On May 9th, my brother-in-law died unexpectedly at the age of 56. Our whole family loved him from the moment we met him. Just three months prior, my sisters and I lost our mother just as unexpectedly, and now our hearts are carrying the weight of another profound sorrow before we have even begun to recover from the first.

I’d like to share what my late brother (in-law) is teaching me today.

Live What You Love.
Eric Noden was, quite simply, a laid-back dude. He may have lived in the 2020s, but he carried the spirit of the 1920s in his heart. Acoustic blues from the 1920s and 1930s wasn’t just music to him – it was a way of life. He fell in love with it as a teenager, and over time, that passion became his livelihood.

Do It Your Way.
His talent was the kind other musicians envied. Eric could play with an ease and authenticity that couldn’t be taught. But for all his gifts, the modern music industry never really suited him. He had little interest in signing with a label or handing his career over to a booking agent. He preferred to make his own recordings, book his own tours, and travel on his own terms. Eric wasn’t chasing fame or industry approval – he was devoted to the music, his craft, and the community that surrounded it.

While I, too, am devoted to my craft, I’ve never been interested in creating my own content. As an actor, I find it fun to be hired by big studios, and interpreting someone’s else’s script where my work can be seen worldwide. I enjoy being part of the Hollywood industry no matter what level. So when I encouraged Eric to explore composing music for films, I didn’t understand why he took no interest. I mean, have you seen Sinners?! Eric could have scored that.

Embrace Your Success.
Too many people, especially in this country, chase dreams that aren’t theirs. They strive for an image of success that was given to them instead of being in touch with their own meaning of success. As the tributes to Eric keep pouring in, and I see the hundreds (thousands?) of people who are touched by and inspired by him, I see a success that most of us actually want –

to have left a positive impact on others
that is deeply felt and everlasting.