Chelmsford Musician Turns to Kickstarter for Album Backing

Stefani Bush has faced her share of challenges, but through that has always found optimism. It’s that theme the Chelmsford resident hopes to spread through her music, as she seeks to record her latest album with the help of a Kickstarter fundraising campaign.

Bush has written 12 songs that she hopes to record if she is able to raise $2,500 on the online fundraising website by September 12. As of Monday, Bush reached over $1,500 towards her goal, and hopes to soon have enough to record “Suffering Bleeds Joy,” which would be her third album.

The Chelmsford resident is fighting mitochondrial disease, and said that her children also have had serious medical conditions. But despite these challenges, she said she has always stressed the importance of remaining upbeat, and continuing to be involved in the community.

“The message I want this album to convey is we will run into hard times in life and find ourselves in situations that seem completely overwhelming,” said Bush. “But out of suffering does come great joy, and you can find beauty even in the hard times. It’s my message of hope and joy to the people around me.”

Bush had a previous Kickstarter project that was successful, and during the recording of that album she became extremely sick. According to the musician, she performed most of the editing process working on the CD from a hospital bed.

Having played the piano since she was five, Bush also began playing guitar at the age of 18. Her music combines folk, country, and storytelling styles.

“For me, it’s cathartic to work through what’s going on in my life,” said Bush. “My favorite thing is to be able to use my music to help others. It helps me, but why I want to share it is that I’ve gotten feedback on how my music has impacted individuals. I want to help people through difficult times, or just give them something to sing about.”

If you’re interested in donating or would like to simply read more about Stefani’s background and project, you can visit her Kickstarter page here.

In the past Bush has created her albums as a way to donate money to local charities. Though she enjoys using that as motivation, she said this time her recording has a different inspiration.

“This time, it’s personal,” said Bush. “It’s something I feel I’m meant to do, and want to do. The only way to make it happen is through the support of the community.”