By Brandon Kathman
Special to the Clarkston News

Young musician and prospective Eagle Scout Kieron Holloway is making history, recording a therapeutic album for his final service project in what may be a first for the Scouting movement.
“The Eagle Project represents one of the final challenges for youth seeking Scouting’s highest honor, the rank of Eagle Scout,” said Bob DeWar, a field director with Scouting’s Michigan Crossroads Council. “Kieron has channeled his passion and unique talents for what promises to be a novel approach to fulfilling the project requirements.”
The Davisburg drummer and guitarist and 2023 Clarkston High School graduate has partnered with Southwestern Oklahoma State University’s Department of Music to produce the album, which he titled “Music for Mental Health.”
A lifelong musician, Holloway comes from a family of performers. A second cousin once removed of rock and roll legend Buddy Holly, Holloway describes music as his love.
According to Holloway, the album’s ultimate objective is to supplement the therapeutic process for those living with depression or anxiety. Painstakingly composed to facilitate self-care, the songs will be free and accessible on most major music platforms.
“Mental illness is a very serious problem that can be difficult to deal with alone, yet difficult to find help for,” Holloway said. “However, music is often used as a tool to help alleviate the stresses of it.”
Under the guidance of the university’s director of music therapy, Sophia Lee, Holloway learned about the science behind music as well as the specific needs of his intended audience.
“I posted surveys on social media, gathering the musical elements people gravitate to in order to address mental health,” Holloway said.
Ambient and largely instrumental, Holloway’s “Music for Mental Health” will make use of drums, a guitar, a keyboard and even woodwind and brass ensembles. Holloway has recruited additional talent from the Clarkston High School band, selecting for players he feels are “compatible with each other.”
Once completed, the album will be around 20 minutes in length.
After finishing his project, the Scout must go before an Eagle Board of Review, which will determine whether to recommend him for the award. On approval, Holloway can join an exclusive few, as only six percent of youth who register in Scouting ever achieve the honor, according to the movement’s National Council.

PHOTO: From left, guitar players Leopold Gach and Kieron Holloway pause for a photograph in between takes. Photo: Provided by Brandon Kathman