The Essential Albums and Songs That Define My Life in Music

This is a personal journey through the albums and songs that have shaped my life in music.

Prince and Purple Rain

One cannot discuss the most impactful artists and songs in my life without mentioning Prince and his legendary album Purple Rain. A soundtrack to a movie from 1984, "Computer Blue", a song from the film's soundtrack, is one of my favorites. This selection, along with other tracks from the album, resonates deeply due to its intricate and melodic composition. Prince's music is often complex and layered, and his influence on my musical journey is significant.

Cardiacs and Musical Intricacy

My introduction to Cardiacs came when I first listened to their album "On Land And In The Sea". Since then, my appreciation for their songs has only grown. The musical composition is a true testament to their skill, with intricate time signatures and melodies that keep me engaged. My favorite track from the album is "The Duck And Roger". Another remarkable performance from Cardiacs is their live version of "The Duck And Roger" from the Mares Nest Tour. This live recording captures the band's raw talent and energy.

AC/DC and Classic Rock

At the tender age of 10 years old, my life was forever changed by my aunt introducing me to AC/DC’s "Back In Black". The album’s opening track, "You Shook Me All Night Long", became a hallmark of my early rock listening experience. Despite now being 48 years old, a day doesn't go by without my replaying this classic. The album's influence has stayed with me through the years, and my annual dose of classic rock remains a cherished tradition.

Young Adult Transitions

As a preteen and now into my early 20s, the musical landscape has shifted but consistently defined by a few key artists. TobyMac, DC Talk, Lifehouse, Maroon 5, Avril Lavigne, and Skillet are some of the bands that have stood the test of time. However, among these, the song that has stood out the most is "She Will Be Loved" by Maroon 5, which remains an enduring favorite since I first heard it in my preteen years.

Legendary Albums and Songs

Some artists never depart from the forefront of my musical consciousness. For instance, Quicksilver Messenger Service, a band known for their participation in the Summer of Love, is a significant part of alternative rock history. Their contribution to rock opera "Jesus Christ Superstar" remains a powerful and timeless piece of art.

Robert Zimmerman, more famously known as Bob Dylan, has been a constant in my life since my childhood. His album "The Times They Are A-Changin'" from 1964 is more than just a record; it's a reflection of my era's change and evolution. It is a musical journey that is timeless and relevant.

Modern Musical Influences

Though I am 17 in the 12th grade, the world of music continues to surprise and captivate me. Since my junior year in high school, Migos has been a major influence, their intricate wordplay and energetic performances adding a modern flair to my musical tastes. Additionally, the two songs from the Transformers movie soundtrack — "Scorponok" by The Black Eyed Peas and "Arrival to Earth" by Cypress Hill — have also left a lasting impression. These tracks, along with Linkin Park’s "Faint", continue to be highlights from my mid-to-late teens.

Timeless Favorites

It's also worth mentioning the musician who has been a constant since I was 6 years old, the Beatles, and their album "Revolver". The song "Tomorrow Never Knows" and the incredibly complex "Eleanor Rigby" have become benchmarks of my love for complex and intricate music. In the same vein, the album "Tommy" by The Who, which I discovered at 8 years old, has been a steady presence, reflecting the artistry and depth that resonates with me even after 43 years.

James Taylor's Enduring Influence

Finally, there is James Taylor, whose influence reaches back to my childhood. His second album, which includes all its songs, has been a significant part of my musical journey. The song "Fire and Rain" carries a unique blend of charm and complexity, making it one of the most memorable tracks in my life.

Music has been, and continues to be, a vital part of my life, shaping my experiences, moods, and perspectives. Each album and song represents a moment in time, a memory or a feeling that endures. Whether it's Prince, Cardiacs, AC/DC, or James Taylor, the music I've listened to over the years has shaped me in ways both large and small.