The Shadow Cabaret by Tommy Poppers
Following a serious assault, which left me hospitalised for many months, I began writing songs that documented my experience.
It was purely a cathartic process, I had no intention of recording these songs.
I disappeared into a reclusive world of working and reading, and I cut off many meaningful social relationships. I began to perform the songs at various open-mic nights anonymously. I wore a silly mask and called myself ‘MrE’. I would not speak to anyone, just arrive, sing my songs and then leave.
This is the first song that I wrote on my journey of retribution and recovery, it was inspired by poem, “The Second Coming,” by Yeats. For me, this poem perfectly encapsulates the sense of alienation I felt at the time, and the song that I wrote is very much alluding to these feelings.
Eventually some friends of mine, who were music producers, encouraged me to record the songs, and my debut solo album was released. It has subsequently sold enough copies to pay for its production.
I am delighted that something so intimate and distressing has evolved into something so positive and life-affirming.
I play at small galleries, bars, queer spaces in Europe and Asia, and I am always happy to come sing some songs if you reach out to me.
You can hear the full album for free online at bandcamp and, if you wish to buy it, it is available from all good online stores.
Follow the links from my website www.tommypoppers.com
Have a wonderful weekend.
Tommy P x
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Well done love, good that you could transform into something worth having. Did they get the people who hurt you ?
Thank you for the lovely words. It has been a period of profound change for me and I have completely re-evaluated my life choices. I am now sober and stable :-)
Unfortunately, the incident happened in Thailand, as a result, the assault was quashed by the local authorities. The person stalked me on social media and he was pissed off because I didn't fancy him. If I am being honest, the aggravation and frustration of the subsequent investigation was more distressing than the actual assault. I did get my own back (in a manner of which I am not particularly proud) and it was a really difficult few years; however, I am back on track and fortunate to have a really good network of support.
I now work closely with members of the local communities in which I find myself, to offer assistance to people who are not in such a privileged position.
Love and power to you tygertyger. x
Ditto kiddo <3
Art therapy always helps