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“Side By Side” – New Autism Acceptance Month Single from Autistic Songwriter Joe Bigalke Featuring Vocalist and Producer Anthony Daniel Aspires To Show The World What People With Autism Can Achieve.
“Side By Side” draws listeners into the inner world of someone experiencing life through a unique lens. Autism Acceptance Month Begins April 2, 2026.
Going for radio adds and media features 4/2/2026 - Formats New Country, AAA, AC, CCM
Minneapolis, MN March 11, 2026 — Autistic Songwriter, and NSAI award winner Joe Bigalke will release a new music single, “Side By Side,” in recognition of Autism Acceptance Month starting April 2, 2026, featuring country vocalist and producer Anthony Daniel. The song was co-written with Jamie Floyd, a Nashville-based, three-time Grammy-nominated independent songwriter and recording artist. Blending adult contemporary songwriting with country influences, the track delivers a heartfelt message about empathy, understanding, and the beauty of human differences.
“Side By Side” draws listeners into the inner world of someone experiencing life through a unique lens. The lyrics invite people to imagine seeing the world differently, where imagination is vivid, music becomes color, and creativity fills everyday moments. At the same time, the song acknowledges the challenges that can come with anxiety, uncertainty, and feeling misunderstood.
Rather than focusing on division, the message of the song is connection. The chorus centers on a simple but powerful idea: even when people experience life differently, they can still walk forward together.
“We may be different, but we can still walk side by side… Let’s share what we’re given so we can walk through this life side by side.”
Through storytelling and imagery, the song encourages listeners to slow down and see the person behind the differences. One verse imagines someone sitting alone on a city sidewalk, lost in creative thoughts and abstract ideas, hoping someone might simply sit down, listen, and learn their “melody.”
For Bigalke, the song is about breaking down fear and replacing it with curiosity and compassion.
“Sometimes people are afraid of what they don’t understand,” Bigalke said. “This song is really an invitation to look a little closer and realize that the things that make us different can also be beautiful.”
Anthony Daniel brings emotional depth to the track with a warm country vocal performance while also shaping the song’s sound as producer. The production blends piano, acoustic guitar, and subtle country elements with an adult contemporary feel, creating a reflective and accessible sound.
Co-writer Jamie Floyd adds her Nashville songwriting experience to the project. As a three-time Grammy-nominated independent songwriter and recording artist, Floyd is known for writing songs that combine emotional honesty with strong melodic storytelling.
At its heart, “Side By Side” carries a message of acceptance. The closing line captures the spirit of the song and its connection to Autism Awareness Day:
“Just how we were made is a beautiful, beautiful thing.”
By pairing meaningful lyrics with a melodic, cross-genre style, “Side By Side” aims to spark conversation about understanding people on the autism spectrum and recognizing the value of every individual’s perspective.
“Side By Side” will be available on major streaming platforms on Autism Acceptance Month starting 4/2/2026 with all net proceeds from downloads and streams being donated to Autism Speaks per the artists request, as administrated by Rock the Cause Records.
About Joe Bigalke
Joe Bigalke is a songwriter whose work focuses on meaningful storytelling and themes of compassion, resilience, and human connection. Diagnosed with high-functioning autism in his 30s, Bigalke often draws from personal experience to write songs that encourage empathy and understanding. His songwriting has been recognized by the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), including the 2024 NSAI Milestone Award, and multiple NSAI “Top 40 Ones to Watch” recognition. Joe is a member of the Academy Of Country Music. Learn more https://www.joebigalkemusic.com/
About Jamie Floyd
Jamie Floyd is a 3x GRAMMY-nominated songwriter & independent recording artist. She has written songs recorded by Kelly Clarkson, Ronnie Dunn, Miranda Lambert, Ashley Monroe, Kesha, Sturgill Simpson, Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys, Brian McKnight, Ty Herndon, Pia Toscano and more! Jamie has also written extensively for film/TV, & is the composer on several musicals in development for Broadway. Her new single “The Blade,” a duet with The Voice Season 17 Winner, Jake Hoot, is due April 3!
About Anthony Daniel
Anthony Daniels is a country vocalist and producer known for his heartfelt vocal style and his ability to blend traditional country influences with contemporary production.
Media Contact:
Scott Herold
Rock the Cause Records
rockstar@irockthecause.org
2026 Cover Artwork by Prairie "Pippy" Priebe & Stickerbook Collective All Rights Reserved
2026 Joe Bigalke Music All Rights Reserved.
2026 Loren Leslie Publishing All Rights Reserved
2026 Rock the Cause Records All Rights Reserved