Music is an important part of Rachael’s life. She has been writing songs since the age of sixteen. Musical projects have helped her to keep moving forward while dealing with her genetic disorder and chronic illness. In 2018 she formed The Rach Allen Band along with bassist Tom Allen who also happens to be her husband. The first album titled "Purely Accidental” is a beautifully eclectic mix of genres. Her music can be heard on internet radio stations worldwide such as the Can-Do Musos channel. Rachael has been recognized for her songs on many occasions. She is also a published author and produces podcasts for indie music artists.

What is the role of music in your life?R: Music has always played a major role in my life, from the time I was a child and sang in the school choir, to the time I was given my first guitar and decided to put my poems to music. It seems like I was always writing songs.I also acquired a huge collection of guitar songbooks by various artists over the years, for the times I wanted to play other people's music. Becoming disabled with 2 rare genetic connective tissue disorders helped me value my time spent creating music even more. I can only play guitar or sing on a "good" day. I cherish those good days. I did need to change how I played my guitar, due to the limitations I experienced from tendons and finger joints not working properly. But where there's a will, there's a way. I can't picture my life without music.

How was your experience while working for the album “Purely Accidental”?R: I have over 70 songs written, so needed to begin recording in order to preserve them. My album "Purely Accidental" was both challenging and stimulating. It's true that the brain produces happy endorphins when you're doing something you thoroughly enjoy. Those endorphins can help you handle pain. There were times I didn't have enough breath to sing an entire verse, or abdominal muscles would seize up in the middle of singing. Sometimes a song would need an extra day due to these problems. But the longer I persevered, the easier it became, and I suddenly found my health improving. I'm the happiest when I'm creating, so this project was very uplifting.

What is your most memorable performance and why?R: Most memorable for me was performing the songs where I was joined with my husband. He plays bass guitar and it was wonderful to experience his talent and input. We created a Swing song together called, "Driving Me Crazy", which has had radio airplay in the UK, USA, Australia, and the Netherlands. We also did a funny rock ballad, titled, "Purely Accidental".

How do you face obstacles in life? What keeps you moving forward?R:  For starters, I always wake up happy. I just do. I tell people I was born laughing. I also have a very deep faith. Thus, I believe everything is just as it should be, and there's no reason to be afraid. I've never met an obstacle I couldn't handle; there's always a way around it or over it. I have many chronic illnesses on top of the genetic ones, including chronic myofascial pain and degenerative disc disease, but I'm not defined by them. I can't dwell on them or I would never move forward. I believe I'm put on earth for a mission, that's what really keeps me moving forward. I love life, I really do. I'm captivated by the present moment and possibilities, and that leaves no room for depression or dark places.

Who is your musical inspiration?R: My first inspiration was a lovely songwriter named Dan Fogelberg. The first time I heard my brother play his album, "Souvenirs", I was mesmerized. I wanted to write like him. Then, of course, there were The Beatles. I loved their melodies and catchy tunes.

What are your other hobbies?R: I have many creative outlets. I'm a published author of the book, "Velvet Hellion", which I'm in the process of relisting again with Amazon. I do acrylic painting and was drawing since I was a child. I do voiceovers and promos for various radio stations in the UK and USA. Sometimes I help other musicians with editing their music. I've even produced music podcasts for indie artists in the past few years. Before I became too ill, I used to train horses and had 2 lovely Arabians.

What is your suggestion for families of children with disabilities to empower their children?R:  This may sound strange but I recommend you don't give false praise. A child can instantly pick that up and lose trust in your opinion. Find something special about your child and focus on that, giving encouragement and support. Children blossom with positivity. Keep their dreams alive. Remind them that certain things in life which may appear impossible, actually turn out to be possible. The flame of hope needs to stay burning. We are only really limited by our own perception of ourself.

What tips/advice do you have for those in our community who are interested in writing songs?R: In this day of technology, there are many free tutorials online to help songwriters. I prefer listening to your heart. I have never adopted a specific pattern to writing my songs, but then I've always been a bit of a rebel. I realize most songs conform to an organized method, but nothing surpasses raw emotion streaming forth in verses. After all, it's more important your listener FEELS what you want to portray.

Any special message for our community?R: We each have God given talents which can inspire others, whether it be music, art, being a good listener, having compassion and empathy, etc... Even nature can be inspiring. Hold on to what lifts you up and brings out the best in you. Each moment is precious and is here for us to make the most out of it.