American singer-songwriter and rapper Nick Hexum is preparing to release his highly anticipated new EP, Waning Time, a deeply emotional and personal collection of songs that delve into themes of grief, healing, and remembrance.
Best known as the frontman of the band 311, Hexum’s latest solo work marks a poignant departure from his more upbeat, alternative-rock style and explores the raw, painful terrain of personal loss—specifically, the loss of his younger brother, Patrick Hudson Hexum, who tragically passed away due to addiction.
The centerpiece of Waning Time is a powerful, soul-baring track that addresses the heartbreak of watching a loved one struggle with addiction and the deep void left in its aftermath.
In interviews and teasers leading up to the EP’s release, Hexum has spoken candidly about how this particular song became a cathartic way to process his grief and the complex emotions that have lingered since Patrick’s passing. “This EP has been an amazing therapeutic outlet,” Hexum shared.
“It’s been a space where I could finally face the memories that were too heavy to hold all at once.” Patrick Hudson Hexum, remembered by those close to him as a creative, vibrant, and deeply sensitive soul, struggled with substance use for several years.
His passing left a profound impact on Nick and his family—a wound that, while perhaps never fully healing, found an outlet in music. With Waning Time, Nick doesn’t just share his pain; he transforms it into art that others who’ve experienced similar loss can connect with.
Musically, the EP blends haunting melodies with lyrical depth, showcasing a more introspective side of Hexum. Known for his genre-bending style that often fuses rock, reggae, and rap, Nick leans into a more stripped-down, vulnerable sound on this project.
Acoustic guitar lines, ambient textures, and subtle electronic undertones frame his emotional vocals, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and universal. In addition to the track about Patrick, Waning Time includes several other songs that continue the theme of reflection, loss, and healing.
Each piece explores a different facet of grief—from anger and confusion to love and acceptance. Together, they form a cohesive narrative that speaks to the human experience of mourning, and ultimately, the resilience of the heart.
Fans of Hexum and 311 have long admired his ability to write lyrics that are both personal and accessible, and this EP elevates that gift to a new level.
Early listeners have described Waning Time as one of Hexum’s most mature and emotionally resonant works to date, praising both its honesty and artistry. It’s a project that not only pays tribute to Patrick, but also offers solace to others walking through the shadows of loss.
Nick has expressed hope that Waning Time will open up conversations about addiction, mental health, and the importance of compassion—for both those struggling and those left behind.
“If even one person feels less alone because of these songs,” he says, “then Patrick’s memory lives on in a way that’s beautiful and meaningful.” As Waning Time prepares for release, the anticipation among fans is high—not just for the music, but for the healing it may offer.
For Nick Hexum, this EP is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a deeply personal tribute, a message of love, and a reminder that through vulnerability and creativity, even the most painful memories can be transformed into something profoundly moving.
