Through music, we first learn the importance of cultivating our internal lives. We discover how what we think matters, and that we’re not alone in those thoughts. Music connects us, shows us our humanity, and helps us understand our struggles are universal and that there are other people out there experiencing the very same situation.
Music can move us emotionally, bringing us to tears, laughter, passion, happiness, or bolster our courage. It can bring back memories that we thought were lost forever. And soundtracks and singles can mark new memories that will stick with us well into old age. Music can also facilitate healing and restoration when we need to block out all the stressors of life to nurture our spirit.
In
light of the important role music plays in my life, and often in my novel
writing process, I wanted to share the top five songs on my playlist this week.
1.
Honey,
I’m Good by Andy Grammer (Magazines or Novels album)
I love this song. It’s
everything I admire in my fictional heroes. The music is upbeat, catchy, and the message honorable.
2.
Love
Is Your Name by Steven Tyler
Adore Steven Tyler. He’s the consummate
rock star, even when he’s crafting a new country music song. Love this song.
3.
Fight
Song by Rachel Platten
Talk about plucky girl
empowerment songs, this one is it and will stand alongside Katy Perry’s Roar
and Firework in it's message to empower girls & women.
4.
All
of the Stars by Ed Sheeran (The Fault In Our Stars soundtrack)
I love most of what Ed Sheeran writes
and performs. He’s amazing. The Fault In Our Stars is a good soundtrack album.
5.
Try
by Colbie Caillat (Gypsy Heart album)
Again, adore this song because
of what it says to girls and women. Great song.
Bonus:
1.
Boom
Clap by Charlie XCX (The Fault In Our Stars & Sucker albums)
Because I’m a romance writer I
can’t resist this song. Who doesn't enjoy a song about how love makes our heart beat faster ... how it makes us feel? After all, it is our business.
Tell me about the songs on the
top of your play list. I always love finding new artists and new music to add
to my iTunes collection.
Wow, thanks for sharing all this great music! I'm going to check out all of these songs. :-) My playlist this week has included Nina Simone and Billie Holiday. I love the classics! :-)
ReplyDeleteI don't know Nina Simone, Misha. I'll have to look her up on iTunes. Now, Billie Holiday I do know. ;0) Yes, music can be so individual, however, I love being adventurous and trying new artists/songs/albums. So I'm looking forward to recommendations!
ReplyDeleteWhen writing, I prefer classical or instrumental so my brain won't catch on the lyrics and distract me with new story ideas.
ReplyDeleteWhen driving, I most often have the country music station on, but sometimes I'll find my way to an 80s pop marathon and have a blast reliving high school.
When home, I kind of forget to play music. Oops. Things were a lot easier when I had a working CD player (I'm such a tech dork). SO, all this to say if I *were* listening at home, I'd probably have Bossa Nova, Madeleine Peyroux (sounds a LOT like Billie!), and Paris Combo (a great French language band) on rotation.
Well, you do have a smart phone. They are great purveyors of music these days. LoL. And, so is your iPad, come to think of it. Girl, you don't know what you're missing. When I'm writing, I use my favorite playlist as white noise to focus. Works wonders. You don't need a working CD player these days. You've got your built-in music devices just waiting to be filled. ;0) Your music choices show your culture. Although, I know from personal experience you are quite the Country music aficionado. Give us some of your Country favorites. I'm always looking for a good Country song/artist to follow. ;0)
ReplyDeleteLove your list, Mac! If I need a little boost to help me concentrate, I go for Vivaldi, Bach, or even Philip Glass. Sometimes, some Big Band is just the thing! I've listened to Big Band since I was a kid so the words don't get in the way. That's a key factor. Can't let words with the music get in the way of the words I'm trying to put on the page!
ReplyDelete