When Milwaukee-based singer-songwriter and U.S. Army veteran Jesse Frewerd returned from service in Iraq, he found it difficult to readjust to civilian life. At times, he felt lost. Fortunately, he found support from others as well as in music. The ability to voice and explore his complex emotions in song has been invaluable to him.
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“Music entered my life mostly after my return from Iraq,” he said. “It became my catharsis, a means to process and share the profound challenges I faced. I picked up a guitar and started writing songs to address those intense experiences and connect with others through the power of music.”
One of those songs is “Soldier Coming Home,” which he’s releasing in honor of Veteran’s Day. The song captures “the bittersweet moments of returning home to loved ones after a long time away, as well as the challenging memories from my time in Iraq,” he said.
He credits the support of CreatiVets, a nonprofit that “helps veterans express their stories through art and music,” for helping him record the song. The nonprofit supported his trip to Nashville to record with talented songwriters like Adam Fears, Martin McDaniel and Richard Casper.
To celebrate the release of his new song, he’s playing his first Sofar Sounds show on Saturday, Nov. 11. For those wanting to attend the secret show, they can purchase tickets and find out the location. Frewerd will also open for country singer Chris Kroeze at The Bend Theater in West Bend on Nov. 10.
Milwaukee Magazine recently caught up with Frewerd to learn about his emotional journey and inspiration in writing “Soldier Coming Home” and his service history. He also discussed how he has helped and been helped by different organizations, his rich musical inspirations and the joys of playing muisc with his wife.
Who was involved in the recording of “Soldier Coming Home,” and where did you record? Why did you pick that location and people to work with?
Recording “Soldier Coming Home” wouldn’t have been possible without the remarkable talents of all the musicians involved. Dave Maurer on bass, Steve Vorass on drums, Danny Schmitz on lead guitar, my wife Katie lending her beautiful harmonies, and myself on acoustic guitar and lead vocals. I felt that each musician brought a unique touch to the song, enriching it with their expertise and passion.
For the recording process, I chose The Exchange Recording Complex, a decision rooted in a previous positive experience I had there working with the studio engineer, Kevin Arndt. Kevin’s role in the recording was pivotal, not just for his technical proficiency but for the encouragement he provided.
“Soldier Coming Home” deals with the complex emotions soldiers feel when they return home. What was your inspiration for the songs? How has it applied to your experience? Why was it something you felt needed to be expressed?
My journey as a veteran has been marked by a long and often arduous battle with mental health issues. There were some pretty severe bouts with it, and some of the episodes made it very challenging to reintegrate with my loved ones post-service. The shame and embarrassment I felt over them witnessing my struggles added layers of complexity to my homecoming.
Though I’ve made substantial progress in managing these issues, the heart of “Soldier Coming Home” mirrors the ongoing internal struggle I’ve faced. It encapsulates the conflicting emotions of joy and pain, the warmth of homecoming and the haunting memories of my time in Iraq. This song is an artistic reflection of the resilience it takes to heal and rebuild after service.
But the driving force behind why I felt an imperative to express these emotions through music is the knowledge that countless other veterans share similar battles. It’s a shared experience – a silent struggle – and I wanted to ensure that they knew they’re not alone in this journey. I wanted to offer them a glimmer of hope, to let them know that recovery is possible, that a fulfilling and meaningful life can be built after hardship.
Can you tell me a little bit about your service history?
My journey in the military began with my enlistment as a cavalry scout in the U.S. Army, a decision that was shaped after the tumultuous events of 9/11. I made this commitment while I was still in high school, and it became the path I would follow immediately after my graduation.
To encapsulate my military experience, I often reflect on the word “fortunate.” My service was marked by a series of close calls and intense moments, but one incident, in particular, serves as a vivid reminder of the unpredictability of military life. It was the day when an IED detonated right under the Humvee I was in, a crazy ordeal that could have had devastating consequences.
Inexplicably, everyone inside that vehicle emerged unharmed, and I can’t help but attribute this to a form of divine intervention. This near-miraculous escape is a profound reminder of the fragility of life in a combat zone and the immeasurable value of the bonds that form among soldiers in such circumstances. It’s an experience that has left an indelible mark on my perspective and a deep appreciation for the sacrifices and blessings that come with military service.
How would you describe your sound? What about it lyrically and sonically do you think makes it stand out?
My sound is a fusion of my rock roots and newfound country influences, akin to The Wallflowers meeting Tyler Childers or Chris Cornell embracing country. What truly distinguishes my music is the compelling stories I weave into my songs and how these narratives resonate deeply with listeners. My music doesn’t merely entertain; it conveys authentic emotions that people can relate to and find some comfort in.
What are your biggest musical influences?
My musical journey has been enriched by a diverse array of influences. In my formative years, the grunge era of Seattle was a pivotal influence, especially Nirvana, Soundgarden, Alice in Chains and Pearl Jam. Nirvana’s “Unplugged” album, in particular, had a profound impact on my perception of guitar playing and drew me towards the acoustic guitar.
However, in 2017, my musical horizons expanded significantly when I had the opportunity to explore Nashville with the help of CreatiVets. Once there, I delved into the world of country music. Now, artists like Tyler Childers, Chris Stapleton and Morgan Wallen have found a place in my playlist, adding new dimensions to my musical influences. This blend of rock and country, infused with my eclectic musical tastes, shapes my unique sound.
You’ve also been involved with Guitars for Vets. Can you talk about what you’ve done with them and the importance of that organization for yourself and others?
My involvement with Guitars for Vets has been deeply meaningful to me, both as a musician and a veteran. This organization plays a vital role in supporting veterans who may be grappling with the challenges that often accompany their service experiences. Guitars for Vets offers a strong foundation for newcomers to the world of music, providing free lessons and, upon completion, a free guitar to continue their musical journey.
As a brand ambassador for Guitars for Vets, I’ve had the privilege of volunteering at local events and actively participating in spreading awareness about the invaluable work they do. It not only helps veterans discover the therapeutic power of music but also fosters a sense of community and healing through artistic expression. Many veterans face unique struggles upon returning home, and Guitars for Vets offers them a creative outlet and a supportive network that can be instrumental in their rehabilitation and reintegration into civilian life. It’s an honor to be part of an organization that provides this kind of lifeline to those who have sacrificed so much for our country.
You also perform with your wife. What’s that been like, and what does it allow that you aren’t able to do solo?
Performing and creating music with my wife has been an incredible journey. It’s not just a collaboration; it’s a profound bonding experience. During our songwriting sessions, we bounce ideas off each other, and when we perform together, we feed off each other’s energy. Our music project, Canary Canyon, is proof of the unique connection we share.
Having a partner in music enhances my abilities as a musician in many ways. My wife’s voice is both powerful and emotive, and her presence adds a whole new dimension to our songs. When we perform together, the harmonies and chemistry between us create a musical synergy that’s simply unparalleled. It allows us to convey the emotions and stories in our songs with a depth and richness that would be difficult to achieve on my own. Our upcoming single, “Stallion and the Still,” is just one example of what we can achieve together, and I’m excited to see where our musical journey leads us once it is released, probably sometime after the new year.
What are your future plans for releasing new music?
I’ll likely do at least one or two more singles this coming year, with a goal of releasing an EP sometime after that. Canary Canyon will also probably be on a similar schedule. I’m very excited to see what the next year holds!
