ROAD TO HEAVEN (Single)

While “Road to Heaven” is a tribute to the victims of 9/11, its themes of love, loss, and eternal memory resonate universally. The composition speaks to anyone who has experienced grief, offering comfort and a sense of connection through its beautiful melodies. Composed at a tempo of 88 bpm, the song strikes a perfect balance between serenity and contemplation. The number 88 symbolizes infinity and eternal life, mirroring the endless journey of the souls commemorated in this piece. This thoughtful tempo choice enhances the emotional and spiritual impact of the music. Below is an excerpt from Gladiee’s unfinished book, capturing the profound emotions he experienced during the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

Excerpt from Gladiee’s unfinished Book “9/11 Love Story”:

“The impact itself spared everyone on the 106th floor from direct harm, as the crash did no immediate damage to their level but the stairs were rendered completely inaccessible due to the wreckage below. With stairwells blocked by debris from Flight 11’s impact zone, the once-luxurious setting of “Windows on the World” was transformed into a chaotic scene of destruction, filled with the growing realization that escape routes were cut off. The tranquility of cozy restaurant was shattered in an instant as the plane, attacking from the north at a slight angle, tore into the 93rd through 98th floors below. This devastating collision created an inferno that quickly began to consume the entire tower, trapping those on the upper floors in a nightmare scenario.

The impact had also severed elevator service above the 50th floor, effectively isolating those above the crash zone, leaving them with no means of escape. As the minutes passed, the situation grew increasingly dire. Spilled aviation fuel ignited, setting the lower floors ablaze and creating a hellish environment that rapidly advanced toward those trapped above.

The intense heat and the encroaching wall of flames forced people on the burning floors below to make an agonizing choice to jump from the windows in a desperate attempt to escape the fire. For many, this was the only option, a heart-wrenching decision that underscored the sheer horror of the unfolding events.

Amidst this nightmare, Julia, Roman, and the others who remained on the 106th floor quickly grasped the gravity of their situation. Together, they moved toward an unoccupied area on the west side of the building, which, at least initially, was free from smoke and fire. In this moment of despair, they found themselves staring at a bleak horizon, fully aware that their chances of survival were rapidly diminishing. Yet, in their final moments, they clung to each other, finding solace in their true love as they faced the unimaginable together by preparing themselves to Road to Heaven.”