Michael Hosier, of Harrison, is a successful singer, songwriter and recording artist. He could be spending more of his time in Nashville, Tennessee, but he found that his time is better spent in places like Harrison where he can be an advocate for children in need and for those who are doing all they can to help them.
Hosier makes no secret about his own life growing up as a trafficked child along with his siblings. He has told his story publicly on streaming platforms such as You Tube and Instagram. "I have nothing to hide," he says.
A roofer by trade, his work took him to communities and literally on top of homes where he got a bird's eye view of the lives below him. What he says he saw was not unlike his world growing up. He knew he could and would make a difference.
Hosier said gospel and country music found him when he was living in misery. The first tune he recalled listening to was the "Old Rugged Cross," as it was sung by his mother. The classic hymn was written in 1913 by George Bennard, an ordained Methodist Episcopal minister.
The hymn begins, "On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross, the emblem of suffering and shame."
And like the hymn's author, Hosier has learned to cherish the old rugged cross in his own way.
"I was listening to the song on Alan Jackson's 'Precious Memories' album when I was saved. I cut my version of that song and it was my first release," he said.
Hosier found music as the silver lining in an otherwise cloudy life. Music, after all, is a universal language. What better way to communicate about the horrible exploitation of children and not be ignored?
Hosier says the music he delivers comes from his faith, and he believes he is the recipient of a spiritual blessing - perhaps as an apology for what happened to him in his early life.
But the music business isn't an easy one and there are some shady people involved in it, Hosier said. However, he did meet some good people who befriended and helped him. He founded Tri-hymn Entertainment to pave the way for new artists. It provides for them a platform they can stand on and perform.
Hosier uses his stage to advocate for others. In Harrison, he said he became familiar with Grandma's House, a children's advocacy center providing a safe place for child abuse victims and their families.
"They didn't have such places when I was young and enduring a hellish existence," he said. He connected with the organization almost immediately. He wanted to help, and music helps raise awareness. There are so many kids suffering right now. People need to be involved.
He is spending time and his own resources to connect with the community. He has contacted city officials and hopes to be able to be involved with the businesses in the downtown entertainment district.
Tri-hymn Entertainment is producing an event at the Hotel Seville on North Main Street July 25 and 26. It's an interactive murder mystery set in Harrison during the roaring 20s. Solve the mystery over two nights and win a $500 grand prize.
