My Favorite Songs and the Stories Behind Them

Music has been a constant companion throughout my life, from the early days of Elvis Presley to the profound works of Nobuyuki Tsujii. Today, I want to share some of my favorite songs and the reasons why they have touched me in such a meaningful way.

Feelin' by Van Halen

Feelin' by Van Halen, released on their 1996 album Balance, is often associated with times of sadness and grief in my life. During a particularly difficult period marked by a nasty divorce and a desire to escape reality through alcohol, this song resonated deeply with my feelings. The lyrics Feelin', feelin' deep inside, feelin' over and over again capture the emotional turmoil of those trying times. For me, it’s a song that encapsulates a sense of shared emotional struggle and honesty.

Through the Fire by Chaka Khan

A personal connection and a standout in my collection of beloved songs is Through the Fire by Chaka Khan, released in 1984. This song’s powerful and uplifting nature has made it a favorite the moment I first heard it. It carries a message of resilience and perseverance, perfectly aligning with my own experiences and outlook on life. Whenever I feel down, listening to this song brings me back to a place of strength and determination.

Beatles and Bob Dylan

Born and raised with the Beatles, two songs hold a special place in my heart: Oh, Darlin' is a variant of Come Together, and Let It Be. These tracks represent a form of stability and peace that has been with me since childhood. Additionally, Bob Dylan's Masters of War is often cited as one of the best non-Beatles songs. This melancholic and powerful song resonates with me deeply, speaking to themes of war and loss in a way that is both profound and moving.

Elvis Presley: A Musical Pillar

Elvis Presley was the first pop artist I heard, thanks to my childhood neighbor's enthusiasm for the King. Despite switching tastes to Cliff Richard in my youth, I have always returned to Elvis. His music has consistently brought comfort and joy to my life. Whether it's his first hit Are You Lonesome Tonight or other classic tracks, Elvis is a true icon and a favorite among my musical memories.

The Evolution of My Musical Taste

As a former DJ and a lifelong music lover, my music collection spans a wide range of genres. From classical masterpieces to the unique sounds of Mongolian throat singing, each song has a story. Two standout tracks that consistently make it into my playlists are Jackson Browne's The Loadout/Stay and Robbie Robertson's Somewhere Down the Crazy River. The former reminds me of my time as a DJ and in theater, invoking memories of a passionate era in my life. The latter is a perfectly crafted piece of music that stays with you, no matter how many times you listen.

The Works of Nobuyuki Tsujii

One of the most recent additions to my playlist—a song that has blown my mind—is Nobuyuki Tsujii's Elegy for the Victims of the Tsunami of March 11, 2011. This piano composition is such a masterpiece that it can be described as an elegy for both the victims of the disaster and anyone who has experienced loss. The track is not just a musical piece but a poignant piece of art that speaks to the essence of human emotion. Tsujii's expressions and delivery, despite his impaired state, create a memorable and sorrowful message, bringing me to tears every time I listen to it. It is a powerful reminder of the impact music can have in times of tragedy.

Through these songs, I have found solace, inspiration, and a deep sense of connection. Music, in its most profound forms, has the power to touch our souls and bring us closer to shared human experiences. If you're a music lover like me, I invite you to discover the stories and emotions behind your favorite songs. The journey is infinitely rewarding.