If any of you are like me, then music has been a huge impact on your life.
Whether that impact stems from music literally saving your life or it inspiring you. Music has impacted everyone's life. It can uplift someone's day or give that person a great soundtrack to workout to. And I know that those who workout have a playlist, it's just a must at this point. You have to admit that music has power over what many believe and help others to express themselves without them having to say a single word. But, how exactly is music powerful?
I believe music is a powerful tool because you can connect to what that artist is trying to sing/rap about. For example, if you are going through a terrible breakup, then you know there is a song to help you cope with your feelings. If you want to feel down in the dumps (which is okay) then a song like "I'm A Mess" by Anthony Hamilton is a must.
If you want to get up and contemplate an assault on the former partner then songs like, "10 Seconds" by Jazmine Sullivan, "I Should Have Cheated" by Keyshia Cole and finally a classic "Tyrone" by Erykah Badu are some great ones.
Music isn't just for the heartbreaks it can also let the artist express their feelings on certain issues like social injustice, women's rights or social issues. It isn't too hard to find music that tackles social issues and if you need an example then just look at Kendrick Lamar's albums, "To Pimp A Butterfly" and "DAMN." Artists all over are trying to contribute to various causes around the world and music does that.
Music can bring individuals together for one cause. This is seen in the song, "We Are The World," which is a classic as well. When artists express their views on issues then the fans and the masses have a familiar voice speaking to them on these issues. It is up to that individual to go and seek for change if they feel compelled by the song.
Compelling someone to change their lives through music is amazing to me. One song that has impacted a lot of people's lives for the better is "1-800-273-8255" by Logic featuring Alessia Cara and Khalid.The song title is the Suicide Prevention Hotline phone number and the song has such a great message of saying your life matters and if you need help then people are here for you. I think Logic did a great job in portraying such a message through music. Some people are scared to talk on this subject, but I have noticed that hip-hop does not stray away from it.
There have been songs like "There's A Lot Going On" by Vic Mensa that speaks on suicide. The lyrics go, "The violence and the lies slipped suicide into my mental health. I did acid in the studio one day and almost killed myself." These lyrics go deep into Mensa's psyche as he contemplated suicide. Another song that comes to mind is The Notorious B.I.G's "Suicidal Thoughts." I think you can imagine what this song is about. Moving to a lighter subject, music is powerful because we center our entire day around it.
What do I mean when I say our entire days are centered around music? Think about what you did today or yesterday. If you drove to work or school, then you most likely listened to the radio. When you got to work, you probably played music if your boss allows that. You go out to eat somewhere. I promise you that a restaurant is playing background music.
Going back home, then you are listening to music. Throughout the day you are dropping music references without even noticing it. If you are like me when you walk to class then you have headphones in your ears blasting music. And of course, we are singing in the shower. Now, you see what I am talking about? Music is all around us whether we notice it or not.
Music can just add to an experience. An average car ride can turn into a personal concert when music is involved. And I can't be the only one that turns into a professional singer when I get into my car. Movies have soundtracks to add to the film and it would feel weird if we didn't have music in our movies nowadays. Music can also add an experience to a church service. Music does something to everyone from every walk of life.
In our society today, music is a tool that is effective. It is a way of conveying one's message. Not to mention, it can bring a party to life if you have the right playlist of course. Music is powerful and has brought insight and change around our world. It leaves a lasting impact on us and the ones around us. So, next time you go about your day, just take notice of how much music has influenced your daily life.
