Released during Suicide Awareness Month, 'Wrong Life' is a heartfelt and powerful piece dedicated to Jonah Lear.
Not an eye will be dry listening to the debut track from Geelong duo, homelight.
In 2022, the local Geelong community was shaken by the tragic loss of Jonah Lear who passed away on 28 November following a battle with mental illness. With his mother Janina Lear being a beloved figure of the Geelong community as the Director of the joyous Piccadilly Market, Jonah Lear was a much-loved local, friend and family member.
Now his sister Bella Lear is honouring his memory through song. The musician has partnered with friend Ivy Parkinson, whom she met during her time at Centrestage, to form acoustic duo homelight. They have just released their first single ‘Wrong Life’, a song about the grief of losing someone so special to you and the never-ending feeling of loss.
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As premiered live at the SPAN (Suicide Prevention and Awareness Network) walk on Sunday 8 September to an overwhelmingly emotional crowd, ‘Wrong Life’ explores the aftermath of loss.
‘Wrong Life’ was written a few months after the tragic events, with Lear and Parkinson dedicating time to capture and convey the feelings that went along with the loss for Lear. The track further acts as an anchor for those also experiencing grief, and a reminder that they are not in it alone.
Whilst dedicated to Jonah, ‘Wrong Life’ extends to all of the people we have sadly lost to suicide, with Lear explaining that the song is “a reminder that it will get better and you are loved and appreciated no matter how hard some days can be”. In addition, ‘Wrong Life’ further calls to those currently struggling from mental health issues, gently offering hope, with Lear encouraging that “the pain is temporary and you just have to find the light and turn it back on. There is always someone you can talk to no matter how hard that might be”.
It’s a powerful message accompanied by a goosebump-inflicting melody, one bound to bring on the tears!
“A very special thank you to Ivy, who was by my side with this song and gave me a place and a home to feel safe to share these memories and feelings. Love you all, Enjoy the song, Cry to the song, Dance to the song, Scream to the song, Or simply just Listen,” says Lear.
You can listen to ‘Wrong Life’ by homelight here.
If this article brings up any issues or thoughts surrounding mental health or suicide, please seek help through Beyond Blue here.
