Blog Post // 2020-07-15

Why Music Needs To Be A Part Of My Life!

I am listening to music as I type. It helps to set the right mood. It took me a while to settle into something because I started journeying off in many directions. Different bands required my full attention, so I decided to put on something that was familiar. This way I could know what was coming and put some attention on what I was writing. If you are wondering I am listening to Tool.

Music has been a part of my life for a long time. I can remember moments when I was really young trying to imitate the sounds I was hearing instruments make as well as vocalists. It was all quite engaging! The reality is when you are really young you listen to what your parents like...or so it was in my household. So, I heard lots of music I now think is crap.... I have tried not to make it this way for my young son. I want him to like what he likes and for me to like what I like.

I discovered alternative and metal music as a tween. It turned an interest into an almost obsessive aspect of my life. Music stuck for me. It felt necessary. It felt like a need in life!

Some reasons why music matters for me:

It feels good. The vibrations, melodies, sounds are good for my physical wellbeing. They create feel good hormones. I believe there is a science to it.

Songs can be mentally freeing and helpful. The lyrics can lay out thoughts and feelings often better than can be explained or comprehended. Sometimes they could be explaining a scenario you find yourself in. They could help you imagine dealing with something in a better or worse way. They can help you release feelings in a more constructive way.

Music can help you understand other people’s perspectives. If you truly take the time to listen to what the lyrics are saying, they could be addressing something you never thought of. They could be presenting something you have thought about but that differs from you. I think it is good to have the reminder sometimes of other people that exist in this world, to look outside yourself.

Music often gets associated with an experience or challenge. Could be as simple as remembering where you were the first time you heard it or could be associated with an experience such as losing someone. Songs can feel nostalgic, bring back a memory uplifting or painful, remind you of a sentiment you have held onto. 

Music can help you feel like you aren’t alone. When you hear a masterpiece that basically explains the thoughts in your soul you realize someone else understands you. They have been in a similar situation, dealt with a similar thing. 

In the case of a song liked by many you realize others are enjoying the sequence of sounds as well.

If you have issues with attention it may be just the thing to help your mind focusing. As a child I often listened to music while I did homework. As an adult I often have music playing while I clean, cook or research something.

Music speaks to emotion in a way that is experiential. You can feel it. You can feel everything from happiness and excitement to frustration and grief. I know I personally use energetic songs to get me through tough situations. I have angry songs for moments I am struggling with getting over something infuriating.

You can sing a long, play air instruments, or dance and it doesn’t matter if you are actually good. I associate these things in response to music as fun, and uplifting, embracing the feelings of not being held back. The expression is different for everyone.

You can appreciate that some people are really talented. It is inspiring seeing people use their talents to create beautiful things!