Most days, Airman Maxwell Holmes launches aircraft from the flight deck of the carrier USS Nimitz, but when the ship departs Naval Base Kitsap-Bremerton for deployment on June 1, Holmes will be launching something of his own — the first single from his debut album.

The track, titled "The Deployment Song," is the first release from his debut album, "Deep Down." Inspired by the daily challenges of military life, Holmes, who goes by his nickname Emay, transforms heartache stemming from strained relationships into acoustic, soulful ballads.

Being at sea gives him the ability to focus and concentrate on his lyrics — especially at night — with fewer distractions. From his self-described "rusty little corner of the boat," he writes his music to unwind from the day. It's "personal therapy," he explained.

Holmes enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 2015, the same year he took up guitar. He had been writing poetry for three years prior. Combining musical talent with his love for the poetic side of rap, he gathered a loyal following on his Instagram, on which he recently posted several videos of his signature acoustic picking style and baritone.

Encouraged by the tremendous support he received from his command, Holmes found the motivation to record a full album.

"Deep Down," written both at sea and at Emay's home in Houston, Texas, takes the listener on a voyage through his unique narration of acoustic soul, poetic blues and six-string slow jams, according to a statement from his publicist.

When Nimitz deploys for the first time since 2013, Holmes will be on board with his guitar. Throughout the deployment he plans to work on new material — even recording new videos — when he has the chance.

"The Deployment Song" was produced by Ben Bandz in Houston, Texas, and is now available on Soundcloud. The album is slated for release in late June. 

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