You ever work with two people who genuinely believe they can change the universe with songs? That’s Romeo and Chorus. Not metaphorically. They actually believe it. Romeo dreams the impossible. Then, through the sheer force of will of the man, the impossible gets a rehearsal schedule. He’ll come into the room and say: “I think we can shift the timeline through music.” And I’m like: “Could we shift lunch to twelve-thirty first?” But once Romeo decides something matters, that’s it. You are now in the mission. There is no escape. He has that face, you know. That brooding captain face. Looks like he’s carrying the burden of six galaxies. Meanwhile he’s probably thinking about a chorus. And the funniest part? Massive softie. Huge. This is a man who will stand there looking like a smuggler, a pirate, a philosopher, possibly a wanted criminal— then cry because his friends are happy without him. Strange dude. He sees us laughing in another room and gets emotional. I’m like: “Mate, we’re eating crisps.” And he’s having a spiritual experience. Then there’s Chorus. Romeo says: “We can reach people through song.” Chorus says: “Yes.” No hesitation. None. She believes him. That’s the dangerous combination. One man with impossible ideas. One angel flower girl going: “I think it will work.” Now we’re all touring. That’s how this happened. And they really do believe in the power of song. Romeo thinks a lyric can get into someone’s head and live there. Chorus thinks a harmony can get into someone’s heart. I think a good bass line helps. We all contribute. They’re idealists, those two. Ridiculous at times. Beautifully ridiculous. Romeo wants to save the future. Chorus wants to save everybody in it. I mostly want us to arrive on time. But here’s the thing. You spend enough time around people who believe that hard— you start believing too. Not all of it. I still have standards. But some of it. Enough to get onstage. Enough to play the song. Enough to look out at a room full of people and think: Maybe. Maybe one of them needs this tonight. And if that happens? Well. Romeo will cry. Chorus will cry. Maddie will pretend she isn’t moved. And I’ll be looking for somewhere to sit. That’s the mission. And honestly? I’m happy to be on it.
