Following on from our review of TT’s latest single and video, ‘Heal My Mind’, we speak with the Los Angeles troubadour himself.
‘Heal My Mind‘ is a song that touches on loss and spirituality—how have your experiences influenced the narrative of the song?
I lost someone close to me, and for a long time, I could still feel their presence—in dreams, emotions, senses, and even physical moments. I believe our loved ones pass to a better place, and if we open our hearts and minds, we can feel them. I miss sharing everyday moments with them, but remembering the good times and their companionship, counsel, and love is healing.
Can you walk us through the production process for ‘Heal My Mind’ from writing to recording? How did the song evolve during that time?
It took quite a while to write; I wanted to balance mental anguish and beauty. The anguish stemmed from feeling disconnected despite sensing their presence, but there was also beauty in that eternal connection of love. The verses reflect experiences in the physical world, while the chorus illustrates heaven and the subconscious. I rewrote and edited the song over two dozen times. Once I finished the writing, the arrangement felt clear to me, so no further evolutions were needed in the studio. I aimed for the music to feel haunting but beautiful, with strings, backup vocals, and keyboards enhancing that mood.
How does ‘Heal My Mind’ fit into the larger narrative of your upcoming album, ‘Man On The Corner’? Why does ‘Heal My Mind’ especially stand out to you?
‘Heal My Mind’ is one of three ballads on the album. I’m particularly fond of the bridge, where the keys, piano, violins, and vocals create a moment of transformation. If you close your eyes, I feel it takes you somewhere—to the subconscious. Like a good film, music should transport you and offer an experience of meaning, transformation, and pleasure.
You talk about feeling “haunted” by the presence of the one you lost after their passing. How did you convey this complex emotion in the song and music video?
There was certainly sadness in writing the song, but the person I lost and our relationship were beautiful. I worked hard to convey that beauty through the notes, chords, and arrangements, both in the music and the video. Reflecting on their life and our time together helped me focus on those wonderful memories, honoring how they would want to be remembered. Although I miss them, I feel comforted by their presence in both spiritual and physical ways. Interestingly, Hollywood and novels often depict ghosts in a certain way, but for me, I genuinely welcome the spirits of loved ones who have passed. I find comfort in their visitations.
In what ways has your personal journey with health and grief influenced your musical journey and goals?
Faith, family, and music have saved me. These challenges have shaped me, instilling a constant drive to prove myself and a feeling that I could always do more for others. As an introvert, music allows me to express my heart and soul. When there is so much inside me I want to release, music gives me that outlet, even when I can’t express it in my everyday life. Writing, singing, and playing music, whether alone or for others, has always been cathartic.
Talk to us about the filming process for the ‘Heal My Mind’ music video. What were the most rewarding and challenging aspects of bringing this story to life?
The directors, Tom Flynn, Mike Watts, and Jay Tavernese, were amazing. The video was beautifully shot, which was essential. Like the song, it needed to feel haunting yet beautiful. Their camera work and transitions from live action to green screen effects were stunning. We filmed in Malibu, where nature gifted us moments of sun, fog, ocean views, cliffs, and unique lighting. The ocean and underwater scenes were the most challenging. We filmed at sunset, with cloudy, cold weather and freezing water, which made it tough. But it was worth it!
In ‘Heal My Mind’, you explore a new spiritual dimension—what did you aim to achieve with the musical arrangement, especially in the bridge?
I aimed to expand my writing, producing, and arranging skills beyond my usual up-tempo material. Musically, the interplay in the bridge between the piano and violins was special, creating a “question and answer” dynamic. I hope listeners appreciate it.
What emotions do you hope to stir in listeners and viewers of ‘Heal My Mind’? What message do you hope to pass on to those experiencing similar feelings of loss?
I hope listeners find solace, as I have, in knowing that while we can mourn a loved one’s loss, being able to sense their presence is a gift. We have all lost someone, so I hope this song offers a positive spiritual experience.
How do you feel now that the final product of ‘Heal My Mind’ is released? What aspects of the project are you most proud of?
The song and video turned out exactly as I envisioned. They capture the haunting beauty that makes for a unique, moving experience. I especially enjoy how both the song and video take listeners and viewers beyond everyday consciousness. There is sadness and an emotional pull in the story, but the stunning visuals also convey the comfort found in feeling connected to someone who has passed.
Watch the moving and heartfelt music video for ‘Heal My Mind’ below, and find out more about TT and his music online on his official website, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.
