Influence of Music

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Music is a very powerful force. It can invoke feelings and thoughts and has even helped people with Alzheimer's parts or feelings from their lives. In The Other Wes Moore, the author uses music as a safe and comfortable space and as a way to connect with those around him. I know for me it is very similar. I have always had a strong connection with music, even before I knew that dance was something I wanted to pursue. The music I listen to is often a reflection of what I’m either currently feeling or how I want to be feeling. When I’m feeling sad I always try to listen to music that is either uplifting or has no specific feeling associated with it, which can be hard to do. I know that sometimes I like to listen to sad music because it makes me feel better about being sorry but it almost always makes me feel worse later. The sadness in the music makes me feel more anxious and even though it makes me feel seen in the moment it always leads to wallowing in my big feelings. So instead I try to listen to music that will either make me feel better or no worse.

Sufjan Stevens is a good one for neutral music which I know people may disagree on but his music feels like home. It has a comforting vibe that I connect with and reminds me of the good parts of the house. A go-to song of his is The Hidden River of My Life from the album The Greatest Gift, 10/10 would recommend it. If I need to lift myself I listen to music that will make me feel like the best version of myself. For me, that ends up being early 2000s pop and hip-hop or Lana Del Ray, Hozier, and Tyler, The Creator. Now I fully understand that Lana Del Ray often writes songs that are a bit more depressing but I have found a combination that can make me feel unstoppable, same with Hozier. 

Another thing that music does for me is it can make me feel closer to family and friends despite the distance. When I am missing my brother I always listen to a playlist of songs that either make me think of him or are his favorites. I’ve found myself subconsciously doing this too. Whenever I’m homesick I will listen to more Sufjan Stevens because it reminds me of good memories from back home. It also reminds me of cool morning walks on trails in Minnesota. I have also been doing this with my friends, when I feel like I am getting closer to someone or want to get closer to someone I always end up listening to music that reminds me of them or is from them. I have been doing this with someone unconsciously for the last week but I have been listening to the music that they tend to listen to when I’m seeing them.

Music clearly plays a huge role in my life and I hadn’t even touched on how it affects me as a dancer. I hope that everyone else can find comfort in music and artists like I have because it can make the world seem a little less lonely.    


Comments

  1. Professor KnauerNovember 26, 2024 at 6:46 AM

    What a powerful blog, sharing your passion for music as a part of everyday life and quality of life, and one that can lift your spirits and help celebrate those you love and care about. Thanks for your recommendations through sharing some of your favorites.

    ReplyDelete

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