For this round’s take on the Messenger Mixtape, I asked staff to recommend music that reminds me of their family just in time for Thanksgiving. Though they gave great examples, I couldn’t shake a song that reminded me of family, so this week’s contribution to the playlist is from me, Gabe Santos, the Messenger’s A&E editor.
This song off of Joel’s album “The Stranger,” is led by Joel’s famous piano prowess and an iconic bassline in the background gives the song a groove that picks up my mood whenever I listen to it. The chords and Joel’s decision to go halftime with the chorus make the song feel triumphant in a way. The vibe is very much a “happily moving on” one. It reminds me of family because despite my love for them I am constantly striving for independence.
The lyrics support this. He sings about “Anthony,” and in the first verse explains his monotonous life of working at a grocery store, and his mom encouraging him to move on from the place he resides to find something new. He details the discontent with how his life revolves around money and work.
It reminds me of family because they also support my need for independence. It much more largely reminds me of my hometown and ambitions.
Overall, it gives me a very nostalgic feeling, and a very supported and comforted feeling that I often get from my family. It makes a great, upbeat addition.