The Music That Made Me [Part 3]

The Music That Made Me [Part 3]

I decided to look into the music, community, and social stance that have influenced the person I am now and that had an undeniable influence not only on what I give life to artistically, but also why I craft it the way I do. I hope you enjoy discovering (or rediscovering) some of those songs and bands!

My playlist will be updated as often as possible along with a brief story/explanation associated with every one of those songs.

THE SMITHS – BIGMOUTH STRIKES AGAIN

I don’t remember the first time I heard The Smiths… It seems like I have always been a fan of the band for some reason. I’ve been the object of so many homophobic slurs from the hardcore scene when I mentioned that I was a fan of them. The Cure had a pass – probably for their goth heritage – but The Smiths was a no-no. I wonder how they would have reacted if I would have named some of the other bands I was into as well. My love for Cro-Mags and Agnostic Front came pretty handy for me in those days.

MDOU MOCTAR – KAMANE TARHANIN

Every time I listen to Mdou Moctar or Tinariwen, I have the wonderful sensation of being back in Africa where I had the blessing to live for 2 years. It’s communal music that truly finds its empowering nature in our willingness to abandon ourselves to its soulful rhythm.

PUBLIC IMAGE LTD. – FLOWERS OF ROMANCE

I’ve been a fan of John’s music ever since I have heard the Pistols, but Public Image Ltd. grew with me rather than become a pivotal moment like the Pistols were at the time. It doesn’t have anything to do with the longevity of PIL vs the Pistols… Maybe it’s the sonic depth, the more complex type of approach, or simply the ongoing evolution of the band itself… All that to say, PIL rarely let me down!

THE CRAMPS – HUMAN FLY

I told you I was a fan…! Enjoy, you’re welcome 😉

THE SPECIALS – A MESSAGE TO YOU, RUDY

And to give you an uncontrollable desire to slow dance, there go the kings of 2 Tone: The Specials! Note to The Selecter: you are royals as well!