Oral Literacy: Healing Music

Oral Literacy: Healing Music

Music is healing. It provides a sense of security, an array of emotions, and an emotional outlet for people. The rhythms, lyrics, and melodies of music allow the mind to wander into a cloud of thoughts; however, music also allows individuals to express themselves in unfathomable ways. Stacy Barthe, singer and songwriter, states, “[music] was my escape; when I was getting stressed, I would just put on my Walkman and listen to the radio” (Singersroom). The presence of music has shaped my experiences, making them easier to bear and embrace. Two songs, “Don’t Forget About Us,” written/sang by Mariah Carey and “Flawed, Beautiful Creatures,” written/sang by Stacy Barthe, helped guide me through two major experiences of my life: my break up and my journey.

Mariah Carey, best-selling female artist, with over eighteen number one hits, has written and produced all of her songs since 1990. Carey writes lyrics that touch the soul. Her lyrics create a whirlwind of emotions, ranging from sadness to happiness. “Don’t Forget About Us,” a song written by Carey for her album, The Emancipation of Mimi, has guided me through my intense break up with my ex-girlfriend. The song reflects on the intensity, experience, and emotions of a first love. She was my first love, and after the break up, I gravitated towards Carey’s song as a place of counseling. Carey’s words parallel my experience. “You’ll always be in my heart,” were the most prominent lyrics that resonated with my heart. I felt understood. Mariah Carey’s song, “Don’t Forget About Us,” incorporated numerous emotions that aided me in my time of ailing.

Stacy Barthe, singer and songwriter, has written a plethora of songs for famous artists, such as Rihanna, Miley Cyrus, Brandy, Katy Perry, etc. Barthe’s infamous song, “Flawed, Beautiful Creatures,” responded to the shooting of Trayvon Martin and has been featured in the show, Being Mary Jane; however, this song personally connects with me. Following my breakup, I went on a journey. A journey for authenticity was my main priority in life. I went to therapy, came out as gay, and made mistakes! I learned from mistakes attempting to not judge myself so harshly. Barthe states, “sometimes we’re insecure, we’re fragile…,” which is so true! I went through such a journey of insecurities, fragility, and weakness; however, through listening to Barthe’s song, “Flawed, Beautiful Creatures,” I gained insight on what it means to be beautiful. Attraction is not aesthetic; it’s soul. Therefore, through the lyrics Barthe shared with the world, I was able to walk my journey easier.

The world seems to only provide madness when I need clarity. Thankfully, music has soothing properties that caress my soul when needed. I have found contentment through the rhythms, lyrics, and properties of music. Mariah Carey and Stacy Barthe are two singers and songwriters that introduced the idea of solidarity through music to me. Their words inspired me in different times of my life. Mariah Carey’s, “Don’t Forget About Us,” reminded me of my first love following the break up while Stacy Barthe’s, “Flawed, Beautiful Creatures,” created a sense of belonging during my journey. Overall, music has provided an escape by shaping my experiences.