Oh He Dead “The Foreigner“ - 2021 NPR Tiny Desk Contest Submission

Written by a pregnant CJ in February 2020, The Foreigner explores the wide spectrum of emotions she experienced as a young, expectant mother: fear, anxiety, depression, and pressure from the weight of judgment, expectation, and responsibility. Ultimately, The Foreigner is a song about love’s defiant triumph over doubt, and the blossoming blissful connection between a mother and her unborn child. Our band isn’t known for autobiographical ballads, but 2020 was a transformative year. When CJ told the band she was pregnant, some were worried that the band’s dreams would end. Although there have been few young female musicians who have successfully balanced motherhood and a touring band, CJ was adamant that having a family and living her dream are not mutually exclusive. The music was written by Alex (lead guitar player-turned-pianist) immediately following CJ’s announcement to the band. The lyrics reflect both the apprehension and hope that every new mother feels, but with a bold defiant message to those who doubted her. For baby Wallace. For CJ. For expectant mothers, and mothers of all ages, who all deserve our love and support. Oh He Dead is: CJ Johnson - vocals Andy Valenti - vocals/guitar Alex Salser - guitar John Daise - bass Adam Ashforth - drums submitted for the NPR Tiny Desk Contest 2021 recorded live at the The Barn () directed, filmed, and edited by Mark Salser, Alex’s Dad (THANK YOU MARK) Links: IG: FB: Spotify: