Processing grief is a fragile space where vulnerability, attachment, and acceptance intermingle in ebbs and flows within the borders of our emotional psyche. Marinating all of the tender thoughts and feelings within this state of mind is a difficult task on its own, but to then try and capture its experience through art is another challenging undertaking in itself. Stephanie Heitz has found the courage to use her talent and passion to crystallize the difficult journey of navigating life since the loss of her father. After a twelve year battle with Parkinson’s disease, Heitz had to confront the universal law of impermanence that applies to us all, and along with it accept the heartbreak of losing her role model and dad. With “No More Tears”, she has not only crafted a beautiful tribute, but also achieved in her hope to write a record that will comfort many others journeying through their own respective grief.
“No More Tears” begins with a smooth, heartfelt R&B and soul progression as an e-piano, crisp guitar, nourishing bass, and delicate drum rhythm create a backdrop for Heitz’s warm and soulful voice to bless the rest of the sound spectrum.
Lyrically, the song begins with the resistance of letting go. A very gentle and neat transition into the bridge introduces the acknowledgment that it is “time to let you go.” With beautiful vocal layers harmonizing in the background, the pre chorus offers almost a gospel element that works well within Heitz’s connection to faith and its role in facing difficult times.
The chorus is a sobering acceptance of the reality she faces, welcoming it all and understanding that there are no more tears and goodbyes from this point on. The second verse contemplates the future with the personal void she will have to deal with going forward. Her vulnerability is truly appreciated and it’s very impressive that she is able to reflect her feelings in ways that are very relatable to the listener, making the tune more universal in its comprehension. Imagining how holidays will be different and noting the absence of her father’s silly ways allow the song to also have some levity, which fits tonally within the instrumental’s calming timbre.
The outro is a tasteful conclusion to the song as an electric guitar is performed alongside Heitz’s wonderful voice, confidently singing that there will be ‘no more tears in Heaven’ as the closing line to the song.
Stephanie Heitz is a great talent who has managed to achieve both writing a beautiful tribute for her father as well as compose a record that will serve as audible therapy for the infinite number of us who have experienced loss and grief. We are not only fans of this song, but also admirers of her accomplishment.
Written by Jon Kagan
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