Have you ever woken up with a song in your heart, ready to sing? Music has a way of connecting us to something bigger, making us feel seen, understood, and like we truly belong. It’s emotional, universal, and deeply personal all at once.
For me, music often feels like a time machine. The songs I connect with the most are the ones from my youth. Maybe it’s because I had the time back then to learn all the lyrics, or maybe it’s the nostalgia they evoke. Toss me some Def Leppard—Pour Some Sugar on Me—or a little Level 42—Something About You—and I’m in my element. I’m laughing as I type this because I know some of you are thinking wth? That is an awful song! But hey it is where I am right now. I find that I go from song to song depending where I am, my selections are not consistent. And really I am no music connoisseur. I like what I like-end of the story. For me,there’s nothing better than a good old-fashioned road trip with the tunes cranked up. Whether I’m with company or all alone, it doesn’t matter. It’s just me, the music, and the open road.
I remember one particular moment that brought music’s power full circle. My daughter stopped by the house one day with her truck stereo blaring. I said to her, “Good Lord, kid, turn it down a bit!” She laughed and replied, “Mom, I don’t think you hear yourself. You’re the reason my music is so loud.” I stood there, dumbfounded, as she continued, “You have no idea how loud you play your music, do you? Next time, before you turn off your car, step out and listen.”
Well, I did. And let me tell you, I was shocked. It was loud. Somehow, I’d convinced myself the car’s insulation muffled the sound. I had no idea it would sound like this. But hey, when you’re in the zone, you’re in the zone!
Subsequently, I think music’s magic goes beyond nostalgia. It can shift your mood, improve your focus, and connect you with others. Think about a concert. There’s nothing quite like live music. The energy of the crowd, the vibration of the bass in your chest, the collective joy of everyone singing along—it’s simply electrifying.
Last year, my partner and I went to see Billy Joel in San Diego. When I heard on the radio that he was retiring, I knew I had to make it a priority to see him live. We booked the tickets and made the trip. The concert was incredible! His voice was as strong as ever, and he played all the classics. Best of all, I knew every word. For me, that’s a big deal—singing along is half the fun. But even more than that, the feel of the crowd. It is so much fun to watch. People swaying together, arm and arm, there were even a few with misty eyes. I couldn’t help but wonder what they were thinking. But it made me smile. The concert was outdoors, which made it even better. Fresh air, the freedom to make as much noise as you like—fabulous! In the open air, with the volume turned up, we shared a comradery.
Partway through the concert, it started to drizzle, which quickly turned into steady rain. But you know what? It didn’t matter. It became part of the atmosphere, part of the experience. When the music is good, you don’t feel wet or cold. You just sing louder and let the moment carry you. A young couple who was sitting beside us had left their seats and returned with rain ponchos for themselves and to our surprise had purchased some for us too. They said they could see how much we were enjoying the concert and figured we weren’t going to miss a moment of it, so bought some for us too. It was such a gesture of kindness. My partner returned the favour and bought them a drink. Now we could add friendship to this incredible night. Just another part of a great evening. Did the music make us friends? I don’t know but it was definitely something.
What I love most about music is its simplicity. You don’t need to know a thing about staccatos, piano fortes, or any technical jargon. All you need to know is whether you like it. Leave the technical stuff to the musicians and artists who work hard to create it for us. Our part, is just to enjoy, Whether we sing all the words, mumble a few, hum the rest or make up our own, feel the beat, hear the sounds and get your groove on. Because after all, music makes the world go ‘round.
