BMLG & CREATIVETS PARTNER FOR MEMORIAL DAY SONG

In honor of Memorial Day, Big Machine Label Group has partnered with Nashville nonprofit CreatiVets for a single called "Bullets and Angels." Penned by singer-songwriter Dan Smalley and veterans Chris Bickel, Michael King and Brian White, the song addresses the horrors of war and the faith needed to solider through.

“This writing process was unlike any other,” Smalley said. "For starters, the writing room was backstage at the Grand Ole Opry. So the spirit of our heroes was palpable. The connection I had with Mike, Chris and Brian made me feel like God was in the room, like we were supposed to be there for Mike to speak through. Tears were shed and truths were told. It was truly an unforgettable experience.”

King added, “The writing of the song helped me tell some of my story in a unique way. I look at music very differently now. Every song tells a story. When I pick up my guitar, all problems go away."

CreatiVets has helped more than 1,000 combat veterans since its 2013 inception, with 400 of those participating in its songwriting programs. The organization’s primary goal is to end veteran suicide by offering alternative ways to cope with trauma, using the arts as "a therapeutic cornerstone in the road to recovery."

For the last three years, BMLG has contributed to CreatiVets' operational initiatives through Scott and Sandi Borchetta's Music Has Value Fund and CreatiVets co-publisher Big Machine Music. Grab the Kleenex and listen to "Bullets and Angels" below.