As a classically trained musician, and as one who grew up around church music, there are a lot of songs I could put as songs that hit me emotionally. But there is one that every time I hear it, I feel the power of the emotions of that song. It’s not one that you’d probably think of, but anytime I hear it, I stop, listen and sing along.
It’s the song “More Than Words” by the band Extreme. Why in the world am I emotionally moved by this song? It’s hard to explain why. But I’m going to try to do it. This song is acoustic. The guitars are beautifully played, and Nuno Bettencourt is known as a guitar icon. He’s known more for his work with electric guitar, but this is absolutely beautiful and powerful. It’s simple. Two singers, a guitar. That’s it. The lyrics have a beauty and power to them. It’s about not just saying words, but putting it into action. And of course, the la-de-da part always helps too!
For me, with any song from the 80’s and 90’s, there’s always a deeper connection with me and the song. For songs from the 80’s, I had access to MTV, so there’s always a visual connection. In the spring of 1990, I moved and didn’t have MTV, so it was more about listening. And that’s what I did. I clearly remember with this song, getting a blank cassette, waiting until it came on the radio, and hitting record. And I listened to this song again and again. Without the visual, I was able to focus on the beautiful guitar playing, the harmonies, the simplicity of the song.
So what song hits you emotionally? There’s no right or wrong answer, only your answer! Comment with your song!