Connecting with Audiences Through Vulnerablity

Vulnerability isn’t an easy thing for many. We naturally protect ourselves from our struggles and pain. But ultimately it’s what connects us as humans. Come on this emotional journey with Singer/Songwriter Michael Venia, the frontman for San Luis Obispo based band, Carbon City Lights (@carboncitylights).

Music Is His Family’s Lifeblood

I’ve gotten to know Michael and his wife Brittany over the years – covering live shows, doing photo shoots with the band, and also being invited to document their home life. Not only is he a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and frontman of Carbon City Lights, Michael is also a husband and father.

On his latest album “Flame in the Winter” Michael wrote a personal song about loss titled. “If I Ever Lost You.” It talks about the fear of losing someone close to you.

“After losing both of my parents, I knew how painful loss was. And when my wife was expecting our first son (Luca), I wrote this song about how much I feared ever losing them.”

While anticipating the birth of their son, Luca, Michael recorded it the weekend of their due date. Sadly, their son’s heart stopped beating and they lost him. It was Brittany and Michael were devastated.

Michael performs with his band Carbon City Lights at SLO Brew Rock during their album release of “Flame in the Winter”

“Flame in the Winter” Release Party

A year after losing their son Luca, Carbon City Lights had a chance to play in front of a crowd since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the show Michael opened up to the crowd about their loss before playing “If I Ever Lost You.” You could hear a pin drop, but in the best way possible. You could feel the room send their collective heart to him and support his family. And it was even more beautiful, because there was a special guest in the audience…

Meet Canyon

I’m happy to say that since the loss of Luca, they have brought their second son, Canyon, into the world. They shower him with love and music throughout their home. It’s easy to see them enjoying their life as parents. 

Connecting With Others

Seeing how transparent and vulnerable they are willing to be about their experience is inspiring and empowering. The Venia Family is a strong unit and their kindness and thoughtfulness is so easy to see. It’ been an honor to get to know them and be a part of documenting their journey.

People support others when they connect on an emotional level. Michael’s voice and musicality are easy to like, but his relatability makes it easy to root for his success.