Songs I Heard This Week (7/16/22)
I love Billy Joel, but I think this might be my favorite song he ever wrote. We live in a world where falsehood abounds shamelessly, especially in politics. But thanks to social media, it’s even become a way of life even for regular people to put up a false front. Where can we go for true honesty? Not flattery, broken promises, games, deception, hidden truths, but real honesty. It’s scarce but such a treasure when found. “And mostly what I need from you…”
I was in a 70s soft rock mode earlier this week (nothing new). This is such a great one from that era. England Dan and John Ford Coley had quite a few hits, but this ranks high for me along with “Who’s Lonely Now.” Short and sweet, but there’s just an emotion that exudes from the lyrics, vocals, and guitar that demonstrates heart that is woefully missing from pop music these days. I think the lack of it is starting to take an effect on society at large.
Ever since I was a child I have always been taken with Olivia Newton-John. Perhaps because she was so sweet as Sandy in Grease, not to mention, she is an incredible vocalist. She just resonated with me and I readily admit I am jealous that she had a chance to work with two of my heroes — Gene Kelly and The Gibbs. But this song hit me the first time I heard it on the radio as a young girl. It is truly the perfect duet. “And I am ready to sail any ocean…”Almost equally as beautiful is her duet with Andy Gibb in “I Can’t Help It.”
I can’t get enough of these guys from Norway. They have the most laid-back, soothing indie style with a touch of Bossanova that makes for the perfect summer afternoon at the park or beach. This one came out last year when they resurfaced after a 12-year hiatus. But they didn’t miss a beat. They are back and better than ever. The song itself speaks about how easily we take for granted that some people are strong and managing, so we don’t even think to check in, but even the strongest people need a hand up from time to time. A reminder to be that person for someone else.
As a worship leader, one thing I’ve learned along the way is that not every song is right for congregational worship. However, from a poetic standpoint, this song is stunning beyond words. Aside from the fact that I don’t think it’s very singable in a group setting due to lack of a hook, there is also a lyric that might prevent me from introducing it at church, but I often sing and play this at home and appreciate the artistic quality of this song, something largely missing from many popular worship hits. Not that I don’t like modern worship, in fact, I usually prefer it, but there is also a lot of Christian music that feels mass-produced, so it’s nice whenever you come across a gem that really touches your heart.
