The Power of Music to Change Lives
Listening to music calms me and brings me joy; what does it do for you?
Along with reading and writing, listening to music is one of my favorite things to do. Depending on my mood and the music I choose to listen to, I can calm my anxious mind, focus on my work, or go from feeling sad and weary to joyful and energized. Music is also a welcome companion when I am alone and don’t want to sit in silence dwelling on my fears.
How does music affect you? What kind of music do you like to listen to? I’ll share some of my favorites, and I hope you’ll do the same in the comments. Maybe each of us will discover new music we love and would not have found otherwise!
Morning Music That Calms Me
My morning routine includes journaling while listening to music. I have two favorites: Pachebel’s Canon in D and Native American Flute Music. Currently, I play this YouTube video each morning as I journal. The video shows an idyllic nature scene, with lots of greenery surrounding water flowing over rocks, and combines the sounds of nature with Native American Flute Music.
It has a wonderful calming effect on me and helps me start my day in a good mental state.
Music Throughout My Day
I don’t watch much television, or even want to hear it in the background. It distracts me when I am researching or writing an article, and the content of many TV programs disturbs me.
However, unlike many writers, I don’t need to shut out all noise to be able to focus. I actually find it easier to concentrate and more fun to write when I have music playing in the background. Classic or soft rock is on most of the day; among my many favorites are Elton John, Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, U2, Chicago, Cyndi Lauper, Fleetwood Mac, Journey, and The Eagles.
I am happier and more productive when I listen to music.
My Ultimate Go-To Music
I have been a fan of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band since I was in high school. I’m now 53 and still buy every new album and attend every concert I possibly can. I also own concert DVDs I watch whenever I need an infusion of joy and positive energy.
While I lived in Hawaii, I flew to California for the sole purpose of seeing them perform live. It was the only time I’ve been in the pit (area closest to the stage) and the best night of my entire life.
The ringtone on my cell phone when my husband calls is this phrase from Bruce’s song Born to Run: “Wendy, let me in, I want to be your friend, I want to guard your dreams and visions.”
Bruce’s music speaks to me in a way that nothing else does. His extensive catalog of songs includes at least one that suits my every mood or helps me get out of it and feel the way I want to feel. Here’s a video of him and the band performing one of my favorite songs, Badlands.
Now It’s Your Turn
I’ve shared some of my favorite music, and how I benefit from listening to it. Music has always been an important part of my life. It calms me, helps me get things done, and brings me joy.
Now I want to hear from you. What kind of music do you listen to, and how does it affect you? Is there a particular singer or band that has been your favorite for many years? Bonus points if you include links so it’s easier for the rest of us to check out the music you listen to!
Hi Wendi! I'm a new reader (found you through Substack Writer's Office Hours) and I also have music playing all day long. :) Most of the day I'm either listening to mantra music (Snatam Kaur, Simrit and the like), soft, meditative music or show tunes. Mantras and musicals are my favorite genres. My version of your Bruce Springsteen is Blues Traveler. Been a fan for 35 years. Looking forward to continuing to read what you share here! 💖
Hi Wendi,
Thanks for sharing your favorite music, it's really a joy seeing how music can uplift and make our lives better. I like to listen to mellow pop and more catchy songs but sometimes I like a little oldies (Bee Gees, Adele Make you feel my love and Spice Girls as those are something my mom used to play when I was younger... I am planning to get a piano keyboard in my apartment to play my favorite songs when I have the time too.