Lost Dog Street Band, "War Inside of Me," // GemsOnVHS™

Benjamin, Ashley and Shannon (from the Teardrop Trio days) stopped by the GemsOnVHS headquarters to record some new songs. Here is the new Lost Dog Street Band one - the one that will be on their newest record set to come out in March of 2019. Benjamin explains here some of the themes behind the writing of it as well - his own personal growth coming through in the songs. They're out on tour with the Devil Makes Three again as I type this, and Ben has a new solo record planning now. It's crazy to see them do so many great things, and it couldn't be to a more well deserving band.
You can stream Lost Dog's tunes on Spotify (open.spotify.com/artist/6tkrc...) and all other streaming platforms. Be sure to catch them on tour this summer. Check out the tour dates at www.lostdogstreetband.com/.
Our undying love and gratitude go to our executive producers for making this project possible: Brad Sirois, Mitchell Davis, Keith McQuillan, David Jameson, Lisa Galvan, Irvin Maddox, Josh Collins, Brady Jones, Julie Nestoroff, VJ Arizpe.
Consider becoming a Patreon contributor to help sustain this project. For the price of a cup of coffee every month, you let us continue finding and filming amazing artists.
/ gemsonvhs
GemsOnVHS is a long running series of intimate, off-stage performances by songwriters we love.
We're on instagram (@gemsonvhs or @anthonysimpkins)
Like us on FB too! ( / gemsonvhs )
www.gemsonvhs.com

[@GemsOnVHS]

You can stream Lost Dog's tunes on Spotify (open.spotify.com/artist/6tkrcmVfWoHC4WOhE7IDyq?si=jpQzEinHQ86H4BADrzvE3A) and all other streaming platforms. Follow them on Instagram at @lostdogstreetband. New to GemsOnVHS? Make sure to subscribe to our channel for more videos & follow us on Instagram at @gemsonvhs for more daily content.

[@jaymanlivecom]

I"d almost pay to see the KZbin Analytics on this.... as far as the song goes, damn will ya'll quit breaking my heart... =)

[@yeashh]

keep bringing this sessions loveeee it

[@joseygunnels6534]

if you know how to matt heckler Tee's plz let me know i missed the chance to by one when they came through ybor.

[@jaymanlivecom]

www.mattheckler.com/shop

[@nicholasmiller7832]

How can I send Ben a flannel he needs in his life....

[@macd8810]

This song is my Anthem , I've been struggling with addiction and mental health issues my whole life and today I'm 30 Days sober and a year clean off meth and 3 years clean off heroin. Trying to win this war inside of me a day at a time.

[@rexowen1749]

You got this bro I hope your doing good I just got out of a 7 day detox after a 4 year run on fentanyl and meth I'm going to a 90 day program . Stay strong bro

[@somebodysnobody2616]

I hope you're still doing well Bless you

[@hamdelsun68]

Keep winning! You've got this. Even if you relapse, especially if you relapse, keep coming back. We need you💖

[@brendandimitri]

Hope your still doing good. Just for today, no matter what.

[@jakeh7476]

Hope you are still doing well and staying strong. I know it ain't easy but you got this.

[@chrisbaker7583]

"everything good was a lie. All my friends turned to snakes, and loved turned to spite, and I held the blame, cause you couldn't carry its size." This line is so damn heavy.

[@theyearwas1987]

Literally why I listen to this song. Beautiful stuff my friend

[@savagekiller99]

That love turned to spite part hits so hard

[@demonika13601]

That line sends chills up and down my spine every time I hear it

[@tylerwilliams1532]

I've heard this song A thousand times and I...still after all this time...cannot sing that part without getting choked up...Shits heavier than a semi truck

[@lwr6762]

That’s what hit me also

[@centerb541]

Hits home after struggling with alcohol and ptsd from combat. My life growing up. My father raising me and being an abusive alcoholic. Being in love and losing it. Benjamin Tod is my new addiction. His lyrics give me hope

[@johntroze11]

You speak for us both, bud.

[@jordanferguson4158]

My combat may be different, but I'm with you man.

[@celenabarclay1488]

Trauma, on any level can makes us weight our perspective. I am grateful to see emotion and empathy still gives me hope for our humanity. Blessings to those that are strong enough to be vulnerable. Y'all inspire and that is priceless. Much love 💕

[@darthseagraves]

Can relate

[@hunterduppong1410]

Said it well

[@fuhckerschite]

That fucking line: "Not much will change, but the way that you see me will though." That shit hits me so hard. Ben, that hits hard, man.

[@gurpcb550]

After being left by both my longest relationships for always being working. Trading these pounds of flesh for a living and the only thing that changed was how they felt for me. This song hits so hard. It's my love's life story of failure.

[@Thenumber12pwns]

You've gotta set fire to the good parts of you, to burn away the bad. Recovery is about sacrifice, you've gotta let who you were die. I know my youth, innocence, and naivety are still sat in a prison yard, feeling the slight chill of an early spring breeze blow by. Also sat there is my penchant towards self-destruction, resentment, hatred of the world. Seven years later, I'm just whatever was leftover. Which is infinitely more than what I was when I was whole.

[@Wethreefish]

Good words

[@aaronnelsonmusic5971]

Sweet Lord. That is beautiful

[@1973f]

I needed your words. Thank you!

[@TheNolesfan94]

Honestly thought these were going to be the lyrics before the song started. You should write this into a song.

[@diydustin8404]

How do I stay clean?

[@delaneybell1978]

Ashley is the textbook definition of ride or die. 💙

[@karnagesplaypen7155]

Other then when she leaves him 😂😂

[@delaneybell1978]

They are married? And have been for years..

[@addicted2tone349]

Exactly! She's been thru hell with him but she's always by his side.

[@thegeorgiacreekwalker491]

I can't wait to find my Ashley, I know she's out there somewhere🤞

[@35PHaaton]

She's a gem for sure and the definition of unconditional love

[@xl2eviitaliize]

imagine dropping out of school and being able to articulate more than most of us

[@nofox777]

I love this comment, emotional intelligence is a feat in itself . It's a totally different type of IQ and should be appreciated as such . It's good to know there is people like you that see it .

[@sonnyjones4399]

Some people are bigger than they know. For reasons that are not their own. And their life builds them to touch others. Ben and Ashley.

[@neofascistpariah2987]

That's just how it is bro

[@forgottentraveller5736]

I dropped out of school and it's because I never felt like I was on the same level as everyone else. I've been playing guitar since I was 8 and only started singing and writing songs over the past few months. I hope to one day be able to tell my stories and relate to others in the form of song, just like these artists out there. Maybe then I will find a purpose.

[@nofox777]

@@forgottentraveller5736 bro I felt the same way, I didn't drop out though. I then found out later it was an anxiety/ocd/add holding me back . You're on the same level bro, you prolly just have something in your way. Once I found help for those issues I've been killing it .

[@maryheim-hancock8625]

64 year old heroin addict. Haven't used in in 10 years but it's never over. Lost brother to od 43 years ago and continued use 30 years. Don't even know really why I quit. Just over it I guess. Doesn't matter what you've done or how long you've don't it. That was yesterday and tomorrow, well we can worry about that tomorrow. Thanks for tunes. Some days music is only thing that keeps me out of the dust. Continue sobriety life's worth it

[@amosanon3274]

I needed this today especially. One of those days you despise the man in the mirror.

[@diydustin8404]

You aren't alone my brother

[@sandvillage8758]

I hear you brother. Truly hits right in the heart mainly because of who I gatta see in the mirror daily. Things can and will get better though for sure. 👊

[@nathanielguttenberg8152]

We're here healing with you

[@stefanoconsiglio3177]

Youll get back up brotherr

[@bayviewbud1539]

Comin from a reforming piece of shit I hear ya bud. Just because you’ve done shitty things don’t make ya a shitty person. You can always change. Keep on fightin the good fight.

[@Daring956]

"I don't believe, but I like to pretend .That the war inside of me will kill the man I have been." That lyric is deeper than the Mariana Trench.

[@elyeyo2724]

A cup of 🥃 to all the Lost and the ones who couldn’t fight the pain. I hope they’re flying free from all the pain they felt here. I hope I see you again brother. May you Rest In Peace Darrin.

[@nathanielthreefold760]

Thirteen likes and post suicidal ideation running down my cheek. suffering is All I've ever seen. But the sweet surrender of death is too good for me.

[@shanearsenault3364]

🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺Bottums up to the fallen soldiers and Angel's taken far too soon... you all live on. I still find motivation and the energy some of you had, keeping me moving rather than saying fuck it. Though all the pain of losing yall, you give me strength unmatched to any other type.. always got all your backs as before and make sure ur names are left honoured and respected not trashed or forgotten . And in return I fell yall over me always. Hard times alone, just ain't that hard anymore knowing I'm never alone. Memento mori. Every day aware the reaper watchin me close. Gotta keep it moving ! Love fully, , forgive kin faster, never leave diarespectful actions or words as your last to those u live. Life ain't promised. Cheers to the day we all float on, n cheers for posting this. Rest in paradise until I arrive then we get it moving!! float on !

[@shawnjackson4999]

Rip to your friend Darrin.

[@jaredgreen3232]

Amen. RIP!

[@HawgNutz]

Damn Benjamin, you freaking wrote a masterpiece of a song... It's literally like medicine for the mind and soul listening to this song... thank you for your gift of melody and lyrics, what a true gift it is to me

[@johnrisley5338]

“I could have choked on the smoke of my father’s flame....” Man, if you had any idea how much I hope my son doesn’t do that.

[@derekm918]

Man .....

[@katlynklassen809]

All of us man. At least the good ones.

[@telleison3598]

It hit hard hey

[@nathanielthreefold760]

I'm a shit father but I like to think I'm a really good dad. My son is the best thing ever to come from me.He has seen me fall and he's seen me get back up and stand tall.

[@brazenlilhussy5975]

@@nathanielthreefold760 Well as long as you got back up you're far from 'shit' bud. Perseverance is a learned behaviour. Staying down wouldn't have made you 'shit' either man, it would've been you unable to win the war inside of you that day..just always try again the next time. All the best bud.

[@leftyjones9792]

I could've woke yesterday in the grave, Could've choked on the smoke from my father's flame, But there's no need to stoke, There's a southern wind blowin' this way, Dare me to do it, I'll go, I'll trade these pounds of flesh for a miserable ghost, And not much will change, But the way that you see me will, though, And I see it complete in my head, And I don't believe but I like to pretend, That the War Inside Of Me will kill the man I have been, 🎻🎸 Sickness has poisoned my time, And I searched for a cure and it blinded my sight, And I'm almost sure that I've had my feel for one life, O' and everything good was a lie, All my friends turned to snakes and love turned to spite, And I held the blame 'cause you couldn't carry it's size, And I see it complete in my head, And I don't believe but I like to pretend, That the War Inside Of Me will kill the man I have been, That the War Inside Of Me will kill the man I have been....

[@theyearwas1987]

You rock. Thank you. Edit 2nd verse feel=fill.

[@zachedwards5853]

Ffj0fh6gurf601 0geugejegdbhc1 xftd dc by63gd5efdhfxgdysghddgjdfhhfjhsdhugshsgshhßyehegehejehru7hrwheyhejegrjtrgkrrvfbhdhfhfhfhhhdgdhdhhdgdgrhhdrjnfhfhfhhhdhdgrhbd

[@ronmyers2110]

I wish i couldve said that

[@colinwatkins8380]

*fill for one life

[@johnrisley5338]

Damn!

[@willypotts100]

"when things get bad, i mean really bad,,,,,there will always be the gift of music♫"

[@daveknapp5157]

I cant beleive how raw and real his music is. Jist makes ya sit back and reflect.....

[@markduffield8110]

Dave Knapp Most definitely one of my favorite artists only recently in the past year learned of his existence he is very good

[@graciousweasel1696]

I played this for my parents and they were in awe

[@veronicasvibes3200]

Amen🙏

[@TTVSmileyz420]

One of the greatest of our generation without doubt

[@TTVSmileyz420]

The fact that he can do that with 10 songs is what gets me name an artist that has done that for you ...good luck 😁

[@frank4731]

A native boy asked his father, "father, what makes people go bad?" Father replies, "inside everything, there are two wolves fighting. One is a good wolf, one is a bad wolf." "Father, which one wins the fight?" The boy asks. "It depends on which wolf you feed. Feed the good wolf, my son."

[@shanepeer1960]

Love this

[@benglowacki]

So does that mean once the bad wolf comes out the good wolf is dead 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️😭😭

[@curtismallette6045]

“You have to choose and fight for who you want to be...” the depths of those simple words may never be seen but to walk them is to know just how deep they really are

[@kylemorgan5367]

I have struggled with addiction my whole life and i just now discovered lost dog street band i stopped using heroin and i hope everyone else makes it out of the struggle the songs yall play speak to my soul on a level noone will ever know thank you for telling your story and giving it to us

[@williamwhiddon9553]

I am going on 11 months without the needle..my God was herion..I beat the pills also..my fight now is alcohol..stay strong addiction not only kills us but all we love as well...

[@ZachLifeTravelWord]

God bless you abundantly. Beautiful soul

[@a.t.9654]

@@williamwhiddon9553 I believe in you will, you got this man

[@trentoncook3139]

Hope your still doing good my guy

[@zachmikkablair9537]

Everytime Ben releases a song it instantly becomes my favorite song. Ive spent many a night drinking myself to sleep listening to his lyrics and the wail of the fiddle.

[@russell11fitzgerald]

Zach Blair agreed sir

[@erichenson1113]

Zach Blair i can relate

[@addicted2tone349]

Same here.. His music just touches your soul.

[@seancrutcher525]

My plan tonite

[@jeffryan6152]

The human spirit spoken in its purest form.

[@ericaaustin4332]

They just keep getting better and I cannot wait for the new album to drop!

[@dustinalexander157]

When does it drop if I may ask?

[@ericaaustin4332]

Dustin Alexander it dropped last Friday! You can buy it where ever you normally buy music or off bandcamp!

[@Blaps16]

Lost Dog is captivating every single time. Makes me want to write folk and hop on a train to nowhere.

[@jwilliamr86]

Let's go

[@freddynovember5842]

I know right!

[@sandvillage8758]

I'm in! Let's do this. It's exactly what we all need to bloom!

[@MrLukeyboy23]

DO IT

[@oddfutureisdopeasfk]

Fuck yea

[@poopymcface9792]

I love the lyrics to this song. As I struggle to find myself after spending nearly half of my life in Iraq and Afghanistan and losing myself, the first verse of this song really hits home.

[@cartoonmurdaink3765]

Blue Maximus I’m in that boat with you my friends. OEF.

[@jakelindsay1654]

One soldier to another, thank you for your service mate

[@sunsethwy66]

Civilian life can be disappointing, but you have comrades among the civilians. I am sure I have served just a small fraction compared to your sacrifice, but my service is meaningful to me, because I was able to serve, if even briefly, with extraordinary individuals.

[@thedragonsoul9194]

Yessir. I've traveled that rode. I'm 2 years sober now. Hooah!

[@totallynotalpharius2283]

I'm glad you're here ❤️

[@888Aether]

When he said, “I’d trade these pounds of flesh for a miserable ghost” that just wow...

[@calebcrosby1852]

Bro she’s never ethereal she’s all that sludgy stuff from the inside of a lake Rae Hubbard shell

[@jane55ism]

I am 70 years old. Fought my way ought of alcohol and depression. On the way I lost three brothers, one to the bottle, another to a needle with more than he could handle and one to a case of beer and and a shot gun. I am a guitar player too. I cried when I heard ‘I’m using again’ Your voice and your words are hard, leave me no where to hide. And astoundingly beautiful! Best of luck, my friend.

[@stevehall4130]

Benjamin Todd brought me here. I hope u r well!

[@addicted2tone349]

The best songs come from the most tortured souls.. That's what make art great. I love these guys! This entire underground movement in Nashville has given me hope for the future of music in the city I love.

[@johnwilson4326]

I hear you my friend I'm from Madison in Davidson County and feel lucky to have been born and raised in Music City.🎶🌃

[@joezichichi5338]

Being a recovering addict, this song explains so much! After 15 years clean, it is still hard to look in the mirror at times. This disease is so cruel, and it has taken out many of my friends. Yet one day at a time, here am I! Only by the grace of God do I get to live a days reprieve, every morning.

[@cohenwolfe3730]

Lyrics War Inside of me I could’ve woke yesterday in the grave Could’ve choked on the smoke from my fathers flame But there’s a no need to stoke There’s a southern wind blowin’ this way I dare me to do it, I'll go I’d trade these pounds of flesh for a miserable ghost And not much will change, But the way that you see me will though And I see it complete in my head And I don’t believe but I like to pretend That the war inside of me will kill the man I have been. A sickness is poisoning my time And I searched for a cure and it blinded my sight And I’m almost sure that I’ve had my fill for one life And everything good was a lie All my friends turned to snakes and love turned to spite And I held the blame because you couldn’t carry its size And I see it complete in my head And I don’t believe but I like to pretend That the war inside of me will kill the man I have been That the war inside of me will kill the man I have been.

[@BruceRose]

Ah, there you are.

[@a.l.2669]

*I dare me to do it, I'll go

[@raemaecable]

@@ompenarnie If you look at his lips... I think he's saying "man I'm in" since his lips don't bounce with a "b." The other one, you're right about though.

[@raemaecable]

Nevermind... I think he says fail.

[@ryanmckenna756]

Thank you.

[@carriebakeryoung858]

if fight my addictions daily ...and this guy benjamine seems to write these songs for me ..butr then ib reaD THE COMMENTS AND REALIZE THAT I AM NOT ALONE...AND THAT IT IS POSSIBLE TO WIN THIS WAR...KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK THERES NO TELLING HOW MANY LIVES YOUVE SAVED WITH YOUR MUSIC ...THANK YOU /...CUZ I COULDVE WOKE UP IN THE GRAVE TODAY CARRIE ...FROM THE FORT IN ARKANSAS \'

[@nolantaylorfans3824]

Never alone never again my friend..

[@zackaryworman4897]

One of my best friend’s showed me this song earlier this year and would listen to it countless times a day he recently passed away and hearing the song brings him back to me and brings tears every time thank you guys for helping him the way you did

[@danielboland8451]

After losing my best friend a brother to me, I’m lost. The weight of this song and the responsibility of glorifying a lifestyle becomes a regret. And this just helps. On many levels. Thank you.

[@matthewmacdonald7621]

Hang in there boss

[@willcresson8776]

A close friend of mine lost his war recently. You got a community here. If you ever need an ear to bend, hit me up. I ain't gonna know your situation, but I'll listen to you.

[@javireyes6968]

Point is...nothing is forever and to hold onto something or someone. Is not what we are meant to do....we must let go....especially of our egos and our perception of permanence......everything and everyone is a shooting star.. you marvel in their moment and always remember them im.the flicker of the flame

[@ericmonroe7513]

I had a soulgasm listening to this mans music.

[@thegeorgiacreekwalker491]

I'm glad to see their popularity is growing but in a just world they would be one of the most popular bands in the world but I'm kinda glad there not mainstream known because for now they're like a hidden gem for us to enjoy💚

[@MegamanXLT]

This couldn't have come at a more perfect time. I swear to god.

[@420dredog]

Relapsed after 3 years sober. Now I’m currently recovering from shooting my self in the Damn head. Somehow made it. My dirty old soul left my body for a while and I heard this song over and over. I feel like it brought me back. Some days it seems like my soul never came back just my consciousness. Your writing gives me a feeling that I can be somebody I can be proud of again. Specifically this one. Every single one of your songs holds a special place in my heart. I appreciate you, Ben.

[@PhantomPhasin]

I just wanted to say, even though this song is 3(almost 4) years old, whenever I’m feeling down this song picks me up. It’s very touching and is very personal to me. Thank you for your music over the years and the support you’ve given me. Keep doing what you’re doing.. you help those that need it more than you know

[@sazon860]

Ben speaks what i feel in my soul

[@mrj6952]

I was slamming dope and loosing faith when I heard your song "using again" for the first time. Nothing has ever broken my heart as much as that song. I'm years clean and came to visit an old friend. From that song to this. I hope you read this some day. God bless.

[@kevinphillips1808]

Cryed the first 6 time's I heard it..... it feels like my life ❤ .........real music........

[@timothylasiter3730]

July 26th I walked out of prison after 4.5 yrs. I've been addicted to the "rig and the road" for now on approximately 18 years. As of now I am cleAn 3 months and feel so much better! I have gained respect from everyone. Including all those I thought I may of let down!! keep the faith

[@SoggyDaGoat]

Yo @timothylasiter3730 this comment is awesome to read dude. So how's your recovery been going since then? Have you been successful in staying clean still?

[@timothylasiter3730]

@@SoggyDaGoat I've struggled out and on. But I'm doing good again. Life's been great and a new opportunity to go over the road and make better money. My biggest struggles been the bottle nowadays

[@joshualingerfelt]

Your music speaks to my soul. Can't wait to see you in chatt!

[@diydustin8404]

My big brother got us tickets to see them in Orlando! 🤘 *edit* I thought it was Orlando, it's in Tampa (Ybor)

[@georgiaboy6715]

The message and spirit behind this song hits the heart for me on this one. Much respect!

[@theshelftv430]

I’ve listen to this song nine times. Today.

[@bobbarley6954]

Your lyrics make me see myself for the thousandth time. I've been struggling for years and you came into my life. I am grateful for the strength you offer.

[@mcdowellwrestlingya2028]

Heard this song for the first time in rehab. Not a dry eye in the group once it was over. This song touches your soul, it speaks to you more than any song can IMO. Keep making music Ben!!!

[@kingshit3930]

Shit I haven’t cried in I don’t know how long. It felt good

[@fatkidfrontflip]

Goosebumps man. This song hits home.

[@quisuis-je]

I’ve listen to this song about 50 times since yesterday. Beautiful, beautiful song. Amazing harmony and such a powerful duo.

[@Redwhiteandtired]

I'm 29. My father was 33 when he shot himself in the head. "Sickness has poisoned my time" as this song says. I'm almost ready to go but I still have hope for something else. IDK what is stopping me. Maybe "the war inside of me will kill the man that I am". Time will tell. This song is great to me. Much love to all you people out there.

[@andrewgreen7473]

Don't lose that hope brother. You got miles and miles before you go. That is a permanent solution for a temporary problem. Find someone to talk with. You got this 👊🏻

[@Redwhiteandtired]

@@andrewgreen7473 Thanks man. I'm still here. And actually doing better than when I wrote this. Much love to you 💪🏼

[@timcundiff3761]

Underrated under appreciated . But real and unspoiled heartfelt music .

[@justinridlon7955]

A new Lost Dog/Gems video=day made!

[@GemsOnVHS]

woohoo!

[@jaredwojciechowski5850]

After being stabbed 16x in the chest and a life of addiction following for 20+ years, this music tears at my heart in a way that very little can. It really makes you take a deep honest look inside yourself and do some self inventory. Thank you for opening my eyes and showing me I'm not alone anymore. Thank you.

[@sonnyjones4399]

Sickness has poisened my time. I love ya brother. Thanks for being you

[@rayne758]

Saw them live for the first time last Sunday. I can't tell you the emotions I felt, these songs are incredibly deep and very relatable. So beautiful to see a two people come together like this after all they have been through. That is something I strongly desire

[@robertleatherman4255]

So true real shit

[@micaelmariemonroe646]

Beautiful! Ashley seems like the best stand up kind of woman and of course incredibly talented.

[@jwilliamr86]

Did you hear her talk bout when Ben was bad off and about the things you do for who you love

[@noahwills4042]

James R where is this video?

[@eastonhockeyrocks]

@@noahwills4042 kzbin.info/www/bejne/imnChHxvetqlfrs

[@joelynn2874]

Awesome

[@andrewscott6828]

Genius is never understood in its own time, but hopefully this time it is - god damn are these two incredible...

[@nocount4339]

Dare me to do it I'll go, I'll trade these pounds of flesh, for a miserable ghost, and not much will change, but the way you see me will though. R.I.P. every man that's fallen to substance abuse.

[@drewsims262]

Lost my brother last week and nobody knew he was using. This line hit hard as fuck

[@johnrichards7476]

Drew Sims sorry to hear that brother. I know that pain all to well. Stay strong

[@justinblankenship8221]

Burying my best friend today

[@MrJaemeson]

I am so grateful I've found Benjamin's music when I have. This song is so raw and haunting and beautiful all at the same time. It's truly touching how he's put the war inside of ourselves into words.

[@toshatarter4030]

The discourse on this channel highly resonates with me. I certainly thought my adversities would outcast me from the rest of the world. Most days, I feel like they still do. But now I realize that I am adrift among many who trek a difficult journey. Lost Dog Street Band's music has helped mold and guide me through profound bereavement, I'm so grateful for that.💙

[@brandonhopkins4477]

Tosha Tarter yep

[@TheCyrins]

This song! I am someone who has dealt with drug addiction during my teen years. Later alcoholism and PTSD from deployments. Great artists like this and my wife have pulled me through. This song speaks right to my heart. Thank you for every song you write. I have lost so many friends to the "war" inside of many of us. Keep up the hard work man, I am now and forever will be a fan.

[@bryceratzlaff1791]

This man music saved my life.. I was in a bad bad way and listening to his music and stories made me realize that I was strong enough to stop my addictive habits and turn my life around! I’ve been sober now for 5 months and I know it’s not long but it’s a huge step in the right direction

[@kevlarkittens]

Benjamin Tod has so quickly become part of my top three favorite artists. I've bought every album on iTunes and listened to his songs on a 4 day 3,000 mile long trip that became more about the journey in my head than my destination, which I never actually got to anyway. Snow is a very powerful thing. Don't ever stop writing. Please.

[@jonchrzanowski725]

I can't get enough lost dog every single song speaks to my soul. Wishing yall the best and can't wait for the new album.

[@Thatnativeson]

I bet sitting across from the one you love, while both of you play music, and sing a beautiful song together with your eyes closed. Just listening to their voice. That’s gotta be a magical moment.

[@jaredgreen3232]

After struggling with Meth use artists like you help me realize I'm not alone so thank you. Looking through the comments you can see a lot of people who've struggled and maybe still are and your music helps us all. Much Love!

[@kpsmith4241]

Matt Heckler and Lost Dog Street Band videos within a week of each other... how lucky am I?

[@GemsOnVHS]

told ya buddy just gotta be patient :]

[@PerryDust]

Ahhhh. Im seeing them both play the same night in wv!! 😍😍😍😍

[@willyd3709]

Right!?

[@amosanon3274]

Some subscriptions make you feel like a genius.

[@nicholasb2341]

Lucky enough to be alive in these times.

[@PheonixNine]

Really like seeing Ashley interviewed. Cant wait to see them in Cincinnati!

[@drewsims262]

When's the Cincinnati date??

[@PheonixNine]

@@drewsims262 Saturday March 30. At Southgate

[@TheCowpoke406]

I wish I could thank Ben personally for his music. It's guided me through my darkness like a lantern.

[@LUSK-OUTDOORS]

I've been sober for 16 months, currently in the hospital while my wife is in labor with our first son. This song is making me reflect on all the good and bad things I've done that led me to this moment. I wouldn't change them for anything

[@htokid7299]

Congratulations on the new life brother, 23 here and a month sober now. I can feel that I’m changing for the better, I’ve destroyed pretty much everyone and everything I love. I can only pray god will allow me to have redemption and true happiness again. God bless you man, keep it up brother🖤💪🏾

[@LUSK-OUTDOORS]

@@htokid7299 everybody loves a good comeback. You got this man. I'm only 4 years older then you, you seem to be in a better mind set at 23 then me. Don't get discouraged. God can't wait to show what he's got planned for you 🙏

[@htokid7299]

@@LUSK-OUTDOORS I appreciate you and the words brotha, forreal. It took a lot of loss and fuck ups to learn but I’m on the path now. You’re right on everything you said. God speed my friend, both God and life have great things in store for you as well, keep up the good fight brother.

[@taylorpelletier89]

The bad things only make you grow character and stronger as a human and the good times remind you why you must continue on the righteous path.

[@banjobeats53]

Awesomeness from Lost dog once more, can't wait for the new album and hope you guys come to UK and/or anywhere in Europe, I'll be there for sure 😊

[@faizanahmad4312]

Banjo Beats Bass you would love it. They are fantastic live, their stage presence and the way they connect with the audience. One of those few bands that are present with the audience!

[@telleison3598]

This cut deep. A mirror. Regrets? Conquer? Truth. Raw truth.

[@aahp87]

driving through the country in my truck with my hound sitting on my center console with this song on repeat soothes my soul... things will get better

[@jameswalkinshaw5737]

That was really enjoyable. Their music is awesome and its filmed so well.

[@Impossible033]

“And I don’t believe but I like to pretend that the war inside of me will kill the man I have been” honest, pure lyricism.

[@lhuziechakevichusa6374]

The first time I herd your band I was just getting clean cold turkey thank you so much for your music. I grew up in pain surrounded by hate, I really realted to ur music not because of hate but because of hope n truth.

[@mickeyunderwood4309]

This brings me to tears listening to this. I battle depression and I have a problem with alcohol. I know it doesn't solve my problems but for the moment it quiets the demons and sometimes I can even smile. Their songs warms my heart and I look forward to seeing them in Chattanooga, Tennessee this year

[@nicholasb2341]

Depression, demons seek flesh when weak. Get away from that bottle brother.

[@wecantakeshots1009]

You’re not alone my friend, get the stigma of being a alcoholic but it’s the only thing that helps. Life gets better I hope.

[@blu64]

I just want to thank ya'll for your music, and for putting yourselves out there like you do. I've been in recovery for a many years and your music really speaks to me.

[@richardpeterson5247]

I've been an addict for 25 years and spent 17 years in prison..I lost my wife of 15 years.she was murdered a week before I was to be released from prison.i lost everything. I would listen to this every morning..this shit is on another level

[@JohnDoe-eh7dt]

This song hits home real hard. Being an alcoholic train kid and waking up everyday hating my existence daily and the only thing that kept me going was my dog. This song always a tear too my eye of joy thinking how far I have come from that day. 2 years later doing so much better

[@eelstastegood]

Wow, that hit me like a truck. You should do more interviews like that.

[@timgutheil8071]

Raw, extremely powerful. Thank you for being so artistically honest. ❤️

[@CounselingCoachDavid]

This took me exactly to where i needed to be today. Thanks to a great friend for sending it over just in time. Love you guys. Hang in there! We are all going through it.

[@theresasquirestheresa]

The MAN that you've been is made much better than u realize hun 💚

[@splooge825]

Coulda woke yesterday in the grave Coulda choked on the smoke from my father's flame There's no need to stoke, there's a southern wind blowin this way Dare me to do it, I'll go I'll trade these pound of flesh For a miserable ghost And not much will change But the way that you see me will though And I see it come clear in my head And I dont believe but I like to pretend That the war inside me will kill the man I've been Sickness has poisoned my time And I searched for a cure, but it blinded my sight And I'm almost sure That I've had my fill for one life Everything good was a lie All my friends turned to snakes And love turned to spite And I held the blame Cause you couldn't carry its size And I see it complete in my head Now I dont believe but I like to pretend That the war inside me will kill the man I've been That this war inside me will kill the man I've been

[@XxHempDaddyxX]

God damn that's good music.

[@jeremystephen5016]

True song brother. I'm fighting my demons everyday. The struggle of addiction is so f...... real. I just wish that people who's never been there would get it and stop judging me for my past and forgive me for all the f'ed up things I'd done. I just to be forgiven, but at the same time I'm having trouble forging myself.

[@justincrone2161]

Keep going brother!

[@livingdeadgaybutimalive9973]

Cant forgive myself either brother, cant even say that ive quit, I feel this is my last run tho, shit just gettin worse

[@chasebovenschen2267]

Ima play this at my wedding, god bless all honest and good music

[@ashthetrashboat1982]

Had relapse on my mind these past few days. Thank goodness for music

[@pattohorne]

Why is everything you 2 release so damn beautiful

[@tonyspalding303]

Ben is such an incredible song writer

[@johan185wrestler7]

I can relate,I've been here and still deal with my inner demons. I'm 50 and just found his music 4 hours ago from a nephew and it touches my soul and I believe everyone here has been touched and can relate.Donate what you can to his cause I know I will,these struggling artist that brings us their pain and brings us their life stories need our donations to keep this music alive and well.We all need music like this its just in our human soul.God Bless everyone on here listening to this beautiful music.

[@joeyfuller4645]

This dude has become probably my favorite musician right now. And I don't even listen to country much His voice is awesome And he's about life songs not love songs I'm impressed with everything I hear

[@Chefmaddix]

I wish Ashley's voice was a little louder in some of there songs. Great song

[@cw6621]

Four walls do not a prison make ... it's this band and a couple others who helped me break the blockchain shackles my ancestors placed on my ankles before I was even thought of. that's big. they're just too amazing to describe.

[@TremendousSax]

Blockchain shackles, eh? Tough to escape that crypto currency prison

[@cw6621]

Tremendous Sax ahahaha I have no idea. I'd imagine I'd let the herb do the talking. who knows wtf I was tryna say lol

[@backtothebasics6595]

After my bottle of whiskey and this song and so many others.... I feel you are talking to me directly.... not much makes a man as me break down. But to hear my truth from someone else. That shit hurts and is so amazing at the same time. I appreciate your music . Thank you!!!

[@michaeldeardorff5398]

When your someone who has had an entire life ruled by depression and mental health problems coupled with this all too complicated and evil world we live in. Always been an old soul and don't get along with my own age group. I've been battling a war inside of myself ever since I could remember the sting of life and all the unknown and being excited and hopeful before I threw my life away to the needle. I've spent most my teens and all of my adult life struggling with hard drug addiction and alcoholism and I can't remember what Living feels like. Benjamin tod is a true songwriter just about every song of his hits home! Powerful songs, gotta love when you hear REAL MUSIC nowadays! It's a DYING ART!!

[@tigerstyle4505]

I wrote a song about a grip of friends of mine that overdosed on different occasions but in similar situations. All died cause of a mix of benzos (usually Xanax) and opiates (heroin and/or painkillers), all died at parties (at least 3 in apartments and at least 1 at a bonfire) and all were left alone to die, with everybody freaking out and takin off w/o callin EMS or anything. Just left there cause of the cowardess of their "friends". 1 actually sat dead in that apartment for almost a week while at least 15-20 people knew he was dead and it wasn't even his place. No one ever got in trouble for any of it either (not that I even think they should, we we're all bad off then, lost a lot of people in a short stretch and a lot of em were at these parties) but most of em ended up in the exact same situation later. Alone to die when their odds were probably pretty decent if EMS woulda been called. It was before the whole "opioid epidemic" became a thing that anybody have af about. Was just us dyin and killin each other off at a mad high rate. Pill Mills were everywhere and the streets gettin flooded with pills dropped the price of dope to the lowest I've ever seen. Only music I've ever had released was when I was playin in punk bands in my teens between prison stints and binders but I can barely even find that stuff anymore lol I'm not a particularly gifted dude I just play to play and write to get it out. Between my folks in the streets of the hoods I've lived in, the travelers and squatters I've known in the punk community and the dope dealers and addicts I've been with my whole life I can rattle off a hell of a list of dead friend, family and acquaintances. I've written mad songs about the ones we lost over the years and had no issue performing em after that first wave of emotion kinda eases off. But that song in particular (about my friends that were left to die) is one of the few I still can't play. Idk why. But I just can't. Real music most definitely hurts sometimes. I can more than relate to this one. Not the man I used to be but it's been a never ending struggle.

[@GemsOnVHS]

all the best songs are the hardest to play!

[@nicoleeyeart3584]

This hurts but it is beautiful becuz I be been thru every word pre epidemic as you say ..not that it matters thank for this

[@flyonthe1stwall]

Having recovering addicts in my family, their lyrics and melody hit strikingly close to home. I can’t stop listening to your music. Make more and stay sober

[@stevessoony2010]

Thank you for sharing your battle The battle is long and many will never make it. Your tunes can light the way for the weary and down beaten. The greatest worth is self-mastery. Thank you for you tunes.

[@Scott-of1gt]

The 52 people who disliked this song are soulless

[@wutm8565]

Pretty sure they must have just accidentally hit the wrong button, even those without a soul have got to dig this

[@mariabowmer4757]

Agree .

[@mariabowmer4757]

Love love this . my friends turned to snakes .yes indeed. War inside of me . wow . I could listen to this for hours . I am 60 and don't listen to music much but a young friend sent me a song and I just love it. Used drugs for years . Three years clean off heroin.

[@antonijestanisa8565]

After listening to this x100 times I've just truly heard the violinist vocals on the chorus. This gal is an angel and needs her vocals turned up. Wow