In one’s life, there is bound to be ups and downs. There are so many occasions of happiness and celebrations as well as sadness, anger and turmoil. In my opinion, music reflects all kinds of feelings and emotions that people on this earth have. It speaks out to us and is there when we need comfort and assurance. I believe that music is a powerful force and its power affects all aspects of people’s lives. It influences their attitudes and ideas towards living their lives and being part of this world.
There have been many occasions where music has come to peoples’ aid in making decisions and overcoming difficult situations. I believe that music has even saved lives. The lyrics in songs can reach out to music listeners and make them reflect upon the words and meanings. Lets take for instance Elton John’s song for Princess Diana when she passed on in 1998. He had written that song especially for her and entitled it “England’s Rose”. That song had helped many people, not only those in England overcome their grief over her death but as well as all over the world. Shortly after Princess Diana’s death, Mother Theresa too had passed on. Sir Elton John’s song was also used for her. Tragedies have occurred over the years and there have been so many songs to aid the world cope and calm themselves.
In an article I once read written in the American Psychological Association newsletter about a year ago, it was statistically and scientifically proven that songs by music artiste Enya have reduced the stress level of the many people who listen to her album. I would totally agree as I have listened to music by Enya and it indeed gave me a sense of serenity and peace. Therapists are even recommending her music to their patients.
Nationalism is also being promoted by the music industry. This can be clearly seen after the September 11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York that shocked the entire world. Shortly after, music artistes from all over the world came together for a performance in tribute to the lives of the heroes and the victims as well as their families who suffered. Their performance was not only a one time event but has been on going, raising funds for the restoration of the damaged buildings in New York City and the victims. By doing so, our young especially, are uniting and becoming more aware of the necessity of being united regardless race, nationality or religion. Music programmes like MTV(Music Television) are helping impose the importance of nationalism in their programmes and through the artistes that they showcase.
Many of our young, especially teenagers which are the next generation take music seriously. The various singers and bands influence them greatly and thus, they look up to them as role-models. Teenagers goes through puberty and many obstacles before they reach adulthood. Researchers have found that music affect their moods. When they are down and having a hard time coping with a situation, the music they listen to help a lot. Music with lyrics that are enriching and encouraging can change their lives. After listening to the music albums or songs on the radio, they relate to the lyrics. The lyrics basically talk to the listener and reach out to them, telling him or her things like ‘everything will be okay’ and the ‘life goes on’. In some songs, it even tells them that education is important or that life is worth living. This is extremely important especially for certain teenagers who feel isolated a lot and have lack of family attention.
With all that being said, I think that music does have a practical use and its value will go on for many years to come. Music is a reflection of both men’s souls, dreams, and desires and a force to change men and nation.
