At the risk of sounding like a ‘60s flower child, I admit there are some music artists who speak to me—in more than a musical way—but spiritually, too.
I won’t preach or witness here, but spiritual is the only way to describe the visceral feeling I experience when listening to certain music. These artists draw you in with their particular strengths, calming you, speaking to you.
Trevor Hall, an indie singer/songwriter, openly shares that he finds his inspiration through meditation and his trips to India. His reggae-infused melodies are comforting and meditative, his lyrics speak of beauty, love and unity; chants and hymns flow in and out. My favorite is his track “Origami Crane.” His live shows are a moving experience, and the entire audience of all ages participates. He donates a large portion of his earnings to children in India, supporting a school there.
Another artist who offers a more-than-musical experience is Ginny Owens, a blind Christian singer/songwriter. I am particularly moved by her track “If You Want Me To.” This song brings you to your knees, closes your eyes and makes you listen. I usually cry. Interpret the lyrics as you wish—that part is personal. But give it a listen.
A third artist with a completely different sound is pop artist Emeli Sande. Her big hit from this summer, “Next to Me” would be a great addition to your party playlist! But if you stop dancing for a minute and give it a serious listen, you’ll hear her message. It’s positive and hopeful.
How lucky we are to have music that lifts us up—and makes us think.
PLAYLIST: Move Me.
1. Origami Crane by Trevor Hall
2. If You Want Me To by Ginny Owens
3. Next To Me by Emeli Sande
4. Don’t Let It Pass by Junip
5. A Fathers First Spring by The Avett Brothers
6. Stones From the Riverbed by Matthew Perryman Jones
7. Song for a Friend by Pieta Brown
8. Thank You, Stars by Katie Melua
9. Keep Me In Your Heart by Luke Brindley
10. What a Day by Greg Laswell
Download the whole playlist here.
must-see concerts
• OCT 31 Beats Antique @ Park West (cool date night; world music meets rock)
• NOV 2 Will Hoge @ SPACE (chill night out; singer/songwriter)
• NOV 2 Jethro Tull’s Ian Anderson @ The Chicago Theatre (flashback)
• NOV 4 Shawn Mullins @ SPACE (couples’ night; great music & back stories)
• NOV 8 Stephen Kellogg & The Sixers @ Park West (family night)
• NOV 9 Allen Stone @ Lincoln Hall (fantastic artist, blue-eyed soul)
• NOV 15 Haley Bonar House Concert at Val’s (contact us at Valslist.com if you’d like to be added to limited guest list)
• NOV 23 & 24 Mavis Staples @ City Winery (something new to do with your holiday guests)
