Starting Again: A Letter to My Friends

One voice, many notes

Dear Friends,

What do you do when your voice wants to sing many notes?

When your interests—music, justice, education, creativity, and faith—refuse to fit into tidy boxes?

You write anyway.

It took me a while to understand that. Consequently, it’s been a minute since I’ve written in this space. So, before I dive in, I want to reintroduce myself. I’m Jon Corbin— writer, rapper, educator, dad, and dreamer—born in Ontario and now putting down roots in Nova Scotia.

Over the years, I’ve tried to live a life that helps others find and use their voices – especially young people, artists, and educators. Whether it’s been in classrooms, studios, sanctuaries, or on stages, I’ve done my best to show up fully, as a whole person.

There was a season when my writing leaned deeply into the intersections of music, justice, and faith, especially during the 2020 civil rights movement. In the subsequent years, I got quiet. Not because I ran out of things to say, but because I couldn’t figure out how to say them in a way that “fit” the market. The market tells us to “niche down,” to compartmentalize ourselves so that we can reach a desired audience.

However, as I reflect on all of you wonderful people who have connected with my music, writing, speaking, and podcasting over the years, I see a beautiful and diverse group eager to engage with the aspects of life that I find fascinating.

I’ve heard it enough times now: “Jon, don’t build a brand. You are the brand.”

If you’re here, it’s because we’ve crossed paths in meaningful ways: in a classroom, at a show, online, in the middle of a Hip Hop cipher, or during a heartfelt conversation. You're here because you care about stories and voices that encourage us to look beneath the surface and provide us with creative ways to improve spaces for everyone.

I’m going to start again. Not on a strict schedule, but with purpose. When I write, it will count.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Notes on the creative process, writing, and music-making

• Reflections on education—especially how we engage young people through art and imagination

• Honest thoughts on faith, justice, and how to hold tension without breaking

• Observations from the adventure here in Nova Scotia—in search of a slower rhythm

• Glimpses into fatherhood and family life—the beautiful, messy experiment of raising talented and spirited kids

This space will be messy. It will also be real.

You’ll hear many distinct notes, but they’ll all come from the same instrument—one that longs to create compositions that heal. I pray it will be a beautiful melody.

With gratitude and grace,

Jon

p.s. If this sounds like your kind of conversation, I’d be honoured if you’d subscribe or share this space with someone who might feel at home here.

p.p.s. And if something’s been stirring in you—something you want to read about, reflect on, or wrestle with—leave a comment. I’d love to hear what’s on your heart.