
heartdea13r w/ chr1stoph3r g0nda Lee Jennings: “I had to write or I wouldn't have survived.”
Oct 2, 2025
Lee Jennings, the dynamic frontman of The Funeral Portrait, shares his journey from facing bullying to becoming a voice for mental health through music. He discusses the challenges of life on the road, his DIY approach to touring, and the pivotal support from his family. Jennings emphasizes how personal struggles have fueled his songwriting, making his art a powerful outlet. With insights on branding and authenticity, he encourages aspiring musicians to stay true to themselves while fostering deep connections with fans.
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Life On The Road, DIY Edition
- Lee lived on a Sprinter van for ~10 years then converted an RV with five bunks to tour affordably.
- He sleeps above the driver and keeps the team small to stay grounded and avoid debt.
DIY Builds Authentic Fan Bonds
- Doing band operations yourself keeps you grounded and preserves more income for the group.
- The DIY ethic also strengthens fan relationships because it feels authentic.
Keep Tours Lean Until You Can Afford Scale
- Do the DIY work early to keep costs down and maintain control while building your fanbase.
- Avoid buying luxury buses or large crews too soon because they can create crippling debt.

