One interesting thing about the internet is how whimsical and unpredictable we can be with our comments and motivations. For me, though, my goal has evolved to be as intentional as possible. But let me caution you—when I post, it’s not always about my personal feelings, likes, or dislikes. Often, I post simply to get you to the party. Some of you comment on the most outrageous things, even though I haven’t heard from you in months or even years. So in that sense, the process is working. But this here—this is all me.
Music has always been more than just background noise in my life—it’s a reflection of my experiences, emotions, and journey. Some songs take me back to key moments of my youth, while others were companions during more challenging times. These tracks have become part of my life’s soundtrack, a reminder of who I am and where I’ve been. Here’s a look at the songs that shaped me and continue to resonate with me today.
1. “Young Turks” by Rod Stewart
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“Young Turks” pulls me back to my junior high school days at Albert Leonard Junior High. It was a time when I was bused in from disenfranchised neighborhoods to a school filled with privileged students. The contrast was stark, but those years were also filled with unforgettable experiences—like participating in school plays and being invited to house parties that felt like an escape from my everyday realities. This song became the backdrop to those moments, where I was navigating two vastly different worlds. “Young Turks” speaks to youthful rebellion and finding your own path in life, a theme that continues to resonate with me.
2. “Time Passages” by Al Stewart
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“Time Passages” is pure nostalgia. It takes me back to my younger years, when I would fall asleep with a transistor radio tucked under my pillow. Those quiet nights, listening to popular songs like this one, defined my youth. There’s something profound about the passage of time, and as I grow older, this song reminds me of the early days when life was still unfolding, full of possibility.
3. “To Sir With Love” by Lulu
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This song holds a special place in my heart, not just because of Lulu’s powerful voice, but because Sidney Poitier’s performance in To Sir, With Love drew me into the story even deeper. The song speaks to gratitude and the lasting impact one person can have on your life. It’s a tribute to the mentors and guides who have helped shape me. Every time I hear it, I’m reminded of the importance of those connections. This song has traveled with me through the years, its message of respect and admiration never fading.
4. “Where Have All The Cowboys Gone” by Paula Cole
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During my time away, up in the mountains with limited radio stations, this song became a constant. It reflects a sense of isolation and unmet expectations, themes that resonated deeply with me at the time. I was reflecting on my life, feeling disconnected, and trying to imagine how I would rebuild once I was free. The nostalgia and longing in Paula Cole’s voice mirrored my own emotions during those days.
5. “Torn” by Natalie Imbruglia
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“Torn” was my anthem during one of the most difficult periods of my life. I was dealing with the loss of my liberty, and all I could do was reflect on how I would “re-do life” once I was free. Natalie Imbruglia’s lyrics about feeling shattered and trying to move forward spoke to me on a personal level. This song reflected my own journey—piecing things together and figuring out how to move forward.
Music isn’t just something I listen to; it’s embedded in my life, shaping how I see the world and how I navigate it. These songs are more than just melodies—they’re echoes of pivotal moments in my life, reminding me of where I’ve been and where I’m headed. The beauty of music is that it’s always there to accompany us, even through the most challenging times.
