Music and Traditions
On September 20th, 2014, I was able to witness a beautiful moment with family and friends. On that day, my mom married my stepdad. I was in the third grade at the time, and 8 years old. It wasn’t just a wedding, but a blending of families. I went from a household consisting of my mom and sister, to an addition of my stepdad and two stepbrothers. I chose this event with one reason being it was the first wedding I’d ever been to, as well as being the most fun. I remember the songs from it more than any other wedding I’ve been to because I was in it, and was a flower girl with my sister.
One memorable moment— my mom walking down the aisle— occurred when the song “It takes two,” by Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock played. They wanted everyone to feel the energetic and upbeat vibe for their day full of positivity. This song encapsulates their love and commitment to each other.
“Ice Ice Baby,” by Vanilla Ice, was another song that brought the energy and uplifted everyone’s spirit. It added a sense of nostalgia to everyone at the reception. This song was memorable due to being the one that brought all the guests up from their seats, and on the dance floor. This song spoke to each of their personalities, being one of their favorite songs. It represents the lightheartedness and fun they would embark on in their journey. When they hear the song now, they are able to reminisce and remember the soundtrack to the day that most celebrates their love.
Aside from their reasoning of choosing the last two songs, the next most memorable addition to their soundtrack was “Unwritten,” by Natasha Bedingfield. With this song being very common, they not only chose it for themselves to enjoy, but they also knew the guests would love it as well. This was the piece of music that took the reception from not only dancing, but singing as well. The lyrics of the song captured a very real stage of their life at that time. “Unwritten” signifies that there is more to come, and chapters we haven’t yet read .
Peyton! I am actually on my way back home to my sister's wedding as I read your blog and I couldn't get more excited! I definitely agree with you that one thing that MUST have at weddings are songs that will uplift people's spirit and bring the energy up! I 1000% agree that Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield does the job! Hopefully it will be on the playlist of my sister's wedding and I will be embarrassing myself by singing it from the top of my lungs!! Love the message behind the lyrics.
ReplyDeleteHi Peyton, I love how you described your mom and step dad's wedding. Your wording really communicates how much of a wonderful time it was. The songs they chose also communicate the uplifting and fun feeling of the event and their union. It’s nice how you can listen back to the songs and have that rush of feelings again with your family. I hope to be able to create those special memories with my family too.
ReplyDeleteHey Peyton! I absolutely love how you write about their marriage and your experience! Based on your words alone I can feel the love your parents have for one another and the love you have for them and your siblings! Now on to the music- they choose great classics to play and will hold meaning to you and them forever! Both songs are immediate childhood throwbacks for me as well like hearing it around the house while my dad is grilling outside. I love how music can bring some many memories in different forms to everyone.
ReplyDeleteWeddings are such a beautiful thing, and they wouldn't be complete without meaningful music selected by the 2 special people on their special day. "It Takes Two" is definitely an unconventional song to walk down the aisle to, but I'm glad they spread the positive vibe instead of going with a more traditional song. "Ice Ice Baby" is a classic party song and would be perfect for a wedding reception. Thanks for sharing this meaningful experience with us!!!
ReplyDeleteIt’s cool how music made your mom’s wedding so memorable! My experiences with music in rituals have been different—I haven’t been to many weddings, but at church or family gatherings, music also sets the mood. While your memories are tied to upbeat, nostalgic songs, mine are more connected to gospel and worship. Still, in both cases, music brings people together and makes moments unforgettable.
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