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Interview - Cristabelle Braden

Brain injury survivor Cristabelle Braden talks hop, inspiration, & everyday life! 

About Cristabelle

After my brain injury I basically had to re-learn almost everything - taking a shower, getting myself dressed, dealing with short-term memory loss, muscle atrophy, losing my vocabulary & conversation skills..  just to name a few. Honestly the only thing that kept me going was my faith in God, reminding myself that He has a plan, He loves me, and that He’s working even when I can’t see it. And now, He has healed me beyond any doctors or anyone’s expectations! They didn’t think I’d even be able to finish high school, but now I’ve graduated college! So when I have tough days I just remind myself that God is truly a God of miracles… that He is my strength, I can depend on Him in all of my weakest moments.

What got you started in music?

I’ve been singing since I was a little kid, but I started writing music after my brain injury! It was through the recovery time when I was in rehabilitation therapy when I began to write songs and play guitar. It really helped me to cope during that time, but I never dreamed I would be doing it for a career some day! 

Who inspires you to keep going through with your dreams on the tough days? 

My mom! She always encourages me and lifts me up when I am struggling. She reminds me that God has a plan for me, even when I can’t see it myself. :) 

What is your favorite part of the writing and/or producing process? 

Hmm… I think my favorite part is the very early stages of writing, when the song is raw and vulnerable and intimate. I usually write by myself and in prayer, so for me it’s a very intimate time with the Lord. Writing songs helps me to process my emotions, and gives me an outlet to be able to use my experiences to hopefully encourage other people to know they are not alone!

The producing process is also really fun because it’s amazing to hear a song sounding so full, and when it gets to that magic spot where it sounds in real life the way it does in my head, I know we’re there! Haha!

What are 3 random facts that people probably don't know about you? 

  1. I love to read, like a LOT! Fiction, nonfiction, really anything!
  2. I’m also a music producer and graphic designer!
  3. I’m obsessed with knitting!

What do you want people to go away with after hearing your content? 

I want people to know that God is with them, and they are never as alone as they feel! There is ALWAYS hope! 

What's your favorite Bible verse & why? 

Currently - Proverbs 3:5-6. Reminding myself to trust in the Lord above my circumstances!

Favorite coffee shop? 

Frothy Monkey in Nashville!

Favorite sweet item?

Chocolate… Definitely chocolate. :) 

Where can people find your music & see updates about your work? 

Follow me at @cristabellebraden or at my website cristabellebraden.com!
Thank you so much for having me!!❤️
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