It’s been six and a half months since I set out on a journey that carried me across four continents, 29 countries and literally around the entire globe. 96 shows later, the All Things Bright and Beautiful tour, the most recent chapter in the Owl City story, has come to a close.
And now here I sit alone in my living room, exactly the way I left it, like a veteran home from the war. The bus is gone, the gear is in storage, I don’t have to ask my tour manager where the green room is or what time soundcheck is or whether I’m going to get a shower tonight or not. I don’t have to search the corners of the room for outlets, I don’t have to live out of a suitcase anymore.
For the moment, I’m not sure what to do with myself. There’s always a transitional handful of days that inevitably follow the end of a long journey, and when it clocks in at over half a year, it’s a big change of gears. It’s like a tall glass of jet lag with a slice of bittersweet lemon.
It’s the end of an era.
But soon I find myself sitting around a table in a noisy restaurant with friends and family who ask me how the tour went, what I did, what I saw, how I felt, and what the whole thing was like. I watch the anticipation/expectation spread across their faces and it’s then that I feel a little disappointing because the life of a tourist is rarely as glamorous as it seems, which means life on tour doesn’t really make for five-star storytelling. So I usually just sigh and smile and order another lemonade and say, “Oh, it was a lot of time driving and waiting in airports.”
Life on tour is not the kind of thing one can really talk about because you really have to be there. It’s a difficult thing to describe and few people understand it themselves, let alone possess the patience or resolve to be understanding of it. I’ve learned this the hard way.
The thing I think I miss the most when I return home after a long journey is the soothing lull and rumble of bus tires on asphalt directly underneath me. I miss the muffled hum of the generator and the way the engine sometimes coughs as it carries me hundreds upon hundreds of miles through the night. I’ll have to figure out how to sleep in a bedroom again.
I miss the frivolous banter and the familiar voices in the green room or on the other end of my in-ears. I miss the way the backstage rooms shudder and shake and things rattle and move while Jackson is EQing bass tracks in the house. I miss not knowing where we are or where we’re going or where the next show is, but loving the ride because in so many ways, life is about the journey and not the destination. I miss the new faces and the energy in the audience and the spirit in the room so thick you could cut it with a knife. I miss the sparkle and shimmer and the dull roar of the opening band playing downstairs and the thunderous applause after each song. I miss the butterflies, the dull ache of nervousness before the intro. I miss the camaraderie and the companionship and the mutual support, the jokes, the chatter and the lightheartedness. I miss knowing there’s a job to be done and taking it seriously, viewing the appointed task as something you get to do rather than something you have to do.
Life on the road is a whirlwind, a wild roller coaster with all kinds of unexpected twists and turns and tunnels and sudden drops, but it’s such a magical, extraordinary thing to experience that, given the chance, I wouldn’t choose anything else.
Endless love and thanks to my incredible band and crew for the past six months of memories I will cherish forever. I’d be nowhere without them.
And infinite acknowledgment and appreciation to each individual person who bought a ticket, came to a show, fought traffic to find the venue, listened to me sing for 95 minutes, applauded before the encore, bought a record, handed me a letter, brought cookies for the crew, waited outside the bus, asked for photos, and a million other gracious acts that made my heart melt over the past six months around the globe.
Silent gratitude is no use to anyone so I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Two years ago, if you told me, “Adam, you can quit your lackluster job, you can stop going to school for nothing and focus 100% of your time and energy on your true passion in life, you can drop everything and start writing songs, recording albums, playing shows, making friends, and ultimately devote yourself to the ONE thing in this world you’ve ever been good at…”
I would’ve never believed you, but here I am, and I don’t deserve an ounce of the grace I’ve been given.
And so for giving an undeserving shy boy from nowhere a shot at reaching out and taking hold of the dream he never thought was reachable, I thank you. Thank you with every fiber of my being.
Glory to God.
It feels good to be home.
Thank you for inspiring us and doing what you do. I was at your last tour show in Waukesha last night and it was amazing. Never stop making music and being awesome.
I really hope I get to meet you someday, Adam. You’re amazing <3
Adam you were WONDERFUL!!!! Saw you in D.C. and wow you put on an Amazing show! Thank you for sharing your gift! And using it a way pleasing to God! Cant wait to hear more from your talented mind with which you have been blessed.
PRAISE GOD!
Alex Ray
Adam, I think you are that kind of guy who belong to home and family. In terms of a very close yet emotional relationship.
That is kind of rare thing people see in boys.
Adam you are amazing!! I bought an album but I didn’t make it to a show and I totally regret it! You blog posts always make me cry in front of my classmates. Keep making music Adam! God bless!!
And thank YOU for creating such awesome music that gives me hope and happiness and positiveness, that reminds me that there’s beauty in so many things, that reminds me I should only live my life for God and for nothing else! :)
And thank you for the awesome show in the Netherlands, it was probably the best night of my life. I hope you’ll be back soon but for now, enjoy your time home :)
Adam I saw you in Scotland and to be honest it was one of the most favourite nights of my life!
Thankyou for giving thousands of people around the world some of the best memories and stories to share for years to come :)
x
Welcome home Adam. See you next year in Indonesia :)
Thank you so much for writing this. I cannot even begin to say how much of an inspiration you are. I was at your show in Waukesha last night, and it was absoutely magical and incredible. It is so awesome to see you shine for Christ and use the amazing gifts that He has given you, for Him! It inspires me to do the exact same. Never stop doing what you’re doing. Thank you so much :)
Adam, I cried as I read that. You can’t know how much you have touched my life this year. It has been amazing to see pictures and videos from concerts and hear people talk about them. I couldn’t make it to the show in my state, but I feel like I have been to a concert just by reading other people’s experiences. I’ve enjoyed thinking “I wonder were Owl City will be playing today!” and Googling the time difference between where you are that day and where I am. I’ve always looked forward to your (and the band and crew’s) tweets about the shows.
Also, I always look forward to your blogs.. Your writing is absolutely beautiful.
You are like no other singer I know, by the way. You are so down to earth and you are such a godly man. You make me want to walk closer to the Lord.
I hope you will tour again next year, after you have a very long rest that you so deserve!
God bless you!
Oh, life is so good. Even though I still have to go to school and do work and can’t focus on all these different things that I love to do because *school must come first*, I can still feel light at the thought that you’re doing something you love, because honestly, sometimes I worry that what you’re doing isn’t what you love.
I’ll never worry again.
-Annie
You’re amazing Adam; being able to see you live was an incredible experience that I will never forget. I listen to your music every day, and it brings so much joy and peace into my life. Even as I’m typing this Port Blue – Up Ship! is playing in my ears. Honestly, I can’t imagine going a single day without your compositions. You have me addicted. It is my sincere hope that I will be able to meet you someday; you are such a wonderful influence on me and I consider you my hero. Thank you.
Now, kick back and relax! You have certainly earned it.
Dear Adam.
You’ve changed me in so many ways that I didn’t even know were possible. I am a much better person because of you. You came into my life when I needed it the most, and pretty much saved my life. I really hope that you come to Norway one day. I need to give you a hug or at least shake your hand and thank you. Adam, you saved my life, and for that I owe you everything.
God bless you
- Andrea
I waited outside your tour buss for 3 hours in the pouring rain and cold. I never saw you but you sounded incredible. I wrote you a letter and made you a bracelet but i never got the chance to give it to you. Hope to see you again soon. Can’t wait to hear I Hope You Think Of Me and The Ballroom. Keep up the great work Adam. God Bless You!
I saw you in Baltimore after waiting eight hours for the center front-row seat.
I’ll never forget the lights streaming overhead; the way an incandescent glow settled over the entire audience. The way the ships sparkled on the harbor.
It was the perfect prelude to summer love.
Thank you.
The pleasure and thanks are all ours, Adam!! I had the great, good fortune to see you twice this year in Philly and in Allentown. Both shows were so awesome; the best part being I got to share the experience with my college-age daughter.
You are a wonderful example of gracious humility and even though you were tired and sick at the Allentown concert, I loved watching your face light up when we sang back to you! As a Christian mom, it’s a beautiful thing to see a young person doing the very thing that God made him for.
Blessings to you and your family along with a gentle, motherly nag; REST!
I was lucky enough to be at two of those 96 shows (congrats on that, by the way – that’s a HUGE number) and let me tell you, they were the two best days of my life. You are such an inspiring person to me and seeing you and the band in real life was just incredible beyond words.
So I just want to thank you for everything – for giving me something to look forward to these past six months, for making me feel as if I’m a part of something, for making July 1 and November 11 the most magical, wonderful days of my life, and ultimately for making my life so much more beautiful.
Thank you so much.
Adam, you deserve every bit of that grace that you’ve been given, for you are a very special and unique person, loved and appreciated by so many, and to say that you are worth all the gratitude in the world is a severe understatement.
And thank *you* for blessing us with your wonderful music… and instilling within us the determination to achieve our goals, as you have achieved yours.
God bless you!
D’aw. That was lovely ^^ My favourite part was the last two lines. Perfect ending =)
I can surprisingly connect. Wow. Best wishes!
I can surprisingly connect. Wow. Best wishes! Beautiful post!
Dear Adam,
I’m a 14 year old (Well okay, I’m turning 14 on 24th of November) fan from a small town in Estonia. Most of the population in this town are Russian… And I believe I’m the only one here who knows you and truely admires you. You’re a huge inspiration to me. I even think of trying to learn to play the guitar by myself, and I believe my first song that I will learn to play will be one of your songs. Alligator Sky maybe (I really love that song). I’m really sad that I can’t go to other countries to see you yet. As usually the problems are: Money and parents permission, but I believe that one day, I’ll meet you… And try to spend some time with you (STEAL YOUR TIME, MUHHAAAHAHAHAHAHA :D) Okay, That was really off topic. This blog post really climbed deep into my heart.
And finally… I’d like to wish you good luck with your life – as a musician, a singer, a human.
Love,
Krista
I like, like, like, like, like.. etc. you. :)
Thank you!!
Come to Romania!!!
I was lucky enough to be at your first show of the international tour here in New Zealand.
That show was the most fun I’ve ever had. It was, as you put it, surreal.
So I exchange mutual thanks for taking 6 months out of your life to fly to unknown countries and sing with unknown people (who think the world of you, by the way.)
And just like we get that bout of “post concert depression” after attending an incredible show, I guess what you experience is “post tour depression” – the same thing on a greater scale!
I hope you recover from it quickly.
Rest up!
Until the next chapter of your tour life,
Char
Welcome home, Adam <333
I just wanna say thanks to what you've done for my life, you're my inspiration, you saved my life, you changed me, your music helps me through my hard times
Thank you for everything
I really hope to meet you someday
God Bless You :)
You really don’t understand the impact you have in OUR lives, do you? WE should be thanking YOU. Because you have made a difference. If you believe it or not. And I thank God every day for the difference you have made in my life.
You are truly the sweetest boy in the entire universe. It’s incredible hearing your thanks, not only to your friends, family and crew, but to the fans! Thank you so much for letting us know how much you appreciate us, because we want you to know more than anything in the world, how much we appreciate you.
You are a prince Adam. You’re a true gentleman. You inspire us beyond belief and act as an excellent role model to so many. You change our dull, lackluster afternoons into magic and daydreaming with your enchanting melodies and lyrics. You improve our vocabulary with your endless writing talents, and your poetic similes, hilarious puns and powerful quotes and passages. Your photos are gorgeous, and one of a kind, incredibly inspiring. You mean the world to us! You mean the world to me. I love you Adam. We’re so incredibly proud of everything you’ve accomplished these past few years!
Seeing you in concert was unbelievable last June at the Kool Haus. I was completely inspired to write out exactly how I felt about your work, I wish I’d realized I could have given the letter to Unwed Sailor at the concert if I’d written it before hand. I’ve posted this link many a time but I will never give up! It means the world to me; you reading this=life made! If you
get a chance to reply, I’m on twitter! @crazy_hoot_owl. I don’t use twitter often but I created this ID just to contact you!
http://orangeintheovercast.blogspot.com/2011/07/dearest-adam.html?showComment=1321902089722#c847785812756863212
Thanks a ton!!!!<3
God bless!
Adam, your attitude about this is right on. I’m so glad you get to do what you like (and what you really *are* good at, btw.) and you still give God the glory. You are right. I want you to know how much I am blessed by, and appreciate what you do. You obviously remember who you’re doing it for and who gave it to you to do in the first place: Thank you for doing what God has blessed and called you to do, Adam! Keep up the good work and keep those memories…they’re part of the reward. :)
I loved every word of this blog, Adam. Thank you so much for everything that you do for your fans, because we DO appreciate it!! :)
These blogs for instance!! It’s so special to be able to read these! :)
Sadly, I wasn’t one of the fans who was able to get a ticket (because…well… you know…money. :/)
BUT, I did sit at home and listen to your wonderful songs, the way that I always do. XD
Here’s to a lovely Thanksgiving, and brilliant holidays full of joy and happiness for all!!
Cheers. :)
Your sister in Christ,
HP
Your show in SLC was arguably the best night of my life. You’ve inspired me so much and I hope you never stop working to make this world a better place. I love you, Adam!
You have no idea what this means to me.
http://suchisthelife.wordpress.com/2011/11/20/just-thinking/
We thank you two Adam :) My show was AMAZING even though I got no pictures. You are an unbelievable sweetie. You deserve everything you have,and you’re using it wisely. NEVER forget that.
God Keep Blessing You.
-Lady Airplane
Adam… This post made me cry. Please don’t ever call yourself undeserving. You are the most amazing man I’ve yet to be able to meet, and I must say the men in my life have never failed to let me down. You are the only one I can put faith in to be a good person. You deserve the universe and more; you deserve to see all the world’s oceans and walk their beaches. You deserve unlimited happiness, and I truly wish you find it soon.
God bless and rest well,
Britnie xoxo
You are amazing. Period.
I’ve been kind of having a bad day but then I realized “it is Monday and time to look for Owl City new blog, maybe it will cheer me up.” And indeed it did. I can always relate to your blog and this is diffidently no exception. In a way its kind of the way I feel about school. I mean I’ve been homeschooled all my life expect for the first part of this year till now. I’m homeschooled again after not be able to do everything and not be super stressed out. Its a huge relief to me but also I miss it. I miss the friend supporting me, the smiles,the jokes and laughs and even getting up early in the dark to get on time. (which didn’t happen much.) :) But it just is good to be home. Anyways thanks for taking time to post every Monday. I’m glad your happy to be home. <3
I went to your show in Omaha on Nov. 5th. Your concert changed my life forever. Glory to God for creating you and reaching out to so many people through you even though they may not realize it right away. It’s a beautiful thing.
Hey Adam. It’s so cool to see you show your love for us: Your awesome fans! :) I think you are totally cool because you are not afraid to praise Jesus for your sucess. That takes guts in a crazy world like this, sir. Well played! All Things Bright And Beautiful is an awesome album, and your songs are so, I dunno, true. Never stop being enchanting. I know a million other people say this, but I love you…
It was an honor to be able to come to your concert. You music is beautiful beyond most of what is put out there today. The time and passion you put into it not only shows through the music, but can be felt through the music. Your thoughts are so vivid and I can relate to many of them. You were so fun to watch as you danced and sang your heart under the whirlwind of lights. So from the bottom of my heart I thank you for one of the best nights of my life. I wish I could have told you in person.
oh my goodness adam, spelling mistake. it’s ‘carries’ not ‘caries’. but who cares. I WAS AT A CONCERT IN DUBLIN! TOOK NEARLY THRRE HOURS TO GET THERE CUZ WE DIDNT KNOW WHERE WE WERE GOING AND I REALLY NEEDED THE TOILET! I DIDNT GET A PHOTO CUZ I DIDNT KNOW YOU COULD AND MY MUM JUST WANTED TO GO HOME! BUT THEN MY GRAANNY SHOWED ME AND MY FRIEND THE BRIDGE AND WE WERE SMILING AND ALL BUT REALLY WE DIDNT CARE CUZ WE HAD JUST BEEN TO A FRIKKEN OWL CITY CONCERT! I LOVE YEW! MARRY ME!
You do deserve all this Adam. You have created all this. YOU made this music, that tons of people love and get inspired of. You, and only you. <3
You inspire people all over the world. Even me. A 28 year old Asperger woman. :)
I am so disapointed because I didn’t get to see your concert in Norfolk. (or somewhere around VA Beach) My friends were so excited that they couldn’t stop talking about your concert, but I missed it. :( Maybe next time.
It does feel good to relax after a long trip and think back on all the excitement of places and meetign new people. (I wouldn’t be able to sleep peacefully in a moving bus however)
I’m so blessed by how humble you are, even though you have been amazingly gifted by God. Your music glorifies the Creator and your song Galaxies is by far my favorite.
By the way, what inspired you to write the song Vanillia Twilight?
God bless you~
Hi Adam, thank you for a magical show in Stockholm.
You and your band are all so talented. You opened with “The real world” and the strings in the beginning of it gave me shivers big time… Then I cried like a baby during my favorite song “How I became the sea”, I didn’t think you would perform it but you did. I’m still all butterflies since that day (I’m not kidding). Thank you so, so much. And please continue doing what you do ♥
Welcome home, Adam!
Thank you so much for being awesomazing and gave a beautiful performance. I hope I get a chance to watch your performance again, and meet you again.
Hope you like the angklung! And it was lovely to meet you.
See you next year! :)
–
Anjani
Don’t think I’ve ever told you this, but I didn’t just drive to one of your shows. Oh, no, I don’t live that close.
I flew from the little island of Unalaska, Alaska, up to Anchorage. From Anchorage, I flew to Seattle, and from Seattle I flew to St. Luis, Missouri. THEN I drove from St. Louis to Atlanta, Georgia, during a trip which totaled 14 days.
You were my first concert, and boy, was the trip worth it. I got front row and a smile, and I think I almost fainted. Thank you so, so very much. :)
Oh Adam!! I really wish I could’ve seen you on tour!! Next time, I swear, I’m going. No matter what.
Adam
It’s beautiful to see how much you value. Dont worry, you will live many moments like these. You use your heart and soul into everything he does. You is illuminated by God. You’re a star and always will shine. Remember: there are people ”here outside ” who loves you =)
Good rest!
Eternal glory to God!
That was amazing, you’re so humble and thankful. It’s certainly amazing. I wish people could understand that.
Going to an Owl City concert was my first concert. It was just wonderful! My birthday is in Januaray and the concert was in July. Yes, a long wait, but I was eager to see you, and trust me it was SOOOO worth it!
So thank you.
Love,
Laurianna :D
Glory to you. You did it all yourself. I was right there in Kansas City last July, and all I saw sweating and rocking it out on that stage was a man who worked so very hard to get where he is today.
Praise Adam!
Aw Adam <3 <3 <3 thank you for making such amazing music and keep it up your fans will always love you! You are an amazing person <3 you and your music
oh btw I went to your concert in Austin, Tx and I loved it it was my first concert ever and I'm happy it was your concert
I was so I excited to see you on tour Adam! You are a great person and you allow all things good to shine through your music. Your music is really realist and touching. I was sad to hear that I missed the first time you came through Grand Rapids, but please come back! You were fantastic!
~Brian
Oh, my dearest Adam, how you inspire me!! You are the limelight of my inner muse, the emotion, the color that comes to light within drawings and stories. It is your incredible work that helps me connect with the music in my band class. You are the most incredible person I’ve ever gotten to know through you music and weekly blogs.
I thank YOU. It is not you who should thank me. You have given me a gift beyond compare- you’ve given yourself through your music, your faith, and your great compassion for this wondrous world of Owl City.
It’s through you that we fans have that place to escape from the world and just float through time and space, and just IMAGINE. It’s your incredible faith and thanks towards God that helps me to strive to be better.
Thank you. Thank you so much, my dearest Adam. I hope to meet you someday.
- Carissa
You are an inspiration. Glory to God! (:
To the fans who read these comments lol — I wrote my thoughts about Taylor Swift and Adam Young on my blog… Let me know what you think or if you agree or not.
http://im-enchanted.blogspot.com/2011/11/young-swift.html
<3
you're amazing. i was at your concert in nj last sunday<3
i really hope that ill be able to meet you some day(:
I was at your concert in Oklahoma City and you would never have known from the audience how draining touring is. All we could talk about after is how alive and vibrant every single song was. The albums seem lackluster after hearing you perform the songs with such passion and sincerity. You seemed so happy to be up there and with us and I hope you never lose that quality. From one SD girl, keep running the race before you :)
Thank you for putting into words a feeling I have often had upon returning home after a lengthy trip away.
Coming back from several weeks in another culture, another country, another way of life is difficult to really describe to people. I think the thing that is so hard about it is that often you want to be able to share it – the feelings, the laughter, the joy taken in doing something so hard and yet so worthwhile – but it’s just not possible.
I understand how it feels to see the expectant looks on people’s faces after they’ve asked you “how it was”. You look at them and there are so many memories and feelings pressing on the inside of your mind trying to make their way out into words, but ultimately you know words would fail to capture them, and you are left with nothing else but to tell what you did, feeling as though you are cheating them somehow. Your heart races as you think back and try to find the words to express everything that is going on inside of your soul, but…you can’t. You can’t give them what they want, you can only tell them small pieces – “I was on the bus a lot. I sat in a lot of airports.”
What you did is only a pale slice of what you experienced, but unless these people are willing and able to sit down and wait for hours, maybe days, for all of your emotions and thoughts and ideas to process into something that might become coherent – but will more likely remain a jumble of nontransferable and unrepeatable experience – they will never catch more than the slightest glimpse of everything that this trip was.
Though I’ve never been on a whirlwind, round-the-world band tour, I think whenever I return from a trip abroad, coming home is almost stifling, and leaves me with a sense of restlessness. I love my home, and I am always glad to see my family again and be back in their house, but there’s always something itching in the back of my mind – some part of this past trip that has yet to work its way out into the open.
Unpacking is always a bit of an unpleasant duty for me – if the trip was good, it reminds me that it’s done and gone, and that as hard as I try, it will never be exactly as it was during that brief time. If the trip was hard, the weight of it all presses on me as I prepare to do laundry and find places for all of the odds and ends that ended up in my suitcase at one time or another. My mind becomes filled with all of the people I have come to love that are now so far away, possibly never to be seen again in this life.
In any case, unpacking a suitcase never has quite the same kind of quiet excitement that packing does. When you’re packing, you’re preparing to set out on a new adventure, not knowing exactly what awaits you over the next few weeks or months. Unpacking means that this adventure at least has come to an end, that you’re home.
Sometimes that’s a wonderful thing, but sometimes it leaves you feeling a little hollow, because home never looks quite the same when you come back to it after being away.
Adventures change you. It’s what makes them dangerous, but at the same time necessary. If you don’t ever change, you stagnate.
Upon returning from a long trip, I invariably develop the urge to travel again. Sometimes it takes only a few days, sometimes it takes a few weeks. It doesn’t really matter how long, because I always know it’s coming, soon or later – the itch to set off on a new adventure, to see new sights, to meet new people and old friends, to live life.
The Road goes ever on and on
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone,
And I must follow, if I can,
Pursuing it with eager feet,
Until it joins some larger way
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say.
~J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring
Dear Adam,
The first time I saw Owl City was when you opened for John Mayer on August 18th, 2011. I’d only heard “Fireflies” before that concert, and after that night I was an Owl City freak.
Since my blindness prevents me from seeing thotos, I get a “picture” from a voice and bits of info from interviews and such. I can see you clearly!
I really wish I could have seen you live on this tour! Enjoy some R and R.
And since it is almost Thanksgiving, I’m thankful for you and your amazing music!
Love,
Renny
Dear Adam,
We should be thanking you. I have no words to describe how incredible you are and how blown away I am at getting to see you twice. Sitting at your concert, I began to ask myself, does life get better than this? Could I just freeze this moment right here and soak it in for years? I was at the concert yesterday, and it was beautiful. I threw glitter up when you sang “Dreams Don’t Turn to Dust” and scream/sang along when you played “If My Heart Was a House” (my favorite song ever.) Your speeches at the concert (which eerily resemble parts of what you wrote above) were, besides hilarious, so inspiring and beautiful. You fill me with hope. I must admit, I feel a deep regret for not waiting to try to see you, but I did have to attend school today, so I guess that wasn’t really an option. Oh, another thing, you walked by the glass in front of a bunch of us fans yesterday, and you weren’t looking at us really, but you should have seen our faces. Literally, I could feel everyone thinking “there’s no way that’s him…no way….NO WAY IT’S ADAM YOUNG!!!” Every girl was frozen and just wonderstruck by your presence for those few seconds we saw you. Sir, I don’t think you have any clue as to the affect you have on the female species. :) But that just gives you even more charm. God bless, and enjoy getting some rest and slowing down a bit.
Love,
Madeline
Dear Adam,
Welcome home. May your journey in life ever fill you with delights and blessings from He who set your dreams into motion.
~Juliette
Thank you so much for shedding light onto your life on tour, Adam. it was really inspiring. that was on my list of “things to ask Adam” should i ever meet you, ’cause ive got this crazy dream of being right in your position in a few years …….well see how that goes :))
I didn’t know that touring is that tiring but it’s good that you enjoy doing it. Thank you, by the way, for inspiring me.
What a touching post. Thanks and you’re welcome Adam. You are blessed and you ARE a blessing! We love here in the Philippines.
God bless you!
It’s all you, Adam. You are so strong, and I just want to encourage you to believe more in your own power, because you have already done so many great things. All credit goes to your gut, your grit, your passion, and your wonderful personality. You frustrate me sometimes with how little confidence and self worth you have. But you did it! You toured the world!
Please have more faith in yourself!
I loved seeing you in DC! Though before the show started I was inwardly panicking about how many people were there, but it disappeared the second you walked on stage. I just wish I could have hung around and met you. There’s always the next tour though, right? :D
That was an amazing entry. I literally have tears in my eyes. I’m sure everything that went into the ATBAB tour took a lot of effort and I’m sure it was worth it. Seeing you live is something that leaves anyone in awe. God gave you a gift that you are using well. Being home is probably one of the best things for you right now, but if God is willing sooner than you know it you’ll be out in the world again ready to inspire everyone that comes across your path.
Hi.
I’ve got three things to say to you:
1. I know what you mean when you say you don’t know what to do. Having to get used to your house after being away for a long time is… strange.
2. Being on the road is lovely. You are lucky you have the chance to do it with so many great people. No, not lucky.. You really deserve it. You are talented, you are nice, you are sweet. God gave you everything you have because He knows you will do something good with it.
3. I am not on that list of people you thanked and I want to be. That means: YOU BETTER COME TO SOUTH AMERICA OR I… *Sigh* who am I kidding?
*Cries into pillow for an hour* Okay, moving on.
This entry was pure Owl City epicness!!!!! You are truly an amazing singer!! I listen to your music 24/7! But homework is keeping me away from YouTube…. Continuing, there may be people who try to bring you down, but just remember this: over a million people are there to support you… and I am one of them! I haven’t been to any of your concerts, but I know that if I ever do, I am gonna be floating up to Heaven because your songs are AMAZING! You are a very likable — no, LOVABLE person and nothing is going to stop you from living your life to the fullest!!! Don’t you ever stop singing!!! It’s what makes the world a better place!!! We need more people like you!!!!! You are a true role model!!! <3 :D God bless!!!!
Even though you miss being on tour, I’m glad you’re home. I live about an hour away from you but maybe sometime I’ll somehow be on Owatonna and we’ll run into each other… with my always on-the-go family, chances are slim, but I can still hope, right? And even if we never actually meet I still have a dream to go to an Owl City concert someday. =)
God has definitely blessed you enormously, and I’m sure He’ll bless you much more in the future.
Dear Adam, a huge Thank You to you and the O.C. band/crew for taking the ATBAB tour to so many. I was beyond thrilled to see the show in Detroit, Chicago, and Gr. Rapids. :D I don’t like to imagine my life without the influence of your amazing music and who you are as a person. Hoping you know how much light you bring to other people’s lives. **Hugs!**
Oh Adam, I was hoping you’d tell us about this — what happens when the tour is over. I look forward to reading your posts every Monday, and this one was excellent. Welcome home!
I’m so happy I’m on that list of people you’d like to thank. Going to your concert was probably one of the best nights of my life.
I’m sure you’ll never read this, but if I could talk to you I’d just want to say “thank you.” For sharing your music with the world. For giving us these blog posts. It means so much to me (and from the huge number of responses here, I see others feel the same way!). Most of all, thanks for giving all the credit back to God. Your humility, honesty, and love for Christ are so inspiring.
God bless, and happy Thanksgiving!!!
You are amazing Adam. I don’t think I’m ever gonna get to meet you in this life, but I know I’ll see you in Heaven cuz we both know Jesus. :) Keep on doing what you’re doing, blessing ppl w/ your music and testimony and really your whole life. Oh and plz don’t ever stop sharing your faith. That is one of the things I love about you so much – you openly share your faith. YOU ARE AWESOME!! God bless!
Adam, my 12 year old daughter and I are glad you are home safe and sound from your long tour. We saw you both times in Michigan: Detroit and the other night in Grand Rapids. We drove long distances both times but wow was it worth it!!! At the end of the Grand Rapids concert my daughter managed to get your guitar pick. It was the next best thing to meeting you, which is her personal little goal in life. We will wait patiently while you rest and create more inspirational, soothing and uplifting music for the world!
It’s all you, Adam. You are so strong, and I just want to encourage you to believe more in your own power, because you have already done so many great things. All credit goes to your gut and grit and passion and wonderful personality. You frustrate me sometimes, with how little confidence and self worth you have. Please work on that?
Oh hey Adam…do you play The Elder Scrolls??? If you haven’t yet…get yourself the latest game, Skyrim, and sit and vegetate and escape in a medieval world of villages, castles, ruins ans camps and slay dragons and fight the undead in misty keeps and dungeons!!! It does wonders to help you unwind and relax! :D
Is it bad to say that this post actually made me tear up a little? Adam, we should be thanking you for the inspirational music you create that helps us get through the day. I can only hope that one day I will get to meet you in person. Thank you for being so wonderful.
Adam, your show in Chicago was completely magical. Thank you so much for everything!
Zephaniah 3:17
Glad you finally made it home. You seemed pretty beat at the concert in Louisville (and you did pronounce it correctly, but if you really wanna sound like a kentuckian, you need to say it like you are gargling rocks in your mouth so it comes out as Loovul). You did a fantastic job and i can’t wait to see you again in concert!!
come back soon, please. your art is yet to inspire me!
artistic introvert
HI, ADAM!! Thank you for coming back in the PHILIPPINES!! Last year, i wasn’t able to watch your show (which totally broke my heart) But now, i didn’t miss it for the world. Thank you for the music, thank you for inspiring us. Thank you for signing my CD and my iPod. GOD BLESS YOU.. YOU’RE THE BEST!!!!1!
No. Thank you. For using the talent God blessed you with…to bless others. If only all of us would use our talents to do whatever it is God meant us to do. Thank you again.
I loved your show, I love reading your blog, and I love you! Please check out my blog at http://saaraajuddha.blogspot.com/ because my writing is very inspired by you!! You’re my idol Adam! Keep on dreaming(:
“I miss knowing there’s a job to be done and taking it seriously, viewing the appointed task as something you get to do rather than something you have to do.”
No, no, no! Don’t miss it! What you’re doing *now* is a job to be done, and should not be taken lightly. Even though you’re not touring right now, people are still experiencing your music and who you are everyday. Continue to see this as His task for you right now.
Lifting you up, brother.
If you didn’t deserve it, you wouldn’t be here, sir. Just try to imagine all of the good you’ve done that you don’t even know you did. …it’s hard, but it’s the truth.
God bless you and keep you always.
No, thank YOU Dear Adam. You are so loved and deserving. And all I want is a hug from you.
Reading your simple, honest and heartfelt posts always gives me hope that no matter how bizarre, undeserving or unrealistic they may seem, somehow someday somewhere the dreams we’ve always dreamed will catch us unawares and surprise us out of our wits. You truly inspire me to never lose sight of what truly really matters and I wish to thank you from the whole of my heart and soul for being who you are and having the courage to share it with all!
You Are A Tourist -> http://bit.ly/i4JmBv =P
Thanks Adam for the wonderful music and inspiration! I’ve never really known our Father, this “deep” since I followed you.
‘Till the next Owl City concert! <3
Adam,
You are really an inspiration to me. Through all your fame, through all the applause and through all the praise, you never seem to forget your faith. You never seem to take pride in yourself. You have stayed strong in your faith ever since I first heard your music, and you have shared your faith with all who will listen. It is us who should be thanking you, for being such an amazing example for the rest of us. I praise God for allowing me to be able to hear the wonderful music you sing, and allowing me to be able to read the inspiring words you write. Thank you for being someone for us to look up to. God Bless you, Adam. Now you stay home and rest those vocal chords. ;)
~Alexandra
☜(⌒▽⌒)☞ <— It's a little owl!! :D
Adam, you have really influenced me to make music. I hope one day to meet you, because you are one of my biggest heroes. Never stop making music. I hope we hear new material soon. Whether it’s from Owl City, Port Blue, or Sky Sailing, we are all eager for what good songs you have to bring. Keep up the good work, and God bless you.
Adam,
It is fantastic to have you back home. You will be missed where you played, but man, there is nothing like sleeping in your own bed after being gone so long. Yet being home from such a whirlwind life that you’ve been living must truly be difficult, as you’ve stated. I can’t imagine it, since I’m only in college and not much has been going on that has been quite as fantastic as what you went through.
Though anyway. It’s not all glamour, and sometimes, the great story that everyone wants to hear is really just a short quip, like a parent asking their child, “How was school today?” and they answer, “Pretty good.” And that’s it. Yeah, there are memories, but like you said, you had to be there to fully understand the profoundness of it all. I can relate with trying to tell of my journey on a Missions Trip to Mexico in 2010. It was so difficult, and I know my parents and friends were a bit disappointed with my answers, but really, they had to be there to understand.
I am so very thankful to have been apart of your tour. I was there in Seattle on the 15th of July with two of my close friends, and we truly had a BLAST! I won’t ever forget that night. You should be expecting a letter from me before we arrive in 2012.
And so Adam, thank you for everything. I’m so happy that you are home among the constant mental, physical, and emotional trials that you’ve been through. Praise be to God for keeping you safe.
Enjoy Thanksgiving and Christmas!!
- Kyra
Dear Brother,
It makes me happy that you posted this on my birthday. Thanks so much for writing beautifully. Though many might find your music nonsensical, be rest assured that there are also many people whom your life has touched. That God so Holy has let us do things we’d never imagined. Your tour is a success and I’m blessed to have been part of the crowd from the very beginning.
Sister in Christ,
Winter Harmony
As I find myself at the end of my own journey overseas, your words hit close to home. During the last year and a half spent in India orphanages, your music and blog posts have been an inspiration and given the encouragement I needed to make it through each day. I was fortunate enough to come see you in Kansas City during my short visit home (Even an afternoon spent in the ER couldn’t keep me away!).
With two more weeks to spend here before saying my goodbyes and returning home to that same restless uncertainty you are experiencing now, I want to thank you. Thank you for not wasting your talent and making it something selfish. Thank you for sharing your faith in Christ. Thank you for the incredible music with lyrics that never fail to bring a smile to my face. There is not a song from An Airplane Carried Me to Bed that doesn’t take me back to a precious memory at the children’s home.
Micah 6:8
~ While my words are not as eloquent or colorful as your own, I would be honored to have you someday read my blog.
Your personality is so fun! We loved you in Allentown (The Moose hat rocked!) and again in Cleveland. Keep giving Him the Glory, and it’ll keep getting better. Have a wonderfull Christmas! — Enjoy some fudge & bumbleberry pie … our daughter loves you & also enjoyed meeting Daniel. ~ Your songs are awesome, but I could listen to you talk & tell stories all day too. PA <3's U
Dear Adam,
Soon will be Thanksgiving, and I just want to thank the Lord for you. You are more than a talented artist, more than a wonderful writer, more than an inspiration, you are family. Each one of your songs is like a cup of hot chocolate with marshmallows before a fireplace on a snowy night, and I live near the North Pole so hot chocolate is always valid. Your music will forever be with me. Thank you for who you are and what you do!
I think you forget to thank yourself. You should see that you’re important as well as all the people you mentioned. If someone reaches something great, only that person is to thank.
You did it all yourself. You wrote the music, you made it sound great, you wrote the lyrics that fit so beautiful with the music.
You are the one that inspired so many people on this planet.
I think it’s important for people to see that they’re their luck or life depends on nothing else than themselves. I don’t say people shouldn’t believe in god, or anything else. I believe in something as well. I just say, that people should take responsibility for everything they reach in life. Either good or bad.
Anyway, if you won’t thank yourself, than someone else should. So: thank you for your music that inspired me as well as so many other people.
Hey,
Thank you so much for all the hard work and heart you put into your music. Your music soothes and calms me. I find comfort in it. The little reminders of God’s grace and love that you entwine into your lyrics are like a big hug.
You were amazing in London; I still dream about it sometimes. And I am so excited to see you play again in the future. The 10th of September 2011, was definitely the my best day ever, I will never forget it.
Take a well deserved break; rest up, and enjoy Christmas. Make sure you eat lots of greens to keep away those kidney stones.
Sister in Christ,
CC.Shoshanah
thank you, adam, for doing everything that you do! i had the amazing blessing of seeing you on tour in LA in july and i will never forget it. your music means so much to me and seeing you live was awesome!
Wow. :) That was a very inspiring entry, and it made me feel happy. At first, very nostalgic for some reason. Your music is awesome and so is your writing!
Today is Music’s day!
I hope you never stop creating it!!!
Happy Music day!!!!!!!
If you ever stop making music (which I hope you don’t) please write a book :)
What you write always stirs something deep inside of me.
Keep giving Jesus the glory! After all, he is the best thing we could ever long for.
<3 Love never fails!
-Rebekah
When are you going to stop giving God all the credit for your hard work?
YOU did it. With the help of your employers, your family, your friends, and your fans. Those are the people that matter, and help you thrive in your work. You took a plane across the ocean, not a heavenly puff cloud. You worked yourself into a glorified sweat. No one else but you and your band mates.
You deserve, and will receive from me, the full credit. And that, whether you believe it or not, is the greatest joy of all.
naw you make my eyes water.
thank YOU and I love you with all my heart. you are my inspiration and your argument is invalid.
Indonesia misses you! <3
your words make me cry, i cant be more grateful to listening to your songs. truly, you changed my life and im the one who should be thankful. you really did a great job. hoping that i’ll see you soon, it’s my lifelong dream :D
im so happy to know you, you’re so different, in a good way. i love you adam and THANK YOU:) hugs from hong kong <3
Thank you so much for all your hard work. Your Cleveland concert was a beautiful, unforgettable blessing.
You, sir, are incredible.
Adam – thanks for sharing your story. Your story reminds me how God has wonderful plans for each and every one of us – And we need to have the courage to listen for them and follow them. And if we follow them, we will be blessed.
Lately I’ve been really trying to think about what in my life gives me fulfillment….what changes and goals I need to make to live a better story. Just hearing that tidbit you said in this blog about quitting your job/school and pursuing music was very uplifting to me today. I need to have faith to believe that God placed me in my current situation for a reason and it’s a good one. Even if I don’t know why yet. I know I’m supposed to be here.
Anyway – thank for for the unexpected bit of reaffirmation this morning. :) Enjoy home!
Peace, Karen
Hey Adam,
You’re such an incredible person. I honestly don’t know how you stay so humble its must be your love for God :) I hope you got my email :) I thank you for the 2 incredible evenings you gave me wile you were in Ohio :)
Always praying for you
Jordynne Black
This made me shed a tear of happiness. Not only just because of the gratitude you give, but also the strength you have given to so many people and me. I used to be through such as stage of depression throughout the past years, to such an extent that I almost stopped talking altogether due to selective mutism, and it was only until I heard your music which made me grow faith in Christianity, my family and in myself. You have no idea how thankful I am for that, and to finally see you in person in September was a dream come true! Thank you for all the support, inspiration and the for being the person that you are! You have been truly blessed by god and I look forward to what the future holds for you! :)
Stay strong Adam and have a wonderful thanksgiving! ♥
ADAMMM:)
You’re the best:)
LOTS AND LOTS OF HAPPINESS FROM THIS:)
God is definitely SUPER happy that His kid did all of that, and then gave him the praise for it:)
YOU THE BEST!
Praying for you!
Carrie Lynn (P4AY Director:)
Adam,
Thank you so very much for the dedication you have had to go touring around the world, sharing your music with us. You’re inspiring, and a huge blessing. Your humility is astounding as well. Undeserving? Wow. You have been given an amazing gift and you use to bless others and give all the praise to our Heavenly Father. You are deserving.
I also wanted to thank you for the amazing night at Cedarville University. It was my first time seeing you live, and it blew me away. You were everything and more than I expected. If I could describe it in one word, it would be genuine. Your spirit, smile, and demeanor was amazing, and that is what I remember most about 11/11/11.
Rest up! Can’t wait to see you again on the open road.
Soli Dei Gloria,
Josh(E)
I have the incredible opportunity to travel around the nation and work with teenagers in the most chaotic lifestyle ever and while it’s peaceful, it’s an odd, out of place, strangely sad feeling to arrive home and realize that no one will really understand the great community that was created during that journey.
It reminds me of the end of The Return of the King when the hobbits have returned to the Shire after saving all of Middle Earth. I don’t want this to be an even longer comment so here’s a shameless plug for a post on wrote on these matters. http://adventureswithpookie.blogspot.com/2011/07/growing-up.html
No worries, one chapter has finished but a new one is merely starting.
i gotta find a way to get to a show for your next concert. i love reading your blogs i feel as if i know you somehow for some reason lol, even though i dont. well i am sure you enjoyed the tour, now you can relax, write songs, and well do whatever you want til you next tour. i hope you enjoy your time off of tour as much as you did while on tour. i can’t wait to hear what new amazing songs you will write!
you inspire me, i also want to make music for a living and go on tour like you, i love music i think thats what i want to do.
You by far are the most inspirational person I have ever come across. I was lucky enough to see you in Flagstaff and I basically felt a whirl wind of emotions, just because we were in the same auditorium. You keep my spirits up 24/7 (I listen to you all day, every day). I can’t even describe how I feel about you, your story, and your music, it’s incredible! I love your creative mind and pray every day that there will never be a shortage of ideas because of how many people your music touches. So thank you, for everything…
P.S. I hope that you’ll visit my state again some time soon, I loved it, it made my entire life :)
You are such an inspiration, just spreading your cheesy and generousity throughout the world and making us the fans feel at home, like you’re not any bigger than us, you’re just like us. I was so glad that I was able to see you in Columbus with my friends, who held up random signs with me and also sent you a birthday card as well. We happily danced and sang throughout the whole concert including using the always familiar sprinkler and lawn mower. I can’t thank you enough from the bottom of my heart of how much your music means to me, my friends, and just everyone that has the chance to fall in love with you music. Even going deeper in the words/lyrics in your songs just made it even more meaningful. I can’t help to not feel what you may have felt when you wrote these songs. Just so you know your music has touched a bunch of people including me. I am so glad that one random day 2 years ago I saw your video watched it and fell in love with your music. You music fills my heart and makes me feel whole when things don’t feel right and sometimes when I don’t want to talk to someone. So in other words, I hope to see you soon and I would love to meet you. Can’t wait until you take another trip to Ohio. :)
finally you’re home. last months must be indescribable, right?
wish that you had come to my country.
being around you for two years is awesome, by all means. you just turn everything around and make me both laugh and cry. now i can’t think of you without cracking a smile.
ya. lost for words.
see ya.
Oh! I wish you won’t stop.
Dear Adam,
I feel like I know you through your wonderful songs, blog, and ridiculously funny tweets. I was very blessed to be able to go to two of my favorite artists shows this year; You and George Strait.
Thank you for not changing through all of this fame and always keeping God front and center. Prayers coming your way,
-Hannah
I love your blog adam! check mine out at http://saaraajuddha.blogspot.com/
Adam, I love ya. I really do. Thank you for pursuing your passion and utilizing the gifts that God gave you. You will never know how many lives that you have impacted for His kingdom. I know this sounds cliche, but you truly have truly made a difference, an eternal difference. When I listen to your music, I hear God. And I know that is your prayer, that people would see and hear the Lord when they hear you… and your prayer has been answered. If not in anyone else’s life (which I know isn’t the case by a LONGSHOT), it has been for mine. I praise God for you… thank you.
Can’t wait for the future tunes/tour to come… I know they will blow my mind as usual!!!!!! I mean just when I think your music can’t get any better, you always take it to the next level of awesome. :)
Praying for you, may the Lord bless you on this Thanksgiving holiday and always :) Enjoy your time off da roadddd. I am happy you are back home safe and sound.
<3
I’m happy that you’re home again in Minnesota, but it’s to bad that you can’t sleep in you room just yet cuz you’re so use to the sounds of traffic. I’m sure you’ll be use to home soon again too :) I don’t know why but this entry made me happy. When you said that people were giving you letters I freaked out because I thought that maybe next year I’ll right you super long one and give it to you personally. Then smile like a crazy person and ask for a million photos with you ;)
“but loving the ride because in so many ways, life is about the journey and not the destination.” I totally believe in what you said there. Life is the journey and not so much the place you end up. Cause along the way you meet amazing people and been to many places, just like you did in six and a half months.
I’m happy your tour ended well, and that you visited amazing places. Love you! And happy for you to be home too <3
Adam, I just want to thank you for bringing joy to so many people’s lives. I have read COUNTLESS stories online about how you’re music gave people hope through depression and other dark times. Some of you’re songs even stopped people from committing suicide. You gave people one of the greatest gifts of all: HOPE. And since there seems to be a lack of hope lately, I forever thank you for the optimism you give. I know this all sounds kinda corny and I’m making it WAY to complicated, but what I’m really just trying to say is thanks for making the world a more bright and beautiful place.
I tried to post something here but apparently I was posting too quickly so I had to start over. I want to offer you a film full of hope, that you can see and show others. It’s called “Thrive: What On Earth Will It Take”.
I noticed that you’re music encourages people to live well and FEEL well too. I hope you can find it online as it is on youtube in full but it’s worth so much more to see in high quality.
God bless you Adam and I hope that your life will be truly long lived and full of love.
Adam, your so inspirational! I really don’t know what I can say that hasn’t been said by anybody else, other than you and your songs help my creative juices flow from my brain, to my fingers, into my pencil, and onto paper. Your songs help me concentrate on a certain scene long enough to write it down, and honestly, they help me come up with some things. Some of my most important insights have been created whilst listening to your music. It really is beautiful.
I know how it feels to suddenly have a large amount of free time. The past few weeks have been filled with rehearsal for me. I was apart of the musical at my school and it seemed I only ever got a few hours at home. We performed last weekend so this week has felt empty. My advise is to relax. Eat some yogurt, watch TV, take about 10 naps per day, etc. You’d be surprised how much unwinding a person can need.
You encourage anybody who hears your music. God has blessed you so much and His love is shown through your music. I pray you are able to keep doing what you love and serving Him through everything you do.
I’m so sad that I couldn’t make to any of your show in Europe. but I’ve hope to see you and hear you in te future.
I am so unspeakably proud of you, it’s amazing. I finally got to see you, way back in June for my birthday, in Baltimore, and I cried. I’ve been a huge fan since Of June and I love your music. So thank you, so much, and please never stop doing what you love.
Thanks for doing what you do. Someday I hope to be doing the same things. You are an inspiration Adam. I was at the Seattle show. Blew my mind. :)
Adam,
Dude, first off…you describe travel and performing to. the. T.
I am a musician, and an avid traveler. Wow. First of all, knowing someone “knows” the feeling is such a comfort. Two, isn’t there sort of a hunger for the road once you’ve tasted it? The nerves. The small disasters that occur every single day. The whirlwind of people you encounter. Once you spend a day quietly at home sleeping, you wake up and wonder what to do with yourself. It’s an art that gets into your blood and takes over. You need to move. You have to. There is a lifestyle along with travel and playing music. And no, it’s not flashy. In fact, most of the time your tired, in pain, in need of a shower. It’s almost impossible to keep track of where you are. At time I have lost track of who I am. You visit a LOT of coffee shops, and believe me…making music is worth it. I don’t have to tell you that. Jesus has blessed us both a whole bunch. I will keep you in my prayers. Keep me in yours. Tour starts this spring…I am beyond excited for it.
Keep it hipster bro.
Omg, Adam, you are too talented.
I don’t believe you’ll read this, but I want to write it, like all the people up me, as well.
You are too talented to blogging! When I was reading this, I was totally in. I felt like you one time!
Well, but yours songs are BEST. I don’t know anybody, who can write songs like you. ;)
Stop complimenting. I just need you in Europe. In Czech Republic. In Prague. I am just crazy for you! My biggest dream is hug you. Just one hug. I am only 14, I have strange dreams, but this is the biggest dream I have ever had…
I don’t know what other to say.
Don’t stop writing songs and inspiring people!
Petra
PS: May I hug you? ;)*
You are anything but undeserving. I love your music because its so different and amazing :)
I have never heard one owl city song without smiling :D
I personally love to travel. There’s that strange fascination about waiting for your plane to leave, monitoring the people passing by and feeling a little bit wistful for not being a part of their lives. But I guess it’s different when that’s basically all you have to do during half a year.
Oh and hey, any chance you’d be reading this, I have a humble appeal: please set up a new world tour next year, or at least in the first half of 2013! I haven’t been able to experience the Owl City concert here in Finland but next year I’ll be traveling to Australia for some time, so it would be the coolest thing ever to see you there.
Oh, wait…. Actually the coolest thing ever would be to create a story started by you and continued by the blogreaders. Anyway.
Thank you for these blogs. Being an artist and writer myself but been out of it for a while but since discovering your music I’ve been much encouraged and inspired. I am terribly shy myself, and would rather do a painting or photograph instead but just wanted to say thanks! Enjoy your time back at home :)
Dear Adam,
Thank you so much for the sweet melodies that I will cherish for
the rest of my life, thank you for sharing your heartwarming
music. I wish I could have gotten your autograph, while you where
at Cedarville. I begged my mom for her to let me go outside of
your tour bus and wait until you where out. we saw you but the
guy outside told us you where going to bed. I bought a rest band
and a cute lil’ owl. i haven’t taken the rest band off since the
concert! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for an enchanting
evening, and the anxious feeling i had waiting for you to come on
stage and blow me away. I am floating away, lost in a silent ballet.
I love your new song “I hope you think of me” it is music to my
ears and Joy to my heart. I hope you read this message, and you
never have knowledge of a word i said… well, i will wait until you
come near my town, or unless my mom lets me go see you a bit
farther away. i spent the best $50 of my life, and i made my wish
that night on 11/11/11 just hope you read this. — Toby.
hi! amazing blog adam! I was in your manila tour, and one of the lucky people to have a photo with you. Indeed, it was truly magical at your concert, and I’m excited for your next one. What you wrote is one of the things that pop into my mind. I ask myself, “How does Adam live life while on tour?” Well, you really showed that you’re a great guy, and and honest and modest one. Adam, if please do not change what you have started. You have done a super job with Owl City, and always remember the lord in everything you do. Take care, good night. ^^
justin
You are so great Adam. Your music got me out of a dark time in my life and im so glad to see you care about people like me who stood in line for hours and screamed every word to every song in your concert. i <3 u :D
Oh, yes, totally understand that feeling, brother. God is so good! Plus, it’s so amazing that He’s working through you and using you to encourage and bless so many people in the world today! And don’t thank us. We’re the receivers. You’re the one who spends so much time pouring out so much time and energy to bless others. So thank you, my brother-in-Christ! I know God has extraordinary things planned for your life! Praying for you!!
Your show in Chicago was amazing! It was the first show I had ever gone to, so I was kind of worried, but it was great! And you’re right, life is about the journey and not the destination. I want to travel around the world some day, but I’m just an every day person from a no-where town; so I’m leaving it up to God. Thank you for acknowledging people like me that waited in line and fought the crowds to get to the show!
I’m so happy that you feel so blessed, but I hope you know that we’re all blessed to have you in this crazy world. I believe God’s used you to help people feel happy, creative, and hopeful again. You’ve helped me, personally, to realize that there is a light at the end of all of life’s tunnels. That I really don’t need a telescope to see that there is hope in Jesus. Thank you for everything you do! I’m glad to hear you’re safely back home for the holidays. Be sure and enjoy every minute you have with your loved-ones!
Your sister in Christ, Samantha
(I couldn’t post this sooner ’cause it wouldn’t let me.)
Well Adam, if you do miss it so terribly much, I’m sure a small encore tour would help soften the transition and add some sugar to that tall glass of jet lag and lemon. Just sayin :)
Your music is awesome. Your shows are awesome.
YOU are awesome.
Keep making music and lighting up our days, please.
Thank you :)
I am one of those millions of people whom you have inspired with your music and your life…
and you’re right it, really feels so good to be home…
I don’t know how will i be able to smile my “monday blues” without your music in my ipod…
God Bless!!!
I know what it’s like to reach into that swirling, light filled, wondrous, endless space that God gives people like you and me access to.
To reach inside and pull out things like Galaxies and The Technicolor Phase and The Airway. First, it’s just a glowing blog of light in our hands, and He gives us the ability to shape it and form it and weave it into a masterpiece like All Things Bright And Beautiful; however joyful and sometimes painful process it might be.
God has given me an indescribable amount of joy, happiness and pure inspiration into my life. And one of many ways our Father did it was through you. So all I can say is, thank you for fighting for your dream. For crying, for laughing, for staying up all night, for living in your parents’ basement, for bending over backwards all to produce a beauty and fiery passion that can ONLY come from our Lord Jesus Christ. Thank you for being all that you are in God’s glory.
God bless Adam, keep him, guide him, love him, train him, carry him, give him things he could never hope for or think of. Show him, where to go, what to do next. He has this incredible talent that You’ve given him, and Lord, thank you for that. Thank you that it has reached SO many people in SO many places. And all for You’re, Great Glory. Thank you for his love for You.
Amen.
So – simply – thank you. For just, being you.
-Jordan
“I miss knowing there’s a job to be done and taking it seriously, viewing the appointed task as something you get to do rather than something you have to do.”
“quotes entire post”
tears ;_;
awesome <3 thanks for following your dreams and giving glory to God which many forget when they taste an ounce of success <3
Wow. That was an amazing post. I didn’t know tours were so long but that sounds so exciting! As many of the other posters said, take a nice long rest. Then, when you’re ready, start writing your beautiful, inspiring music once more. :)
I’m more indebted to you than you or anyone will ever realize. When I first heard Fireflies it was during a somewhat dark period in my life. I was afraid for the future. But then I heard your music, and it sparked my imagination. It made me realize that I shouldn’t be afraid to create, or to dream. It gave me hope. :) I can never thank you enough for that. (I apologize if that sounded a bit corny xD but thank you so much!)
Your show was amazing in Pomona. I can’t wait till the DVD release of the concert is out. It’s on my Christmas list. Bow-ties are cool.
When I was born my dad slept in my parent’s car in the hospital parking lot over night. He woke up to find his tyres slashed. Whenever anyone in the family hears Hello Seattle they can’t help but laugh.
Thank you for your music and words :)
Thank you for…
1. Coming halfway around the globe to give me & my family one of the most unforgettable nights of our lives (my very macho husband called it “magical” – as indeed it was!)!
2. Signing my 7-year-old’s copy of your album. Meeting you in person was a dream come true for him (& a real treat for me as well! Haha!). For once, the Kid Who Never Runs Out of Anything to Say actually did!:-P
3. Keeping things real with all your honest, inspirational, quirky posts. You have the gift of touching others with your words and your music, so please keep ‘em coming!
4. Keeping yourself humble, never forgetting to give glory to the Giver of all your gifts & all that you have. You are a wonderful example to the rest of us!
…and when you decide to embark on your next whirlwind tour, please don’t forget your fans in the Philippines, okay? God bless you!:-)
God Bless you, mate, and thanks for all you do for God’s glory, your passion, and our enjoyment! :)
p.s. If you’ve got the downtime this holiday season, will you record another Christmas ditty for us? :D
hello Adam! … really i had great time when i saw you here in jakarta. just like a dream came true, but unfortunately i couldn’t take photos with you and talked to you :( .. i hope you will never ever bored to having a world tour and listing Jakarta in your world tour list…
miss you! :)
Love you, Adam, once again. You’re such an encouragement, such an inspiration to me. Thanks so much, brother. Thanks for posting these things, and giving all your friends and fans an uplifting message from your heart. It’s really great that this whole life-changing experience hasn’t changed who you are inside.
Thanks again, Adam, and God bless,
- Joel
“like a veteran home from the war.” WOW. How could you even think you would EVER know what that is like?? Did you serve?? What an ignorant comparison. I didn’t realize your life was on the line…
Being subservient to any God is not humble or noble. It’s arrogant, naive, and ignorant of reality. All of you people encouraging Adam to give thanks to an invisible person in the sky, you should feel ashamed of yourselves. It’s because of your reinforcement that he lets this nonsense consume his life. Shame on you!
hey.
i have been writing and deleting and writing again. Somehow i am going to figure out how to tell you this story. you see, i want to be creative and gripping, but I’m afraid that catching my thoughts and strapping them to a piece of paper seems too heartless….
smell what I’m cooking?
reading what I’m writing?
Picking up what I’m putting down?
…. Maybe not. You see, this week has been flooded with a whirlwind of studies, insecurities, stress, All-Nighters, prayers, tears and amazement. Yes this is the finals week of a Children and Family Ministry Major.
Completely at the end of myself. i was listening to ‘Plant Life’ at 4AM one morning, and Jesus really spoke to me. I started to dance and i just felt this heavy, amazing, peaceful and forceful love cover me with each spin. It was truly a breakthrough for me.
So just to encourage you, God used your music to administer healing and hope and a fresh revelation in my life.
Thank You.
We are huge fans of your music. I told my Mother that “Owl City was going to be near us”. We tried to buy tickets. The next day we went out to dinner and On the Wing started to play during the middle of our dinner. I heard it and started up a conversation about Owl City. During our conversation, my Mother casually said “Yeah, it took my forever to get those Owl City tickets last night.” ( Our computer was slow) I froze. I couldn’t believe my ears! We were going to an Owl City concert!! It turns out that we accidentally bought 8 tickets instead of 4. Because of our extra tickets, we brought 4 friends along. When we arrived I couldn’t keep the smile off my face! I had waited patiently to attend a concert ever since I had found your music. Everyone was so nice and seemed so happy. There were people in the parking lot playing and singing along to “Tennis Elbow”. We were a bit late, so when we were entering a band was already on stage, I heard a familiar tune and as I craned my neck over to see who it was my eyes grew wide and I immediately turned around and yelled to my sister “Unwed Sailor!” The show was so magical and I could never thank you enough. It was was such an honor to get the chance to attend a show. Now that I think back to it, it was such a beautiful night, and I don’t think I could ask for a better day! There were even Fireflies flying throughout the venue! Thank you for making music, you have made me so much happier. :) I am so grateful for you and your music, your crew, and all the bands that came along with you. :) Thank you. <3
Thank -you- Adam, for everything. Thank you for travelling around so much so many of us hootowls could see you. Thank you for making beautiful music, thank you for inspiring us.
I traveled from New York to Allentown, PA to see your show and it was incredible seeing you live; well worth the long trip even though we unfortunately hit a deer on the way there (listening to Deer in the Headlights will never be quite the same anymore.. xD). Much love and God bless you. (:
Grace, LOL! hilarious!
Hey Adam, I am Adam. I was wondering if you and your fans could help a brother out and vote for my design in a hoodie contest for another band, switchfoot! http://www.talenthouse.com/creativeinvites/preview/ae0682c3be0ee41c7d0f05053f621aa8/355 thats my design, and I can design you one sometime too if you like? haha
Much LOVE! :)
Here is me, amazed at another blog post filled with inspiring words. I don’t know how you do it. Here is me, wishing and dreaming of one day meeting you. I feel you are an awesome person, at least that it what I see behind heartfelt lyrics, and poetic blog posts. If I ever do meet you, I would be sure to compliment you on everything. The passion you have for what you do, your amazing voice and writing skills, and you kindness. You have given me inspiration. I hope to one day meet you Adam. And I will be sure to bring my two best friends along, who have also been amazed by you. With my polar bear hat upon my head, I would not know exactly what to say, because I would want to choose my words well.
-Katie the polar bear girl
Adam,
Psalm 97:11-12 – “Light is shed upon the righteous and joy on the upright in heart. Rejoice in the LORD, you who are righteous, and praise his holy
name.”
This verse made me think of you and your joy in Christ.
Wish I could have known you a few years ago, you would make a wonderful friend! I am praying for you, I am out of the loop but I just watched your song “lonely lullaby” and my heart hurts for you. Keep your eyes on Jesus sweet boy.
I still choose starlight, prince charming.
It was only this November that I really started listening to your music. I’d heard Fireflies and To The Sky in the past, but it was only last month that I truly started listening to your music.
And how quickly I fell in love with it! Even now, as I’m typing, I’m listening to a few songs from Ocean Eyes. Where do I begin? Once I started really listening to your amazing music, I found you had a song for everything. For when I need encouragement, if I’m feeling depressed, or angry, or blissful, or need a distraction (the list goes on and on) I can just plug in the headphones. I find it just so easy to get lost in your music.
Now in December I find myself listening to something of yours everyday. The more I listen to your lyrics, the more meaning I find in them. I find myself laughing and crying and smiling and just overall having my heartstrings plucked with every word I hear. There’s just endless inspiring metaphors to be extracted and interpreted in so many ways. Don’t deny it; its brilliant, what you write. (And there’s so much truth about life and the world as well)
And then there’s the sound itself. Its near impossible to actually, truly describe what it stirs up in me. So many simple sounds and rhythms, so cleverly layered on top of each other to make up such complex and capturing tunes. You manage to bring the perfect musical mood to every line of those brilliant lyrics, and I’ve wasted hours just looping one song in an attempt to pick out every aspect of a song of yours. Needless to say I’ve failed, as its so hard to resist the urge to just sigh and let myself be ruled by the song.
And as any artist might say, every song of yours I’ve yet listened to has brought with it overpowering inspiration, so that I’m forced to run for a sketchbook and pencil and get my thoughts down. If only there were more hours in the day, I’d be sketching to your albums all day. Though at this point needless to say, If I were ever to get the chance to meet you in person or even just attend one of your concerts I swear I’d drop everything and drag along a friend or two if I could. (And possibly have a fit of happiness) I guess you could say that I’m addicted to Owl City!
So, please, don’t say you’re undeserving. If you asked me what Owl City song was my favorite, I couldn’t tell you, because if it were up to me they would all be hits. As things get harder and harder, I find myself wondering what I’d do if I couldn’t turn to your music and depart from reality for a half hour.
You are a talented, brilliant individual and you deserve everything you’ve ever received. I know I’m just one person, and this coment might be missed, but… Mr. Adam Young, where would I be without your wonderful music?
Merry Christmas, Adam!
I saw you in London and it was SO awesome probably the best fun I have ever had ever!! I bought the tickets as soon as they came out for me and my boyfriend and I even made my mum come too!! All your efforts were so worth it if you made everyone as happy as me haha! Well done to the Owl City crew! & thank you so much!
I do feel disappointed I couldn’t see your show in Indonesia. But it was a really great feeling when I knew you’d be performing in my country. You’re totally amazing!! I hope one day I can see you perform. Wish you all the best thing in the world. Love you… (^o^)v
Well I didn’t even know you existed when you first… made music. Lol. But I was only 7 so I probably wouldn’t have been able to appreciate it anyways… BUT IM SO HAPPY I KNOW ABOUT YOU NOW!!! Thank you for making perfect music.
I missed your show in Jakarta :’( so sad, it was such a gloomy night knowing that you had a concert but I couldn’t be there. But, I’ll meet you one day. I know I will :)
you have got your experience.. that’s good man! i am your good fan from italy ;)