Jeremiah Fraites of The Lumineers: Music, Sobriety, and Healing from Addiction
It's someone in his extended family and he's seen it sort of ravage the family, and it's particularly alcoholism that has done that and it's made that person homeless and it's made that person go into the er dozens, if not hundreds of times, literally, whether for overdoses or just blacking out or being completely drunk.
When Jeremiah Fraites was just 14, he faced a devastating loss: his older brother Joshua died from a heroin overdose. This tragic event left an indelible mark on Jeremiah and his family, shaping his views on addiction and its far-reaching impacts. Now a member of the popular band The Lumineers, Jeremiah joins Elizabeth Vargas on 'Heart of the Matter' to share his journey through the shadows of addiction and his path to sobriety.
In this candid conversation, Jeremiah opens up about how his brother's death influenced his music and life choices. He reflects on the often-glamorized culture of drugs and alcohol in the music industry and discusses the importance of staying sober to nurture creativity and personal growth. His insights offer a raw look at the intersection of substance use, mental health, and artistic expression. Jeremiah also talks about The Lumineers' album 'III', which draws inspiration from his family's struggles with addiction.
He emphasizes the need for honest conversations about substance abuse and highlights how personal stories can shift public perceptions and foster understanding. The episode doesn't shy away from tough topics like the link between mental health issues and substance use among teens, underscoring the urgent need for supportive resources. Listeners will find Jeremiah's story both heart-wrenching and inspiring. His journey underscores the power of music as a tool for healing and advocacy.
Whether you're navigating your own path to sobriety, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in how personal experiences shape artistic endeavors, this episode offers valuable perspectives. Tune in to hear Jeremiah Fraites discuss how he turned personal tragedy into a mission for change, using his platform to address addiction and promote sobriety.