An Inspired Chat with Kevin Gerald of Santa Monica

Kevin Gerald shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Kevin, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
First, I’d like to thank Bold Journey for the interview. As to what makes me lose track of time, I’d have to say that it’s still writing, recording and playing music. I find that I tend to get hyper-focused and sometimes sort of wake up and realize that I’ve been in a trance for hours. It’s easy to forget about stretching, eating or getting up to go to the bathroom.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am Kevin Gerald, an acoustic singer songwriter/performer. I enjoy playing my original songs and the occasional cover, mostly in Southern California. My songs are of a narrative storytelling nature and I try to keep my audience engaged and relaxed. I try to use sensory-rich descriptions and observations of the human condition in my lyrics. Growing up along the beaches in Southern California, many of my songs use surfing, sailing, fishing and world travels as the backdrops for my tales.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
When I was 19 years old, I bought a pick up truck with a camper on it and drove all the way through Mexico and Central America. I was a surfer and just wanted to live in the jungle, surf empty waves and play music. I was gone for about eight months and I realized that I wanted to continue traveling and experiencing the world for the rest of my life. I learned that despite the multitude of different cultures in the world, most people want to live in a safe place, with some money saved, a healthy relationship with someone they’re attracted to, a water-tight roof over their heads, good food to eat and close friends to share our lives with.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There have been times when I’ve given up and not “almost.” Years ago I was flipping channels on my TV and came across a sitcom called Alf. As I recall, Alf was a space alien living with a human family. He was giving one of the family members some advice that resonated with me. He said, “Find out what you’re not good at and don’t do it.” For some reason, I thought this quote was actually profound and liberating because it gives you permission to try a multitude of different things and if they don’t work out, then don’t do them anymore. I’ve tried all kinds of different things and explored many life paths. The ones I loved, I stuck with. The others, I just stopped doing. Some things just faded away with no regrets as I got older. I know this must sound trite and superficial but how are you going to find something you love doing without trying out and rejecting a bunch in the process?

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
First and foremost, I have a strong faith in God and Jesus. This trust has helped me overcome the incalculable challenges we face while experiencing the material world. I have discovered that gratitude is the foundational truth that, unfortunately, many overlook. I am grateful for so many things on so many levels. In my life, I have found that the universe rewards a grateful soul. By focusing on all of the things I have to be grateful for, I am blessed with a loving family and friends and countless other things that give my life meaning and joy.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I’m not expecting much. If even a few of my family, friends and fans play one of my songs every once in awhile, that would be more than enough.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kevingeraldmusic.com
• Instagram: @kevingeraldmusic
• Facebook: kevin gerald music
• Youtube: @kevingerald

Image Credits
Ann McCluskey