Citizen Soldier

Lead Vocalist Jake Segura grew up in a small town where his taste in music was not appreciated, so he never pursued songwriting seriously as a teenager. He became further discouraged from the industry after being kicked out his first band because of his lack of vocal ability. As a college student, he began to struggle with manic depression, anxiety, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. After spending days in bed at a time and flunking out of school, he found himself too afraid to ask for help for fear of the judgement of others. In November of 2015, he attempted suicide. Segura penned the lyrics to Let It Burn on a napkin from his hospital bed, a song that would be released on the band’s debut E.P. Caroline. That experience gave him the drive to finally take his pursuit of music seriously with a strong desire to write music that would help combat mental illness stigma and help others struggling to know they are not alone. After many attempts at getting a band together the final lineup was completed with Jake Segura on vocals, Matt Duffney and Kooper Hanosky on guitar, Wonitta on Bass, and Tyler Nichols on drums. The band name Citizen Soldier is the band’s attempt to personify the battles waged inside and the band’s goal to shine a light on the everyday struggles of those who feel overlooked and unappreciated. New to the Salt Lake City scene in early 2017, Citizen Soldier is in its infancy but working relentlessly to make a name for themselves. Since Citizen Soldier’s debut in 2017, the Salt Lake City-based music group has been all about honoring those who fight battles every day that others dismiss or judge them for. Those battling mental illness, abuse, stigmatization, and being ostracised have embraced their music as a representation of their own stories and struggles. As the community has grown and word has spread, many have found a refuge of survivors to share in their pain.