Did you know that music can act as an anxiety aid? This study from last year delves into it a bit.
Recently, my father announced he would be undergoing a life-altering surgery after years of struggling with a disability. After receiving the news and knowing that I would be sitting at the sidelines over 1,000 miles away awaiting any news, the emotions surged through my body. I felt angry, heartbroken and anxious among a hundred other little things.
When life opens a sinkhole, know that you always have a trusting confidant in music. A few years back I gave my dad a copy of the album O by Damien Rice. He was ecstatic. He loved every song and wanted more! This crystal clear memory stays with me to this day and will forever be the sonic wave that connects us through our physical distance.
After listening through a couple tracks from the album and remembering my father’s smiling face and laugh as we had talked about how incredible the music was, a comforting feeling emanated from deep down and filled my soul.
Inspirational music can mean a number of different things depending on who you ask. For some, it can be uplifting lyrics such as: “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson, “Brave” by Sara Bareilles or “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey. Many enjoy a driving beat with a huge sing-along chorus: “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons, “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor or “Dog Days Are Over” by Florence + The Machine. On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have those that relate to more somber, stand up and fight themes “I Believe I Can Fly” by R. Kelly, “Skyscraper” by Demi Lovato or “Imagine” by John Lennon. Then we have others that refuel by listening to Classical songs from Beethoven or Romantic era Tchaikovsky.
Whatever inspires, gets you through a difficult time or can put a little extra pep in your step, we have you covered with bright programs like Shine or Hitline. For that sonic adrenaline boost, check out Concrete Beats, Kinetic or Feedback.
As for my father, he made it out of surgery and is currently on the mend. I’m hoping to visit soon but until then, I can always throw on some Damien Rice to feel connected with him. Thanks again, music!
Here are some songs that always keep me going:
UPTEMPO:
“Brave” – Kelis
“Ten-Twenty-Ten” – Generationals
“World on Fire” – The Royal Concept
“In My Eyes” – Robyn
LOW TEMPO:
“Neither Do We” – India Shawn
http://youtu.be/Rwq0JQKoSzc
“Elastic Heart ft. The Weeknd and Diplo” – Sia
“REVOFEV” – Kid Cudi
“Faith” – V V Brown
– Submitted by Tristan Bolden, Music Design