The last Monday in May is upon us, the day Americans set aside to honor those who gave their lives in defense of our democracy. A moment of silence here as we honor them. Respect, civility, and compassion are seemingly lacking in today’s hyper political climate, where soldiers are lauded, but not taken care of when they return from service. Though Veteran’s Day is later in the year, I want to tell you about some artists who give back in a unique way.

Back in November, I met Mary Judd, the Executive Director of SongwritingWith:Soldiers, at The Mansion On O in DC, along with founder and Creative Director (and friend) Darden Smith. The songwriters involved join as much for their expertise of craft as their ability to collaborate. The idea is to translate the Vets’ struggles with the aftermath of combat into songs. The reality is when those songs come to life they evoke a flash of universality for the listener. And the acceptance, the ability to communicate, provides a bridge to healing. Contributions of time and love come from Radney Foster, Jay Clementi, Darrell Scott, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Ashley Cleveland, Marshall Crenshaw, Mary Gauthier, Brad Parker, Georgia Middleman, Greg Trooper, and Gary Nicholson. Many of these folks are friends, and some have even graced the pages of Music Fog, like Gary, whom we filmed the first time at AmericanaFest in 2011.

Gary Nicholson is a GRAMMY© Award winning songster. He writes impeccably hooky music, sometimes salty and sometimes sweet. He is setting out for a Texas tour in June, including a few dates with his side blues project the Whitey Johnson Band. Go see him; his music will enrich your life. Music Fog caught back up with him at the end of January at 3rd & Lindsley Backstage in Nashville, where he was joined by maestro Colin Linden. Today’s video is one of compassion from Gary Nicholson. You may start hearing this song at rallys, as Presidential candidates campaign over the next few months. Here's “Soft Spot.”

- Jessie Scott