The Beat

I remember when music was a connection. A relationship, a link with my father. Music was a way for us to relate to each other. Music, in those early days of my youth, Was an inherited trait. I got my looks from my mother And music from my father. A gift that could compare with nothing else in this world. The way for a father and son to heal a sometimes fractured relationship, To put our differences aside and enjoy the noise Which drowned out our conflict. I remember when music was therapy. When, out of my reckless youthful spirit, Originated a desire to pick up the drum sticks and the microphone. The drums were my first true love, And an opportunity to take out the frustration of teenage angst on helpless drum sticks. The microphone, a chance to fit in, To bond with friends and challenge The anxious feeling of stage fright. Music brought me out of my shell, And it gives me an escape, when times are tough. I remember that music is the soundtrack to my life. A background noise for living. From the moment I awake, To the moment I fall asleep, Music is the one constant that is always there. While the artists may change, and the means of Listening may be different, it is there. A “life-enhancer”, to be sure. Music is everywhere, at all times, And ever ready to be called upon. With a simple clearance of the throat, Music can be literally at the tip of your tongue. Simply put, Music is a connection, a relationship Between members of the human race. From Paul McCartney’s lips, From Jimi Hendrix’s guitar, From Elton John’s piano, To your ears, music is a way for all human beings To relate to one another and to enjoy the creative spirit That exists within us all.