In anticipation of Charlotte SHOUT! later this year, we’re asking Charlotte musicians to film themselves performing songs within earshot of the neighbors. In this edition of “SHOUTing from the Rooftops,” guitarist John Cozayk serenades us in Spanish from his front stoop.

Please tip John at cozaya@gmail.com (PayPal) or @JohnCozayk (Venmo).

About the Experience

“I set up my camera, mic and guitar outside my door on a beautiful Charlotte morning after some storms on the night before. Cars passing by and some occasional walker saw me and heard me singing. My ‘captive’ audience remained on their nest at the tree next to my front door, they didn’t clap, but they were cheering me up by the sound of their constant chirping!

“I chose ‘Y Como Sin Ti,’ because it tells the story of two lovers that live far from each other. When their relationship began they live in the same city and were able to see each other often. But then, she moved away and the lack of communication and human touch eroded and finally broke their bond. During this pandemic, many people’s resolution and bonds will be tested, some will resurface stronger, others will be lost. No matter what, I hope we all will be stronger and wiser during and after this rough time.”

Advice for Queen City Creatives

“To every single creative spirit living in Charlotte, remember that even though our bodies are confined to a physical space for the time being, the art you create is and will ever be global and it transcends borders.”

“The work that you create today will inspire future artists and even now, your own fellow creators. It is challenging, it is sometimes hard, but as artists, we know challenges, we know rough times, we have heard disheartening words.  And yet, we are still creating and believing in ourselves and our art, in what we know and love. Here is to your best work yet, until the next best comes along!” – John Cozayk, Fellow Charlottean