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Music:
Connecting to the Past, Defining the Present, Creating the Future
Music:
Connecting to the Past,
Defining the Present,
Creating the Future
Music Connects Us to Our Past
Music has the remarkable ability to transport us back in time and connect us to our past. Whether it’s a song that reminds us of a specific event or moment, or a melody that evokes a certain emotion, music can unlock memories and transport us to another era.
Elvis Presley
I recall exactly where I was when I heard the news of Elvis Presley’s death in 1977. I was in my sister’s big blue boat of a car, cruising down Ashland Avenue in Aurora, IL. We were listening to WLS-AM 890 radio when the broadcaster interrupted the music to deliver the shocking news. It’s funny, really, because I wasn’t a big fan of Elvis, but in that moment, I felt a deep sense of loss.
Michael Jackson
Similarly, the death of Michael Jackson in 2009 had a profound effect on millions of people worldwide. His music had been a part of so many lives, and the suddenness of his passing left fans and admirers in shock. Many can recall where they were when they first heard the news, whether they were at home, at work, or even out in public, where the announcement quickly spread. The music of Michael Jackson, already a powerful force in pop culture, took on new meaning as it became intertwined with the memories of that moment.
David Bowie
Of course, it wouldn’t be one of my blogs without a nod to David Bowie, whose death in 2016 was simply heartbreaking. His work spanned six decades and influenced countless artists and fans with his creativity and fearless exploration of new ideas.
But let’s shift from those we’ve lost to those still shaping our world.
Music Defines Our Present
Taylor Swift
It is estimated that Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour will have sold upwards of six million tickets by the end of its two-year run. That’s millions of concertgoers who can remember exactly where they were when they witnessed a particular performance. For fans, the Eras Tour is more than just a series of concerts; for them, it’s an emotional journey that connects them to different phases of their own lives. The tour is a celebration of growth, change, and the enduring power of music to tell our stories.
Chappell Roan
I’ve been hearing a lot about Chappell Roan lately, so I decided to give her music a listen. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. Her sound has a nostalgic, ’80s-inspired vibe that took me back, yet it still feels fresh and contemporary with lyrics that carry real depth. Chappell Roan has become an influential role model, especially within the LGBTQ+ community, as her songs often celebrate individuality and queer identity. Recently, there’s been a lot of attention on how she’s setting boundaries between her public persona and private life, which not only helps her navigate her career but also sets a powerful example for her fans to follow.
These are just a few examples of the countless artists, songs, and movements that have shaped our lives. Music has the power to bring our personal memories into the collective of history and culture, connecting our past to our present in a shared, ageless journey.
Music Creates Our Future
The direction of new music is always changing to reflect the diversity of people as a whole. Who will be the next Elvis? The next Taylor? Where will music bring us?
DARTS has been a force in the community for 50 years. Just as music connects people and evokes strong emotions, this organization has created lasting connections that resonate throughout the community. In the southeast metro, you can hear the notes DARTS hits when the buses roll by.
The impact of DARTS, much like a favorite song, will continue to inspire and connect people for years to come.
Author
Jan Hix (Author)
Jan Hix is the Director of Programs at DARTS. Her main focus areas are Home Services and Transportation. Jan came to the non-profit sector in 2016 after a career at FedEx, which gives her a unique perspective on the challenges of transportation. At DARTS, she is also a database administrator and the self-proclaimed “Chief Statistician”. She can often be found curling up with a good spreadsheet and pivot table.Originally from Illinois, Jan moved to Minnesota in 1998. She and her wife, Jacquie, have been together since 1999 and were married in 2015. Together, they enjoy working on projects around the house, traveling, or just hanging out by the lake in summer.
Music is a through-stream in Jan’s life. While she enjoys many genres, she really leans into British rock ‘n’ roll artists, most notably David Bowie. She is also interested in art & photography, the latest tech gadget, and telling a good story. One of her favorite quotes comes from the Satellite Sisters who say, “Not every conversation will change your life, but any conversation can”. May the Force be with You.