The Highs of Music: Transformative Power Through Sound
Music is often associated with the highs of life, whether it's the euphoria felt while dancing or the soulful relaxation during a quiet moment. But delve deeper into the question, 'Is there music that gets you high?' and you'll find a vast array of genres, voices, and emotions that can take you on a journey like no other. This exploration into the transformative power of sound reveals how music can touch the core of our being, offering both an emotional and consciousness high.
The Versatility of Music
Music's ability to touch us profoundly is undeniable. My curiosity about the nature of this high has led me to explore various genres and artists. I love guitar in all its forms—Blues, metal, country, classical, and rock. Each style carries a unique voice and emotional resonance. Just the sound of a great guitar, piano, or violin can transport you to a different emotional landscape.
When the world feels overwhelming or you are in a low state, a well-chosen musical track can be a balm. All you need is a simple YouTube search for 'great guitar', 'great piano', or 'great violin' to find something that can surprise and move you. Embrace the unknown and step into the mind of someone else through their music. It's a guaranteed way to feel invigorated, much like experiencing a natural high.
Musical Transformation through Deep Listening
Going beyond the emotional high, there's a profound sense of transformation that music can provide. For instance, listening to Alban Berg's string quartet can bring a hyper awareness to the music's intricate melodies and harmonies. It's a journey of deep listening that transcends simple pleasure and becomes a transformative experience. In the same vein, Johann Sebastian Bach's Matthew Passion fills the listener with awe and a sense of light, reminding us of the beauty that can touch us deeply.
Personal Experience: At this very moment, I am listening to TOOL and it's making me feel high without being on anything. The music itself is powerful, carrying me away into a realm where thoughts and emotions merge seamlessly. It's a reminder that sometimes, the music itself is enough to elevate the spirit.
Introspective Devotion: Music and Spirituality
Music can also be a form of spiritual connection. As a devotee of Lord Shiva, I find that any song related to him touches my heart and carries me away. My favorites include Shiv Tandava Stotram, Shiv Shiv Shiv Shiv, Bhala, Namo Namo, Mai Shiv Hoon, and shiv kelashon ke wasi. These hymns and mantras carry a profound spiritual energy that renews my soul and brings a sense of peace and relaxation.
Such music serves as more than just entertainment; it can be a gateway to a higher state of consciousness. By chanting and singing these hymns, I find myself immersed in a spiritual consciousness that fosters a sense of inner peace and connection to the divine.
Fun and Educational: The Power of Music
Music isn't just about deep emotions and spirituality; it can also be fun and educational. A classic example is the song 'Marijuana' recorded by the Fugs in 1968. It's a simple recitation of various marijuana-related terms, but it's both fun and informative. Another notable example is 'I Couldn't Get High' also by The Fugs, a playful and humorous take on the search for a high.
These songs, much like the process of transformation through deep listening, remind us of the multifaceted nature of music. They offer both joy and knowledge, pushing us to explore the depths of our own experiences and emotions.
So, the question is not just whether music can get you high but how it can elevate you to a higher state of being. Whether it's the deep emotional resonance, the spiritual journey, or the simple joy of a fun and educational track, music has the power to transform.
Embrace the highs of music, step into the mind of the composer, and let the sounds carry you away. The experience is a voyage that can truly get you high, both emotionally and spiritually.