Dear Tyler,
I would like to first thank you on behalf of millions of lives you have touched, changed, and saved. It is truly the most incredible achievement of a musician to impact one life yet alone multiple stadiums full of lives time and time again. Thank you simply doesn’t cover it, my friend.
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There has not yet been a band in the music industry like Twenty One Pilots. From your incredible growth to your international influence to your beautiful message of hope, you have shown us a new kind of musician. All of us have doubts, fears, trials, and moments of self-destruction, and the ability you have to relate to each one of us gives us the wave of hope we seek to escape such dark undertones.
The reason I addressed this to you instead of to you and Josh was not because I favor you over him (although I did vote Tyler when it came down to it) or because I feel you are a more significant member of the band than him. Being a musician myself and having a brother who plays the drums, I admire Josh in more ways than one and truly value his equal importance to this band. The truth is, the lyrics to your songs are what drew me in. The lyrics which were written by you. The words and the poetry of your songs are what influenced me unlike any other music has.
One aspect I’d like to focus on is just that. Poetry. I once wrote a research paper discussing Rap vs. Poetry and how they are most often found not interchangeable. Except, of course, in your case. Your lyrics and raps not only exemplify the dictionary definition of poetry that is rich with rhythms and captivating language, but also demonstrate the use of multi-meanings, intricate wordings, and unique symbolism and biblical allusions. You are the poet I and many others have been waiting for in the music industry who broadcasts the blend of poetry and music, two incredible art forms not often combined to complement one another.
Your art is unlike anything I have ever experienced, and has been the muse of all of our creations. No one song sounds the same or serves the same purpose. I’ve bragged about you and Josh ever since I first heard “Guns For Hands”, and some of us have shared your artistry with others from the beginning. Not to mention that Twenty One Pilots live in concert further extends your artistry and musicianship. Creativity has no boundaries, and you make sure of that in your shows.
If I sat down with another fan and picked each song apart, I would have a different take on it than they would. You somehow managed to relate your music to multiple people in multiple ways at the same time. You give your fans exactly what they need in the times they need it most.
Tyler, you have taught me it’s okay to have doubts, to screw up, to fall down, to feel low, but have also allowed me to have clarity, to fix my mistakes, to get back up, and to feel peace. I pray for your success. I pray for your doubts, your mistakes, and your darkness, and that your making of music can create that overwhelming peace for you as it has for me.
Thank you for reading this very long letter. That is if you ever read it. Even if you don’t, everyone deserves to know the incredible impact you have had on my life. I live my life differently and have bigger and better dreams because of you and Josh. I hope to one day have the same impact you guys have with your music with my writing. Thank you for continuing to help us through this hectic world and make sense of it. Thank you for continuing to encourage fans and their art. Your support and love for us means more than you know. We will always support you (literally and figuratively).
I can only hope to meet you one day and talk about your dreams and your faith with you. It might not be until later in life or maybe even after death, but I look forward to the day I can meet one of my largest inspirations.
Thank you, Tyler. See you in September (and February).
Love, Emma
P.S. I can’t wait to meet you too, Josh.
