The Impact of Music
Life can take us on unexpected paths, these paths can twist and turn in ways we couldn’t even imagine. There is no set plan or layout in life, and there are many things to help us get through the good and bad. One of the biggest contributors to my emotions is music.
For me, a great way to push through those tough times is through music. Whether it be RnB or Blues, sometimes I just need to sit down, turn my airpods on the highest volume, and listen. Although this may not always improve my mood or state of mind, it does give me something to relate to. This sense of relationship helps me personally overcome challenges I face as a growing teen. I’m certain that many people can understand what I mean. It is commonly accepted that having something to relate to helps the individual.
There are many other genres, besides “sad music,” that match human emotions. One of my favorite genres to listen to is Hip-Hop/Rap. Like any genre, it may not be for everyone, but it gives me a sense of power over my emotions unlike any other type of music. When listening to certain rappers, I can feel an intense array of emotions. For example, when I listen to J. Cole, I feel a sense of growth and accomplishment from his intricate lyrics. When I listen to Kendrick Lamar, I feel hype and energetic due to his uplifting take on music. I also feel more confident when listening to Rap. I especially like listening to it when I drive because I can keep myself entertained without being distracted.
Other music that I really enjoy is from the 70’s and 80’s. I don’t know how else to describe the genre besides rock. Growing up, my father would play lots of music from this era, this is where my love for music really began to develop. I loved when songs, like “Baby Love” by Mother’s Finest and “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” by Santa Esmeralda, would play because they were catchy and I really enjoyed them. My initial love for the genre has only since then been strengthened when I actively listen to and look for music from the 70’s and 80’s. This genre is one of the happier ones that I know of. Overall it has a super upbeat and exciting theme as a whole.
Recently I have expanded my music taste and have started listening to symphonies from the 18th century. This may seem random and spontaneous, and to be fair it really is. Regardless of how “normal” this might be, I really love the genre and I’m glad I’ve found it. This new found genre really helps me when I’m doing my school work. I have spent several hours listening to Mozart while completing assignments for school. It helps me focus and there are no words so I don’t get distracted by it compared to other music.This lack of distraction is key to my success. I would recommend classical music to others who work while listening to music.
Music as a whole is a beautiful creation. People all around have been brought together by their shared love of artists, genres, and music overall. Music has enabled me to focus on different emotions in my life. Music has helped me to become a better person, and continue to find myself each and everyday. Without music in my life, I would not be the same person I am today because it has enabled me to become more in touch with myself and my emotions.
By Gideon Nelson