Editor’s Note: This summer, we asked fans to share their stories of playing/singing with Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros during a live ESMZ concert. Julie Mattens shares her story from the Jan. 27, 2014 concert in Brussels, Belgium.

I have been a fan of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros for many years now. I had already been hoping for a long time they would come to Belgium or a country nearby to perform.

So as soon as I saw they were coming to Europe, I ordered tickets right away. My friend and I would go to their first concert in Europe — also the day I finished my last exam.

We made sure we arrived in Brussels really early so we could stand front row. After enjoying Foy Vance, we were totally ready for finally seeing our beloved band playing. I knew Alex often involved fans in their concerts, but not in my wildest dreams could I have ever hoped to be part of it as well. I’m not a professional singer nor a great musician, but I do know most of the songs by heart and they mean a lot to me.

Alex started asking people if they wanted to sing a verse. He started at the other end, so I didn’t even think about the possibility of singing. But as most people were too shy, he moved to the other end, ending up giving me the microphone. For a moment my mind went blank, but with Alex laughing at me and the crown cheering, I just started singing a few lines of I Don’t Wanna Pray.

It was not long or extremely beautiful, but for me it was definitely one of the greatest moments of my life. I often think back about with great joy, and it’s an awesome story to tell. It’s so amazing how close the band is with its fans. I really hope to see them back soon and in the meantime, I’ll be listening to their music and making other people happy by letting them discover this awesome everloving band.

Have you been lucky enough to share the stage or sing a verse with Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros and show off your musical talents? Janglin Souls wants to hear your story. Click here to share your story.