Imagine being diagnosed with a disease with no cure and being told that before it got worse, it would be a good idea to work on your bucket list. What would you do first? How much time would lament your plight? Would you be able to accomplish anything with an ominous cloud hovering above your head that you know will never go away and that could erupt at any time?
Linda Brady faced that scenario when diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson's disease.
Despite needing a “deep brain stimulator” implanted in her brain to help her tolerate her symptoms, Linda Brady released her first rock album in 30 years after having left the music business for decades to teach plus raise her children.
My late brother suffered from Parkinson’s syndrome. His shaking hands made it impossible to perform simple tasks, and eventually other aspects of the disease rendered him disabled, so I identified with Linda’s plight.
Instead of lamenting, she told me that by the grace of God and support of her family; she found a local recording studio where she could record her album. Linda independently produced it, meaning taking responsibility for all aspects.
I find the songs to be tight, hard driving, melodic rock songs that express her emotions about her illness and the world at large.
Her velvety smooth voice is very pleasing to listen to and her powerful lyrics crystal clear above the power-pop style music reminiscent of The Bangles (Manic Monday), Badfinger (Baby Blue) and The Pretenders (Back on the Chain Gang).
Linda spoke of her past, present, and future in this fascinating and light-hearted interview that covers everything from health to the music business to social commentary. I found Linda to be an intelligent, funny and insightful person who exudes a positive outlook while accepting her situation and admitting her challenges.
What I love most about her is her passion for creativity far outweighs any drive for monetary success. Of course, she wants her music to be heard, but she is the opposite of a person driven to put herself first, even if it means stepping on others to do so.
No Parkinson's cure existed when the interview occurred, so her future is daunting. However, Linda shows us how a person with adversity can overcome it and produce something the world can appreciate, plus set a hopeful example for so many of us dealing with our own issues.
I hope you will enjoy my conversation with Linda and the sample songs played within.
Please share this podcast with your family and friends so we can get this positive message and wonderful music heard by others.
Share this post