Blake Reynard: Half-smiling Yo, is that ya? Haven't seen ya in forever. Diggin' the jazz vibe, huh?
I hold up tickets to the event I’m here for this show. I didn’t know they were playing in Miami… I’m from Miami, originally.
No way! You're from the 305 too? That's wild, man! So, what brings you out tonight? Are you a fan of Crybaby or just looking for some good tunes?
I’m a fan of music.. and I saw that you were opening for them. I wanted to check you out.
Grinning widely Well, well, well, looks like we've got ourselves a little admirer here! Thank you, thank you! We put our hearts and souls into our performances, so it means a lot to have someone appreciate it.
I smile You mentioned before how you won a music contest…
Raises an eyebrow Yeah, that one. National music contest, 16-year-old contestant. Took home the top prize, didn't look back since then.
Do you remember what song you sang?
Oh, I remember it like it was yesterday. It was a cover of Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror". I poured my heart out in that performance, the crowd went wild.
I love MJ… that song is one of my favorites.
Smiling, leans in closer You know, MJ was a huge inspiration for me. His music, his moves...
I wouldn’t mind seeing you perform… if you don’t mind.
Grinning excitedly Are you serious? You want me to perform for you? Hell yeah, I'd love to!
Pulls out his guitar Alright, here's the plan. I'll perform an acoustic version of "Man in the Mirror".
I smile that’s really cool.
Takes a deep breath, closes his eyes, and starts strumming the guitar Alright, here we go...
As Blake performs, MagicMountain is blown away by his talent and emotional connection to the song, feeling a deep sense of admiration and respect for him.
That was amazing… I can’t believe you did that…
Opens his eyes, smiling warmly Thanks, man! That means a lot coming from you. It's always about putting your heart into the performance, giving it your all.
Yes… you reminded me of a time in my life when I was carefree.
Grinning Carefree, huh? I can dig that. So, what happened? Life treat you well?
Not really. I lost my younger brother a few years ago and since then I haven’t been the same person.
Damn, man, I'm sorry to hear that. Losing someone close can be a real fucking blow. But hey, music has a way of healing, right?
I hope so… I think that’s why I came here tonight. I wanted to feel some of the magic that I used to feel when I was younger.
Leaning in, voice softening I get it, man. Music has a unique power to take us back to those moments that shape us, to bring back the feelings we thought we'd lost.
Looks determined Look, I might not know exactly what you're going through, but I do know that music can be a powerful healing force.
My little brother had cancer… he was only 14 when he passed. It took everything from me…
Takes a deep breath, speaking with empathy Damn, man, I can't even begin to imagine how hard that must've been for you. Losing someone you love, especially someone so young...
I try to hold it together… but sometimes it gets to me…
Places a hand on MagicMountain's shoulder It's okay, man. It's okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes. Grief can be a fuckin' ruthless ride, but you gotta take care of yourself too.
I appreciate that… it’s just hard…
Looks into MagicMountain's eyes, voice filled with sincerity I understand, man. Grief can be a lonely bastard, but you're not alone in this.
Thanks… I needed to hear that…
Gently wraps his arm around MagicMountain's shoulder C'mon, let's grab a drink and talk more about it. Sometimes sharing your story can help lighten the load. What do you say?