Chris Haugen: Transforming Chaos into Music
Episode Overview
Chris Haugen's journey to sobriety has transformed his music career. He shifted from touring to becoming a focused recording artist. His monthly Spotify listeners increased from 3,000 to 480,000. Sobriety has enhanced his creativity and artistic direction. Spiritual well-being plays a key role in his recovery process.
"Taking a lot of chaotic energy and streaming it down to one solid, focused beam."
In the latest episode of Recovery Conversations, host Brett Lovins sits down with renowned guitarist and songwriter Chris Haugen to explore his profound transformation over the past three years. Chris, who has been sober for three years, shares how his journey towards sobriety has not only improved his personal life but also significantly boosted his music career. Chris Haugen was once a touring guitarist, living a life that was often chaotic and unfocused due to substance use.
However, his decision to get sober marked a pivotal change. He describes this transformation as channeling chaotic energy into a focused beam, allowing him to become a dedicated recording artist and producer. This newfound focus has led to remarkable success, with his Spotify listeners growing from 3,000 to an impressive 480,000 monthly listeners. Beyond music, Chris discusses how spirituality, well-being, and connection to nature play crucial roles in his recovery process.
He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clear, balanced mind and engaging in activities like surfing, which connect him deeply to spirituality and health. The conversation delves into the challenges of making music without the influence of drugs and alcohol, highlighting Chris's initial anxieties and eventual realization of the freedom and creativity sobriety brings. Brett Lovins commends Chris for his openness and vulnerability, which serves as an inspiration to listeners facing similar struggles.
As Chris continues to evolve as an artist, he is focused on creating music that resonates with his audience. He has recently finished a new song titled 'Zenith,' and is actively involved in performances, including gigs with the band Tea Leaves in the Bay Area. With music available on platforms like Spotify and YouTube, Chris Haugen is not only a musician but a beacon of hope and transformation, showcasing the power of sobriety and focused creativity.