Podcast Summary: "Classic Music Saved Me with Antoinette Costa"
takin' a walk
Hosted by iHeartPodcasts
Release Date: April 23, 2025

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of takin' a walk, host Lynne Hoffman welcomes singer and songwriter Antoinette Costa to discuss the profound impact music has had on her life, especially during challenging times. Antoinette shares her journey of emotional and physical recovery through music, offering listeners an intimate look into how melodies and lyrics can serve as powerful tools for healing.

Early Connection to Music

Antoinette Costa begins by reminiscing about her childhood, highlighting how natural her inclination toward music was.

"[04:31] Antoinette Costa: ...as a small child, I started writing music naturally, so my dad could play guitar and sing and love doo wop. So I would harmonize with him on the guitar. It was my first introduction to it."

From harmonizing with her father to creating her own musicals by the age of five, Antoinette's early immersion in music set the foundation for her lifelong passion and career.

Health Challenges and Music as Therapy

Antoinette bravely opens up about her struggle with a brain tumor, detailing the three-year battle that included medication and surgery. During this tumultuous period, music became her sanctuary.

"[05:41] Antoinette Costa: ...music was my therapy. It was my hope. And my mom gave me the idea... to record an album. That was enough to just get me in a good place."

Her mother’s suggestion to channel her emotions into creating an album provided Antoinette with a sense of purpose and a path to recovery. Remarkably, she recorded her album within just 11 days post-surgery, demonstrating the therapeutic power of music in her healing process.

The Healing Power of Music

The conversation delves deep into Antoinette’s belief in music’s supernatural healing abilities. She describes music as a bridge to a spiritual realm and a tangible form of storytelling that provided her with stability and happiness during her darkest moments.

"[10:48] Antoinette Costa: ...I think of music as the bridge to the spiritual world or ethereal world, and that songwriting and music is the most palpable form of storytelling."

Antoinette emphasizes that music not only saved her but also offers a lifeline to others facing similar struggles, reinforcing the idea that artistic expression can transcend physical and emotional barriers.

Notable Songs and Their Impact

Antoinette highlights specific songs from her album that resonate deeply with listeners.

• "Crumbles": This song reflects on the importance of internal strength and not solely relying on others for happiness.

  "[11:49] Antoinette Costa: Crumbles was very much you... you can never put all of your hope in one person and that you need to anchor in something deeper."

• "Pita Patterson": Born out of her experiences in the MRI machine, this track connects with many who have undergone similar medical procedures.

  "[09:31] Antoinette Costa: ...I had a bunch of strangers write me on Instagram that they had similar experiences in an MRI machine... it was an incredible feeling to connect with people I've never met."

These songs not only reflect Antoinette’s personal journey but also offer solace and understanding to her audience.

Advice for Others

Drawing from her experiences, Antoinette advises individuals facing challenges to surround themselves with positive influences and to use music or creative processes as a form of meditation and mental training.

"[12:41] Antoinette Costa: ...surround yourself with positive forces and people... as I trained my mind by focusing on music writing, my form of meditation, I became calmer and I retrained my mind."

Her emphasis on internalizing happiness and self-worth through creative outlets serves as a guiding principle for those seeking resilience in tough times.

Collaboration and Teamwork

Antoinette discusses the collaborative nature of her album, acknowledging the contributions of various talented musicians who played crucial roles in bringing her vision to life.

"[13:35] Antoinette Costa: ...it was about the team effort. So there are incredible musicians that dropped so much to be a part of it... everyone put their heart and soul into the album."

She highlights how teamwork not only enriches the creative process but also motivates her to share her work with the world, ensuring that each contributor's efforts are recognized and heard.

Personal Reflections

Throughout the interview, Antoinette expresses gratitude and awe at her journey and the connections she’s made through her music. She shares a touching moment about meeting the host, Lynne Hoffman, and reflects on the surreal nature of her achievements.

"[15:47] Antoinette Costa: ...I remember watching VH1 and seeing you... it's just very surreal to be interviewed by you."

This mutual admiration underscores the supportive community that surrounds artists and the profound impact that storytelling through music can foster meaningful relationships.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Lynne Hoffman commending Antoinette for her courage and resilience. Antoinette leaves listeners with a powerful message about the sufficiency of one person’s effort to inspire and help others.

"[16:43] Antoinette Costa: Yes, one is enough."

Her journey is a testament to the transformative and healing power of music, inspiring listeners to embrace their passions and utilize them as tools for personal growth and connection.

Key Takeaways:

• Music as Therapy: Antoinette Costa’s experience underscores music’s ability to provide emotional and psychological healing.

• Creative Expression: Engaging in creative processes can offer purpose and stability during challenging times.

• Collaboration: Working with others enriches creative endeavors and fosters a sense of community.

• Inspiration and Resilience: Personal stories of overcoming adversity can inspire and uplift others facing similar struggles.

Notable Quotes:

• Antoinette Costa (04:31): "I started writing my own musicals early age. At around five years old, I'd use the fireplace as my stage and would start making up plots."

• Antoinette Costa (05:41): "Music was my therapy. It was my hope."

• Antoinette Costa (09:31): "I had a bunch of strangers write me on Instagram that they had similar experiences in an MRI machine... it was an incredible feeling to connect with people I've never met."

• Antoinette Costa (12:41): "Surround yourself with positive forces and people... focusing on music writing, my form of meditation, I became calmer and I retrained my mind."

• Antoinette Costa (16:43): "Yes, one is enough."

This episode of takin' a walk serves as a powerful reminder of music’s enduring ability to heal, connect, and transform lives. Antoinette Costa’s story offers both inspiration and practical advice for anyone seeking solace and strength through their artistic pursuits.