Musical Pitch: Alicia Keys, The Element of Freedom

So I figured that one of the things I’ll blog about is music, and what graces my ears at that point in time. Since I live alone, and have no furniture (or barely any), and the fact that it tends to be really quiet, I pretty much have music going at all times. Or TV. I have a TV.

In general, I’m a huge fan of the divas, especially the black empowering ones. It’s no secret that I’m a huge Beyonce fan. Yes, I flew home to Toronto this past summer just to see her in concert. Yes, I’ve endured countless jokes by my coworkers on my obsession. My boss tried to get my attention once while I had Beyonce’s music blaring in my headphones. Eventually she gave up and told the people she was meeting with ‘Oh, he’s just listening to Beyonce.’ Yes, I have a poster/calendar of her in my office, complete with complimentary Beyonce stickers. So it now comes as no surprise that I’ve always been a fan of Alicia Keys as well. But I’ve now come to love this woman’s music as of her current studio album, The Element of Freedom. She has an amazing gift in her voice, and she’s a great pianist as well- along with her soul and passion, she produces some incredible music. I highly recommend it. On this album, she sings about what one may expect- moving on from a relationship, empowerment, love- but it has a little different of a feel.  I can’t quite articulate how I get a different feeling from it, but sometimes that is the great thing about music- it’s all about how one feels when one feels it.  Take my word for it though- it’s a great album 🙂

One of my favourite songs on the album is called ‘Wait Till You See My Smile.’  I think it’s good to highlight this song as 2010 begins since it complements the positive thinking and optimistic resolutions that I feel characterize this year for me. ‘Wait Till You See My Smile’ talks about enduring hardship, but standing strong after that experience and coming back in full force; showing the world that you’re ready for it once again… or it better be ready for you :). My favourite line of the song: “‘Cause you’re stronger, and you’re better, and you’re ready for whatever, Sing!” And I like to sing. Sometimes like a diva. And what a positive message to internalize and project. When you’re ready to show your smile, the world will be watching :).

Author: rickohikes

Avid hiker, mountain lover and fitness enthusiast with insatiable wanderlust. Usually battling with an injury and my mental health, but I always persevere! View all posts by rickohikes