Tuesday Tunes

In an effort to keep this blog marginally on track with content that actually resembles music commentary, I'm launching a new weekly feature: Tuesday Tunes. Basically, in this feature, I will discuss the finer points of whatever song I can't seem to get out of my head each week. Some songs will be anthems for various life circumstances, others simply catchy melodies or tunes that have inspired moving video interpretations. Regardless, the music will receive proper recognition for the niche it fills and the emotional experience it brings to countless listeners.

To get the ball rolling, I'll start with one of my long-time anthems: Sugarland's "Something More." If you're not familiar with the song (or if you just want to re-visit its aural awesomeness), you can listen here. Pay particular attention to the lyrics and Jennifer Nettles' delivery of each word and note. While, on the surface, the song speaks to drifting souls (those who are still searching for, seeking a purpose), even individuals who enjoy contented, fulfilled lives can appreciate and identify with the yearning, wonder, and resolution of the song's central character.

I suspect we all have had and will have moments when we feel as if there must be more that we can get out of life. What I find so interesting and inspiring about this song is the idea that we don't have to accept mediocrity. We can indeed make our own happiness and build whatever life we want. I am particularly intrigued by the underlying commentary about corporate culture and its ability to rob people of truly fulfilling experiences. When Nettles sings, "I could work my life away, but why? I've got things to do before I die...," I am reminded of how so many Americans accept the notion that a job defines a person. They become so consumed by finishing tasks, producing more with less, and winning the proverbial rat race that they miss their own lives completely in the quest to achieve goals that were never theirs to begin with. It is refreshing to hear a song that encourages one to imagine the opposite scenario: a life not taken for granted, but instead filled with profound moments of thoughtfulness, adventure, simplicity, and bliss.

What makes the song a hopeful anthem is the bridge. This is my favorite part. Just a few, simple lines give the listener confidence that a better life is realistic and achievable. "Some believe in Destiny, and some believe in Fate. But I believe that Happiness is something we create. You best believe that I'm not gonna wait..." The lines suggest that with a little faith and some determination, any life is possible. The bridge provides a clarity of thought that reminds people to choose their own fulfillment and do whatever makes them truly happy. Regardless of whether the listener is already fulfilled or still searching for purpose, the bridge's sentiment is uplifting. It challenges people to create the best life they can imagine.

Overall, I applaud the song's construction, depth, and inspiration. It will be on my personal anthem list indefinitely as a constant reminder that life is what we make of it.

Be brave. Take chances. Live.