Ashley Leue: Nostalgia Songs
Last semester I was away on an Exchange in England, this experience was amazing in so many different ways, I got to travel across Europe while learning more about myself and continuing to grow and become more independent. Through this time music was a huge part of feeling like I wasn't alone. In particular, Billie Eilish's recent album, "Hit Me Hard and Soft" came out while I was on my first solo trip to Portugal. I remember being excited but incredibly nervous to take this trip I always travelled with friends but wanted to push myself. I remember because the album had just come out I listened to it on repeat as I walked around the city. Although the songs were new, it felt like a comfort at home being able to still connect with my favourite artist and my friends at home who also love Billie Eilish. The album is a mixture of sad songs, pop, and dance beats. Now whenever I listen to the album or the songs again I'm instantly taken back to wandering the streets of Lisbon by myself. The feeling now is a mixture of nostalgia, and sadness for missing those experiences but also a sense of pride for being able to do this on my own and push myself.
Music has a special way of making us feel comfortable even in situations where we are scared or anxious. While I was travelling whenever I felt nervous or overwhelmed, simply plugging in my headphones took me out of my situation and transported me into my happy place. This experience was extremely helpful for me while away and I have continued to use this practice even after I've returned home. Last week in class we were talking about how music has a sense of nostalgia and can transport you back into experiences easily. Music is so important to so many people because of the feeling of comfort it gives us, whether these are feelings of joy, sadness, or homesickness, music brings us together from far and wide and comforts us. The feelings are long-lasting as whenever we return back to these songs we are reminded of these feelings and prior experiences. Music really is a beautiful thing.
Hi Ashley. I wanted to respond to this thread because you were the one that put me onto this album, in particular, you suggested I should listen to "The Greatest". I am reminded every time I listen to that song of our friendship and how many music memories we have shared together. For example, when SOS by SZA released and we spent hours sitting on the couch replaying song after song. There are many songs I can think of that bring me that feeling of nostalgia in regards to our friendship and I think it is interesting how some of our greatest memories reflect the sounds we were listening to at the moment. (Right now we can't stop listening to "I Love You, Im Sorry" by Gracie Abrahams)
ReplyDeleteHi Ashley!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your reflection on how music supported your journey abroad! It’s incredible how songs can bring comfort and familiarity, especially in new places. Exploring Lisbon solo with Billie Eilish’s album must have been powerful—her music really connects with deep emotions.
I relate to music being an emotional anchor. Having favourite songs on hand has often felt like carrying a piece of home. The mix of nostalgia, pride, and growth you feel listening now is something many of us know well.
Hi Ashley! That sounds like such an amazing experience! It’s so amazing how music can give that sense of connection to home, especially when you're halfway across the world. Music has such a powerful way of grounding us, bringing peace, and making us feel at home, even in unfamiliar places. It is really cool how listening to those songs now can bring you right back to those memories of where you first listened to them walking through Lisbon.
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