A Drive Through Music

A Ride Through Music

Melissa J. Dallago

            Music is an essential part of our lives; its lyrics and melodies covey so much meaning and depth.  It has the power to move us emotionally, spiritually and make us leap up and dance.  Music is everywhere, surrounding us.

            I know that music is an integral party of my life, and there are certain songs that I am strongly connected to.  Whenever I hear them they remind me of my highs and lows.  Music has healed me after a fall, brought back memories of times gone by, and helped my spirit sour with joy.

            There are times in my life when I am bothered about an issue and I turn to my favorite music for support.  I just choose the random option on my MP3 player and let it play.  It is amazing, and eerie, how the music that plays somehow always has the answer.

            Today on my way home from work, I plugged in my player as usual.  I was in a calm and reflective mood, so I decided to see where my music would take me.  These are the songs that played and what they made me think of:

            “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd.  This song is for David.  He is a simple, yet complex man.  I picture David’s dad telling him “troubles will come and they will pass.  You’ll find a woman, you’ll find love, and don’t forget son, there is someone above.”

            “Woman Down” by Alanis Morissette.  This song reminds me to be a strong woman, who should not take any crap.  It talks about our mothers, sisters, and friends being the beaten down mentally and emotionally by how others treat them.  It is best captured in the line, “Next woman down was your lover.  She takes your spite at value face.  Even her hair length and color, gives you the impulse to repeat.”

            “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves.  “I’m walking on sunshine, oh yeah, I feel the love, I feel the love that’s really real.  I feel alive, I feel the love.”  No explanation necessary here!

            “Werewolves in London” by Warren Zevon.  My dad and I always listened to this song together.  He passed away two years ago, but I smile and laugh whenever I remember us howling to the music like wannabe werewolves.

            “You Could Be Happy” by Snow Patrol.  This song reminds me of an old relationship that ended badly.  A long time ago this song made me sad, but now, when I hear it I smile, because there is no longer any ill will.  The lyrics “Do the things that you always wanted to.  Without me there to hold you back, don’t think just do.  More than anything I want to see you girl, take a glorious bite out of the whole world” are especially true because I want nothing but happiness for him in his life.

            And finally, “I Won’t Give Up” by Jason Mraz.  This song is for David and I; it speaks volumes of our love, and our dedication to each other.  “I won’t give up on us.  Even if the skies get rough.  I’m giving you all my love.  I’m still looking up.” 

            There you have it.  I strolled down memory lane as I listened to these songs.  I released old pain, celebrated girl power, respected my other, better half, giggled with my dad, and felt warm and gushy about my lover.  I think that’s not a bad playlist for my drive home.  Music that is full of affirmation and love.  Music that put a smile on my face as David greeted me at the door, or maybe that was just him.

            I highly recommend trying this the next time you listen to your MP3 player.  Just hit random and see what comes out.  Music is the complete package that can move us in many ways; it can free us, ease our burden, and reaffirm our existence.  Here is to the musicians of the world!  Celebrate and honor them because without their talents our world would truly be a dark and dreary place.