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A Letter From Fred

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It didn't exactly conform to the rules of the online video contest for up-and-coming singer/songwriters, but when producer Jacob Colgan received 96-year-old Fred Stobaugh's handwritten lyrics in a mania envelope, it was an entry he couldn't ignore. Fred penned the song "Oh Sweet Lorraine" in memory of his recently departed wife of 72 years; but, as his letter to the studio said, "I don't sing. It would scare people." See how Jacob helped bring Fred's words to the ears of the world.

Be The Change

Follow the progress of "Oh Sweet Lorraine" on the Billboard music charts.

Watch the story of another pair of inspiring, unconventional musicians whose music is starting to garner attention.

Sing a song about someone you love -- even if the words and the music are not original.

Reflections (48)

Louser

I just didn't want this show to end. It was so sweet and keep going and going and going. I think it was worth the time

Bobbi

I was so touched by Fred's simple desire to write a song of love and devotion to his wife and partner for 75 years while dealing with his loss of her after her death. Also, Jacob's response to Fred's entry of his song and accompanying information about his wife, Lorraine. The result is heartening and just simply lovely. Thanks to Fred for his willingness to share and to Jacob and company for bringing that sharing to us in such a beautiful form.

Ranjana

The humanity, kindness and endless love in all forms. So so well expressed. Gratitude

Julei Rath

This is an absolutely beautiful tribute you have put together, Jacob, for Fred and his family that they will treasure forever! We can all see our own parents in this tribute and song! Love it!

Josie Gulliksen

What a beautiful, beautiful video. Absolutely heartwarming and what a beautiful collaboration. True humanity expressed in this lovely process.

karen jostad

I recently lost my grandson. He was a kayaker, and the river took him. I had no voice to express my grief until I played my Native American flute. Fred had a clear voice with his poem, and you were so right to put it to music for him and for all of us who have found solace in the right words and the right music.

Kathleen Kiefer

Such a wonderful, genuine story of kindness. Bravo Green Shoe Studio for your heartfelt effort....

Judy

Beautiful! Fred’s love, Jacob’s music. Just beautiful. Thank you all!

Derek

Wow. Good on all of you. Tears here. The song speaks to all of us and our grief.Thank you for sharing your talents in such a meaningful and memorable way.

Shalom

Oh my gosh, sobbing over here. So beautiful — what an act of love from Jacob and Fred!

Robert

In the depths of my heart, this is the relationship I would have had, but I did not have the qualities of forgiveness and balance until late in life. Thank you for sharing this.

Debra

This is an utterly beautiful thing to do ... lovely song and beautiful tribute. This is the best of art supporting, reflecting and uplifting life. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I am deeply moved.

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A Letter From Fred

Reflections (48)

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