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For this reason, Ayala delayed the release of the song to coincide with the National Suicide Prevention Month, to pay his respects to his friend, and increase conversations surrounding mental health at large.Īyala expressed concern that mental health continues to be a topic that is not talked about enough. After losing a Center for Information Warfare Training (CIWT) shipmate to suicide this year, Ayala knew that his song would speak to others struggling with their own mental health. While the song was originally written about his personal struggle, “Hard Times” took on a greater, more encompassing message in the months that followed. When asked about his feelings, Ayala said, “I struggled tremendously with how the uncertainty would impact my career, but more importantly, how I would support my family if I could no longer serve.” With the removal came many unknowns, causing tremendous uncertainty in Ayala’s life, both personally and professionally. “Hard Times” was originally written in May of 2021 to detail the hardships Ayala faced after the removal of a brain tumor in April. Ayala has been writing, producing, and releasing his own music throughout his time in service. Ayala’s passion for music and songwriting has continued during his time in the Navy. and the Apollo Theater in New York City by the age of nine. Ayala stated, “Hard Times is my way of reaching out to people who may be struggling mentally and contemplating suicide.”Īyala is currently stationed at Information Warfare Training Command Virginia Beach (IWTCVB), where he serves as the course supervisor for four instructional courses.Īyala has been singing since he was a young child, performing at both the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. 3, Intelligence Specialist 1st Class Richard “Ricky” Ayala recorded and released an original song titled, “Hard Times.”Īyala released “Hard Times” in September to coincide with the National Suicide Prevention Month.