NP: Positive Vibration - Bob Marley

1.The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill – Lauryn Hill

This album has been my absolute favorite since I was 5 years old. Her eccentric, soulful voice and enlightening lyrics have been filling my apartment since it came out in 1998. This album begins with a soft guitar rift, as teacher calls out names in attendance; Lauryn hill is absent. The first song on the album is Lost Ones, which is by far one of my favorites; this song has gotten me through almost every breakup lol. The title kind of gives away the story behind the song, it’s about someone missing out on what a great person you are, so essentially they are the lost ones. One thing I love most about Lauryn’s music is that she empowers her listeners; whether she was singing or rapping her conscious lyrics always feel so right to whatever situation I was in. Personally, I loved her incorporation of bible verses in almost every song. I honestly can't choose a favorite because they all hold a special place in my heart, but the most influential song on the album is definitely Doo Wop. Through this song she encourages young men and women to respect and demand respect; with her beloved bar “Showing of your ass cause you thinking it's trend girlfriend, let me break it down for you again.” Teaching young women, that we don’t have to expose our bodies to be adored; so funny how some things never change. Her music is timeless and she is definitely a legend in my eyes.

2. Legend – Bob Marley

Growing up in a West Indian household it is inevitable to not have listened to Bob Marley. I often joke around and say that I've known the lyrics to his music since childbirth. Bob Marley’s music resonates such a unique and uplifting sound. What was best about his music to me was his passion, through his voice you can almost hear his emotions. Legend was a compilation album by Bob and The Wailers, made in 1984. They made what I like to call revolutionary music. During times of despair, Bob was able to capture many souls and calm the crowds with his feel good music. Starting his sounds with a funky, reggae rift and steel drums, my night would always be made. Buffalo Soldier and Slave Driver are great examples of revolutionary music. “Stolen from Africa, brought to America, fighting a arrival, fighting for survival,” a line from Buffalo Soldier that was blatant and powerful. He talked about things that didn’t want to be talked about, specifically injustices to the black race and used his influence to spread the word. But he would also make songs like Punky Reggae Party, where you can’t resist the urge to stand up and do a little sway from side to side. “It takes a joyful sound to make the world go round” one of my favorites lines from that song because music has such an influence on all of our lives. His music emphasizes peace, love and Jah, something I truly appreciate. Bob can get me out of any bad mood. You can go almost anywhere in the world and people would recognize Bob Marley. He was certainly a legend and his music will forever live on.