Rae Catron: Finding the Way Back

For many musicians, writing songs starts with influences.

For Rae Catron, it eventually became something more.

Over the years, Catron has played in several projects, performed throughout the Southwest, and

experienced the highs and lows that come with being part of underground music. Long drives, lineup

changes, packed shows, empty rooms, friendships, disagreements, and everything in between.

It’s part of the journey.

What stands out most during our conversation isn’t any specific band or performance.

It’s how his perspective on music has changed.

Like many musicians, Catron grew up on a steady diet of heavy metal staples. Iron Maiden, Metallica, Slayer,

and countless other bands helped shape his early musical identity. Later, other influences expanded that

foundation, introducing new ideas about songwriting, structure, and what a band could be.

The goal was never to stay in one place.

It was to keep growing.

That growth eventually led him away from some of the themes and styles that once defined his music.

Rather than revisiting the same ideas, Catron found himself drawn toward songs with a different purpose.

Songs about perseverance.

Songs about finding direction.

Songs about surviving difficult chapters and continuing forward.

One example is Lost Woods, a song inspired by The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. In the game, players

escape the mysterious Lost Woods by following the music. For Catron, the idea became a metaphor for life

itself.

When things get dark, follow the music.

Keep moving.

Find your way through.

1It’s a simple concept, but one that clearly resonates with listeners. During the interview, Catron recalls being

approached by a fan who shared how the song helped him through a difficult period in his life.

For any songwriter, that’s the kind of moment that matters.

Not the algorithms.

Not the social media numbers.

Not the endless chase for attention.

The connection.

Today, Catron continues focusing on his health, his family, and whatever musical chapter comes next.

Whether that means new bands, new songs, or entirely new projects remains to be seen.

What seems certain, however, is that music will remain part of the journey.

After all these years, it still serves the same purpose it always has.

A compass.

A guide.

A way forward when the path isn’t always clear.

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