Joe's Top 10 Songs To Help Brighten A Negative Mood
May 2, 2016 By: Joe Aubrey
It goes without saying that school can be hard for everyone. Whether it’s juggling a job and schoolwork, relationships, friendships, life decisions, etc., it can seem like the hard times never stop. However, there are healthy alternatives for feeling better. Some might try exercise or meditation. One other strong way is listening to the right music. The following list contains a group of songs that could help uplift many people from the inevitable moments of sadness that everyone feels from time to time…
1. “Return to Innocence” by Enigma: Truly the epitome of moral advice, this song will help elevate anyone from sadness thanks to its uplifting lyrics- “Don’t be afraid to be weak. Don’t be too proud to be strong.” Just only be you regardless of what anyone tells you otherwise.
2. “Bowl of Oranges” by Bright Eyes: Conor Oberst, the band’s lead vocalist, is very open on his struggles with depression. One essential bit of advice he offers for others is that “Your eyes must do some raining if you’re ever gonna grow.” Every now and then, it’s always fine and helpful to cry during difficult times.
3. “The Nightingale” by Julee Cruise: This hypnotically tuned song from the classic TV series Twin Peaks helps to create an ambient, dreamlike feeling that can help calm an erratic mind.
4. “Take Me Home” Celtic Thunder: This uplifting ballad from the Irish Tenor group will remind its listeners of the one place anyone can truly feel at ease after an incredibly long journey.
5. “All is Full of Love” Bjork: In a diverse world of millions, some people might feel alone. However, the famous Bjork helps remind us that despite that sad feeling, there is someone out there for every lonely soul.
6. “Forgiven” Alanis Morissette: Whether you’re spiritual or not, Alanis (who still remains as inspiring as ever) knows it’s never too late to redeem yourself. Have you ever done something hurtful that you largely have regretted? This song reminds us that we should remember we all make mistakes, and that it’s never the end of the world.
7. “Find Your Grail” from Monty Python’s Spamelot: Who knew a Broadway musical of a classic low budget comedy could offer a moment of inspiration. It goes without saying that “When you’re life seems to drift…trust yourself, you won’t fail…find your grail.”
8. “A Real Hero” by College: This Oscar worthy song from the underrated Ryan Gosling movie Drive has both a catchy tune and an encouraging message. Like Ryan’s rebel character in the film, any person, regardless of whom they are, can be a true hero to somebody else.
9. “The Greatest Love of All” by Whitney Houston: Before her later erratic lifestyle began, Houston was a truly inspirational singer. This classic chart-topping ballad still motivates many listeners today with such lyrics like “If I fail, if I succeed, at least I’ll live as I believe.” Regardless of how difficult life can get, don’t let anyone or anything stop you from pursuing your dreams.
10. “Good Times, Bad Times” by Led Zeppelin: Do you think your life is harder than anyone else’s? This classic rock song will inform you that you’re totally wrong. In life, there are fun moments, and then they’re followed by difficult times of turmoil. But remember, the cycle can continue and life still goes on.
Contributor's Note: Joe Aubrey not only loves music, but movies as well.