-Isms

If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, which song would you choose?

I hope this scenario doesn’t play out. Ever. Music is one of my top three learning styles, woven into the fabric of everyday instances.

Let’s face it, it’s practically one of my love languages, forging a bond that strikes a right chord, creating harmony on all levels.

When Plato wrote, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything,” I wonder what song he had in mind?

Some moments call for an upbeat tune; others, a melancholy melody meandering through every fiber of my being. Sometimes, I want a little bit of Cash. And then, there are moments when Led Zeppelin or Tammy Wynette transport me to more youthful days.

Musical interludes are tied to life events, creating an everylasting playlist. How can I select only one? And thank goodness I don’t have to. But, if i must choose only one ...

Stevie Nicks wrote a powerful breakup anthem to fellow Fleetwood Mac musician Lindsey Buckingham. Their tumultuous love affair provided fodder for some of the best tracks from the 1970s, especially on the Rumours album. Also note, Buckingham penned songs about the split, too.

Nicks and Buckingham broke up in 1976, and the band continued to tour. While they were driving through Maryland, Nicks saw a road sign for Silver Springs. Immediately, it became the title for a song that eventually would be cut from Rumours. Ultimately, the ballad would become the B-side to “Go Your Own Way.” A little smidge of irony to this Fleetwood Mac fan.

In 1997, when the group reunited for “The Dance,” concert-goers could feel the tension - and possible lingering love - between Nicks and Buckingham as she sings the hauntingly beautiful lines from “Silver Springs,” “Time casts its spell on you and you won’t forget me, I know I could’ve loved you, but you would not let me, I’ll follow you down til the sound of my voice will haunt you, You’ll never get away from the sound of the woman who loves.”

Powerfully true words. And, perhaps I’m a sucker for a grand love story, even if it ends in heartache and unrequited anticipation.

I would listen to “Silver Springs” over and over if the world requires only one song on a lifelong playlist. Subtle piano chords and whispering cymbals set the expectations. Add Nicks’ scratchy, seductive voice and Buckingham’s smouldering guitar chords, and the stage is set for the last longing glance, a reminder of what could have been.

“You’ll never get away, never get away, never get away. You could be my Silver Springs, my blue green colors flashing.”

Repeat.