In the small town of Sebring, Ohio, a raw and authentic voice is emerging from the heartland. Austin Sonntog is an artist who has always been intertwined with music. From a young age, he immersed himself in songwriting, even keeping notes of his lyrics since he was 12 years old. Although he never produced his music until now, it has always been a part of him.
“Music gave me a way to tell my story,” Sonntog shares, his words heavy with experience. His honesty cuts through the silence surrounding mental health struggles, offering solidarity and hope to listeners grappling with their own battles. All he wants to do is help people, whether through his music or his college degree, using his voice and knowledge to make a positive impact.
His upcoming album, “Don’t Die (Just Cry),” set for release on February 21, 2025, promises to be more than just a collection of songs—it’s a testament to survival and the power of artistic expression. The title encapsulates his message: it’s okay to feel, to break down, to cry. Just don’t give up. Sonntog clarifies that the album is not solely about suicidal thoughts; it also addresses experiences in his life that have made him feel worthless, illustrating a broader spectrum of emotional struggles.
One of his most impactful lyrics captures this internal struggle: “Do I wanna die or stay, what is the ruling?” It’s a question many face in their darkest moments, yet Sonntog encourages listeners to find hope. This journey is evident in brighter lyrics like “No longer faking this smile, I’m so happy, I don’t need a trial,” showcasing his evolution from despair to genuine joy.
What sets Sonntog apart is not just his music but his authenticity. “I’m just an average person,” he says, encapsulating the relatability that resonates deeply with his audience. This is particularly evident in his song “Razors,” which has become an anthem for those grappling with mental health and suicidal thoughts. It’s this raw honesty that’s helping him build a growing following on platforms like TikTok, where he shares his music journey with over 4,000 followers.
For Sonntog, making music is like entering a different realm: “When I create, I get lost in this world. It feels like I’m not even existing on this planet—I’m in my own little world, lost in the sound of my music. Nothing else matters when I’m making it. There are no struggles, no hurtful feelings; my soul just sets on fire.” This therapeutic aspect of music drives his passion, helping him navigate the complexities of life.
Success isn’t measured in streaming numbers or social media followers; it’s about connecting with people through his music, helping them find their own stories in his lyrics. “The storyline never ends,” Sonntog reflects. Each song is a new chapter, each lyric a testament to the ongoing journey of healing and growth.
As the February 21 release date for “Don’t Die (Just Cry)” approaches, Sonntog continues to share his journey with an ever-growing community of listeners who find solace in his words. His message is clear: whether you’re from a small town in Ohio or anywhere else in the world, your story matters, your struggles are valid, and sometimes you just need to let yourself cry.
“I feel like our society has made it not okay to cry. But I want to put this out there: no matter who you are—whether you identify as a leader or hold any position of power—it’s always okay to have a vulnerable side. You’re never too powerful, too strong, or too manly—or womanly—to cry. Everyone, regardless of their background, deserves the right to express their emotions. Don’t let anyone tell you differently; it doesn’t make you less of anything.”
You can follow Austin Sonntog’s journey on Instagram (@austin_s2224) and TikTok (@austin_s24), where he regularly shares new music and connects with his community. His upcoming album promises to be his most personal and powerful work yet—a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we’re never truly alone.
