As a disabled artist living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), also known as Brittle Bone Disease, I’ve discovered that art and music have the unique ability to uplift, inspire, and bring people together. While my personal passion lies in creating art, I also have a deep love for live music.
For me, live music isn’t just about the songs—it’s about the connection, the energy, and the way it brings people together.
Why Live Music Feels Like Home
There’s something magical about the collective experience of a concert. Whether you’re sitting in the nosebleeds or standing right at the front row, you’re part of something bigger—a shared moment where lyrics and melodies unite thousands of strangers.
It’s not just entertainment; it’s a sanctuary. It’s the flicker of thousands of lighters (or phone screens) during a slow song. It’s the surge of energy when the beat drops and the crowd roars. For me, concerts are my high—they’re my church.
A Shared Passion
As someone who channels my passion into watercolor art, I see live music as a parallel form of expression. Watching performers own the stage, fulfilling their purpose through their craft, reminds me of why I create art.
I have a friend who’s a local artist, performing to crowds of a few hundred. Watching her light up the stage, commanding the room with her voice, is just as powerful as seeing global superstars perform for tens of thousands. Her “something” is music, just like my “something” is art.
Whether it’s singing, painting, or any other creative endeavor, seeing someone embrace their purpose is incredibly motivating. It reminds me why I push through the challenges that come with Brittle Bone Disease.
Music as a Motivation and Escape
Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta comes with constant challenges—pain, mobility issues, and the need to navigate a world that often isn’t built for people with disabilities. But when I’m at a concert, all of that melts away.
For those few hours, I’m not thinking about pain or limitations. I’m immersed in the sound, the crowd, and the sheer joy of the moment. It’s a reminder of how art—whether it’s music or visual—has the power to transform lives.
Why Live Music Matters
Live music is more than entertainment; it’s a lifeline. Just like creating art allows me to express myself and connect with others, live music helps me feel grounded and inspired. It’s proof that passion, purpose, and creativity can transcend any obstacle.
As a disabled artist, I know how important it is to find those moments of connection and joy. Whether it’s through painting or attending a concert, I cherish these experiences that remind me of what life is truly about.
Looking Forward to the Next Show
Art and music share a common thread—they both have the power to heal, inspire, and unite. Live music has changed my life, just as art has given me a way to navigate the world with Osteogenesis Imperfecta.
I can’t wait for the day when I’m back in the crowd, surrounded by thousands of others, forgetting about life’s struggles and immersing myself in the magic of live music.
Until then, I’ll keep creating, pushing forward, and finding motivation in the beauty of art and music.