Citizen Soldier

Citizen Soldier is a rock band from Salt Lake City, Utah, formed in 2016 with a mission rooted deeply in mental health advocacy. The band originated in a psychiatric hospital when frontman Jake Segura, during a personal mental health crisis, wrote the lyrics for what would later become their debut single, “Let It Burn.” Since their formation, Citizen Soldier has committed themselves to addressing the struggles of mental illness through their music, offering listeners a form of group therapy and support in facing life’s darkest challenges.

The name “Citizen Soldier” encapsulates the band’s vision: to personify the inner battles fought by individuals who feel overlooked or marginalized. They aim to shine a light on the often invisible struggles of those dealing with mental illness, trauma, and societal stigma. Their music speaks to these issues with raw honesty, encouraging listeners to confront their pain, seek help, and find hope. This therapeutic approach has cultivated a dedicated community of fans who find solace in Citizen Soldier’s emotionally charged lyrics and passionate sound.

The band’s journey began with the release of several singles in 2017, including “Let It Burn” and “Buried Alive,” which laid the foundation for their debut EP Caroline. Their unique style, blending rock with elements of alternative and post-grunge, quickly resonated with listeners who related to the band’s focus on mental health. In 2019, they released their first full-length album, Relentless, followed by their sophomore release, Down the Rabbit Hole, in 2020, a year marked by their increasing presence in the music scene.

Citizen Soldier is known for their prolific output, consistently releasing new music to keep their message of resilience alive. Their two-part album This Is Your Sign (2021-2022) became a landmark project for the band. Comprising 24 songs, it took listeners on an emotional journey through the spectrum of feelings that accompany mental health struggles, from despair to triumph. The title track serves as a direct message to listeners, encouraging them to see the album as a sign of hope, a reminder that their lives matter, and that they are not alone in their battles.

In 2020, Citizen Soldier’s music video for “Would Anyone Care” garnered over a million views, marking a turning point in their visibility. This success was soon followed by “I’m Not Okay,” another powerful track that resonated with fans dealing with similar feelings of isolation and hopelessness. Through YouTube and other social media platforms, the band’s fanbase continued to grow as more listeners discovered their empathetic and deeply relatable songs.

Citizen Soldier’s 2022 album, Scarecrow, further cemented their status as a band committed to mental health advocacy, with another 18 songs that reflect their ongoing dedication to releasing music that speaks directly to their fans’ struggles. Their approach of releasing songs individually before compiling them into albums has kept their message at the forefront of their listeners’ minds.

Citizen Soldier’s music is more than just rock, it’s a lifeline for many who feel misunderstood and undervalued. By tackling mental health issues head-on, they have built a community of survivors who find refuge in their songs. As their catalog continues to grow, so does their impact, ensuring that their message of hope, resilience, and self-worth reaches those who need it most.