Heals All Wounds by The Rising Shine Project (Interview 2026)

Edition Thirty-Seven – Week Thirty-Seven; Unit 2:

Written by: Mercedes Barreto

Introduction

In an era where independent music is driven by authenticity and emotional connection, The Rising Shine Project emerges with a sound rooted in reflection, humanity, and lived experience. Blending elements of rock, folk, blues, and soul, the project creates music that feels deeply personal while remaining universally relatable. Led by songwriter and musician Henry Stoll, the work explores themes of resilience, vulnerability, and self-discovery, offering listeners songs that resonate long after the final note fades. Through heartfelt storytelling and organic musicianship, The Rising Shine Project continues carving out a meaningful place within today’s independent music landscape.

Short Review

The Rising Shine Project delivers music with emotional honesty and timeless depth. Rather than relying on overproduction or trends, the project leans into soulful songwriting and genuine storytelling, creating tracks that feel both intimate and cinematic. Songs like “Again And Again” showcase an ability to transform personal struggles into universally relatable experiences, supported by warm instrumentation and thoughtful lyricism. There’s a grounded sincerity in the music that makes The Rising Shine Project stand out — a reminder that powerful songwriting still comes from authenticity, perspective, and emotional truth.

Q&A

What inspired the name “The Rising Shine Project”?

“Since this is a songwriting vehicle for me, I wanted to focus on the idea of rising or emerging, and keep it positive. I have a band called Major Bigtime, and this is way to not confuse people.”

Your music blends several genres naturally — how would you personally describe your sound?

“The Rising Shine Project writes all styles for sale to other artists and sync placements. I like all kinds of music so I wanted to write all styles, and for musical talents and voices beyond my own.”

What role does storytelling play in your songwriting process?

” Most of my songs tell stories or try to teach concepts. I try to find a way to convey big ideas by focusing on common experiences or emotions. We are all more alike than we know! I feel songs have a life of their own, and if we listen as we create, the song will guide us.”

Which artists or life experiences have influenced your music the most?

“I’ve always cared more about song quality than style. Ray Davies, Steven Wilson Jr., Justin Furstenfeld, Travis Walker, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty. Shawn Mullins and Phil Lynott, are my favs.”
Can you walk us through your creative process when writing a new song?

“NO I can’t! LOL there isn’t a single process for me. Some are cool guitar riffs that grow, some are stories I want to tell. Most often, I work on a song until I get a great line or phrase, once that happens, I never give up until I finish it, even if that takes decades!”
Where can we hear more, and why should we? What makes you iconic for the times?

“I’m all over the major DSP’s, and YouTube, etc… I am looking at this, and my songs, as my legacy! I want to leave behind something that my children and grandchildren can listen to and say, “That’s what made my dad/grandpa special, the way he saw the world!” If I can play the part for others, that my musical heroes played for me, that’s all I could ever ask for! Songs become a part of your life’s soundtrack, and evoke specific memories and feelings! That is immortality. People die, ideas don’t! Bands fade away, great songs don’t! I chose this vehicle and the name The Rising Shine Project, because I want it to be all about the songs, NOT about me! I have an identity as a singer and musician, but my ideas and my songs, deserve more than my limitations! The Rising Shine Project is all about songs, music without limits! Imagine if Elton John’s ego, forced him to only sing songs he wrote alone, and he never worked with Bernie Taupin? Imagine if Diane Warren insisted on singing all of her songs herself? Music deserves more!”