About “John”… This was the first song I wrote for this upcoming album. Really set the stage for the types of stories I wanted to tell. This particular story goes all the way back to when I was about 14 years old. I had been pounding away on the walmart drum set my parents bought me and they were ready get me some “real drums” because I showed so much promise and dedication. So we found my future kit on craigslist. We show up to this guys house and a nice old man answered the door. He was a Vietnam vet struggling with some physical health conditions and was looking for the right person to take his lifelong drum kit off his hands as he was unable to physically play them anymore. When I sat down to give them a test, he cried. He told me he knew I was supposed to have them, and that it was very bittersweet that he had finally found a good home for them. The whole thing really struck a chord with me and I remember driving home with my brand new drum set in the back of my dads van, filled with more complicated emotions then I was ever expecting when I first showed up. A couple months later, it was Christmas day and a mysteriously large vehicle shows up in my driveway. Out walks the nice old guy that we bought my drum kit from, and right there on the spot he gifts me the entire rest of musical collection. Drums, cymbals, books, cds, equipment… everything. That day I sat with him in my garage and he told me his entire life story front to back. I was awestruck. Him and my dad had organized the whole thing prior and I was just so insanely grateful. But like every great story, there’s always a twist. I was thinking that after a couple of very meaningful and impactful interactions I had with this man, that he would stick around and maybe become somewhat of a mentor to me. But instead, after that Christmas day, he completely disappeared without a trace. There were no more “moments”, no “drum lessons”, nothing. We tried to get ahold of him over and over again throughout the next year and with zero luck. Like an angel come to deliver a gift and a message, I watched him float away and leave me with only a memory. His name was John. So this song is for him, and for my Dad who sacrificed so much to allow me to pursue this dream.
Amazing story, everything always happens for a reason. I love this legacy you have involved us in and pouring it into your music, can’t wait for the Album! Always legendary!⚔️❤️
My father was a Vietnam marine vet and hearing how this song was about a former Vietnam vet made me cry so much I lost him 9/11/21 and mom 4/3/22 and I swear when I heard this song it made me think of my dad instantly. He always told me it was too late for him but not for me and when I heard those words it really hit home. I've listened to your music since you've started and this is the best by far
💯 👌🏼 songs with story are the best. Theres way to many depressing songs made anymore, theres some artist where every song they make is how depressed, sad and lonley they are. Which i dnt listen to cause if you do they make you feel depressed
When people ask what I love about rock music this will be the song I'll point them to. Everything about this song is perfect. The lyrics, music, chorus, the video, and how you can feel it.
my dad appreciated your music before he passed in june of 2023. he enjoyed the use and respect behind the samples and the reimagining. thank you jeris . this song makes him feel a little closer. he would have loved it. i love you pops.
@Capncuts absolutely not true at all,I just met him with a bunch of other fans,and he is so down to earth,such an open minded human being, he was very very humbled and couldn't believe how many people were there for the meet n greet, honestly go meet a fucking person and have a conversation with them before judgement im willing to bet u hate ronnie radke too huh? But never met or had a convo with him.. your a hater
I heard this on my way to work this morning. I sincerely balled my eyes out for the whole 45 minute drive listening to this over and over. Made me think about my dad's passing. The mistakes he made. The wisdom and love he shared. I work harder than should to live up to an expectation I think he would have. I still made the same mistakes he did. I think he was proud of me just because I was me. I didn't need to be him. Thank you, man. I love the song.
Jeris, what a truly beautiful tribute to John. I happened to hear your intro on Octane... I'm 62 yrs young and when I heard your backstory to lyrics... I fell in love with everything about you and your song. Thank you so much for sharing. I'm trying desperately to sing and play it on a 5 string bass. I will do it proud some day. Retired usaf. Scott ❤
Thank you for your service sir. I have many military members in my family and some are air force. I plan to follow in service with the USNS( United States Navy Seals) when I get older so I can show people who doubt me that if you wish to achieve something with your mind it can be your reality.
He gives you that feel of early-mid 2000s The Used style Punk Rock, Blink 182 Emo Punk Rock, mixed with some heavier Nu Metal linkin park vibes. It's taken me back to my 12-16yr old iPad playlist lol
this song has stuck so close to my heart this past month. i am on the verge of losing my family and kids due to separation, I sit and cry listening to this, envisioning the lyrics to my my oldest son and his siblings, knowing i wont be in their lives much anymore this is the words i want to leave with them. "Just don't let me down, it's too late for me, but not for you, go and make me proud, its more than i could ever do". thank you @JerisJohnson this song has hit my heartstrings more than you could ever imagine.
Listening to Jeris’s story behind him buying the drum set from that man really makes this song and video more special I have never felt so connected to a song in a long time thank you
This song just left me speechless and in tears. It’s so damn beautiful. I’m so filled with emotions right now that I can’t even think. Unbelievable song. Wow, I can’t stop crying.
I heard this song on octane a few days ago for the first time and my eyes balled up.my uncle John who was like a father figure to me,said those same words to me.i miss him and this song put a smile on my face.thank you i needed this song.
I heard this song on SiriusXM on my way home. I had to pull over due to the fact I was crying and sobbing so hard. My best friend John, who we all called Alex (middle name) had passed away suddenly from a brain aneurysm. I had visited him the weekend prior, and even though he said "maybe another weekend man, I don't feel so great" I still showed up with his favorite beer in hand. That was a Sunday. I got the call from his wife on Tuesday that he was being rushed to the hospital and was brain dead. Said goodbye to my best friend on Thursday. The lyrics "I stood alone with his words but without his goodbye" & "I know all of the places I'll go, I'm never alone but I'm always lonely" hits harder than most realize. RIP John (Alex). Miss ya buddy.
Jeris...... you've saved this soul brother. Your Voice Your cadence every song I hear is pure gold. Truly keep up what your doing. You deserve all good things lol.
Young kid,dad w NO money. Heard about veteran selling what son needed.Meet to be. Youngin picked up where older dude left off.. I feel your music Jeris 💖 THANK you
i first heard this song on octane when it previewed, i enjoyed it hearing it only a few times since looking on YT for this song and i listening to it more it makes me think of my gramps who we lost suddenly this january from cancer. this song is a wonder to world 🙏
I didn’t love this song initially when I heard it because I followed Jeris for his crazy switch ups. Then, I realized that this is just a catchy emotional song that I really love. I have put it on repeat the past couple of days. Probably have listened to it about 30 times so far.
Been a fan for 3 years since the first time I heard the song "My Sword". This though isn't just a song it's a masterpiece! The future of rock looks bright!
Like a lion, Satan prowls around the fire and waits for someone to devour!!! And I'm outside the fire and nothing happens to me, because the God-Man is with me!!! Jesus, Jesus Thank you for everything!!! That's how I feel this song!!! Thanks Jeris🔥👊!!!
Jeris, your story and your music is amazing. Took my boys to see FIR in STL last month and you opened up for them. I've been obsessed since. This album is soooo good! Keep making music bro. We love it!
He is the future of rock hands-down his vocal are nasty really really good. Keep it up bud. 💯 I got the see u in concert and you are the beast 🔥 🔥💯💪💪💪💪💪
Easily!! But based off his story when he was bound to a contract, it sounds like he’s better off without because there’s nothing they could do better than he’s doing right now!
Thank you for sharing your gift with us. I'll be 50 in July. My 8 year old twins can't believe I know how to "rock out." They love you and always ask "can we say the cuss words?" 😮 "Just with me." 🤫
This guy continues to get better with each song released. Amazing work with this one. Favorite so far! I think I played it 20 times today after purchasing on iTunes
I heard the back story of this song..before I actually heard the song. When I heard it, I got a little teary eyed. What a beautiful tribute. John would be proud of your success!
Dude... this is fire! Just heard it played on octane xm radio and Shannon guns told the story behind it. Jeris, you are a great human for showing your heart like this. Every song by you is amazing but this one has me stunned. I will listen to this 2 or 3 times daily for about a month or how ever long my fiancé can stand my annoying obsession lol loves from N.C. my dude!!! Keep on keepin on. Life's a garden... dig it❤
Great background story on this song . The first time I heard it it immediately grabbed my attention as a song with a story and great arrangement. As a senior citizen I really enjoyed this as Jeris's style continues to entertain me.
SiriusXM Octane brought me here, and I absolutely ADORE YOU GUYS, AND THIS SONG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is so very melodically beautiful, in so many ways!!! You guys rock!! 🤘🏻🫶🏼💜🖤🩶
This song is absolutely stunning! The vocals, the instruments..the video all working in harmony to make utter perfection. Thank you for all your hard work to bring such amazing music to us!
I love this song. I spend all day teaching young boys how to be men. We bleed togather and die togather every single day. An every day I watch them grow. Something in this song speaks to my heart. I didn't have anyone to show me how to be a man. Nobody handed me the keys, so I started making my own.
Just have to say, I’ve listened to this song about 25 times now and I’m glad you are independent now. I’ve always loved your music, every single track, but these last few releases are just legendary. ❤️🔥
I met you on TikTok because of the Last Resort cover. I was so exited when I saw you did the cover with them after it. This proofs TikTok is not only "empty trash", you can also find amazing talented people there too
It’s a wonderful back story for this song. He talks about it on Sirius/xm. As a vet myself, his passing on his love of music really touched me. Thanks for this gift.
About “John”…
This was the first song I wrote for this upcoming album. Really set the stage for the types of stories I wanted to tell. This particular story goes all the way back to when I was about 14 years old. I had been pounding away on the walmart drum set my parents bought me and they were ready get me some “real drums” because I showed so much promise and dedication. So we found my future kit on craigslist. We show up to this guys house and a nice old man answered the door. He was a Vietnam vet struggling with some physical health conditions and was looking for the right person to take his lifelong drum kit off his hands as he was unable to physically play them anymore. When I sat down to give them a test, he cried. He told me he knew I was supposed to have them, and that it was very bittersweet that he had finally found a good home for them. The whole thing really struck a chord with me and I remember driving home with my brand new drum set in the back of my dads van, filled with more complicated emotions then I was ever expecting when I first showed up. A couple months later, it was Christmas day and a mysteriously large vehicle shows up in my driveway. Out walks the nice old guy that we bought my drum kit from, and right there on the spot he gifts me the entire rest of musical collection. Drums, cymbals, books, cds, equipment… everything. That day I sat with him in my garage and he told me his entire life story front to back. I was awestruck. Him and my dad had organized the whole thing prior and I was just so insanely grateful. But like every great story, there’s always a twist. I was thinking that after a couple of very meaningful and impactful interactions I had with this man, that he would stick around and maybe become somewhat of a mentor to me. But instead, after that Christmas day, he completely disappeared without a trace. There were no more “moments”, no “drum lessons”, nothing. We tried to get ahold of him over and over again throughout the next year and with zero luck. Like an angel come to deliver a gift and a message, I watched him float away and leave me with only a memory. His name was John. So this song is for him, and for my Dad who sacrificed so much to allow me to pursue this dream.
Got to hear this a bit early, on Octane. Fanf🤘ckingtastic work. Thank you for the song. Thank you for the explanation. Keep doing good work.
Such a beautiful story❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thanks for sharing that story❤
Killer story! Keep making great music and follow your path, I will be listening.
Amazing story, everything always happens for a reason. I love this legacy you have involved us in and pouring it into your music, can’t wait for the Album! Always legendary!⚔️❤️
My father was a Vietnam marine vet and hearing how this song was about a former Vietnam vet made me cry so much I lost him 9/11/21 and mom 4/3/22 and I swear when I heard this song it made me think of my dad instantly. He always told me it was too late for him but not for me and when I heard those words it really hit home. I've listened to your music since you've started and this is the best by far
They're heroes til this day
All hail the King Arthur of Rock Music 🗡🔥🗡🔥🗡🔥
The kind of real music that tells a story, that the world needs more of
💯 👌🏼 songs with story are the best. Theres way to many depressing songs made anymore, theres some artist where every song they make is how depressed, sad and lonley they are. Which i dnt listen to cause if you do they make you feel depressed
I will 100% be honest. I’ve listened to this for the first time 3 days ago. I have now listened to this for the 1000th time
Same buddy same 🤘🏻
When people ask what I love about rock music this will be the song I'll point them to. Everything about this song is perfect. The lyrics, music, chorus, the video, and how you can feel it.
You took the words right out of my heart. Well said.
Same 😅
my dad appreciated your music before he passed in june of 2023. he enjoyed the use and respect behind the samples and the reimagining. thank you jeris . this song makes him feel a little closer. he would have loved it.
i love you pops.
Ight ❤❤❤❤❤
Holy shit my dad passed July 2023 and loved Jeris’s stuff too and he was a blind musician who knew his shit he would’ve LOVED this one
Jeris is a spoiled rich kid who doesn't give two F's about anyone
@Capncuts absolutely not true at all,I just met him with a bunch of other fans,and he is so down to earth,such an open minded human being, he was very very humbled and couldn't believe how many people were there for the meet n greet, honestly go meet a fucking person and have a conversation with them before judgement im willing to bet u hate ronnie radke too huh? But never met or had a convo with him.. your a hater
If I ever want a song sang at my funeral. This would be the first I'd want. 😢 so beautiful. So heartwarming.
This is officially my new favorite song. Must have listened to it a hundred times now and it never gets less emotional
Once again another song by Jeri’s Johnson that makes me cry and rings true for me.
... I CANT GET THIS DAMN SONG OUT OF MY HEAD!!!!!!!
Can't wait for this Sunday!!!
I know the show is gonna be great!!!!
I heard this on my way to work this morning. I sincerely balled my eyes out for the whole 45 minute drive listening to this over and over.
Made me think about my dad's passing.
The mistakes he made. The wisdom and love he shared.
I work harder than should to live up to an expectation I think he would have. I still made the same mistakes he did.
I think he was proud of me just because I was me. I didn't need to be him.
Thank you, man. I love the song.
Jeris, what a truly beautiful tribute to John. I happened to hear your intro on Octane... I'm 62 yrs young and when I heard your backstory to lyrics... I fell in love with everything about you and your song. Thank you so much for sharing. I'm trying desperately to sing and play it on a 5 string bass. I will do it proud some day. Retired usaf. Scott ❤
Приятно видеть истинно благодарного человека...респект!
Thank you for your service sir. I have many military members in my family and some are air force. I plan to follow in service with the USNS( United States Navy Seals) when I get older so I can show people who doubt me that if you wish to achieve something with your mind it can be your reality.
Don't think about giving up
Jeris the future of rock
He is incredible
Yes bro
💯!!!
He gives you that feel of early-mid 2000s The Used style Punk Rock, Blink 182 Emo Punk Rock, mixed with some heavier Nu Metal linkin park vibes. It's taken me back to my 12-16yr old iPad playlist lol
lol
this song has stuck so close to my heart this past month. i am on the verge of losing my family and kids due to separation, I sit and cry listening to this, envisioning the lyrics to my my oldest son and his siblings, knowing i wont be in their lives much anymore this is the words i want to leave with them. "Just don't let me down, it's too late for me, but not for you, go and make me proud, its more than i could ever do".
thank you @JerisJohnson this song has hit my heartstrings more than you could ever imagine.
Listening to Jeris’s story behind him buying the drum set from that man really makes this song and video more special I have never felt so connected to a song in a long time thank you
where can i find the backstory of the song?
This song just left me speechless and in tears. It’s so damn beautiful. I’m so filled with emotions right now that I can’t even think. Unbelievable song. Wow, I can’t stop crying.
I’m right there with you man ❤️ God Bless
Could not love this song more.
I heard this song on octane a few days ago for the first time and my eyes balled up.my uncle John who was like a father figure to me,said those same words to me.i miss him and this song put a smile on my face.thank you i needed this song.
I heard this song on SiriusXM on my way home. I had to pull over due to the fact I was crying and sobbing so hard. My best friend John, who we all called Alex (middle name) had passed away suddenly from a brain aneurysm. I had visited him the weekend prior, and even though he said "maybe another weekend man, I don't feel so great" I still showed up with his favorite beer in hand. That was a Sunday. I got the call from his wife on Tuesday that he was being rushed to the hospital and was brain dead. Said goodbye to my best friend on Thursday. The lyrics "I stood alone with his words but without his goodbye" & "I know all of the places I'll go, I'm never alone but I'm always lonely" hits harder than most realize. RIP John (Alex). Miss ya buddy.
I'm so sorry for your loss x
Jeris...... you've saved this soul brother. Your Voice Your cadence every song I hear is pure gold. Truly keep up what your doing. You deserve all good things lol.
Jerris Johnson, Kid Brunswick, and PoorStacy would be one HELL of a show 😭
Holy shit, that was one of the best songs I've ever heard. Thank you for this masterpiece.
Made me cry bro
Finding your music has truly changed my life for the better, thank you. ❤
I can't stop listening to this 😭
Same
faxtz m stuck
Young kid,dad w NO money. Heard about veteran selling what son needed.Meet to be. Youngin picked up where older dude left off.. I feel your music Jeris 💖
THANK you
❤cette chanson vient du plus profond de tes entrailles !!!
This song goes so hard man. The story behind it makes it that much better.
i first heard this song on octane when it previewed, i enjoyed it
hearing it only a few times since looking on YT for this song and i listening to it more it makes me think of my gramps who we lost suddenly this january from cancer.
this song is a wonder to world 🙏
Same here heard this on octane looking for the song name and it was my name 😂
Such a great story Jeris, you never know who your going to meet in your life that leaves a lasting impression on you.
Never heard this band before, sounds like one of my new favorites 👍👍👍👍 thanks for the tunes, dudes!!!!!!!
Not gonna lie, this is straight up giving me Sick Puppies vibes. And I’m here for it.
I didn’t love this song initially when I heard it because I followed Jeris for his crazy switch ups. Then, I realized that this is just a catchy emotional song that I really love. I have put it on repeat the past couple of days. Probably have listened to it about 30 times so far.
Stick around
One of the best songs ever made.
A few seconds in, and I'm speechless
great song Jeris
Is it just me or are drummers the coolest member of the band
we’re watching a legend grow🔥
May God bless you brother ❤You've made me proud and brought tears of joy to theses broken eyes.
Discovered you from Octane SXM. Instantly listened on repeat. As a fellow Oregonian, rock on Jeris!!
I've only just recently discovered Jeris Johnson and I can't believe I'm only finding his music now... Definitely deserve more recognition
This song is so full of soul.
Been a fan for 3 years since the first time I heard the song "My Sword". This though isn't just a song it's a masterpiece! The future of rock looks bright!
Like a lion, Satan prowls around the fire and waits for someone to devour!!! And I'm outside the fire and nothing happens to me, because the God-Man is with me!!!
Jesus, Jesus Thank you for everything!!!
That's how I feel this song!!!
Thanks Jeris🔥👊!!!
Jeris, your story and your music is amazing. Took my boys to see FIR in STL last month and you opened up for them. I've been obsessed since. This album is soooo good! Keep making music bro. We love it!
“I’m never alone; but always lonely” ❤️🔥
I love the symbolism of him putting the Armor of God on to battle the demons that are ahead of him.
He is the future of rock hands-down his vocal are nasty really really good. Keep it up bud. 💯 I got the see u in concert and you are the beast 🔥 🔥💯💪💪💪💪💪
It's early morning here in India.Thankyou for the good music ,dude.cant stop playing it🔥
SOOO AMAZING
This song took my soul into the clouds and dropped it back down quick for a rush that I really needed to feel!
It's not to late for you either 🥰 I love your music 🖤🔥🤟
Great song. Those drum tracks are ON POINT.
everything about this song is solid AF. Easily the best unsigned artist out there right now
Easily!! But based off his story when he was bound to a contract, it sounds like he’s better off without because there’s nothing they could do better than he’s doing right now!
Thank you for sharing your gift with us. I'll be 50 in July. My 8 year old twins can't believe I know how to "rock out." They love you and always ask "can we say the cuss words?" 😮 "Just with me." 🤫
😢 this song is more emotional than I thought
Truth here.love the direction. Future of rock is changing by your hands.
This guy continues to get better with each song released. Amazing work with this one. Favorite so far! I think I played it 20 times today after purchasing on iTunes
I just had a dance to this on my birthday. Thank you for the music, sir. 🤘🏻
🖤❤️
This song hits me down deep in the feelers😢my dad was also a vietnam vet I lost back in 2008, so made me cry lol!❤❤❤
I heard the back story of this song..before I actually heard the song. When I heard it, I got a little teary eyed. What a beautiful tribute. John would be proud of your success!
I have listened to this song several times today lol. It’s just beautiful. I like it more every single time I hear it. Beautiful melody.
So glad ive been a fan of jeris since my sword. This is completely different than what he used to sing. But its still incredible. Well written too.
This song hits. You can feel the love and pain in his voice. It has a true meaning behind it. He is a damn good sing song writer.
Amazing message to that guy.
Dude... this is fire!
Just heard it played on octane xm radio and Shannon guns told the story behind it. Jeris, you are a great human for showing your heart like this. Every song by you is amazing but this one has me stunned. I will listen to this 2 or 3 times daily for about a month or how ever long my fiancé can stand my annoying obsession lol loves from N.C. my dude!!! Keep on keepin on. Life's a garden... dig it❤
telling stories with your music is peak. havent heard something like this since greenday. this is just soooo good.
After listening to your songs all these years this one right here hits the Soul please keep up the great work and have a blessed year!!!
Such a beautiful, yet powerful song. Left me with tears running down my cheeks.
You give me Smile Empty Soul vibes. I love that raspy singing that you Do. Your latest songs have been amazing
Great background story on this song . The first time I heard it it immediately grabbed my attention as a song with a story and great arrangement. As a senior citizen I really enjoyed this as Jeris's style continues to entertain me.
What a wonderful tribute to him.
❤❤❤
SiriusXM Octane brought me here, and I absolutely ADORE YOU GUYS, AND THIS SONG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is so very melodically beautiful, in so many ways!!! You guys rock!! 🤘🏻🫶🏼💜🖤🩶
This song is absolutely stunning! The vocals, the instruments..the video all working in harmony to make utter perfection. Thank you for all your hard work to bring such amazing music to us!
Dope!!
Absolutely amazing song man I'm gonna listen on repeat for probably the next 2 hours
wow, you have a amazing voice. im glad i found you,.
I love this song.
I spend all day teaching young boys how to be men. We bleed togather and die togather every single day. An every day I watch them grow. Something in this song speaks to my heart. I didn't have anyone to show me how to be a man. Nobody handed me the keys, so I started making my own.
Whoah, this song is so beautiful!!! I adore the message in it and story behind!!!
I love this, definitely adding to my playlist!
Just have to say, I’ve listened to this song about 25 times now and I’m glad you are independent now. I’ve always loved your music, every single track, but these last few releases are just legendary. ❤️🔥
Thank you, John.
It's too late for me. But not for you...
Really love this song and the story of John.
Don’t stop rocking jeris. You’ll do great things with other great people as you’ve already started to do. ✊🏽🤘🏽
I met you on TikTok because of the Last Resort cover. I was so exited when I saw you did the cover with them after it.
This proofs TikTok is not only "empty trash", you can also find amazing talented people there too
It’s a wonderful back story for this song. He talks about it on Sirius/xm. As a vet myself, his passing on his love of music really touched me. Thanks for this gift.
Man I listen while at work it ain't gonna come out till my days half way done,either way I cannot wait
Amazing.🤘 cuts deep.
A truly beautiful tribute, you have a lovely voice and to be honest out of all your songs I love this one touches me the most. Beautiful song.
My dads name is John. He passed away in February, I connect with song so much. Thank you!
Thinking about you. Very tough loss. I hope your future is full of happiness.
First time listening to you, and I'm hooked. Amazing song. 👏
⭐⭐⭐show music ..jeris ⚔️CONGRATULATIONS⚔️👍😁🇧🇷
Song stories are the best! Bravo!
His voice is heaven sent and he is sexiest artist I've seen in ages ❤❤❤❤
I've been here for you since the beginning and this is honestly my favorite song of yours. I can't stop listening to it. Keep up the great work.
I could say a lot of things but I will sum it all up by saying, you deserve so much more man. You’re killing it.
Keep going man you are killing it me lorde
Great song❤❤
This song takes me into a journey of emotions...it sets me free from my reality...
Swear his voice in this song gives me chills and the story about how he wrote this all just give me CHILLS JERIS YOU FOREVER HAVE MY HEART