At Heart & Soul, we believe in the transformative power of live music—the way it uplifts, connects, and heals. It’s the heartbeat of our mission: to bring live performances to individuals who can’t easily experience them in traditional venues. Recently, one of our dedicated musicians, BobbyD, shared a story that beautifully embodies this spirit of compassion and connection.

BobbyD is a singer-songwriter who leads the group BobbyD and Friends. Much like Heart & Soul’s mission, their goal is simple yet profound—to bring the joy of music directly to those who need it most. They perform at senior centers, rehabilitation facilities, assisted living communities, and other spaces where live music can make a world of difference.

Earlier this week, BobbyD and his group performed at a senior center where he met a man named Jimmy. After the show, while packing up his guitar, Jimmy approached and asked if he could play. BobbyD handed him the instrument, and as Jimmy began to play, it was clear he had real talent—and a powerful story.

Jimmy shared that he had spent more than twenty years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. Only recently had he been released, his innocence finally proven by DNA evidence. Despite everything he had endured, his music carried warmth and strength. When BobbyD asked if he owned a guitar, Jimmy said yes—but added that it “wasn’t much of an instrument.”

That moment stayed with BobbyD. After talking it over with his bandmates, he decided to gift Jimmy one of his own guitars—a beautiful Ibanez acoustic-electric. He contacted the senior center to make sure it was appropriate, and with their blessing, he made the donation.

“It feels right to ensure he has a decent guitar in his hands,” BobbyD shared.

For BobbyD, sharing music has always been about more than just performing. He also rides with two cycling teams to raise funds for cancer and MS research, and he regularly plays guitar with a flutist friend at the Huntsman Cancer Hospital. Whether on a stage, on a bike, or at a bedside, he finds joy in connection—and in helping others find their own rhythm of hope.

Stories like BobbyD’s remind us why Heart & Soul exists: to spread joy, connection, and healing through the power of live music. Every song shared, every instrument played, becomes a bridge—linking hearts through compassion, resilience, and the universal language of music.

Want to support musicians like BobbyD who bring the gift of live music to those who need it most?
👉 Donate to Heart & Soul or volunteer your talent to help keep the music playing.