Days 116–125: The Pivot from Creation to Connection
There comes a point in every massive undertaking where the goal evolves. For the first 100+ days of 2026, the mission was simple: write every day. Prove the discipline. Build the library. Now that I’ve established a foundation of 79 finished, shareable songs, the mission is shifting.
From Creation to Promotion
I’ve decided to move from the "song-a-day" grind to focusing on promoting what is already out.
I’ve proven to myself what I’m capable of as a writer; now it’s about getting that work into the right hands. My focus is sharpened: I am a songwriter first. The pressure to be a "performer" is off the table for now. I’m taking cues from creators like Charlie Puth and Lady Gaga, who established their brilliance as writers and producers before ever stepping into the spotlight as artists. I’m starting where I’m strongest.
New Partnerships on the Horizon
The networking side of the project is heating up. I had a fantastic online chat with Courtney Cole recently. We’re setting up a time to co-write at her place soon to see how our styles blend. Between Courtney and I and all I’ve written over the last few months, the potential for high-level collaboration here in Portland (and the surrounding area) is real.
Quality Over "Followers"
The digital age brings some strange interactions. I had a rapper with over 100k TikTok followers reach out to "work together," but a quick look at the content was a red flag.
It’s a reminder that in this industry, "legitimacy" isn't measured in follower counts, it’s measured in the music and the trust you have with your collaborators. I’m protecting my songs and being selective about who gets to touch them.
Closure and Sunlight
This week marked a year since my motorcycle accident. As the Portland sun finally made a rare appearance, seeing bikes back on the road was a heavy reminder of how far I’ve come.
I finally got a leg tattoo to cover the scars from that day, a physical way to turn a painful memory into a piece of art. I took a few days off from the instruments to just be outside and reset my headspace. I wasn't in a great place for a moment, and the sun was the best medicine.
Catalog Audit:
Current Song Total: 79 (Finished & Polished)
Milestone: One-year accident anniversary marked with new ink.
Collaboration: Successful initial chat with Courtney Cole; co-write session pending.
Strategic Shift: Transitioning from daily writing to active catalog promotion and songwriting partnerships.
About The 2026 Project
The 2026 Project began as a year-long commitment to daily creation. Having successfully built a high-caliber foundation, the project has evolved into a professional songwriting catalog aimed at artist placements, publishing, and film/TV sync.
Learn more about the journey here.
Like what you read?
The 2026 Catalog is currently open for select artist collaborations, publishing partnerships, or co-writing opportunities. Contact me here to discuss how we can work together.