I wanted to share a heartfelt moment I had with my wife recently and how it applies to why I love music so much.
Recently, I found a playlist on YouTube of 1990s and 2000s 'throwback hits.' (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyjgHc47unfT3BIZo5uEt2a-2TWKy54sU) I started listening on my headphones and was instantly transported to my middle school and high school years. After a few songs, I removed my headphones so I could share each song with my wife, and we spent hours reminiscing. I was reminded of people I hadn't thought of in years and strange memories I had forgotten. Overwhelmed with mixed and unfamiliar emotions, I was taken back in time.
I love music because it attaches itself to every part of our human experience. I can't hear Chamillionaire's Ridin' without feeling the horror that a younger Brent felt during middle school dances. Tal Bachman's She's So High transports me to my first grade classroom with Mrs. Piersma. I remember listening to Backstreet Boys' Millennium CD with my blue and grey CD player in my bedroom about 1,200 times, and I remember the heartbreak when the CD no longer worked. I think of my mother when I hear Sheryl Crow. I can see and hear my parents laughing at a 2nd grade Brent singing Shania Twain's "I Feel Like a Woman." Music is so powerful, and it has helped me get through so much hurt over the years.
It was fun to listen to these old songs with my wife and see how both of us reacted to each song. Her face lit up at different songs than mine, and I couldn't help but wonder what memories she had with each song.
Music has a special place in our lives, which is why I've dedicated countless hours of my life to share the music that has moved me. I strive to help others have an emotional reaction to music.
Have you had an experience like this? Share it in the comments!