Articles written by James Drake

James Drake, Special to the Observer|Updated Apr 23, 2026

A Santa Monica singer is using her new song to highlight a loneliness epidemic in our city. Racquelle Vox, who was born and raised here, wrote "Lonely Hearts Aisle" while walking through the community and reflecting on the isolation she saw and felt. Loneliness is recognized as a significant issue in Santa Monica where busy lifestyles, high rents, a car-centric culture, and many individuals working remotely from home are cited as contributors to feelings of isolation even...