Songs are essential to movies, TV shows, and even elevators. We want to fill the quiet time in our life with song. I remember I was unable to study in college without music playing in the background. It blocked out everything else. Even now, I use my iPod to create playlists to help inspire me. I have a running playlist to help me keep pace or a playlist for cleaning. The iPod has made it so easy to manipulate our music that I think they are the new mix tapes of the 21st century. really, who has not created or been given a mix tape. the power of music can be seen in how a song can make or break a scene in a movie or show. the proper song harmonizes our mood with that of the character which allows us to connect to them in a deeper level. Song connects us all.
I have known for a long time that I look at life and listen for a song. What song reflects where I am at that moment in time? Or what song reflects who I am at that time? These songs help focus my life or allow my mood to wash over me covering me in its arms. When I am sad, a sad song allows me to experience sadness and feel joy at the same time. Isn't that funny? Songs tap into our emotions and allows our heart to sing. If you wonder if that is the case then watch how your body sways and responds when a powerful song comes on. We innately enjoy music. It has the power to free us.
Free us? Yes, I propose that music frees us. It makes our souls soar and lives prosper. A world with no music is a world with no hope or dreams. History points to this. The bible shows us one that one of the great worshipers of God was David. He composed hundreds of songs that glorify God's name. These songs or psalms have inspired hymn writers for centuries. Song was found in the fields of the South during slavery. African American slaves sang songs as they worked. Songs express what the heart wants to say. It frees us from our current situation and creates within us a new situation that we can experience. Many times songs begin and instantly my spirit changes. I begin an experience that can be tied to an old memory or inspire me to new thoughts and hopes. I am envious of anyone with the music talent. Their ability to inspire and mesmerize is a talent I want. Unfortunately, my singing ability is limited and my musical aptitude is very low. However, this does not stop me from attempting to sing my song. I recommend not being in the same room as I am. Songs present us with freedom from our current situations and emotions.
Also, songs can bring people together. Some of the most powerful memories are from concerts where the crowd starts singing the song. When the band stops playing and the crowd sings on, causes goose bumps to arise on my skin. In church when the whole congregation sings a favorite hymn, you can feel the electricity in the air rising. Songs off the top of my head that can rock a room are Sweet Caroline, YMCA, and Margaritaville. Those songs will get several people singing out loud.
What makes us respond to music?Sometimes, melodies attract me. Other times lyrics will be the enticer. On rarer occasions both will combine to create a song that transcends moods. These songs that combine lyrics and melody become songs that instantly transport me to a mood no matter what I am doing. They do not accentuate the mood; they create the mood. My wife will testify that I do not know many lyrics. Consequently, I am more attracted to the melody. Right now I am listening to Love the Way You Lie by Rhianna and Eminem. The melody is so cool.
I have found that once I find a new song that I like that I play it until everyone around me becomes sick of it. My current obsession is with the Avett Brothers. They sing folksy mellow songs that are pure awesomeness to my ears. I know that everyone else is tired of them but at this moment they speak to my life. In a year a new favorite will become my muse. Life changes just like our song does. However, the Avett Brothers will be able to transport me back to this time with their songs. That is the power of song.
Today, I embark on a bold experiment for 7th graders. I will ask them to choose a theme song for their life. It is a scary prospect based on their listening choices and limited life experience. I look forward to seeing what insights the songs give me. I have chosen Phil Collins' In the Air Tonight. It is a song from my high school years that represent my time in sports. It melody matches my personality. A slow rhythm that has burst of intensity like myself. I also like the lyrics as I often feel something coming in the air. The electricity and smell that precedes a storm is one of my favorite things to experience. What would be your theme song? Sing us a song, you're the piano man.
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