Music video raises awareness of addiction and mental health issues

BY LEN CABRERA

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Daniel B. Rochelle, Jr., released his first music video today as part of a continuing effort to bring attention to addiction and mental health issues through music and art. His first original song was released last year (read about it here); his new song, “Mr. Grey,” portrays Rochelle’s personal experience with childhood trauma and addiction. The original composition is brought to life through animation and live action video that you can watch here (or go to Rochelle’s YouTube channel for more of his work).

The video premiered at San Felasco Tech City on January 20 to a group of friends and family who support Rochelle’s mission; displays at the event also encouraged attendees to contribute to Rochelle’s GoFundMe, which enables the package delivery driver and father of five to make music and videos (you can donate here). Pictures of the event were provided by Katrine Dunn (katrinedunnphotography.com).

Rochelle wants to give hope to others who are dealing with alcohol and drug abuse

Prior to premiering the video, Rochelle shared his story of addiction and recovery.

He said, “I got sick and tired of hearing, seeing, and being a part of what seems like a family heritage of men riddled with alcohol and drug abuse… I wanted to be the one that breaks the curse.”

Rochelle shared what he’d learned from Nurse Practitioner Valerie Layton at the McKnight Brain Institute, specifically about the lasting impact on brain development caused by childhood trauma like physical or emotional abuse.

He gave a very detailed account of his rock-bottom experience, which involved passing out multiple times in the same evening. Rochelle credits his wife, Krissy, with pushing him into rehab, then encouraging and supporting him through his recovery.

Rochelle said, “I had to accept the failures and the things I could not change and hopefully become a better person.” He said that “Mr. Grey” is not the story of who he is but the events that made him who he is now.

Biggest project yet for video director

The video was directed by Simon Dunn, who started his film business with wedding videos (simondunnweddings.com). Dunn said he’s also done commercials and real estate videos, but this was his biggest project, including the creation and construction of a rig to make artificial rain. At the premiere, Dunn said, “It was a dynamic project, and it really did push us.”

• Video credits:
• Cast
  • Daniel Rochelle
  • (Ze-Ro) Zohn-Ray Rochelle
  • Sanihya Rochelle
• Directed by Simon Dunn
• Art by Paulo Freitas and James Hardy Photography
• Production and lighting by Simon Dunn and Will Merchant
• Music written by Daniel Rochelle
• Music performed by:
  • Piano & synth: Daniel Rochelle
  • Guitar: Jason Cain
  • Bass guitar: Ashley “Dump Truck” Wilkinson
  • Drums: Josh Hoffenberg
  • Flute: Tayeshawn E.D. Rochelle
  • Beat engineer: Raphael Llana, @Raphdidit

Rochelle also had a special thanks to “My friends at Rollins Apparel.”

Rochelle is working on more songs to be released soon. If you can’t wait, you can catch him performing with the worship team at Crosspoint Church in Gainesville.