Personal Reflections: The Power of a Song
I love listening to depressing songs by Zionist singers. They hit differently, especially when the words echo the pain and beauty of life’s most significant highs and lows. Tamir Sultana, in particular, has a way of immortalizing these moments. His songs remind me that love hurts, that life is fleeting, and that the person I love most in the world – myself – won’t be here forever.
The lyrics of one song play in my mind:
“Tell her there are no more tears, only whispering fire.
She’s far away, why didn’t she say where.
Where she’s going.
I can’t breathe, I swore,
Don’t go,
And you’re not coming back.”
My younger brother introduced me to this music. He used to listen in secret, hiding the Jewish melodies from our parents. Friday afternoons, when Father was at the shop and Mother was at Grandmother’s preparing meals, he’d play it quietly, barely audible through small computer speakers.
One day, I caught him. He froze, staring at the red dot on the dominant speaker. I told him to focus on the other one, the female speaker – the one relying on its partner’s voltage to produce worthy sound. I didn’t know what point I was trying to make, and he knew it too. We looked at each other and burst into laughter.
“You’re a big dog for ruining my perfect exit,” I said.
“You’re a donkey,” he shot back, turning up the volume.
We listened to the album five or six times that day. Then I told him to bring me the disc. He hesitated, probably thinking I’d been possessed by some overzealous demon of responsibility. But I had other plans.
We got into my Fiat Punto, drove aimlessly, and sang at the top of our lungs.
Practical Tips: Embracing Music as a Tool for Connection
- Let Music Anchor You
In times of change or transition, familiar songs can ground you in your identity and memories. Create playlists that reflect your journey, mixing old favorites with new discoveries from your adopted culture. - Share Music Across Generations
Music has the power to bridge gaps between generations and cultures. Share your favorite tracks with family members, and invite them to introduce you to their own. These shared moments can create lasting memories. - Find Strength in Lyrics
Songs often articulate feelings we struggle to put into words. Pay attention to the lyrics that resonate with you, and use them as a starting point for self-reflection or conversations with others. - Use Music to Relieve Stress
Singing at the top of your lungs, whether alone or with someone close to you, can be cathartic. Let go of self-consciousness and embrace the emotional release that music provides. - Explore Local Music
As you settle into a new culture, dive into its music scene. Attending concerts or exploring local artists can help you feel more connected to your new environment and its people.
Music as a connection in immigration: Music is more than sound; it’s memory, emotion, and connection. Whether it’s shared laughter with a sibling, a drive through familiar streets, or the discovery of new melodies in a foreign land, let music be a constant companion on your journey.
Written by Wa Alikum Salam, Immigrant.
