Fifty Days Underground

February 23, 2014

Who inspired today's broken heart song?

A 17 year-old girl's classmate who recently attempted suicide. He was being cyber bullied. He overdosed on pain killers and was rushed to the hospital. Thankfully, he survived.

This hit home for the girl because she suffered from suicidal thoughts her first year of high school as a result of not feeling loved. The boy's story inspired her to cut out 1300 paper hearts, write 'You Are Loved' on them and put them on every locker in her school for Valentine's Day.

This story inspired me a lot because I'm a huge advocate of loving yourself and being your own best friend. I was really excited to write this song, mainly because I think it can apply to everyone. It was also really well-received when I was singing it underground today.

Where did you play?

Columbus Circle – 59th St.

How much did you earn?

$21.60

Did anything unusual happen?

I opened my keyboard case today only to realize that I had forgotten my business cards. I was super frustrated with myself. Without the cards, I sadly don't have as many interactions with people.

I actually ran into someone I met previously during this project. It was the woman who interviewed me for her blog. She originally saw me at the same station. That was really cool!

I had a lot of people come up and compliment my voice today, which is funny because I have been suffering from a terrible sore throat (fingers crossed I am not getting sick).

An older gentleman came up to me, dropped a dollar into my keyboard case and gave me a thumbs up. He then pulled out a very professional looking camera, took my photo and gave me a great big smile.

I had a surprise visitor, which always makes my day. Thanks for the awesome video footage, visitor! :)

Did you meet anyone interesting?

I met a guy who plays the ukelele, and performs at the same station. He said some kind words about my music, and we talked about the possibility of collaborating one day for the project. I told him I have wanted to play the ukelele for a while now, and apparently it's really easy! He said he's only been playing for five weeks and has never played another instrument in his life. I might have to pick up a ukelele soon! It would certainly be much lighter to carry around than a keyboard, haha.

What's the best advice you received from a stranger?

No advice, so you know what this means... fun facts!

If I don't have enough coins to act as paper weights, dollar bills will fly out my instrument case when trains come by.

The worst feeling is having to pee. Now you have a new appreciation for your office bathrooms.

There were tons of little birds (not pigeons) on the platform today. Birds I can handle, but rats are a different story.

How are you feeling?

Other than a sore throat and back pain, I feel great! The weather was gorgeous today, and I didn't have to wear a jacket so I can't complain. Although there's something really beautiful about writing and singing the dark, melancholy songs, I absolutely love singing the upbeat and catchy songs like the one today.

I had an exciting phone chat today with someone who discovered my project this week. I am so thrilled when people can connect to project and get excited about what I'm doing. And I am greatly appreciative for everyone who has reached out or contributed in some form or another. You have no idea what it means to me and my happy little heart.

I recently received some very heart wrenching, broken heart stories, so be prepared for some emotional songs next week! And to any musician out there who is interested in collaborating with me for a day or two, please reach out!

© 2014 Kelly Bazely