Some songs have a way of sticking with you throughout life. They have a way of taking you back to the memories of a younger time. For some, it’s the meaning behind the lyrics. For others, it could be the instrumentals or the rhythm of the beat. But whatever does it for you, we all have them, and I thought it was time to share a few of the ones that really take me back.
Since it’s only natural to wonder which ones are my favorites, I thought I’d break it down this way. Today I’m going to list my favorite 5 songs that take me back to my adolescent years. Tomorrow I’ll list the 5 songs that have meant the most since I graduated from high school. And finally, I disclose the grand-prize winner – the song that moves me more than any other song I’ve ever heard.In no particular order – the best songs from my adolescent years:
1) D.O.A. (1971) by Bloodrock: most of you have never heard this song before. If you have, then you either hate it or love it. There is no middle ground. This song takes me back to summer cruises around town with my older brother. It’s a combination of lyrics and rhythm that does it for me. The way the lead vocalist sings, “We were flying low… and hit something in the air” simply puts me in a trance where all thought is directed back to that summer in ‘71.
2) Don’t Fear the Reaper (1976) by Blue Oyster Cult: this is another one that reminds me of the time I spent with my older brother. He was quite a music buff and had a rather large collection of LPs. But of all songs I listened to with him, this is one that takes me back. When I hear it, I’m transported back to our old house. I’m sitting in front of his stereo on our old woven wool rug and letting my mind wander free. A good memory.
3) Sweet Caroline (1969) by Neil Diamond: everyone knows this song and for good reason – it’s excellent. Neil Diamond has got one of the greatest voices that I’ve ever had the pleasure to listen to. That being said, this song sticks with me not so much for Neil Diamond, but for my mom. My mom loved Neil Diamond. Listening to this song takes me back to the time when I could listen to him with her. But again, what a wonderful voice.
4) Only the Good Die Young (1977) by Billy Joel: I was in high school, dating and driving – what more needs to be said. I can remember sharing a booth with my girlfriend at the local Pizza Inn after a Friday night football game. Now it’s definitely the words that pull me in to this song, but I have a humorous confession. I’m a little hard of hearing and for the longest time I though the lyrics were “you didn’t count on me, when you were captain of the rotary” instead of “when you were counting on your rosary”. It didn’t matter. I still love this song.
5) The Night Chicago Died (1974) by Paper Lace: I know it’s bubble gum, but hey I have a sweet tooth. I know I’m not alone. Speak up… let the world know that when you hear this song it rolls a shiver up your back. A boy singing about his cop dad who might not come home that night – if this song doesn’t choke you up at least a little bit, then you’re more of a man than me.
Check in tomorrow to see the 5 songs that have meant the most to me since high school. Until then, keep you and yours safe! J/W
