The news and stories of COVID-19 are, unfortunately, far from over. It’s crazy to think that the virus began over a year ago. During that time, we’ve endured masks, lockdowns, isolation, tragedy, and worse. However, when reality becomes challenging, the arts are always a fantastic option to turn towards. Not only do the arts teach us about ourselves and the world around us, but they also provide an escape from these things. Music is an excellent example of this. To celebrate the healing powers of music, we’re listing off 5 uplifting songs that particularly resonate during these trying times.
Imagine – John Lennon
Imagine is one of those songs that never goes out of fashion. Lennon captures a desire for a clean slate and a world of peace throughout the track, with visionary lyricism and heartfelt piano. “You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one”. His observation was indeed true, as millions upon millions of people have connected with this songs’ social commentary. Yet, imagine takes us beyond the specifics and reminds us that we’re all in this together. During a pandemic, this couldn’t be more true.
Stayin’ Alive – Bee Gees
With dance floors and concerts out for the count, many of us discovered the wonders of bedroom dancing when COVID was at its fiercest. Physical exercise is paramount for mental health, and dancing has countless health benefits to reap during such a strenuous time. If we’re talking uplifting dance songs, we can’t go past Stayin’ Alive from the Bee Gees. The sentiment of ’Stayin’ Alive’ is a little tongue-in-cheek, but when theirs a life-threatening virus in town, the track is going to hit you extra hard. At the very least, bedroom dancing beats another sleepless night scrolling through Openload.
Waitin’ On The World To Change – John Mayer
During COVID outbreaks, we’ve all asked ourselves at one point, when is this going to end? Mayer expertly explored this feeling of restlessness back in 2006, for those moments when we crave change but ultimately feel helpless. Although Waitin On The World to change is a more politically focused song, its sentiment of wanting to move forward still related to our time today, as we continue to make daily compromises to suppress the virus. This tune reminds us that, indeed, light is at the end of the tunnel.
Lean On Me – Bill Withers
Almost any Bill Withers song could have made the cut here. The late artist was a master at delivering songs of hope and togetherness, crucial values for our lives today. Not only is Lean On Me incredibly catchy, feel-good, and sweet, it’s important too. “Lean on me. When you’re not strong. I’ll be your friend. I’ll help you carry on”.
Heroes – David Bowie
There isn’t a more uplifting song than Heroes. For some people, Heroes hits you in the gut right away. For others, it takes a few listens to connect fully. But when it does, the feeling is intensely powerful. There are so many heroes aiding us through COVID, particularly health workers. Bowie’s penultimate track reminds us that we too can be heroes and fight through the worst of this exhausting virus.
