Human beings are lucky. We can create sounds that other animals cannot. Music is not only a wonderful part of it, but it is a unique one to be cherished and appreciated. Great music, though? That's special.
While music can also be singular or communal. Friends and family going to concerts and having that wonderful shared experience can be transformative. It is brilliant and wonderful. Art should bring people together.
Going to see Slipknot can be cathartic, just as much as going to see John Legend can be. But sometimes, you and yours just need some songs to relax with. The three tracks below should definitely be on that list.
Three songs worthy of your chill time
George Michael - "Praying for Time"
Michael was a true pop performer, and that was all he ever hoped to be. He excelled, but not only because he had a silky smooth voice and could shake his butt. He controlled every aspect of his music and was an extremely underrated songwriter.
This song is a bit of a downer, but also incredibly gorgeous. The words, though, are impeccably brilliant. The use of religious imagery tied to the potential harshness of life might be something a black metal band would compose. Instead, Michael delivers the perfect package of ironic beauty.
The Verve - "Velvet Morning"
Another song that likely shouldn't be played at funerals (not because it is anti-relationship, but it is definitely pessimistic), this track is the final on the excellent album Urban Hymns. The album is better known for producing the single, "Bittersweet Symphony."
While there is nothing wrong with the worldwide hit, "Velvet Morning" is probably the better song for fans. It sounds like the Verve. At first, it's slogs through, but speeds up slightly, and rises in volume, at the bridge and chorus to become a remarkable piece of art. In other words, among the best of what the Verve did often.
Harry Styles - "Sign of the Times"
All three of the songs here could be played while lying in bed on a rainy Sunday morning, but they won't make you get up and dance. That's kind of their point. Styles and Michael are pop stars, but could also supply real depth. This song proves Styles is more than just a pretty face.
Has it been a bit overplayed, showing up in films and TV shows? Maybe, but there is little doubt the song is wonderfully written by Styles, brilliantly put together, with elite production. Styles shows off his voice as the great instrument it is, and brings more than a touch of melancholy.