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NASHVILLE, TN. (BNA Records) - With his rich baritone voice, 18-year-old, BNA Records newcomer,
Blaine Larsen debuts at No 43 on the R&R Singles Chart and No 51 on Billboard's chart after only one week with 'How Do You Get That Lonely,' from his forthcoming album, Off To Join The World, releasing in early 2005.
'How Do You Get That Lonely,' is a powerful song that addresses the heart wrenching story of teen suicide and the unanswered questions left to friends and family.
Since the songs release to radio just last week, the calls and emails from listeners have been overwhelming. 'As my son has become a teen-ager, I forget to tell him that I love him no matter what. It was easy to say when he was younger because he was so lovable and was quick to say it, too.
Now that he is at the age that he is trying to find himself and gain his independence, 'I love you' doesn't come so easily. But, that song made me realize that he probably needs to hear it more now than ever.'
Another caller said she felt her son was contemplating suicide and she didn't know what to do. The DJ's got her some information to help prevent another possible death. In Chicago , the program director had to enlist help to field the more than 100 calls they received in less than 45 minutes after playing the song. All emotional and all positive.
According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), more than 30,000 people a year commit suicide in the United States making it the 11th cause of death. It is the third leading cause of death among those ages 15 – 24 and fifth in the 5 – 14 year old group.
The AFSP is the only national not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to funding research, developing prevention initiatives and offering educational programs and conferences for survivors, mental health professionals, physicians and the public. For more information go to: www.afsp.org
A national crisis hotline links callers to local crisis centers: Call 1-800-SUICIDE, a hotline service of the National Hopeline Network.