Songs That Encourage Me to Hang In There: A Personal Journey
What Is Your Favorite “Hang In There” Song?
I've written this before and I'll write it again. This could be my life song. I've faced numerous challenges throughout my life, yet I've always managed to get back up after every fall. Here's a look at some of the songs that have sustainably encouraged me through my journey.
My Life Story
Life has been a long road of ups and downs. I've experienced personal stress, physical injuries, and even faced unexpected life jolts. I've battled cancer in 1991, survived a car accident in 1967 where I twisted my right leg, and have had to adapt my drumming skills to play with my left leg. Despite these setbacks, I've never allowed anyone or anything to keep me down. These experiences have taught me resilience and the power of perseverance.
Recommended Hang In There Songs
Below are some of the songs that have resonated with me the most, encouraging me to persevere through life's challenges.
British Band Chumbawamba - 'I Wanna Be Loved'
Chumbawamba is a British band that sang this powerful song, which describes life's knockdowns and recoveries. Although repetitive, the message is compelling. This song perfectly captures the sentiment of getting back up after being knocked down, much like my own life experiences. If you're feeling down, try listening to 'I Want to Be Loved.'
Ed Sheeran - 'Perfect'
Ed Sheeran's 'Perfect' is my absolute favorite. The song's sentimental lyrics, soothing melody, and emotional delivery capture the essence of resilience. My journey with this song began when I first heard it, and it's continued to lift my spirits during difficult times. 'Perfect' reminds me that no matter how tough life gets, there's always hope and beauty in these imperfect moments.
Ill Be There - The Jackson 5, Do What You Wanna - The Jacksons, Keep The Faith - Michael Jackson
These Jackson family favorites are timeless classics. 'Ill Be There,' 'Do What You Wanna,' and 'Keep The Faith' offer messages of support, hope, and perseverance. The Jacksons have infused their music with positive energy and a strong sense of community, making these songs ideal for maintaining a positive mindset during challenging times. Listening to these songs can help you feel supported and inspired.
Control - Janet Jackson, Waterfalls - TLC, U Will Know - Black Men United BMU
Janet Jackson's 'Control' and TLC's 'Waterfalls' offer motivational messages about personal growth and overcoming obstacles. 'U Will Know' by Black Men United BMU empowers listeners with resilience and determination. These tracks encourage you to stay strong and believe in yourself, no matter the situation.
Higher Ground - Stevie Wonder, The Force Behind The Power - Diana Ross, Life Is A Song Worth Singing - Teddy Pendergrass, Wake Up Everybody - Harold Melvin and The Blue Notes, Oh People - Pebbles, Free - Prince, Unbreakable - Alicia Keys
These musical gems also serve as uplifting reminders of resilience and perseverance. Each song has a unique message, whether it's a call to action, a reminder of your worth, or a promise to stay strong through adversity. Stevie Wonder's 'Higher Ground,' Diana Ross's 'The Force Behind The Power,' Teddy Pendergrass's 'Life Is A Song Worth Singing,' Harold Melvin and The Blue Notes's 'Wake Up Everybody,' Pebbles's 'Oh People,' Prince's 'Free,' and Alicia Keys's 'Unbreakable' all offer inspiration that can help you push through difficult times.
Personal Musical Connections
Music has always played a crucial role in my emotional well-being. I have a unique connection to rap and hip-hop music, which I attribute to my Asperger's traits and synesthesia. The emotional depth and raw honesty of songs like Eminem's 'Fast Lane' move me deeply. The lyrics, the emotions, and the soft, deeply sung chorus encourage me to keep going even when life feels like it's falling apart. 'Fast Lane' resonates with me on a level that words alone can't describe. Whenever I'm facing a tough situation, I turn to this song for motivation and inspiration.
Concluding Thoughts
No matter what challenges life presents, these songs have provided me with a sense of comfort, strength, and resilience. Music has the power to transform our moods, inspire us, and give us the courage to face life's obstacles. If you're looking for songs that can uplift your spirits and encourage you to hang in there, consider incorporating these into your playlist. They may just become your own personal 'life songs' as well.
So, let's keep the faith and continue to ride the wave of life, no matter where it takes us.