A Full Circle Moment

with Collective Soul

By James Scogin | September 11, 2021

Sometimes things come full circle.

Back in August, the Ward family and I met Jesse Triplett, lead guitarist of Collective Soul, at a wedding. Just over a month later, we're sitting a few rows back at The Rose watching Tonic, Better than Ezra, and Collective Soul tear up the amphitheater stage—later getting to crack a cold one with the band.

We talked whacky sports, music, cars, and pants. (My best friend—practically a brother—Connor really liked lead singer, E. Roland's pants).

The Rose is a 4,200 seat venue in Huber Heights, OH. It quickly became a favorite with easy ground navigation, seating locations, and food options all inside.

I was highly impressed with all three sets from the bands.

Tonic lives up to the name as their set was invigorating. Ezra touched the soul with their message for Louisiana after hurricane Ida, and they really put on a show. Collective Soul brought the show to a meaningful close letting us all know we are united.

These three bands (all long-time friends) have a string of shows together on tour and, if you are lucky to catch a performance, it is guaranteed to be memorable one.

"The special sonic elixir that fuels Collective Soul’s continued success story is a straightforward one: a profound mixture of insightful songwriting and impeccable band chemistry," Collective Soul wrote on their website.

I have to agree.

The chemistry and camaraderie between the band is evident and special.

Something that stuck out to me in the many small conversations that night after the show was Roland's passion and purpose.

It helped me realize something as I had been struggling myself with where I was creatively.

Just as he said he won't stop playing music "until the Lord says, 'Hey,'" we all have to follow our hearts and live our purpose to the fullest...

"Until the Lord says, 'Hey!'"

We should never stop striving in our every day lives. We should continue to work and improve our skillset and seize every moment. Our experiences and growth are what make us who we are.

So, for that, thank you Collective Soul.