At HyperTribe, we believe that music should be a lifelong journey, not one cut short by preventable hearing conditions. That’s why we’ve partnered with TinniSoothe to raise awareness about tinnitus and hearing health among musicians. As part of this campaign, we’re spotlighting five artists who have firsthand experience with tinnitus. First up, we have Char Brockman, a dance-pop artist whose journey through music, mental health, and tinnitus has shaped her approach to both life and creativity.
Music as Survival: Char’s Story
For Char Brockman, music isn’t just a passion—it’s a lifeline. “I remember when I first started experiencing tinnitus—about 12 years ago. I was in a really dark place, struggling with my mental health. It felt like everything was crumbling, and then, on top of that, I started hearing this constant ringing. It was like my brain was filling in the silence.”
Char describes tinnitus as something that ebbs and flows, often intensifying with stress and exhaustion. “Sometimes, it feels like being trapped in a box that you just can’t break out of. The only thing you can do is distract yourself or try to accept it.”
She recalls those early years of feeling helpless, believing she might never find relief. But as time passed, she started finding ways to cope. “It’s like intrusive thoughts—the more attention you give it, the worse it gets. I had to learn how to separate myself from it, to not let it consume me.”
Dancing Through the Noise
Char’s music has evolved over the years, from being inspired by powerhouse vocalists like Amy Winehouse and Adele to embracing the electronic and dance worlds. “I want to create music that has depth—songs that make you feel something. I call it ‘crying on the dance floor’ music. You can dance, you can let go, but there’s still a real emotional core.”
This year is shaping up to be a big one for Char. She’s set to perform at Clapham’s Bread and Roses on February 6th—a showcase that could land her a spot on Glastonbury’s Bread and Roses stage. Her new single, When I Realize, drops on February 7th, a collaboration with Black Violet that leans into liquid drum and bass.
“I’m trying to keep up the momentum—releasing something every six weeks. And, of course, manifesting Glastonbury,” she laughs.
Living with Tinnitus as a Musician
Tinnitus is often misunderstood, and Char wants to challenge those misconceptions. “People assume it’s just from standing too close to a speaker or going to too many raves, but it’s not that simple. For some, it’s linked to trauma, anxiety, or other health conditions.”
She believes the music industry needs to do more to support artists. “Good earplugs cost money—money that a lot of emerging artists don’t have. And because tinnitus isn’t something you can see, people don’t always take it seriously. But it can be debilitating.”
Char also highlights the emotional toll tinnitus takes. “It can make you feel isolated, like you’re going crazy. But I want people to know they’re not alone. I’ve been there. I know how terrifying it feels. But it doesn’t have to control you.”
Finding Strength in Community
Being part of the TinniSoothe campaign is deeply personal for Char. “As difficult as this condition can be, there’s something powerful about knowing you’re not alone. There are people who care, who are working to make life better for musicians like me. That gives me hope.”
She hopes this campaign will encourage more musicians to protect their hearing and seek support if they need it. “Tinnitus doesn’t have to define your life. It’s something you can learn to live with, and there are tools that can help. I want to be a voice for that.”
Char’s journey is a testament to resilience, to finding beauty in the struggle. And as she continues to make music, she’s not just creating for herself—she’s creating for every artist who’s ever felt like the silence was too loud.
Stay tuned for more stories from artists in our campaign, and join us in spreading awareness about tinnitus in the music industry. Protecting hearing health means protecting the future of music.
