by Shayli Kalmon

Created on: January 31, 2010

The binding question..what exactly is music? I don't know how other people see it, so I won't speak for them, but I will speak for myself. I have had a life with many empty spaces, where I felt as though nothing was going right. Music is what kept me going, filled the spaces, made me feel just a little more complete inside.

It seems as though every song I listen to reminds me of some event or memory from my life. Some songs have even become nearly impossible for me to listen to because they are the songs that I listened to during the rough times, or because they remind me of someone I have lost. Sometimes if you were to ask me when something occured in my life, I wouldn't know, but I will know exactly what song was on the radio, my ipod, or the song that reminds me of then, I think that goes to show how much of an impact music has had on my life.

In school, when asked to do a report, music always seemed to be the subject I would chose, whether this be a band or a member of the band. Music to me needs to be something that means something, most songs today, all the pop and rap, it seems so empty to me, meaningless. I think music was invented to make an impact, make you think, and make you feel with your heart. For me to truly love a song or artist I need to be able to put my whole heart and soul into their song(s). I need to have that feeling where my heart skips a beat because I have found something so beautiful it was able to take my breath away. Honestly, I think everything would mean nothing without music, it would be dark, and you would have nothing to give you that sense of joy as music can.

I also think music is a major mood setter, if you are feeling down, what do you listen to? A sad song. If you're feeling happy and excited? You chose that bubbly fun song that makes you feel good inside. I am an athlete, and no way can I play the game if I'm not in the mood, so if I'm feeling a little down or bummed out, I jam those headphones into my ears, and turn on those feel good songs that get me ready to go on the court every time. I don't think I would be the player I am today without the help of music.

Last but not least, one of the best things about this thing we call music, is there is no right, and there is no wrong. It's simply you, and the way you feel. Whatever beat, rythym, or sound that makes you happy, sad, angry or excited, it's simply and plainly all you it's your own and no one elses. So find what you like, get out there, and rock.

I could be in the happiest of moods, but listen to a song that reminds me of a sad time, and I could burst into tears with a moment's notice. For me, that's how strongly music effects my mood, which may not be the same for you, it differs for everyone I'm sure.

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