Moms Are Where It’s At – Chad Hollister
“Moms are where it’s at.” So says Chad Hollister, the artist whose song Life is featured on the Fans of Being a Mom Summer Fun Social Slideshow. We were thrilled to work with Chad on the soundtrack for our new app, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to do a little one-on-one interview. Ladies, prepare to be swept off your feet.
Chad Hollister is a Vermont-based musician who started his musical journey working his mom hard for a drum set. She wanted him to learn a “real” instrument first, but – after failed attempts with the violin, cello, and piano – she finally gave in and bought him a “piece-meal” drum set. The rest, as they say, is history. Now, with six albums out, he travels the country – sometimes with his full band and often solo – connecting with fans through live performances that feel more like family reunions than commercial concerts.
In addition to being a musician, Chad is also husband to Katie O’Rourke and dad to two young children – Bodi (3) and Riley (5). Chad talked about the amazing “power of motherhood” saying, “The days of ‘oh, she’s just a mom’ are far and few between,” adding, “It’s ridiculous that anyone would even say it.” He believes passionately that being a mom is one of the hardest jobs in the world, and doesn’t for a minute underestimate the importance of the role.
As far as his own kids go, Chad is a very engaged dad who, when not on tour, spends much of his time at home with the little ones. They take their dad’s success in stride, sometimes joining him at shows, even getting up on stage to dance or sing. Chad says he “loves to watch these brand new minds create without even thinking,” and says that one of his favorite things about kids is the way they dance without any preconceived notions or inhibitions. Little moments like those – watching a child dance just for the joy of it – are what inspired the song Life. It’s become Chad’s unofficial theme song, speaking to his sense of humble gratitude for all the blessings that we sometimes take for granted.
… like kid-free trips to the supermarket. You’ve been there right? As Chad said, “It really puts everything in perspective when even going to the grocery store can be an amazing breather for you.” Joking aside, Chad feels strongly that everyone needs to find ways to “fill the well” – feeding their soul with whatever stirs their passion. For moms, this can be very difficult, what with the lack of time, sleep, and sanity; but that doesn’t make it less important. Chad sees how most of what his wife, a full-time mom, does during the day is “geared towards the kids and making sure the kids are happy,” and reiterates that,” … you have to have time for yourself.”
Are you swooning yet?
All too soon, it was time to wrap up our lovely chat. Chad was getting ready to hit the beach with his mom. “She’s 78 years-old, and she’s my rock,” he said, proudly adding that he’s not only a fan of moms, but a momma’s boy. “My mom taught me that being a great mother is what makes great people and then that just spreads right on down the line.” Well, Chad’s mom, we think you did a great job!
Check out Chad’s music and tour schedule at the official Chad Hollister site and, for all the most up-to-date news, be sure to “Like” his Facebook page. Maybe we’ll catch you at a show sometime!
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