What is it about kids? They make such offhanded comments sometimes which really smack you right between the eyes.
Miss N (after I spontaneously burst into song at a TV commercial) “What’s the matter with you mum?? You haven’t sung in ages”.
You haven’t sung in ages. Wow.
Never thought hearing that would make me realise just how old and boring I have become.
I always used to sing. In the car, along with the radio, in the shower, into peoples’ faces. Always. I always had music on.
“Pick something singy”!! I’d say.
I totally get it though. I’ve not been singing for ages.
Why?
Not really sure. Just too stressed I guess. Too far engrossed in life. Far too boring.
When Miss N was born, I obviously was far too loud far too often, as our newly arrived neighbor came to introduce himself and asked if I would come and sing for his band that played at the RAAF base on the weekends. I was mortified.
The one and only time I ever sang in front of people, it was a nightmare. So bad I can’t bear thinking or talking about it to this day. I just keep remembering the looks of the pink ladies in the front row and knowing I had totally fucked up and ruined someone’s day.
Absolutely horrific.
So, thanks, but that’s a no, to singing in public, ever, ever again.
However, there is something awesome & special about music. I don’t think there is anything else on the planet with the power to provoke so many emotions in a single human.
Have you ever noticed how you choose to listen to music as a means of emotion regulation? You probably don’t even know you do it. Feeling sad? Instinctively you pick a sad song. Feeling happy? upbeat stuff it is. Angry? I need a kickass drum beat.
It’s also a perfect way of sharing thoughts and emotions with others if words fail you. Like making a mix tape for a school crush. (no, I never…)
I read an article the other day which said that (all very scientific so I’m breaking it down here) when we like or appreciate a piece of music, its because our brain can process the underlying structure and can predict what will happen next. So basically, what makes music pleasant to listen to is the creation of expectations. Apparently, this expectation activates the reward system in your brain, stimulating the release of dopamine and effectively giving you a musical climax. Gives the term “I totally got off on that song” an entirely new meaning.
So what have we learned today? In order to not be old and boring, you need to sing like no ones’ listening (just hope your neighbours don’t hear you).
Just Be You, Everyday
