. Amazing. Those words connect with so many who struggle with not only alcohol but other demons.

God bless Eric. Awesome! Thanks for sharing Michael.

Many of us spend so much time analyzing chord structure, rhythms, melodies and harmonies, catchy phrases etc.; that we forget to think about the most important part of the music: emotion and meaning. There are debts that n life that we can pay, and ones we cannot. I’m thankful that I found someone who is willing and able to take care of debts that could not be paid with money.

Good one, Eric. For everyone who thinks it is too late to learn an instrument, you can easily see how moving 3 chords and the truth can be. You need not be great to do something great.

Before you even listen to the lyrics it’s a beautiful song. Eric’s voice and choice of notes really moved me. When I went back and listened to the lyrics I appreciated how vulnerable he made himself. I don’t have substance abuse issues, but I worked in a detox for several years and saw the pain and suffering. Please keep writing.

Made me cry dude. The bottle leaves a broad and indiscriminatory wake. Sometimes the best instrument to accompany your music is the silence in between it. It almost bullies your audience to absorb and come to terms with your message. Great courage, great message, great art. Well done, Eric. Thank you.

As a recovering drug addict/alcoholic of 35 years I completely understand the inner struggle. After so many years of sobriety the yearning for the substance is gone but my head still tells me I’m a fake, worthless POS and I’ll never amount to anything. I will always feel broken. It’s the reason I started using to begin with. We have to keep working to better ourselves and keep moving forward in life. If nothing else we addicts/alcoholics are resilient!

"The more we ban together in something as simple as learning a discipline, of learning guitar, and building those habits of self-improvement translates to everything else in life..." just brought a tear to my eye. Thank you Michael for building this community, and thank you Eric for sharing! Incredible song. Thirteen years sober here ✊

@judegraham463

3 ай бұрын

do you mind if I ask a personal question; 'when you hear a lyric such as this which obviously must bring up many memories and possibly triggers for alcohol, does such a sensation that you feel when listening to such a song lyric, does that make you feel a sense of determination, or does it bring back those sort of emotional triggers that make you feel a little uneasy, or nervous? excuse me for asking such a personally edgy question but it would be a very interesting response to hear from you. An honest and personal gut response from someone like you can be so very revealing for others wondering about what their future may hold regarding the way one may have to deal with certain situations i.e. parties where alcohol is served for example. thanks for reading this. ..I take it you're a musician , or possibly a photographer judging from your user name. Thanks again.

An incredibly powerful song. We all have suffering, and because of that, we're not alone in our suffering. Continue to choose strength over weakness. We believe in you. May you enjoy happiness and the root of happiness.

Thank you for being brave Eric. And thank you Michael for being kind.

One of the small handful of reasons I ever played is that; play just 1 song for 10 people & get 10 different interpretations. In other words a song can have so much range based on the mindset of the ear if you will. When we write a piece, we write it for ourselves but hope that it touches just 1 soul & if it does, it was worth the time it took. Then there's people like this guy whose song can leave so little to be interpreted. Myself, I come home everyday from a great job making a ridiculous salary for the work & more times than not, drink myself to sleep just hoping I make it to work on time the next day because it's the only place I find peace. I appreciate this gentleman's pain but I hate that any of us feel this way. Really good song Eric sir. Thanks

"Trade one hell for another for a chance to ease my pain" Amazing Line Eric. I know where you are coming from with this. Keep Your Chin Up and Keep Writing!

@judegraham463

3 ай бұрын

referring to that lyric you pointed out of Erics, yes, that is a situation many of us may find ourselves in at one point in our life.

Heart felt Original. Nothing better. Than heart.

Great song I believe in that guy He’s a champion He breaks through He knows Praise God for rebirths into life

Very good heartfelt sometimes you have to not avoid the pain but to embrace the suck and a little bit set a time you can defeat it it’s still there but you get used to it and it doesn’t bother you anymore. Thanks for your heartfelt song.

Thank you Eric. We are all working on "it" . Every day is a first step for me. You are not alone.

The greatest music ever created and performed is with the most amount of emotion that the listener can relate to. I aspire to be a musician and what that means to me is to create music and not just play music other people have created. Your song gave me goosebumps and that is what it is all about. Reaching your audience in a way you could not do any other way and for that Thank you for sharing!

@Fastlane05

3 ай бұрын

I really like watching the videos on YT of America's got Talent, etc. of the people who are so nervous getting on that stage and performing in front of a large crowd and then completely nail their performance. It is that nervous energy and human emotion that connects with the audience and they can "FEEL" the music, not just listen to it. That is the secret sauce!

Thank you sir for your honesty. It leads to healing. I found my peace in Jesus but that’s my choice. I just find it sad that some of us have to learn the hard way. That hard way for me was the death of my son when we were in a car wreck. I was left unable to walk for months and I could no longer run from my problem. So I just had to face everything head on. This happened in 2001 and am disabled but I have peace and purpose in my life. I live to be a help to other people. So hang in there and I hope you are well! Thanks again for the song!

I create songs for myself as well. Music is my salvation in retirement from stressful job. I relate to Eric. I feel his pain in his song. Good on you Eric and Thanks Michael.

Michael this video says more about you than it does Eric. We all look to be inspired and comforted by those around us. You will find your voice for all the world to hear. Sometimes you just have to let your guard down and say f#*k it, here I am. We are waiting with open arms. ❤

Good job Eric I really enjoyed that thank you. I am on day 9378 of my sobriety and I am proof of I was blind but now I see! Strength thru numbers! Hell I don't even play guitar I just like the channel and seeing the reactions to some performers I love. Thank you all!

The struggle is very real. 11 years sober and I fight the devil every day

Eric, I have family who wrestle with their own devils, and one of the things I struggle with is understanding what it is they are dealing with. What you've done here is given me a peek inside, and while I can't say I really get it 100%, I think I understand just a little bit better. Thank you so much.

Great 👍🏼 song Eric !!! I've written a number of them myself and I can tell when they are written through personal experience. Thank you for sharing.

THANKS FOR SHARING MICHAEL AND ERIC ! I HAVE 8 YEARS NOW OFF THE BOTTLE, IT WAS INDEED A LOVE HATE RELATIONSHIP. FEELING AND DOING SO MUCH BETTER THESE DAYS !!!! BEST TO BOTH OF YOU.....ONE DAY AT A TIME BROTHERS !

Unable to articulate a response yet, too busy bawling. That hit home, big time. Thank you for putting this out there, both of you!

@robineliason7850

3 ай бұрын

Eric, that was powerful! I was not expecting this when I clicked today's video, but, without knowing that I needed to hear this, I needed to hear this. The stripped down arrangement adds to the feel of this, but frankly you could have done it with no accompaniment and it still would have hit home just as hard. Thank you for having the strength to put this out here! Michael, thank you for knowing that we needed to hear this! Thank you for building this community!

My brother, I am 21 years clean from crack cocaine. My struggles were a burden to me and those in my circle. I have been playing guitar (badly) for 15 years now and have found sooo much solace in simple chord sounds. To have an outlet that you can lose yourself in is of utmost importance. I love your videos ( especially the Ian Thornley ones as I am a massive fan of his, and just recently subscribed after watching your very moving video about your personal struggles. You are not alone!!!!!! The education you provide with your breakdowns is unparalleled. Your zest for the instrument is very apparent and your own skill set is something to behold. I am a fan of human beings, and what each of us can provide to others through being a " me first " person. I tell my wife that after me, she comes first. Simply put, I see my face first of any faces every morning. So, I need to have that honest conversation with that guy in the mirror about how he is . When I am certain that I am in a good head space, that makes me more capable of being 1st for her, after I look after me. Making yourself a priority should be the priority so you can always be the best version of yourself for others who are dependant upon you. Eric, great song!!! Love the raw honesty you display. Every day is a bit brighter than the previous one. Thanks for all you do, in every aspect of life and your channel !!!!!!!!!!

Get back what is yours bro. Amazing. Your courage is inspiring sir. Thank you Michael, and Eric, and all those who support art as a foundation for therapy. It’s beautiful.

Great Job Eric………absolutely real and from the heart

thanks for sharing this! You're right, I needed to hear this, the worst part is forgettin i'm not alone.

Set yourself free Mike. Eric you are on your path brother.

When you voice your demons from within, you have already taken a step forward to winning the battle! It takes a giant to take on their demons, but it takes a bigger person to share it in song! Awesome job Eric! Great song and even greater message!

There's some talent brewing strongly. Keep it up, Eric. Hope to hear more of your music.

Thank you Eric and Michael. This song describes my daughter. I wish I could help her.

Thank for writing a song that tells the soul of my uncle and step-father

Great song Eric. I feel the exact same things. Bravo 👏

Eric, may the next chapter in life be brighter than today. Thank you Sir for sharing!

Damn, guys, why are you talking directly to me? How'd you know I was watching? 😉 Great song Eric. And thanks for sharing Michael. Thanks for creating and contributing to a truly great community!

A true inspiration Eric, thank you! And thank you Michael for sharing.

You seem like a very kind, caring human being Michael.

So well done Eric, very powerful lyrics and thank you for sharing this with us.

Personal. Been there. Thanks Eric. And thanks Michael. Well done.

Thank you Michael and Eric for sharing your beautiful creativity.

Thank you for sharing your beautiful song!! It means a lot to hear these words.

Thanks for sharing, Eric. I'm struggling with depression, and your song resonated with me! ❤

Going on 7 months sober. Had a relapse in July that was thankfully very mild. It was 15 months before that. I spent 15 years being a very active alcoholic. Hangovers every day that I cured with more. Its how I coped with a lot of pain until I had no say at all. I was locked in the trunk along for the ride. Facing my faults and failures and choosing to change with God’s help was the hardest and most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. Keep it up man!

@raoul_duke7253

3 ай бұрын

Each day is new, each new day is a blessing… you got this.

Great job Eric! Very inspiring to see and hear your song. Thank you. GT

Loved Eric’s powerful, heart felt song/story. But I gotta say - I’m very impressed with your fascinating yet gripping narrative….which appeared to be done w/o notes. Don’t see many true, authentic empaths on YT these days. 🙏

Touches a basic fundamental part of you. Part of our social being is to enjoy other's company, to share a story or a song. Beautiful moment, great performance.

Great job Eric! You speak for more than you know... we're all in this together. Love you, Brother!

Wow! So few words and so much power… Thank you Michael and thank you Eric. God speed to everyone out there fighting the inner battles ✊

Great song. Great performance. Hang in there.

Much love , appreciation, and admiration to Eric and you Michael! I feel very fortunate to be a part of this community. My spirit benefits greatly from the sincerity and courage presented repeatedly. Eric, I wish you much success with your traumas and demons. Indeed, I wish this to Michael and everyone else in the family gathered here. Beautiful and meaningful lyrics, Eric, plus an impactful accompaniment of music composing, playing, and singing!!!

Very touching story and song Eric. And thank you Michael for sharing, and more so for caring. The world needs love, and you’re delivering it one click at a time. ❤

The haunting chord structure alone tells the pain you are living. Prayers for you.

Brilliant song Eric, absolutely brilliant lyrics that captured the experience so vividly and accurately. I believe we are never as alone as we think we are, and music is a fine form of communicating that to others. Kudos my friend 🙏

Michael, Eric - beautiful. Thank you

Thank you Eric for the awesome song! 👍🏻🤘🏻✌🏻🤟🏻🤘🏻

wow, those were some powerful lyrics Eric!! Keep on keeping on brother , one day at a time :) My wife has 31 years sobriety , you can do it too

Oh my. Beautifully written, and a wonderful singing voice. ❤️

There’s something incredibly special about the strength it takes for guys to open up and share their hurts, their demons openly. The strength it takes to be that vulnerable is such an endless inspiration for others who are struggling. Hurt more, share more, connect more with others who are doing the hard yards. Bravo Eric

Such a raw truth, I understand how hard it is to love yourself. Thank you for sharing!

Those last couple of lines... i'll be chewing on those for a while. This is fine writing. Great job, Eric!

Great song Eric, I also had my demons but it wasn't alcohol it was drugs and if I hadn't moved from PA to CA I know I would still be going down the path with the devil and believe me I still hear the devil calling me

Nice guitar part, resonant voice, brutally honest lyrics. Beautiful. Major props to Eric and Michael. Love this stuff.

Wonderful song. Love how raw those emotions are. It's really cool how the guitar hook is in 5/4, arriving back on the low root, but then stopping to start again. It felt exactly like how our demons can interrupt our rhythms, stop our flow, and make us start all over. But - and this is the key - through perseverance we can overcome, just as the music did here.

@torytaylor693

3 ай бұрын

One step and day at a time.

I think we all have a song inside us, some are able to get it out, and others keep it bottled up. Great song Eric. Thank you.

Expressive, good song, modulation. Bravo

A song of morning the loss of an addiction.

One hundred percent. Waiting for that cathartic moment. Looking for the secret searching for the sound...

Thank you for sharing something so intimate, i am sure like me, you touched many hearts. An amazing song of a very hard reality, but also an anthem of hope. Thank you!

Thanks Eric. I don't think most people see my demons. I've been going back to the same demons for years. (40). I have so many blessings. This morning I couldn't see any of them. Thanks for sharing

Beautiful. Out of your pain comes a light that illuminates the darkness of others. I hope you feel that reflecting back on you tonight.

This is such an encouraging and true statement, and the song is beautiful. Thanks.

Hey Eric. I know we’ll never meet but Godamn bro. It was like holding a mirror to my face! You got a shit load of talent. Be safe brother 🫡

Beautiful song and hope that someone picks it up as this is a fabulous message ❤

Honest music therapy...xxx

It really doesn't matter which demon pursues the soul. My demon(s) was a dual fight of Vicodin and grief. So many times I popped a pill and cried like a new born baby. Grief is as dangerous as alcohol, meth, heroin or crack. I did not see the relationship between the pills and the grief. All I knew was that Mother was gone and my life was an absolute disaster. I was taking up to 35-40, 750mg Vikes a day, If I died it would have been a welcome relief. For 4 years my days were filled with a crazy pursuit of the pills (chasing the high) and nights were a non stop fit of rage, frustration, crying and cutting. I am 6 months sober and thankful that of all the things I have lost, my guitar was not one of them.

Well done Eric. Honest, painful and true. I felt every moment in that song

As a family we work with recovering Addicts but the truth is we as a family have never been addicts, we don't actually know what their pain is or why they choose the bottle knowing that once it's gone it will just be worse. I feel at times we fail them simply by lacking solidarity of experience. But I can write a song about having to choose to stand up every day in pain knowing it would be easier at least temporarily to sit back down in my wheel chair and knowing that if I give in today to the leg pain, tomorrow will be worse, and worse, till eventually the chair will replace my legs entirely. Then my back will start to go... So good on you man, teach us how it is, how you see it. May be we are closer than it seems at first.

Beautiful, raw, and honest song and performance. Thank you so much Eric for sharing this deeply personal song with us. Thank you Michael for making it possible. 💙

@sethtoe

3 ай бұрын

Goose bumps friend, know the devil well. 1 day at a time. Thank You Eric.

Nice job, Eric! Keep playing, praying, being strong and writing songs. You got this brother! 🎸🐶

Hey Michael. Your musical skills often amaze me, but I think think that your humanity is even more impressive.

We are social creatures, we need to feel heard, to have love and acceptance. When these things are missing, we can make very destructive choices in either seeking or escaping… whatever it may be. Bravo Eric

@judegraham463

3 ай бұрын

words of wisdom

Eric, you're ahead of me in the battle for our lives.. Addiction still has a hold on me, but not for long and your song will be my anthem... It's not easy being a white father right now, but there's no time for feeling sorry for ourselves is there, we still have to set an example and that doesn't include hiding our addictions or our imperfections from others and especially not from ourselves... Thank you Eric

Nice composition. This will be a nail when you hit more used to playing it and breathe a little deeper in the places you know you want to. This stripped version is like your own style of a classic country tune, and I can hear it as a flowery folk song or a slow moving blues rocker. Also nice how you took strings of clear lyrical lines and are making them yours...like using forgotten phrases and bringing them forward. Right as Rain. 😊

You are a class act. Look forward to your guitar direction, and life lesson insights. Thank you

Been struggling to write my own songs again for a few months now… this inspired me to get back to just being vulnerable and writing down the truth in my lyrics again.