A Friday Buffet
No. 021 Music as medicine and the joy of belting it out (at home).
Hello!
Sometimes you just need to belt it out. In fact, that’s what had to happen this morning. Also, it’s now March! Wow.
I double-clicked on ‘Hello, Sunshine’ (Aretha Franklin) to purchase the song (because I still buy music through iTunes) and played it on repeat for several minutes. More than several. More than three times. I just listened to, and sang along, to this excellent song over and over. I needed it! And not just because the sun was pouring in to the kitchen for the first time in days, but because sometimes one just needs to burst into song for the joy of it. It’s fun, it’s stress-relief, and it’s something I’ve enjoyed forever.
Wait, what? You didn’t know I liked singing? It’s OK. No one really does. Well, now all of you do. I’ve enjoyed singing since I was little. However, a little (but very big) thing called stage fright kept everyone from knowing this fact. My joyful noise was only heard in the comfort of my own house for only my parents and sister to witness and remains that way to this day (except now it’s in my own house and not always when Seth is around.) I think that’s one of the reasons I chose to play trumpet, and then trombone, all through school. I loved music and performing, but couldn’t get past the nerves to sing in public so I went a different route. No regrets!
I loved playing trombone in classical and jazz groups for years. It was ridiculously fun, challenging, and my favorite part of college. Music is so important to me and while my “music life” has shifted over the years, my passion for blasting my favorite tunes has only grown with time, age, and life experience.
Earlier this week, on a random night when I couldn’t be bothered with whatever home renovation show we were mindlessly watching, I decided to be the DJ of the Living Room and play a random selection of songs - very loudly - from my phone. I’m sure Seth was thrilled. ;)
As I scrolled through the music library on my phone, I randomly selected…
‘The Hallelujah Chorus’ (London Philharmonic Choir)
‘That’s Amore’ (Dean Martin)
‘Let’s Twist Again’ (Chubby Checker)
‘Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes’ (Paul Simon)
‘Girl on Fire’ (Alicia Keys)
Sometimes I just need to blast the music. And it’s quite the variety. No shame. I love everything from classical, to gospel, to Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Louis Prima, to 90s hip hop, Alicia Keys, Lady Gaga, Adele, Lizzo, modern day pop, and a little of everything in between. The music I need to hear in any given moment varies widely and I love to appreciate all of it for that very reason. But it’s almost always music that makes you feel good. That makes you feel happy, grateful, and present.
There are moments when I need to hear ‘Pennies From Heaven’ and nothing else will do. There was a period of time last summer when I listened to ‘Bills’ by LunchMoney Lewis on repeat for weeks. I loved it. I frequently turn the volume all the way up to ‘Che La Luna’ before dinner and it’s delightful.
Editor’s note: my dancing ‘skills’ are less than stellar so the dance parties that ensue with aforementioned music will always be at home, too. I’m not much of a club-goer. Save for the 6 hours of dancing to the live band at our wedding. Best night of my life. Plenty of photos, and video, if you’re interested.
So, what is with today’s ‘musical interlude’ if you will? Because music is important! And I never want to let it go. Music is crucial to the joy of life and I frequently find myself connecting to music the most when I need to enhance a moment in time, relieve some stress, or just have some freaking fun! Music is joy. Music makes me smile, sing, relax, and have a grand old time. I hope it does the same for you.
Today’s a wicked busy day, but the sun is shining, I belted out a handful of tunes while writing to you, and I pretty much turned my anxious mood upside down in the process. I’d say music did its job and I look forward to another DJ session in my living room very soon. :)
Listen now: ‘This Little Light of Mine’ (Bruce Springsteen with the Sessions Band) Man, this version of this song is incredible. So. Much. Energy! And a fabulous trombone in the mix.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to get going. Food notes, dinner recommendations, and perhaps some baking, will return next week. :)
For the record, another of my favorite songs is ‘Shout’ by the Isley Brothers. :) If that doesn’t get you up and dancing, well, I have nothing to say.
A Buffet for Today: 3/3/2023
Lots of feelings on sheet cakes. When made well, they’re pretty good!
Alex Mill’s new spring collection has arrived and I’ve added several pieces to my cart already.
Apparently shoplifting is not uncommon at Whole Foods these days…
The latest trend is to name your dog after a delicious food. Hey, why not? Tortellini is cute!
Reading this review of shoe organizers extra closely because… I have a lot of shoes.
Strongly considering Spinach and Artichoke Orzo Bake for a dinner next week.
Just for fun luxury: The Row Large Park Suede Tote Bag - for those times when only an impossibly chic, minimalist, but still functional, bag will do. And that color!
Cheers and joy,
Mollie
