What’s In A Song?
Leaning back in my office chair, I pressed play and positioned myself to write. The concept was there, but as soon as the first chord was played my mind instantly wandered and I found myself submerged in a familiar (yet long forgotten) place.
I’m sure you can all relate to those moments when a melody resounds and you’re instantly transported back to a particular place, memory or person. As the beautiful tension in the introduction of ‘Perth’ by Bon Iver rang out, I began to recall the moments of peace I had found in this melody. Moments of pressure in the middle of assignment writing, moments of sadness and moments of contentment. Whether I was in the car, at my family home or driving the exhaustingly beautiful commute to work, I found comfort in this song. My travelling playlist wasn’t just background noise; it was fuel for my spirit.
My first revelation of the power of a song was on a weekend away at Worship Academy. One of the tutors delivered a moving seminar on this topic. Hearing someone explain the power of singing confirmed that those moments when I was so moved by a melody were already spoken of in the Bible and could also be explained through science. This wasn’t some ‘fluffy’ experience; it’s a demonstration of the influence that music can have. I wonder if you’ve experienced the same?
Many musicians are aware of the power of music and the way it can stir your spirit. What they may not be aware of is the fact that music has been a part of our make-up ever since we were created. In fact, we are only a part of the orchestra that sings out in praise to God. Did you know that the stars, the trees and even the crickets make beautiful melodies? Science has only explained what was written in Psalm 148:3–5:
Praise Him, sun and moon, praise Him all you shining stars! Praise Him, you highest heavens, and you waters above the heavens! Let them praise the name of the Lord! For he commanded and they were created.
In the same way that our response to music and our preferences are subjective, the way it impacts is also an individual experience. I was listening to UCB radio and they were telling the heart-warming story of an elderly man with Alzheimer’s disease. He lived a secluded life. He was mute and rarely looked up from his wheelchair. A nurse thought to provide him with some headphones and an iPod and he listened to the music he used to play as a young musician. Within minutes this man experienced the same euphoria from his youth and was able to really live again. His spirit was revived. I believe he was awakened in a way that no amount of therapy could have provided. The power of this song, to him, meant that he didn’t have to live the rest of his earthly life sitting in a wheelchair, disconnected from any sort of joy or passion.
I find this an inspiring reminder. How many of us, despite being in good health, live as though we are disconnected from the sweet, soul-awakening moments? This could apply to nature, art, philosophy, music and so on.
I began writing by reflecting on a rather melancholic experience. I have had just as many joyful moments listening to songs that rekindled my faith and reminded me of wonderful times. I’ve played and sung songs that have lifted me up and inspired me. Perhaps you need to take some time out to appreciate the power of a song?
