On September 18th, 2024, the Rick Lee Vinson Group released their latest single, “Normal”, a heartfelt and uplifting track that delves into the emotional aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Co-written by Rick Lee Vinson and Larry Levinsohn, the song draws inspiration directly from Larry’s personal battle with COVID-19, capturing the longing for a return to the simple joys of everyday life—a desire that resonated with people around the world during the pandemic. With its rich melodies and deeply introspective lyrics, “Normal” stands out as a testament to the power of resilience, hope, and the human spirit.
The Rick Lee Vinson Group, based out of Las Vegas, is composed of Michael on vocals, Jonah on guitars, and Chris on keyboards. Guided by the visionary production of Rick Lee Vinson, the band merges elements from their diverse influences—ranging from Family of the Year and Lumineers to Bob Dylan, Eagles, and John Fogarty—crafting a unique, soulful sound that is as thought-provoking as it is comforting.
The story behind “Normal” is deeply personal. Larry Levinsohn, co-writer of the track, faced one of the toughest battles of his life when he contracted COVID-19. During the lowest points of his illness, Larry drew parallels between his experience and Dante’s Divine Comedy, imagining himself in one of the rings of hell—an intense, dark metaphor that speaks to the profound struggles faced by those hit hardest by the pandemic. However, Larry eventually recovered, and this victory gave birth to the concept of “Normal”, a song that captures both the pain of that time and the joy of healing.
The track takes the listener on a journey from uncertainty and struggle to hope and healing. It’s about longing for the simple things many of us took for granted before the pandemic—the ability to be with loved ones without fear, to enjoy life’s little pleasures, and to experience the world without anxiety. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of vulnerability and honesty, conveying the genuine desire to move beyond the darkness of those trying times.
“Normal” embodies the signature style of the Rick Lee Vinson Group, with heartfelt lyrics, soulful melodies, and a layered sound that showcases the band’s musical prowess. Under Rick Lee Vinson’s meticulous supervision, the production of the single was carefully crafted to bring out the raw emotion of the lyrics while staying true to the band’s unique sound. The result is a track that feels intimate yet powerful, drawing listeners into its story and making them feel a part of the journey.
Michael’s vocal performance on “Normal” is particularly poignant, capturing both the pain of loss and the hope for better days. His voice, backed by Jonah’s emotive guitar work and Chris’s rich keyboard melodies, weaves together a soundscape that evokes a deep sense of connection and empathy. The instrumentation is understated yet impactful—each note serves the song’s emotional core, adding depth to the lyrics without overpowering them.
The influences of artists like Bob Dylan and the Lumineers are clear in the folk-rock sensibilities of the track, while echoes of the Eagles and John Fogarty can be heard in the soulful arrangements and heartfelt delivery. The combination of these influences helps create a timeless quality that makes “Normal” feel familiar and comforting, yet fresh and deeply personal.
The Rick Lee Vinson Group was formed in Las Vegas and has been making music that blends heartfelt lyrics with a rich, layered sound. Each member brings their own set of skills and musical influences, resulting in a group dynamic that is both cohesive and diverse. Michael, the band’s vocalist, delivers the emotional core of the songs, while Jonah’s guitar work adds texture and depth, and Chris’s keyboard contributions bring warmth and resonance to the band’s sound. Overseeing every aspect of the band’s production, Rick Lee Vinson ensures that each song not only tells a story but also resonates deeply with listeners.
The band’s influences are varied, including folk-rock, classic rock, and indie elements. The sound of “Normal” is a perfect reflection of these diverse influences, blending the introspective storytelling of Bob Dylan with the anthemic qualities of the Lumineers and the soulful melodies of the Eagles. The result is a track that feels both timeless and current—rooted in the classic sounds of the past but addressing the very real struggles of the present.
“Normal” was written not just as a reflection of one person’s experience, but as a song that speaks to a collective longing for normalcy. Larry Levinsohn’s battle with COVID-19, and his reflections on what it meant to long for a return to simpler times, served as the foundation for this deeply moving track. While the song was born out of a challenging experience, its message is ultimately one of hope and resilience. It’s about the strength it takes to keep moving forward, even when things feel uncertain, and about the joy that comes with finally finding yourself on the other side of that struggle.
In the words of Larry Levinsohn, reflecting on his battle with the virus: “I feel like I’m channeling Dante.” It’s a striking comparison, illustrating the depths of his struggle but also highlighting the transformative power of art in making sense of our darkest moments. The process of writing and recording “Normal” was not just a creative endeavor—it was also a cathartic experience for both Larry and the entire band, allowing them to turn a difficult chapter into something beautiful and meaningful.
The sentiment is echoed in the band’s light-hearted jest about Larry’s battle: “Where the hell is Larry?” This humorous take captures the band’s spirit—taking serious matters and finding a way to bring lightness to them. Despite the gravity of the song’s inspiration, the members of the Rick Lee Vinson Group are committed to making music that ultimately uplifts and inspires their listeners.
“Normal” is more than just a single—it’s a statement of resilience, a reminder of what we’ve been through, and a hopeful glance towards the future. The Rick Lee Vinson Group has taken a deeply personal experience and turned it into something that speaks to the universal human condition. The song’s blend of heartfelt lyrics, soulful melodies, and evocative production make it a powerful addition to the band’s discography.
The Rick Lee Vinson Group has once again proven their ability to create music that not only entertains but also connects with listeners on a deep emotional level. “Normal” serves as a reminder that no matter how dark the times may be, there is always hope for better days ahead. With their unique blend of folk-rock, classic rock, and soul, the band continues to create music that is both timely and timeless—a true reflection of the resilience of the human spirit.
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