Today we’d like to introduce you to Beth Snapp.
Hi Beth, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
Oh goodness. Well, I guess I should first say I graduated from occupational therapy school in 2009, and though I had played a lot in churches, at weddings, funerals, and the like, I had NEVER played an original in public… that is until I finished school. I then began playing some local open mic’s, was mentored by some amazing writers and performers, and inch by inch grew my writing, performance, and recording capabilities. My goal in 2019 was to become a full-time musician, which I was well on my way. I wasn’t happy, but I was well on my way lol. I figured out full-time touring wasn’t for me, but I love to create, write, record, and also play out. I just didn’t know how to make it work for me.
Turns out, I didn’t have to decide, as the world shut down a few months later. During 2020, the music went away almost completely for me, but I was lucky to still have my job at our local hospital. Little did I know, I’d end up working the COVID units for about 9 months. It was as scary as the media portrayed it, and I’m still baffled that so many folks didn’t think it was real. The experience rocked my world. A lot of fear, grief, anger, and most nights coming home to get in the shower and cry. It was then, however, that I realized I wanted (let’s be honest, HAD) to switch gears.
In 2021, I began and completed massage therapy school, while music started to trickle back. Now, at the closing of this year, I weirdly have as many initials in my credentials as my name – Beth Snapp, MS, OTR/L, LMT. I am now a proud owner of 2 businesses (music and bodywork), and after a successful crowdfunding campaign, am returning to the studio for my 4th project – full album this time! I am starting to slowly work on live music, but with the ebbing and flowing of life, I still haven’t quite figured all that out yet.
I am glad to be back creating and am keeping an open mind for 2022. But now, I have the flexibility of my own bodywork business that can work around a music schedule. Most of all, in both areas, I have a unique opportunity to connect with people. Bodywork heals, music heals, and I’m just blessed to be a vessel for both.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No. In fact, I’m still waiting for the smooth part! During all these endeavors, the underlying goal was to find contentment, self-worth, and peace in my own body and surroundings. It’s hard to be successful and confident when you don’t like yourself so much.
I struggled with PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The road to mental health has been a great one, but it’s been a process of slow but steady growth, a ton of work, and a lot of faith. It’s not easy yet, but I’m the closest I’ve ever been. I realized if I am to be successful, I have to believe in my own brand. For better or worse, in both my businesses, my brand is me. If I don’t buy-in, who else would?
Add to that a pandemic, actually catching COVID and becoming ill for about 18 months, debt, worry for the future…you know, all those things lol, and the road got even rockier.
I will say though, I have always been so fortunate to be surrounded by people who believe in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Help and support and kindness have always turned up when I need it, and I know it’s no coincidence. I never could have continued to grow and persevere had it not been for so many special people in my life.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’d like to tell you about both my businesses!
1 – I’m a singer-songwriter from Northeast, TN, and I love to create music. I’m known for my fairly cerebral perspective of the human condition and search for themes that can bring people together (if for no other reason than we’ve/they’ve “been there” before). I’m an Americana writer but have strong influences in bluegrass, pop, folk, and even sometimes jazz.
I think my ability to serve a song with whatever genre it calls for, and not be bound by a particular sound, makes me unique. I used to think it was a problem. If you don’t fit in, how do you describe yourself? How do you market your songs? How do you get on the radio? In the end though, despite the slow growth, it’s not hampered me in any sort of way I’d regret. I’m proud that I’m maintaining my integrity, artistic license, and musical soul.
2 – I’m an occupational therapist and licensed massage therapist. My practice is called Songbird Bodywork Inc. The idea is to find the juxtaposition between relaxation and rehab. I can do traditional massage or OT, but most of my massages and bodywork combine both practices into one session. My office is part rehab clinic, part day spa.
I can put you to sleep, or evaluate your shoulder dysfunction and help reduce your headaches (to my best ability, of course). I have the objective observations of OT and the intuition of an LMT, but both practices are extremely holistic and client-centered. It’s a great marriage, and it gives me multiple insights into the body, behavior, and energy.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Any memory with my grandmother (Memaw). She was the best, there was always laughter and silliness and lightness. She left too early for the like of us all, but she made an impression on all she met.
She didn’t mind jumping in the pool, shooting a basketball, rolling around on the floor being silly, watching silly shows, singing songs, taking drives out in the country for no reason. She was content and set an example for me when it comes to who I hope I can grow into.
All my memories of quality time with her are my favorite memories.
Contact Info:
- Email: songbirdbodywork@gmail.com / bethsnappmusic@gmail.com
- Website: www.songbirdbodywork.com / www.bethsnapp.com
- Instagram: @songbirdbodywork / @bethsnappmusic
- Facebook: facebook.com/bethsnappmusic / facebook.com/songbirdbodywork
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/vqmzYdOUWo8
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/track/24HuLVrMcGUuHv3YNFt389?si=8c42a226ceea4f9c
Image Credits
Jeb Johnson and Justin Thomas
