The Mendenhall Experiment embodies everything we champion here at Unruly News: authenticity, resilience, and creating your own rules. Their music is a statement of empowerment and inclusion, and their latest single, ‘Say It,’ is no different. This high-octane track, part of their EP ‘Chasing Ghosts,‘ hits hard with its relentless energy and meaningful message. Stream and download it now.
Led by Brandon Mendenhall, a guitarist who has defied expectations, The Mendenhall Experiment is a testament to the power of music to shatter stereotypes and uplift disabled people. Born with Cerebral Palsy, Brandon’s story brings the representation desperately needed for those facing similar challenges.
“If you asked me why I want to be a rock star… it’s not about the fame or money,” guitarist/songwriter Brandon Mendenhall says. “I have a unique opportunity to inspire people and kids with disabilities with my playing, my music and my story. I truly believe that’s what I was put on this earth to do.”
“Once I was able to get a guitar in my hands, it changed my life,” he continues. Brandon knew from that moment that he needed to play guitar and get a band together. He recalls, “My grandfather told me, ‘You’ll never be a guitarist. Don’t even try.’ And that crushed me. Those words lit a fire in me. I was determined that I could do this.”
Mendenhall comments: “‘Say It’ was a different process for us. The song came together organically as a full band, with everyone throwing in their flavour on the fly. It was one of those ‘magic moments’ as a band where everything just flowed out of us, and the song came together in an evening. It stands as one of our heaviest songs in the catalogue.”
‘Say It’ is a courageous salute to those who dare to embrace their true selves. Vocalist Alyce Hayes beautifully captures the essence of the song, stating, “‘Say It’ is a song about speaking your truth, even when you’re scared or when you feel unheard. It’s a personal mantra and reminder for myself, really. We can’t fully become who we’re meant to be until we can speak for ourselves. When the guys sent me the music, I was immediately inspired. I think I had the lyrics written in about 30 minutes. ‘Say It’ is asking the question: ‘What if I don’t stay silent? What if my words have power?’ Because they do. Words absolutely have power.”
Established in 2008, the band comprises a diverse lineup of talented musicians, each with their own story of triumph over adversity. Bass player Nathan Stockton, for instance, experienced childhood deafness, and he attributes music to sustaining him through it. Alongside Brandon, Nathan is joined by Alyce Hayes lending her powerful vocals, Mike Lira shredding on guitar, and Justin Lubeck keeping the rhythm alive on drums. Together, they are a formidable force in the world of rock, proving that with passion, perseverance, and a dash of defiance, you can do anything. Stay Unruly.
