HOUSTON – A musical perspective both unique and provocative. It is the gift of Richmond singer and songwriter Kyle Cousins.

Cousins’ capacity to express with music what so many others living with autism keep locked up inside has offered a welcome window into an often mysterious world.

His debut album “Spectrum” drew devoted fans and now his song “Everybody Wants to be Heard” has been licensed by the national advocacy group Autism Speaks as a national campaign song.

“This isn’t just about a few states or a few cities this issue is nationwide, so its the perfect campaign song for this cause, to stop autism once and for all,” says the 20-year-old Cousins.

The song has been incorporated in soon to be distributed public service announcements.

For Cousins’ proud parents, this thriving and inspiring is a worthy pay-off for years of struggle.

“To be offering this hope to other young families is a miracle to me,” says Kyle’s mom, Diane Cousins.

For Kyle Cousins, exposure to a new and growing national audience represents a real chance to make a meaningful mark with his music.

“Yes, I do have autism, but really I’m just a singer, that’s all.”

A self image that says as much about where he’s headed, as where he’s been.

Greg Groogan – Reporter

HOUSTON – It is a splendid mystery how the making of music helped rescue a life from reeling inward and away from all around him.

For 19-year-old Richmond resident Kyle Cousins acquaintances have come and gone, but melody has always remained both an abiding companion and a rare means of sharing for all to hear how a young man living with autism views his world.

“Just an outcast waiting for someone to save me, bring me hope. How will I know where I stand until I’m granted my fair chance?” Cousins sings on in his new album entitled “Spectrum”.

“This is like seeing the world through my eyes,” says Cousins who was diagnosed as a toddler with the disorder which now effects one out of 150 American children.

It is a perspective both unique and provocative, from a singer-songwriter who draws deeply on school day memories of ridicule and rejection.
“That’s when I kind of felt I’m not the same as alot of these kids,” Kyle recalls.

The hurtful experiences echo fiercely in his lyrics.

“Not many people have walked in my shoes seen what I’ve seen, felt like I do. Sometimes I feel like I’ve been battered and bruised,” Cousin’s relays in his song “Love Myself”.

It is this capacity to express through music what so many others with autism keep involuntarily locked-up which many say offer a sublime quality to Kyle Cousins compositions.

“Everybody needs to be heard, heaven shouldn’t be the only place to hear my words,” sings Kyle a ballad that’s been called an anthem for those with autism.

“It’s desperation, but it’s also reconciliation because in the end I succeed,” Kyle explains.

On the campus of Houston’s Westview school students on the spectrum of autism shout their support at a morning concert.

“Your songs are awesome!” yells one.

“You rock!” hollers another.

In their captivated faces there is hope that perhaps, they too, can find the this new hero’s happiness.

Humbled by the reverence, Kyle embraces the responsibility.

“You know if he can do this, so can I. That’s what I felt from a lot of these kids,” said Kyle.

Difficult to believe, that as a child, autism robbed Kyle of his ability to talk, turned him violent and introspective, often unwilling and unable to engage with others.

With time, work and music, came an empowering epiphany.

“I see this like a strength you know, not like a weakness,” says Kyle.

A degree of acceptance that’s brought this gifted musician peace and all the good things that come with it.

We will keep you up-to-date. As soon as we know more we will make sure to let his fans know.