Jim "Soni" Sonefeld, the famed drummer of Hootie & the Blowfish, has a story that resonates with many, especially those grappling with addiction and seeking redemption. Known for his infectious beats and catchy tunes, Sonefeld’s journey goes beyond music; it’s a powerful narrative of struggle, faith, and recovery.
At 60, Sonefeld reflects on a life that seemed picture-perfect from the outside. Yet, beneath the surface, he faced significant challenges. “I moved from being a recreational drinker to a habitual drinker to a medicinal drinker to full-blown alcoholism,” he revealed in a candid interview. It took years of pain and introspection before he found a path to healing.
In 2004, he sought help through a 12-step program, which unexpectedly echoed the biblical teachings he had learned in his youth. “A friend had gotten me a biblical recovery book. It had the 12 steps, but it also had the Bible,” he explained. This realization was pivotal for Sonefeld, as he discovered that the principles of recovery closely aligned with his Christian upbringing.
Growing up in a Christian household in the Midwest, Sonefeld was familiar with the Bible but felt conflicted by the contrasting images of God he encountered. He described the duality of a loving Jesus and a wrathful deity as burdensome. “I was without any church. I dabbled at best for years,” he shared, reflecting on a time when his career took off, leaving him feeling that he was doing everything right, yet still unfulfilled.
Through his recovery, Sonefeld learned to embrace the biblical principles he had previously resisted. “I started learning to release some of the hang-ups I had with the way religion was taught to me as a young kid,” he said. This newfound perspective allowed him to move forward in recovery, armed with both faith and the Bible.
Now nearly two decades sober, Sonefeld has faced personal trials, including a divorce. However, he found joy in a second marriage and is currently navigating a new season as his youngest children head off to college. His story is one of hope, and he actively helps others seeking freedom from addiction, using his platform to share the importance of faith and recovery.
Sonefeld’s artistic journey has also evolved. After a hiatus from Hootie & the Blowfish in 2008, he took time to deepen his spiritual focus. “I went through my most profound period during that time,” he recalled, dedicating himself to being a better husband and father, while immersing himself in the Bible and recovery principles.
This period marked his entry into Christian music, as he began to channel his faith into solo albums. Even while performing with Hootie, he approaches their classic hits with a renewed sense of purpose. Songs like “Hold My Hand” and “Let Her Cry” now serve as reminders of his journey and the growth he has experienced.
His latest project, a Christmas album titled "Light of Joy," is a celebration of the birth of Jesus, intertwined with cherished family traditions. Collaborating with notable Christian songwriters Martin Chalk and David Spencer, the album features tracks that reflect both the sacred and the sentimental aspects of the holiday season. “I want to celebrate the birth of a Savior, but I grew up also in a cultural Christmas,” Sonefeld explained. He believes it’s possible to honor both the spiritual and cultural elements of Christmas.
As the holiday season approaches, Sonefeld hopes his album will inspire listeners to embrace the joys of Christmas while remembering the true reason for the season. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help for those struggling with addiction or mental health, especially during the holidays. “It takes courage to reach out, but support exists through recovery programs, counseling, and community,” he stated. His own journey is a reminder that healing and hope are always within reach.
For those interested in exploring more about addiction recovery, organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous and Celebrate Recovery offer valuable resources and support. Sonefeld’s story is not just about fame and music; it’s about finding freedom through faith, a journey that continues to inspire many.