#nowplaying: Sound Track to My Life

This post stems from a recent piece I read from Josh Morris and a Q&A session with Kanye West during his Storytellers piece for VH1.

On Twitter we use the hashtag #nowplaying as a life soundtrack of sorts. Even though we might not listen to music 24/7, there are songs and CDs that can provide a foundation for emotions or events within our lives. Currently, my favorite song has been Empire State of Mind by Jay-Z featuring Alicia Keys. Yes, it is a huge hit for everyone across the nation but it hits a little harder for me lately.

I leave for New York City on Sunday and I know it’s going to be far more than just an “experience.” It will be a life lesson, inspiring and hopefully, a place I’ll be residing in the near future.

The looping piano keys, vibrant rhymes and emotions in Empire State of Mind are chilling. Knowing that I will be in a city that can make or break me physically and mentally is scary. This could be the biggest opportunity I’ve ever had.

After watching the Kanye interview I started playing some of my favorite songs. Touch the Sky was first on the playlist. With his personality shining through the lyrics and beat, it makes me feel like I can achieve anything. I feel like it’s in my DNA to Touch the Sky. His Storytellers version is far more intriguing than the original. The difference, you can feel his emotions in the song. And yes, Kanye has emotions, sometimes.

Songs play an integral part in all of our lives. They tell stories and express feeling. Some songs move people to do amazing things, while others resonate within us.

I want to know what songs you play to get amped up? Which songs inspire you? What songs sum up how you feel right now?