Honestly, I Wasn't Very Happy.

It's that time again, it's comments day, from my remote studio and with a lack moustache. Thank you for your great questions about recovery, guitar solos and the worst jobs I've ever had.
My Patreon (it's excellent): / jushawk
- Group Zoom Calls / Live Stream Podcast
- Private Lessons
Merch Store: thejawsofvictory.com/
Cameo: www.cameo.com/justinhawkins
We are also doing a co-headline UK Arena Tour with Black Stone Cherry in 2023 you can tickets here: www.thedarknesslive.com/tour-...
#musicindustry #recovery #musiceducation

[@user-bj2lu9qt3o]

It's really great that you talk about mental health now and then. Don't know if you realise how inspiring you are.

[@toby10bears21]

I don't know if you realize how gay YOU are!

[@lobotomyscam1051]

Glad I read this before watching.

[@mjh5437]

Everyone wants to claim a “mental illness” or a “syndrome” or a “disability” and “depression” and “anxiety” nowadays,frankly it’s pathetic.

[@killercour]

@@mjh5437 most people do have mental health issues. They just never liked to talk about it.

[@suzannaj3834]

Everyone has mental health issues in some form or fashion whether it’s OCD or Bipolar. I for one appreciate the honesty. And I only discovered Justin this morning been sick in bed watching his videos and I subscribed. I started with his band. He turned me on in some strange way especially with the long hair. Then I got to know Justin with the short hair. Just as sexy. Maybe it’s the accent lol. Hello from the 🇺🇸 USA ❤ and yes he definitely has inspired me and I don’t have a lick of musical talent. We had a piano when I was a kid I use to teach myself how to play well one day I came home from school and my parents sold it. Sad day. I knew not to say anything because it was hard times with a family of seven. I often wondered where my life would have ended up if I actually got to play keyboards in a band. It was the 80s everyone wanted to be in a band. Lol

[@thedevilinthecircuit1414]

"It's how you manage it, really," and, "You try and find a way to function as more than a mere facsimile of a joyous individual." Justin, it is obvious you've done a whole lot of soul searching on this subject; those two statements are incredibly profound and brutally honest. You are helping many people deal with their demons by speaking plainly about it. Bravo, sir.

[@Belinda612]

Could not agree more. It’s not easy to speak about mental health struggles, but it has such a far reaching and powerfully positive impact when somebody is as honest and open about them as this.

[@craigdovebloke]

"You try and find a way to function as more than a mere facsimile of a joyous individual." was the line that said it all. I'm only 2 and a bit years in but clearer and happier than ever. Bravo sir, Bravo !

[@Ginger_shot]

✊🏼 Appreciate your genius mind Justin. I’m confident I can speak for all on here by saying that we are immensely grateful you turned your life around and that you continue to share your talent, knowledge, intelligence and humour with us … 🎶 Well, I.. I… I don’t think you realise your power 🎶 💥❤️

[@divinitymode9364]

Mate, you’re the best thing on the internet by an oceanic league.

[@bridgetyoung190]

Vulnerability from a person that you hold in high esteem is a beautiful thing. 🖤

[@lazaglider]

Justin, not sure if you'll get to read this, but here we go: I became aware of you during an episode of Jools back in the day. It was fucking inspirational. I Have followed you good times and bad. I'm so glad you're making the effort with this channel, because it confirms what I always believed: You are an incredibly down to earth bloke with a positive attitude which itself is enough to inspire. Without wishing to blow too much smoke, your musical knowledge and ability to explain it to us mere mortals is wonderful too. I will continue to watch and wish you all the best for your future.

[@elleeme9451]

I totally agree. 👍

[@mrgeebus]

Sir, your comment about realising you'll always suffer with this, and finding a way to function as more than a mere facsimile of a joyous individual resonated with me so much. I was diagnosed with depression 20 years ago, and it never goes away. Listening to and analyzing music (boring the t*ts off of my wife and kids) is my escape. I don't do a channel like you, because I don't have the confidence, nor the playing ability, but I do a little leap every time I'm watching one of your videos and you say almost exactly what I have just said. I live in a proper remote part of the UK, so don't get the chance to go to gigs, but one of my favourite memories was seeing The Darkness, at The Corn Exchange in Edinburgh in 2003 (you rode a white tiger over the crowd during the encore of Christmas Time (Don't let the bells end). Please keep up what you do. It tends to be my Sunday afternoon hobby of binging an entire week's worth of your videos. Thank you again

[@moonbeanification]

Justin, there is so much more to you than meets the eye. You're a deep, intelligent, talented man. I applaud your openness and honesty about thorny issues. I'm so glad you're loving life ! We love you sir ! ♥♥♥

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks Jeanne :)

[@christineayres7199]

Thank God he and the guys got out of Lowestoft , as i used to live in Kings Lynn , Norfolk is literally a place where you could stay for 100 years and no one would ever knock on the front door to check if your alive or dead , sadly London is getting like that now too , UK has become a cold place.

[@PSTroise]

I think what meets the eye is quite a bit, besides all his other virtues. Also, he looks very good in yellow which is a difficult color to wear if you have paleish skin.

[@leilak978]

Thank you Justin for the achingly human description of what recovery, and life, can be like. I love you for your candour.❤️

[@thecoverstory1]

To be fair... Motorheart is my fav album of yours mate... its fookin awesome

[@ditavee]

Thanks for sharing your mental health journey so freely. I don’t think I’m alone in feeling grateful for this positive and constructive little safe space on the internet. For those of us who have a similar wiring it’s a bit of a warm blanket, a great way to keep the monkey mind at bay by learning, laughing and being inspired, so thank you for that. On the flip side if you ever need a break from it, then you must take a break, we’ll all be understanding, patient, and here when you get back.

[@sues6944]

Absolutely, I totally agree.

[@user-bj2lu9qt3o]

🙌

[@jimmyd9039]

Justin Hawkins.... I was a young kid about 10 or younger maybe when you hit the charts and I liked your music but never delved deep into your life or the darkness but you've become a part of my daily life watching your videos your a good bloke and a good musician 👍appreciate your videos and content as a musician

[@WrenWilliamWerner]

Cannot tell you how helpful and inspiring your channel is - awesome work all around - thank you!

[@Morganhain]

This was such a great ep! Loved hearing you talk about making solos and learning scales.

[@jetjaguar72]

Happy that you're happy man! Great to have you share your insight with others!

[@jessiejoseph1093]

Thanks for bringing up safety when running. As a bicyclist I am amazed at how many people on trails, etc. wearing headphones have zero spatial awareness and therefore are at risk of injury to themselves and others.

[@cheryllyons3738]

Thank you for sharing and being you. Hugs. I appreciate you and am grateful your in this crazy world.

[@thetubekrawler2876]

You’re a legend Justin, thank you for being so open with us.

[@leejlogan]

You really are a legend. Thanks for answering that first question so honestly and openly. Really did me good 💙

[@garylong4303]

Love ur channel all the best and thxs for riding again From Prescott AZ

[@Cynthiabecker24]

Ty Justin you are so inspiring. Thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge.❤

[@albertkeirse8098]

Amazing openess, huge respect and gratitude for your art and insight

[@katetallent4032]

Thank you as always for a great episode. You are a gem.

[@MsChuckroast]

Thanks for sharing Justin, with openness and love and honesty.

[@Ecoreseller]

Justin I love how honest you are about your struggles. You are such an inspiration to all on here ❤

[@johannagonzalez9212]

You can really tell by watching your videos that you enjoy making them, and your honesty is so important. Thanks for sharing also that side of you... I think it's invaluable and completely necessary for people going through the same stuff. Or maybe not the same, but anyways it's easy to relate to your experiences the way you tell them. So yeah, thank you so much!

[@dustenwilson]

True, you rock and I am happy you doing this.

[@sherynp9340]

Love this video, and how you open up about your life. So uplifting and inspiring. This channel is the best.

[@personalfreedom2700]

Wow you are super chilled and totally relaxed when you are in the studio… i love studio Justin!

[@abbyhuntley3171]

As someone with a long history of anorexia, I totally get that about addictive behaviours never leaving you. I'm really glad to hear you have so many things in your life that you love Justin. You should be really proud. Stay well!

[@MsBlueRajah]

I've loved all your videos but what you've said in this one is the most valuable to me so far. Thank you.

[@ragnarironspear1791]

Not long found you on YT , bloody awesome entertainment

[@leestones9620]

Justin your videos are absolutely brilliant I love your band and your KZbin channel is amazing..I come home from work and watch your videos to help me settle down after a long and hard shift at work..Thank you so much

[@ROYYYBERT]

I appreciate you describing your mental health journey. It really resonated with me because my line of work constantly puts me in a tug of war with my mental health. Thank you for talking about it and sharing the things that help you cope. You’re the best Justin, and watching your channel is like discussing music with a friend. Take care!

[@michelecilano1710]

I know I have said it once,it bears repeating.I am so happy to have found your channel!I was listening\watching The Darkness videos after work and your channel was recommended. I am a nurse and after the last couple of years and the way it is continuing to go in heathcare here in the US and everywhere else I imagine,it is just a light at the end of a long shift!It means so much to find something with a great sense of humor,knowledge and positivity in these times and I just want to thank you again!I just want you to know what yout videos mean to so many people. YOU ROCK!!! C

[@FoxyRockyLou]

Justin your ability to share and lift up others amazes me, your commitment to the channel and your viewers goes above and beyond. We all are touched by your honesty around your journey and each day you help lift me up with this and you phenomenal musical talent and intelligence.. you’re the best ❤

[@Lynn22166]

Justin You are GREAT and I just love watching your videos.Congratulations on 16 1/2 yrs of sobriety! I have 6 yrs under my belt. I always feel so inspired after watching your comment videos. Thanks for sharing.

[@mikeet207]

Cool to finally see you playing your LP Custom. It’s nice to hear and see it for a change.

[@tjocho]

The naked honesty from a special person in a special situation with very special experiences just broke/healed my brain... in a good way!

[@sierrasample8632]

Justin, your honesty, vulnerability, talent, and genuine love for music never cease to amaze me. Thank you for sharing yourself with the world. We are lucky to have you! I really appreciate your songwriting guidance, too; you're a musical genius, and it's comforting to hear there's no "process," but rather building upon whatever inspires you. And random, but it's so touching hearing about your nan. Those special relationships never leave us! I bet she was an incredible woman and grandmother.

[@sues6944]

💖That was truly wonderful, thank you very much for such a thought provoking episode. Congratulations to 16 wonderful years sober so far, long may it continue. You are extending your life in so many ways and whether you realise it or not, that self like/love is what makes us feel sympathy or empathy for each other. In the darkest of times, there is always someone who cares for you, and your life is everything to them, which I know you understand, may those days be very few and far between and your eyes continue to sparkle. On a lighter note, banana bunches can also have scorpions in them. Keep taking good care of yourself mate x

[@ninabambinabambina2304]

Thanks for sharing your story in relation to music. Dancing & music saved my life many times. 🙏

[@artysanmobile]

Thank you, Justin, for sharing your thoughts and feelings so generously. With the reach your channel has attained, you could very likely be saving a life.

[@SteveR5954]

Great episode as usual Justin. Also.. really love the Les Paul's showing up of late.

[@aerialvideography6979]

I met you a few times during those dark days, you were a delight! I am now going through dark days and I found that damage can be done very quickly bit recovery is a very long road...

[@cindymeloury8678]

You’re such an inspiration to me 😇 great advice on so many levels ❤I have followed you for so long and look forward to see what you come up with next😊I absolutely love your channel you have changed my life 🙏😊

[@TheLillipuss]

Excellent thank you for talking out. We’re VERY VERY Greatful & Happy you’re still here Justin! 😊

[@ChubbyChecker182]

The first 3, 4 ,5 minutes of this episode is awesome. Thank You for such words and your openness, Justin, you are a true diamond 💠💎

[@gtbriggs6614]

Thank you Justin for your honesty with regards to mental health. I have depression and have found music and art to develop my creative side again. What you said is so important to those who suffer

[@charliebluechaos4963]

And omg how did you literally shave off like 20 years off your face!? Amazing! I love to hear that you feel you are in a good place right now♡ Music is the everything. Much love to you Mr. Hawkins

[@nicksmithworld]

A really good razor, 13 blades

[@charliebluechaos4963]

@@nicksmithworld I actually got the manscaped razor when Mr. Hawkins did the sponsored ad a couple of months ago and its actually fantastic. One blade does the job and does it well. Slainte!

[@Christine16425]

​@@nicksmithworld😂 good

[@Dwightpower88]

This gives me hope as a person trying to put those things down and become a reasonable facsimile of a human. Thanks man, I love the channel.

[@juliengoguen17]

I love hearing from musicians that have have gone through mental health and also are many years sober. It shows the rest of the world that we are not alone that have or are going through these things. Thanks for sharing with us.

[@psophia17]

My partner is 6 years sober as of today. Your experience and your thoughts about your experience are meaningful beyond words. I'm so thankful that you have shared them.

[@aprilbaby1960]

I find it brilliant that you share so honestly your battle with mental health. So important especially for men who’ve been told to suck it up. Fantastic show. Music is medicine for the soul

[@JorgeRawlings]

I relistened to Permission to Land today and was overcome with memories of being 8 years old practicing my falsetto and begging my parents for a guitar. 19 years later, after moving to Brighton to study songwriting at uni, touring as lead guitarist in a band, meeting my partner and having a baby; I came to the realisation that none of it would’ve happened if it wasn’t for Permission to Land and School of Rock having such an impact on me as a child. Do you ever stop and appreciate the butterfly effect and influence your music has had on a generation of musicians or do you prefer not to take on that heaviness by dwelling on it?

[@millycamilla8773]

I think you are inspirational Justin. Everything you say here resonates with me. I had a period of 7/8 years severely ill and in and out of various clinics. I was told I would die. I love how you have turned it all around and no longer attend meetings, but have found your own way. I feel it’s something we have to do for ourselves in order to heal in our own way. I love your music and your intelligent,hilarious conversation here. Coming to see you in Feb. I was so f’d off when I saw that guy chuck beer at you. Dealt with with absolute class. Keep up the amazing work and keep on, keeping on. 🙏🏼

[@helenfelton2845]

I have had addiction problems for nearly 40 YEARS and watching this video was like my Higher Power giving me a nod that I am finally on the right path.You mention being happy which I am and having a creative outlet, which I am discovering -singing in a Rock n Roll choir,dancing and possibly learning the bass! Thankyou for your honesty and guidance.I felt guilty cos I didn't stick at AA,CA,NA but I found Intuitive Recovery (it's a 4 day course which teaches you how your brain works and stops you being victim of your cravings.)LOVE U JUSTIN and your voice (talking)is seductively unusual, especially the way you pronounce your Rs xxmuch love,you gorgeous funky nutkinarooni xx

[@MrJezza76]

Brilliant episode again !!! I also love audio books while running. I think I ODed on music while running for a bit. Thanx for sharing your personal battles too Justin, inspiring bud

[@kathrynhegedus]

The reason you are so well liked is the honesty you bring to the table. Today's comments day was one of your best. As you always say, "Nice One"! 👍 Thank you.

[@danieljillings8183]

Today I listened to the lyrics of 'I wish I was in heaven' properly. Heavy stuff and describes much of what you address here. Thanks for the piano and guitar tips too. Very useable for a guy like me who should have made music his job. Shot for making it yours.

[@zackmano]

Thank you for sharing your experience with addiction and struggles with piano lol 😉. I happen to identify with you very much on both counts. Here's to enjoying our lives, being there for those who love us, and continuing to surprise ourselves musically and in all ways! 🤘🏼🙏🏼💙

[@lucidleprechaun]

what an incredible person you are. thank you for sharing yourself with us. your content here has been so helpful to me in ways you couldn't know. I'm in my first 48 hours with no booze and I needed to hear your words today. thank you Justin Hawkins.

[@robertkielty5094]

Thanks for all you do on this channel Justin. I appreciate you muchly, you're a 🌟, a shining light and a banisher of darkness.

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Cheers Robert, that's very kind of you to say :)

[@amyc5633]

The only thing more kick ass than your catsuits and your incredible talent is you talking about mental health/your recovery and sharing that openly, vulnerably, and honestly…. you are seriously touching people’s hearts and souls with that. Rock and roll, Justin Hawkins!!! Keep it up… good stuff. 🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻❤️

[@primaballerina84]

As one candle can light another, so too can greatness of mind be transferred amongst men. One step at a time one day at a time. Thank you for sharing Justin🙏🏻

[@Superabound2]

I love that quote!

[@tnvalleyyoga7122]

Congrats on pulling yourself together and sharing with us your musical experience. Very encouraging.

[@jasonlisowski1]

Great episode! One of my faves. Love comments day

[@JustinHawkinsRidesAgain]

Thanks so much Jason! That's so kind!!

[@NowSpinningMagazine]

Music is the healer and doctor for me. Having said that it is so easy to just sit in silence even though you know if you just press play you can change the atmosphere of the room and then help yourself. You do such a fabulous job here. Phil

[@captainkirk70]

Love the LP!! Keep it!

[@davehall8584]

This channel is going to explode Justin......you're such an honest human being....and talented.....you're very good on the axe man...

[@davehall8584]

and..a BRILLIANT sense of humour....

[@lornakarimjee]

Thanks so much for answering my question, I'll have to read up on those earphones. I don't have a set playlist either, tends to always rock though, the darkness (of course), acdc, led zep, pink floyd something that takes me on a figurative journey! Loving the vibe change that the electric guitar is providing... your channel, really makes my day, so thank you for that 😁

[@ManinaGarage]

Morning Justin 🙌

[@monarchmusicproductions6858]

Wow you are absolutely spot on I am very dedicated to my ‘recovery’ but i totally agree that other factors and people naw away at it putting dents in it - it’s not easy for sure.

[@thomashunter6196]

Bravo, for your comments on recovery!

[@kathymarinucci6054]

Congratulations on your continuing recovery, such hard work! Could you tell the story of your addiction and recovery. If you’ve already done this, and I missed it…then never mind. But if not, it might be helpful to one of your subscribers. Much love and admiration 💜 You’re so kind, funny, and of course a musical genius..keep on rockin in the free world! 🎸

[@ankovanderwoude3452]

Looking good!

[@bridder01]

Very wonderful episode. As someone who suffers from mental illness, I am moved by your story and wish you all the happiness in the world :)

[@hotwheelsdavid]

Hey there Justin thanks for so many great moments and thoughts. I love your open minded way to music . Now I’m older I’ve grown out that if I generally listen to a certain music genre I limit my self to that and not appreciate other good music . I hope you do something on ABBA sometime . Some great songwriting and arrangements for you to pick apart .

[@francoisjholtzhausen3410]

Well done Justin. I have never heard somebody talk about life and personal pain so openly and honestly. I applaud you sir.

[@FacheChanteDeux]

When you were playing the pentatonic scale I heard a bit of Tom Morello's Like a Stone licks. Keep up all the good mental health work!

[@FoxyRockyLou]

Ahhh. Safeway, Somerfield and now the COOP those memories and a Grandma with Stella had to comment again, love it 😊

[@samthebarber93]

I appreciate everything you do on your channel. It really is great and I find it very therapeutic. Can you please do the next jingle on the neck pickup with a clean (Snowy White-esque) tone? I’d love to hear that on that Black Beauty 😁 All the best Mr Darkness x

[@jeffcahill5722]

Love you, Justin 💗

[@fogpumas]

Your videos and podcasts are really helping me right now, both personally and creatively. I’m a self taught musician who’s been playing for over 20 years, faking it, unchecked in bands, and I am learning a lot that I never knew from your videos about guitar, as well as writing. Thank you. You are a total inspiration… from a longtime fan (that has lost touch and realizing I have several Darkness records to catch up on!)

[@brycepagey888]

I love you Justin. I simply do. We are around the same age, I refer to you as a vocal bench mark with my students. It's actually become a thing amongst my peers , as a working musician it's.... Yea man he can sing " I BELIEVE IN A THING CALLED LOOOOVE". I've met two.

[@jamescotner2459]

Always rad Justin!

[@violetxoxox]

Music has absolutely saved my life. Many, many times. ❤

[@canadianstudmuffin]

We love you, Justin. Thank you for being a fan of Sparks too! Love your version of "This Town Ain't Big Enough For Both Of Us". 🤎

[@kstar982]

SPARKS TIL DEATH ✨🏆💖✊🏾

[@southerncomfortuk]

Great video as always 🙏

[@coeuznatas]

Facsimile of a joyous indiviual. That's a great song/book-title!

[@djwarren5081]

I only just discovered your channel Justin. You may be quite elderly now, but you're still an inspiration.

[@dkarahtee5340]

I know a little about your sobriety but this was an important video for me, personally. Sober a little over 2 years now. Know a LOT about what you spoke of here and how it applies to creativity (especially in art, music). I had all but stopped playing music so I could play a vodka bottle instead. Took about 6 months before I felt good about picking up the old battle axe again. But I did. Because that's who I am and what I do, I had just forgotten the important bits when alcohol took over my life. Once I remembered, I was able to write music again. Thanks for the video, Justin. Just joined you on my fiance's patreon!

[@robbm_chemist7441]

What a sincere human being.

[@samsewall8341]

J Hawkins you are the best! I am always rooting for you! Stay healthy!

[@simonmortensen8523]

Absolutely wonderful to see and listen to your pods! You make me laugh, you make me think. With your sense of humor, how do you like the music of Frank Zappa, I wonder?

[@klewis2048]

I was 14 years sober last week, thank you for sharing about your recovery. You’re right, finding our own way, especially with a healthy dose of recovery under one’s belt, is important. I still do AA, it works for me. I wasn’t performing while I was drinking, but in recovery, I’m a practicing amateur musician, and loving the whole on-stage experience while sober. Even occasionally playing The Darkness songs. So grateful.

[@Billyboy571]

Deep Justin, relate and thanks🙏

[@rrroarrr89]

Justin, man, you speak with the freedom and ease of someone who has been 'to hell and baxk'. Your wisdom comes across in your jest. May you continue to be in a happy place for ever, dude!!

[@blakerunyon8523]

Omg JH without the stache looks like the singer of The Darkness!

[@andrewholden2424]

I also used to work in the produce dept at Morrisons. Justin is right you did get some weird-looking spiders in the banana boxes. Love the channel!