The Story Behind Our Music That Saves Us Collection

Music That Saves Us: A Collection Inspired by Andrew McMahon

Music has a unique way of becoming the soundtrack to our lives, marking moments both big and small. Certain songs turn into time capsules, instantly carrying us back to the feelings, people, and places we thought we’d forgotten. For me, Andrew McMahon’s music has been that constant thread running through every chapter of my life — and it’s the heartbeat behind our Music That Saves Us Collection here at Cady Creations.

A Lifelong Soundtrack

Growing up alongside Andrew’s music has been more than just enjoying good songs — it’s been a journey of self-discovery, survival, and connection.

  • Something Corporate was the soundtrack to my high school years. Songs like “Konstantine” and “I Woke Up in a Car” were more than just anthems; they were lifelines that helped me process the chaos of adolescence.

  • Jack’s Mannequin entered my world during early adulthood, a time when everything felt both exciting and terrifying. Tracks like “Dark Blue” and “Swim” gave me direction and reassurance when life felt overwhelming.

  • Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness has been with me through parenthood and the ongoing journey of figuring out who I am outside of labels, roles, and responsibilities. His music continues to remind me that it’s okay to evolve, to embrace chaos, and to find light in even the darkest seasons.

It’s rare for an artist to grow alongside their fans so seamlessly, but Andrew has always found a way to write what so many of us are feeling at just the right time.

Why This Collection Exists

The Music That Saves Us Collection is my way of giving back — both to the community of fans who have shared this journey, and to the cause that Andrew himself has championed. By combining powerful lyrics and moments of inspiration with creative, wearable designs, I wanted to create something that resonates deeply with fellow fans.

But this collection is about more than just merch. 100% of all profits are donated directly to the Dear Jack Foundation — the nonprofit Andrew founded to support young adults fighting cancer, along with their families, caregivers, and partners. Cancer doesn’t just affect patients; it ripples through every relationship and every part of life. Dear Jack gives tangible, ongoing support to people who are often overlooked in the cancer world: young adults navigating one of the hardest fights imaginable during a time that should be full of hope, growth, and possibility.

A Community Like No Other

I’ve had the honor of meeting Andrew multiple times over the past 20+ years. What always strikes me isn’t just his incredible talent, but his kindness, humility, and the way he genuinely cares about the people around him. He has created more than just music — he has built a community.

The Holiday From Real Cruise last November was proof of that. Imagine hundreds of people brought together not just by their love of Andrew’s music, but by the positivity, hope, and friendships that come from it. Fans who may have walked onto the ship as strangers left with lifelong connections. That’s the kind of community music can build when it’s led by honesty and heart.

Paying It Forward

Whether I was finding comfort during grief, pushing through seasons of doubt, or navigating the everyday chaos of parenting, Andrew’s music has always been there to steady me. His resilience, positivity, and ability to turn pain into art have helped me keep going more times than I can count.

This collection is my small way of paying that forward — to honor the music that has saved me, and to support the cause that saves others.

How You Can Join Us

If Andrew’s music has touched your life, or if you simply want to make a difference, there are so many ways you can be part of this:

Together, We Make a Difference

Every shirt, hoodie, or tote you buy from this collection isn’t just a piece of merch — it’s a contribution to a bigger mission. It’s hope, strength, and support for someone who needs it. And as Cady Creations grows, my dream is to give even more back, continuing to amplify the impact that Andrew and the Dear Jack Foundation have already made.

Music saves lives. I know, because it saved mine. Now, through this collection, we have the chance to help it save others, too.

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