For Mark Hamilton, music is not about building a career, fame, or even selling out stadiums. For him, it’s a higher calling, a channel through which he can draw attention to a cause very dear to his heart. Known as the silent epidemic, mental illness has been a constant thorn in the side of the music world, taking its toll on some of the greatest creative minds throughout history, along with countless artists and individuals who have fought to make their mark on an unforgiving industry. In an effort to combat the stigma that still clings to the subject of mental health, Mark has taken it upon himself to reinvent songs by musicians who were lost too soon to suicide and drug abuse, releasing his covers as a way to pay tribute and raise awareness.
Delivering covers by bands and artists like Nirvana, Audioslave, Soundgarden, and Linkin Park, Mark has become a driving force in music and the fight for good mental health, building momentum for his cause with a growing assortment of deft, evocative releases.
With almost 65,000 streams on Spotify and 12,000 views on YouTube, Mark’s cover of Audioslave’s ‘Be Yourself’ is easily one of his most essential and evocative releases so far. Capturing the heart and soul of the original, but with a textured, indie twist that lets, Mark’s talents shine. An enduring classic, the original version of ‘Be Yourself’ was recorded by Audioslave and released in 2005, twelve years before lead singer Chris Cornell tragically took his own life.
In his own words, Mark explained, “I hope to show people who are suffering that they are not alone, that there is a huge community of people reaching out their hands. Above all, this music is meant to break the stigma and bring people together for an incredibly important, long overdue conversation.”
A stunning example of his artistic talents and heartfelt mission, you can stream ‘Numb’ now on YouTube, Spotify, and all major platforms.
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