In this episode of To The Moon, Campbell sits down with fellow El Pasoan and American Idol contestant Julián Kalel to go beyond the stage and into the story behind his songs.

At 15, Julián was diagnosed with depression and anxiety. Facing pressure to fit in, and the belief that young men aren't allowed to struggle, he hid what he was going through from the people around him until a head-on car crash changed how he saw his life. He opens up about the moment seeing his dad cry gave him a reason to stay, how that moment became his song "Lone Guitar," and the conversation with his dad that inspired "Surrender."

Julián also shares why he stepped away from American Idol the first time to protect his mental health, what brought him back, and why singing "Tourniquet" on the beach in Hawaii was his way of reminding anyone who's hurting that they're not alone.

This episode includes discussion of suicidal thoughts and self-harm. If you or someone you love is struggling, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

About Juilan Kalel:

My music is where vulnerability meets hope - where Americana grit connects with modern country soul. These songs are my truth. The struggles, the faith, the hard-won hope. If you've ever needed music that understands what you're going through, you've found it here. Press play and let's walk this road together. Your story is in these songs. Music doesn't just heal-it rebuilds. It connects. It gives voice to the pain we can't speak and the hope we are afraid to claim. Life is heavy for all of us, but I want my music to be the place where you don't have to carry it alone.

LETS GET SOCIAL:

To The Moon

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/tothemoonwithcampbell/

TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@tothemoonwithcampbell

Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/@ToTheMoonWithCampbell

Campbell Cross

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cammycross_/

Julian Kalel

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/juliankalelmusic

TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@juliankalelmusic

Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUYcbs01bPs&t=1496s

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/JulianKalelOfficial

Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/artist/34YxoBNpxn6Gk7vKZ4tOgX?si=dYZe9n7ySLSKpPXw6fVUQA&nd=1&dlsi=0e5e25b889894b9a

Website – https://www.juliankalel.com/

Produced and Edited by: The Cast Collective (Nashville, TN)

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NUYcbs01bPs&t=1496s

Instagram – (https://www.instagram.com/TheCastCollective)

TikTok – (https://www.tiktok.com/@castcollective)