As Bono famously said, “Music can change the world because it can change people.” This sentiment resonates deeply with me, as some of my earliest memories are woven together with the threads of music. From my dad strumming his guitar while singing, to my mom humming along as she worked, and our family gatherings filled with oldies and gospel songs, music has always been a constant presence in my life.

My dad’s father, despite losing his voice to throat cancer, would still sing softly in a whisper. Family visits were often marked by hours of singing, with my grandfather’s brother and nephew joining in. These moments reinforced the idea that music is not just an art form; it’s a vital connector of generations.

As kids in South Creek, my friend Angie and I would roam the streets, bursting into song at the slightest prompt. We staged impromptu performances on Ms. Shady’s front porch and sprawled out on blankets, eagerly capturing our favorite songs to create mix tapes. In our small town, music wasn’t just a background noise; it was the heartbeat of our community.

Music has the power to transcend boundaries. Whether it’s rock, country, classical, or even historical pieces, it speaks to the soul. It fosters understanding among people from different cultures, ages, and experiences. If you want to connect with someone whose life experiences differ from yours, listen to the music that resonates with them. It’s a bridge that can link hearts and minds, offering insight into what moves them.

Sometimes, however, music can be overwhelming. As Hans Christian Andersen said, “When words fail, music speaks.” There are moments when I avoid music because I know it will stir emotions I’m not ready to confront. It can evoke memories and feelings that cut deep. Bob Marley’s words, “One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain,” don’t quite resonate with me. Music can pierce the heart and bring to the surface emotions we might try to keep buried.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow noted that “music is the universal language of mankind.” From Mozart to the Beatles, it has bridged divides and united people who might otherwise remain strangers. Alongside fiction and food, music is one of the great unifiers, transforming acquaintances into friends and fostering connections that transcend our differences.

In a world that often feels divided, the shared experience of music has the power to bring us together, reminding us that we’re all part of the same human tapestry. So let’s celebrate the music that moves us, connects us, and ultimately shapes who we are.