I view music as a gateway to the soul as it serves as a universal language that enhances our life physically and spiritually. Thousands of years ago, music started to be used for social bonding, communication, and religious practices. Its importance has only grown as the dopamine one gets from listening to music can reduce stress, improve moods, better sleep quality, and so much more. Here are some songs that raise my dopamine levels, and possibly yours too.
“Gimmie All Your Love” by Alabama Shakes
The vibrant, bright, and sharp tonality of this song creates an unique experience each time it is listened to. The mixture of Alabama’s electrifying voice, the drums, and guitar forms a sensation that makes you feel every emotion. The band initiates the song with a slow, mellow verse that eventually rises to build tension for the explosive chorus. Personally, this song resides with me especially when I feel out of place as it brings me back to good times.
“Me in 20 Years” by Moses Sumney
Sumney is a staple in my music rotation because he sings aloud what I think in my head. This song explores the unknowns of future self-reflection. The lyrics and instrumentals immerse you in a longing feeling, not just for answers, but for more time. Sumney uses incredible metaphors to pose questions to his future self and repetition to express how he strongly desires acceptance. This song calms me as it reminds me that I am not the only one nervous for what is to come.
“Cinderella” by Mac Miller
Mac Miller has remained one of my top artists for many years. Miller orients his music around vulnerable authenticity and emotional evolution which gives his audience a chance to connect their realities to his. Captivating musical dynamics are used to make this song one I have to sing along with everytime.Through my perspective, this song highlights the excitement from fleeting moments with your loved ones. Miller’s line of, “I’ve been waiting all year for this moment,” (along with the following verse) reminds me that I have to live in the present moment because realities can be shattered if expectations are too high.
“Superstar (feat. Matthew Santos)” by Lupe Fiasco
In this song, Fiasco and Santos primarily write about the struggle of being a human with fears while also being a “superstar” that has to satisfy the public. Even though I am not a largely idolized figure, to me, the main message of this piece is to be prepared for the struggles that come with achieving big things. With large achievements comes anxieties and fears that the universe will try to make you yield to. It is important to be unwavering and not let the “spotlights here burn holes through the stage,” as said by Fiasco.
“Young Folks” by Peter Bjorn and John
I am a lady that loves to feel her music, but also to dance to it. The upbeat drumming, whistling, and conversational-like singing in this song builds a nostalgic atmosphere for me that I cannot help but feel happy in. Peter Bjorn and John sing about the fatigue of dealing with personal relationships but even more about the euphoric feeling of finding a genuine connection with someone new. This song makes me wish that I can forever be young and dance with the people I love.
