My son has often asked me, “Why do you listen to that song if it makes you cry?” or “Isn’t that just a sad song, why listen to it?” Well, tonight I pondered that question in depth. See, I was having a particularly hard night watching my Mom. I have been spending more and more time taking care of her as she suffers along with her Parkinsons and other ailments. Some days are harder than others and being only a year since my Father, her lifetime partner of over 55 years passed away it seems that tonight was one of those unbearable ones for me. Tonight as I drove home from putting her into bed and making sure she was safe and sound as the caregiver arrived, I searched the radio for a song to listen to. Many of my favorites came on but I was in search of a special song. My son would have called it “A SAD SONG” but what I call it is a friend, waiting for me with open arms to soothe my soul. I think the reason people listen to so called sad or depressing songs is because it helps us feel that someone else has gone through what we are going through. It tells us that we are not alone. It comforts us and reminds us that we can get through this hard time, just as they did and now they share their words for us to hear.
See, that is what I think Music is for me. The true friend who is there for me in good times, in bad times, when I am in need of comfort or maybe inspiration or just a big high five. Whatever mood I am in, there is a song to complement it and I appreciate music for being part of my life. I couldn’t imagine the silence of the world without music. So, I have to share what the song was that I did come across tonight… Scanning the XM channels and then the radio stations, my short 1.5 mile drive was almost over as I turned the corner to my house. Only five houses away and then, the familiar words rang out on the radio, ” Cause from the lips of some old singer We can share the troubles we already know” Yes, none other than Elton John with “Sad Songs (Say So Much)”. I couldn’t have written the scene more beautifully if it weren’t true. I parked in the driveway and listened to the whole song and just my eyes were filled with tears, a smile crept on my face. I realized everything was going to be okay and I too will get through this hard time. Here are the lyrics to that song. Bernie Taupin, I can’t thank you enough for such wonderful words!
And ironing out the rough spots
Is the hardest part when memories remain
And it’s times like these when we all need to hear the radio
`Cause from the lips of some old singer
We can share the troubles we already know
Turn on those sad songs
When all hope is gone
Why don’t you tune in and turn them on
Just feel their gentle touch
When all hope is gone
Sad songs say so much
When every single word makes sense
Then it’s easier to have those songs around
The kick inside is in the line that finally gets to you
and it feels so good to hurt so bad
And suffer just enough to sing the blues
Sad songs, they say
Sad songs, they say
Sad songs, they say so much
So for all of you that are suffering through a hard time or feeling pain or doubt about your world, turn on the radio or pull out your favorite CDs. It will be okay and your true friend will be there to touch your soul and make you smile for another day. For now, take a listen and enjoy “Sad Songs”. This video was from 1984 and you can really hear the perfection of Elton John’s voice.
Peace and love and Music to you all,
Marisol
a beautiful piece of writing, and music has always done the same thing for me
Truer words have never been spoken about music. If I am sad i search for a sad song too. it really comforts me and it isn’t to get sadder, just to feel better. Isn’t that funny how that works. thanks for this