As I am currently writing another blog about my take on Assassin’s Creed. I felt I would discuss a topic I often share at the end of most of my blogs!
Music!
Music is an incredibly powerful thing. That can lock us into a moment, make us laugh, make us cry and even teach us lessons.
Listening to music can have a powerful effect on our emotions, thoughts, and even our physical health. Music can help us relax, reduce stress, and even improve our memory. It can also motivate us to be more productive, improve our mood, and even boost our immune system. Music can influence our behaviour, emotions, and overall mental health, making it a powerful tool for improving our lives.
I thought I would use this post to pull apart and explain some personal meanings to songs that have really resonated with me over the year!
While I go along in this post. I will include the songs with playable links so you can listen to them as well! Think of this as a group listen while I explain what the song could mean and how I felt it resonated with me.
Disparity By Design by Rise Against
Pretty cool right?! It’s a very heavy and very deep song. But what does it mean?
Disparity By Design by Rise Against is a song about the inequality of opportunity in society and the way that certain people are unfairly held back due to their background or the circumstances of their birth. The song explores how people are judged based on arbitrary labels that don’t reflect their true potential, and how the deck is stacked against those who don’t have the same advantages as their peers. The song is an anthem of hope, encouraging people to break down these barriers and strive to realize their full potential.
Now my interpretation is not very far off from the actual meaning. I liked to compare this song as the process of Job seeking. The lyrics discuss the unfairness of certain systems and the need for change. This can be interpreted to mean that job seekers should not give up hope and that they should keep fighting for the job they want. The song also speaks to the idea of resilience and how people can persevere despite the odds. This can be a great source of motivation for job seekers as they continue their search.
I love the lyric “like a single domino, that falls while the rest stay vertical” So simple but so powerful. It means that one event can cause a chain reaction of consequences, with each consequence following the previous one in a domino effect. The phrase is describing how a single event can cause a cascade of reactions, with each reaction following the previous one in an orderly fashion.
Waiting on the Sky to Change by Starset Ft. Breaking Benjamin
"Waiting on the Sky to Change" by Starset is a song about hope and resilience in the face of difficult circumstances. It speaks to the idea that even when things seem uncertain, there is always a chance for a better future. The lyrics express a desire for a brighter tomorrow, despite the darkness and pain of the present. The song offers a message of encouragement to not give up, to keep looking up and to keep waiting for the sky to change.
Although not as heavy as Disparity by Design. This is a song I often use to ground myself and realign myself. It’s a song that brings me back to perspective and can motivate me to go forward especially when I am in a state of depression. The song speaks to the idea of looking to the stars and dreaming of a better future. It speaks to the idea of waiting for something outside of ourselves to bring about the change we need.
Strange Days by Three Days Grace
Yes, another depressing song!
"Strange Days" is a song by Three Days Grace about struggling with feelings of loneliness and feeling disconnected from the world. The song speaks to the sense of isolation and confusion that can come with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue. It's a call to stay strong and keep pushing through the difficult times.
The song "Strange Days" by Three Days Grace has deep roots in my 2nd semester in my third year of university in 2018. I discovered the song during a particularly difficult time in my life, when I was struggling to cope with an overwhelming workload and personal issues. The song's haunting yet hopeful lyrics spoke to me of the strange and dark times I was going through, and how I was trying to make sense of it all. I felt a strong connection to the song, and it quickly became a source of comfort for me, helping me to get through the darkest days. Even now, whenever I hear it, I'm reminded of the difficult but ultimately transformative period of my life that I went through in the spring and Summer of 2018.
That lyric “Get ready for the dark age” was very eerie as it was almost foreshadowing events yet to come.
Nowadays, the meaning of the song still has personal roots in those events but the meaning to me now of the song is to be grateful for what you have and make the most of your days. It also encourages us to take a step back and appreciate the little things in life, while also looking forward to what the future holds.
Also, as a side note, if you mute the opening sequence of American Horror Story: Red Tide and play Strange Days over it, It syncs up, and I believe they should use the song going forwards.
Never Fade Away by Samurai (Cyberpunk Soundtrack)
Yes, I am a massive fanboy of the Cyberpunk 2077 video game. CD Projekt Red made a masterpiece and has cranked out some absolute bangers.
Never Fade Away is a song from the Cyberpunk 2077 soundtrack by the in-universe band Samurai. The song is a melancholic and dreamy reflection on life and its fleeting moments. The lyrics suggest that, while life may be fleeting, the memories and emotions we create in it will never be forgotten. The song speaks to the idea of finding hope and solace in the beauty of life and knowing that no matter how hard times may be, good moments will always remain. Johnny Silverhand wrote the song "Never Fade Away" to express his thoughts and feelings about life and death. He wanted to share his message that while life may come to an end, the memories and mark that a person leaves behind will never fade away. The song is a reminder to not take life for granted and to make the most of the time that we have here.
The Song Never Fade Away from Cyberpunk came at a time when I was using the game as an escape from the stresses of life and work. It was a reminder that no matter how hard things got, there was always a way to move forward. It offered a moment of respite from the quarter-life crisis I was going through, and a reminder that I had control over my own destiny. It also reignited my passion for the game and fed into the idea that I could use it as a form of creative expression, which had been a major source of comfort during my burnout. The song was a source of catharsis, a way of letting go of the past and embracing a new, positive future. It reminded me of the importance of taking the time to think and reflect on life, appreciating the beauty of the world, and never giving up on my dreams.
Numb little bug by Em Beihold
Numb Little Bug by Em Beihold is a song about feeling numb and trapped in a cycle of sadness and depression. The lyrics describe feeling isolated and alone, and longing for a way out of the darkness. The song is a reminder to take care of yourself and to seek help if needed.
This song is a very heavily emotional song, that I discovered strangely when I left my job as a content creator. In that time of job hunting when I was trying to fight for my dreams but was stuck in a very similar time to, what I am at the moment. A loop of rejection and looking for lots of little escapes to keep my mind happy. This was a time when my mental health was all over the place due to this. It would result in me diving very heavily into mindfulness and spirituality as a coping mechanism, but it perfectly reflects this.
This is a very powerful and evocative song. It speaks to the difficult emotions of job hunting and being stuck in a loop of rejection. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there are always ways to cope with our emotions and find ways to keep our minds happy. It is important to remember that even in the most difficult of times, we can find moments of peace and comfort.
I see Fire by Ed Sheeran
I See Fire by Ed Sheeran is a song about loss and the feeling of helplessness in the face of destruction. It is a reflection on the destruction caused by the Battle of the Five Armies, a major battle during the War of the Ring in J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit. The song's lyrics depict a sense of fear, sadness, and despair because of the destruction.
This Song is very meaningful to me. It was a song that reminds me of my Pop. It was actually a song that I listened to a lot on the day of my Pop’s funeral back in 2016. As It was a very sudden death. My emotions were very high at this time. Whenever it comes onto my Spotify, It reminds me of the time when I had to carry his coffin with my other 3 brothers. The song I See Fire by Ed Sheeran can be a reminder of the emptiness and confusion felt after the death of a loved one, such as a parent or grandparent. The lyrics tell a story of a person looking out and seeing a fire, which can be seen as a metaphor for the grief and loss they feel. The slow, melancholic melody and the lyrical sentiments of “I see fire inside the mountain”, “I see fire, burning the trees”, and “I see fire, hollowing souls” can all be interpreted as a metaphor for the grief and emptiness of losing a loved one. The song can bring back memories of the person, both good and bad, and remind us of how life has changed without them. It can be a reminder of the pain and confusion of living in a world without them. In this way, I See Fire by Ed Sheeran can be a powerful reminder of the loss of a loved one.
Bloodstream by Ed Sheeran
Bloodstream by Ed Sheeran is a song about the power of love and how it can transform a person. It speaks of how love can be the driving force behind making positive changes in one's life and how it can be a source of strength and courage. The song also reflects on the idea that no matter what kind of pain we go through, love is always there to help us pull through. To me, the song's overarching subject revolves around discovering these emotions while inebriated and mired in depression.
Bloodstream was always one of my favourite songs by Ed Sheeran. A personal meaning taken from Bloodstream could be that no matter how difficult things may seem, you can find the strength and courage within yourself to overcome and move forward. It can be a reminder to tap into your inner strength and resilience to create positive change in your life. Saying that brings me back to the moments before I snap. Before I fought my way into university, The difficult moments throughout High school and university, The build-up before a moment that will change everything. It even gives resonance with things that resulted in pain.
When I saw him perform this song live in Sydney during his Equals tour this year, I was overwhelmed by its power. The music was loud and intense, and I felt it in my chest and soul. Tears began to stream down my face as I was moved by the song.
Ed Sheeran made me cry, but at least I'm not alone — it looks like the whole stadium is in tears!
All I want by a Day to remember.
"All I Want" by A Day to Remember is a song about wanting to make a change in one's life and be free from the struggles of the past. The lyrics express a desire for a better life, and the chorus proclaims, "All I want is a place to call my own, To mend the hearts of everyone who feels alone " The song encourages listeners to believe in themselves and strive for a brighter future.
This song is an uplifting one. In a musical the protagonist always has a “I want” song. This song would be one that I would say is my song that reflects my passions and desires. reflects someone's passions and desires, with the knowledge and drive to work hard and manifest those dreams. The lyrics of the song express the singer's determination and willingness to put in the effort and hard work needed to make their dreams a reality. The song also reflects the idea of not giving up on your dreams and staying focused on what you want. This reflects the idea of having the passion and drive to work hard and make your dreams a reality.
I love the lyric "To keep your hopes up high and your head down low" This phrase is often used as a motivational reminder to stay positive and stay focused, even in difficult times. It encourages perseverance and resilience and is a reminder to stay optimistic and maintain a positive mindset, while also staying humble and not getting too ahead of oneself.
Lost Control by Grinspoon
Lost Control by Grinspoon is about trying to cope with growing up and dealing with all the changes and responsibilities that come along with adulthood. It talks about the struggles of trying to keep things together and not feeling like you have control over everything in life. The song also serves as a reminder to take a step back and remember to take care of yourself despite the chaos that life can bring.
Lost Control by Grinspoon is a powerful and honest song that speaks to the struggles of trying to keep life together and feeling like you have lost control. The lyrics and catchy melody express the feeling of not knowing what to do, of being overwhelmed, and of having to take a step back to regain control. The song speaks to the difficulty of facing life’s challenges and the importance of taking breaks and not taking on too much. It also speaks to the idea of letting go and not being too hard on yourself, a sentiment that is often overlooked in today’s society. The song can also be interpreted as an anthem for social drinking, and the ways in which it can lead to losing control, even though you still know yourself. It’s a reminder to take care of yourself and know your limits.
Crushcrushcrush by Paramore
"Crushcrushcrush" by Paramore is a song about using love as a weapon and manipulating someone who is in love with you. In the song, the narrator is trying to take control of the situation and use their attraction to their advantage, even if it comes off as a little cruel. The song is about not being afraid to take what you want, even if it means taking it from someone who is already in love with you. In an Interview with Haley Williams, she says it reflects the darker side of a crush When there are the lovey and happy exciting feelings and the quiet darker moments of obsession that comes with a crush.
This song is an oldie but a goodie. This, to me, reflects exactly what Haley is saying. The darker sides of a crush and how it can change us and even manipulate people to be things they aren’t. This song can also be about manipulation in general, whether in love or friendship. This is a song that relates more to my teenage self, with crushes and infatuation and even moments of my early twenties. If anything, this song can be a darker reflection of thoughts we wouldn’t always want to share with others.
High Road by Three Days Grace
Yes, this song is yet again quite an angsty song! It's quite nostalgic for me!
High Road by Three Days Grace is a song about taking the high road and remaining strong in the face of adversity. The song encourages listeners to stay positive and to keep striving forward, despite whatever challenges life throws their way. The lyrics convey a message of resilience and hope, reminding us that life can be difficult, but that there is always a way to overcome those difficulties.
My personal interpretation of the song “High Road” by Three Days Grace is that it is a reflection of the relationship between me and my father. The lyrics express feelings of frustration and anguish due to the lack of understanding and communication between us. The metaphors of roads can be interpreted as the journey of our relationship, which has not been an easy one.My dad has always been involved in transport and logistics, but he never really tried to understand my goals and ambitions. He didn’t want me to go to university or even finish year 12. This disconnection between us caused a lot of tension, leading to a distant relationship. Later on I found out that I could have been an ‘accidental baby’, which added to the emotional strain between us. The song “High Road” embodies my experience with my dad, and I can relate to the lyrics as they express my frustrations with our relationship. The song is a reminder to me that when the going gets tough, it’s important to stay strong and take the high road. It’s a reminder to never give up and to keep striving for what I believe in.
Dark of You by Breaking Benjamin
Dark of You by Breaking Benjamin is a song about facing the darkness that lies within oneself and trying to overcome it. It speaks of the internal struggle between good and evil, and how it can be difficult to choose the right path. The lyrics express the idea that everyone has darkness inside, but it's up to them to choose how to use it.
Dark of You has a lot of different meanings associated with it. It doesn’t have one moment or a few that invokes a memory like the others. I feel this song is one I often come back to. It is a song for me about anger. How we are all capable of light and dark due to the nature of duality in humans. I can say this song invokes moments of quiet anger before a storm strikes and something begins. It also invokes feelings of hopelessness and almost gives up on dreams due to the wicked ways of the world.
Darkness Before the Dawn by Caleb Hyles Ft. Lacey Sturm
The song is about not giving up and continuing to fight through the darkness and struggles in life, even when it feels like there is no hope. It's a reminder that, even when things seem bleak, there is always light on the other side of the tunnel and a brighter future ahead. The song speaks to the idea that, even when it seems like everything has gone wrong, the dawn will eventually come and offer a new start.
I love the lyrics of the chorus as it always manages to invoke a feeling of hope and the vulnerability of a dream and wanting to manifest something from nothing.
“So, I pray for a change to begin inside For the courage to not run and hide Is it shame, is it fеar that controls my mind? When I wake, I can't tell what is right from thе wrong But no matter what happens I must carry on In the darkness before the dawn.” is speaks of the struggles of life and the need to have the courage to face the difficult times. The song is urging the listener to stay strong and have faith that things will get better. It is also a reminder that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and that no matter how hard the struggles are, one must keep going.
Writing this reflection on the themes commonly discussed in this blog has been an incredibly thought-provoking experience. Music can have such a profound effect on our emotions and thoughts, and it's amazing how music can help us cope with difficult situations, reduce stress, and even improve our mental health. It's also interesting to see how different songs can evoke different feelings and meanings, and how the same song can mean something different to different people. This experience has reminded me of the importance of taking the time to reflect on the music we listen to and how it can impact our lives in so many ways. Music can be an incredibly powerful tool in helping us to cope with life's struggles and it can be a source of comfort and motivation.
Most of the songs featured had some themes that were very similar to each other, almost reflecting each other, and could even tell a story. It can also be a little bit of a look into my own psyche. In a way, I would love to know how you would interpret these songs as well!
I may do another of these types of blogs in the future.