In an inspiring tale of family bonding through music, a father and his nonverbal son with autism have created a Grammy-nominated album. This collaboration, crafted in a makeshift studio in their garage, highlights the power of music in bridging communication gaps and elevating unheard voices.
Chris Redding, a dedicated recording artist, embarked on an extraordinary musical journey with his 6-year-old son, Christian, who is on the autism spectrum and nonverbal. In their home studio, music became the medium through which father and son could communicate and express emotions, leading to their creation titled ‘Visions of Sounds De Luxe.’
Christian’s love for music was a discovery that led Chris to incorporate his son into the recording process. Utilizing what is known as vocal stimming, where vibrational sounds serve as an expression of emotions for individuals with autism, Christian’s unique voice became a central element in the album. Chris Redding reflects, ‘It was me being vulnerable with my relationship with my son and my family.’
The album features nine tracks that emphasize inclusion and affirmation, showcasing the synergy between Chris, his wife Serena, and their children. The family’s involvement in the track ‘GREATful’ underscores their collective gratitude and highlights the intertwining of their personal stories with their music.
This musical project extends beyond the studio, reaching audiences both locally and internationally. Chris recently performed in Argentina and California at an Autism Speaks event, signaling the broader impact of their work. The album, recognized on music’s biggest stage with a Grammy nomination, serves as a beacon for families dealing with similar challenges.
Despite the accolades, the Redding family’s primary focus remains on the connections they foster through their music. Serena expressed that the true reward is in the stories they hear from other families, such as a mother whose nonverbal son connected with the album’s lyrics, a moment she described as transformative.
Chris Redding acknowledges the Grammy nod as humbling yet sees a more significant mission in sharing their journey. It’s a tale not merely of musical ambition but of familial love and the message of inclusion they hope to broadcast worldwide.
The Redding family’s endeavor transcends music, serving as an inspirational story of connection and the celebration of diverse voices. By integrating Christian’s unique voice into their work, they are sending a powerful message of understanding and acceptance that resonates with audiences around the globe.
Source: Wsvn
