Michael Trotter’s Journey: Songwriting in Saddam Hussein’s Palace to Healing from PTSD Through Music
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Michael Trotter Jr., one half of the Grammy-winning duo The War and Treaty, shares a remarkable story that intertwines his musical beginnings with his time in the U.S. Army. Trotter’s musical career has been a source of healing and hope, especially as he continues to battle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following his military service.
Since leaving the army in 2011, Michael and his wife Tanya Trotter have carved out a successful path in the music industry, culminating in their latest album release, ‘Plus One.’ However, the shadows of PTSD from his military days still loom large. In their song “Five More Minutes,” released in 2020, Michael articulates a moment when Tanya intervened to prevent him from taking his own life, highlighting the gravity of his struggles.
For Michael, music is not merely a recreational activity but a deeply cathartic and transformative process. Describing his songwriting as a means to connect with his inner turmoil and free himself, Michael emphasises the therapeutic nature of creating music. He coins the term ‘SAM’ moments, short for ‘steal away moments,’ which represent his attempts to find solace and normalcy through his music.
His journey into the army was not one borne out of patriotism or lofty ideals but rather a practical decision at a time of personal struggle. As an unemployed high school dropout with a child on the way, the military offered a way out. Little did he anticipate the harrowing experiences that awaited him in Iraq, including a poignant moment where he penned his first song in memory of a fallen comrade.
Amidst the chaos of war, music provided solace and a glimmer of hope. In Saddam Hussein’s palace, where Michael stumbled upon a weathered piano, he found an outlet for his emotions. The piano’s keys, rough and unforgiving, bore witness to his pain as he bled while playing. This unlikely setting became the catalyst for his musical aspirations, with visions of Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium fuelling his dreams.
Returning from Iraq, Michael found himself battling not just external threats but internal demons. The psychological toll of war manifested in everyday objects, such as a U.S. blanket symbolising death. The transition to civilian life was fraught with reminders of loss and trauma, creating a perpetual conflict between past and present.
While the spectre of war continues to haunt him, Michael acknowledges the transformative power of his experiences. He recognises that adversity and struggle have been instrumental in shaping his character and resilience. Through his music and the unwavering support of his wife Tanya, Michael navigates the complexities of his past, forging a path towards healing and self-discovery.
As The War and Treaty embark on their Plus One tour in support of their latest album, Michael and Tanya invite audiences to share in their journey of resilience and redemption. Their music serves as a beacon of hope for those grappling with their own demons, offering a testament to the enduring power of creativity and connection.