Artist Spotlight: Tyler Herwig — Healing Through Honesty, One Song at a Time

Keyz
6 hours ago
3 min read

For Tyler Herwig, music isn’t just an outlet—it’s a lifeline. A seasoned songwriter with over 15 years of experience, Tyler's true emergence as an independent artist began five years ago, during a pivotal moment in his life: getting sober. “After hitting rock bottom in my battle with addiction, I started truly writing for myself—for healing,” he shares. What began as personal therapy evolved into a powerful career rooted in truth, vulnerability, and redemption.

Now a devoted father of two, Tyler draws deep inspiration from his family and past. Whether it’s a quiet moment with his daughter or a hard-earned lesson from his recovery, his songs begin as raw emotions or single lines that grow into heartfelt, resonant stories. “Sometimes it’s a memory from the years I was using, and finding the courage to write about it honestly,” he says. Other times, it’s the bittersweet realization that “we only get 18 summers with our kids.”

While the road hasn’t been easy, Tyler’s greatest challenge has been internal—learning to believe in himself. “When you come from a place of addiction and shame, there’s this internal voice always telling you that you’re not enough,” he reflects. But through songwriting and connection with fans, he’s found healing. “I overcame it by staying honest and surrounding myself with people who believe in the healing power of music.”

Tyler approaches his music career like a small business, balancing creativity with strategy. He remains hands-on with marketing and uses social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to share acoustic sessions and stories behind his songs. “I think people are craving real connection,” he says. “My posts often reflect moments from my life as a dad, my recovery journey, and the songwriting process.”

One of Tyler’s most unforgettable performances came when he played his song “18 Summers” at a family-focused event. “Seeing parents hug their kids while I played was one of the most affirming moments of my life,” he recalls. “That song came from such a personal place… and watching it resonate reminded me why I do this.”

Collaboration is another cornerstone of Tyler’s artistic growth. Having written with and for numerous artists, he’s recently begun exploring more vocal pairings. “It’s a beautiful process—two people bringing different life experiences and finding a common emotional thread,” he explains. “When the chemistry’s right, it’s magic.”

Rooted in Minneapolis, Tyler finds strength and perspective in both the city’s appreciation for meaningful lyrics and his local recovery circle. “They remind me that success isn’t just about streams or stage lights—it’s about integrity and impact.”

To aspiring independent artists, Tyler offers this advice: “Don’t wait until you’re ‘ready.’ You’ll never feel ready. Just start sharing your truth. Perfection doesn’t connect—honesty does.”

Looking ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be Tyler’s biggest year yet. With over 250 shows booked and his first international tour set for the UK this summer, he’s also gearing up to release a deeply personal single that explores life after addiction. “I’m working on a full-length album that chronicles my recovery journey from beginning to now,” he says. “It’s the most personal work I’ve ever done, and I can’t wait to share it.”