Today's Obsession: Songs from TV Shows

I have an extreme weakness for television programs connected to music. And as my list of favorite songs from TV shows indicates, I love songs tinged with melancholy. Is it weird that sad songs make me so happy? Maybe. But I think that sad songs are full of hope--they wouldn't be so sad if love wasn't real or pain couldn't be overcome. Forlorn tunes connect people in a deeply personal way; it shows we're not alone in what we are feeling. So indulge me as I share some of the songs I still play on repeat.

 

#5 "All I Needed" The Naked Brothers Band

Don't let their name fool you. These boys are geniuses. Alex Wolff wrote this at age 12. Doesn't that blow your mind a little bit? That's why I am proud to admit that I watched The Naked Brothers Band, a show about young friends with a band.

 

#4 "Video Games" by Lana Del Rey

When I first heard this song on Gossip Girl, I was instantly smitten. The raw honesty of her voice and the story was perfect for a scene in which Chuck Bass surrenders his heart to Blair Waldorf, and for once, asks nothing in return. I think the heart of this song is about being honest with yourself, which I find remarkable and beautiful.

 

#3 "I Still Love You" by Alexz Johnson

There was once a time when I could not get enough of the Canadian Instant Star. And the music was [still is] a major part of the obsession. The show was about a girl who found fame on a talent show and featured songs that were written in connection to the storyline. It was really hard for me to decide which song I liked best, but in the end this one won. I cried when my brother deleted the episode in which this song was reprised from the DVR. Mostly because I was in love with the love story. So thank you, Tommy and Jude, for giving me lyrics like: I know rocks turn to sand and hearts can change hands and you're not to blame when the sky fills with rain.

 

#2 "Signs" by Bloc Party

Here is another perfect song from Gossip Girl. It affects me every single time, but despite the melancholy, I can't wait to hear it again. It is also the perfect song to listen to when you need a good cry. It's another song that is connected with the love story of Chuck and Blair. The song played in the background of a scene where all Chuck does is give Blair an anguished look; it is all he can muster when he realizes he's an orphan and alone. [To be read with a straight face if at all possible. It's a teen soap--it's supposed to be over-the-top.] Her embrace is so tender; it makes the song that much more meaningful for me. (I know I have too much affinity for Chuck and Blair, but there are only 7 episodes left, so I am going to treasure our fake friendship for just a little bit longer.)

 

#1 "You'll Ask For Me" by Tyler Hilton

So I didn't actually watch One Tree Hill when this song was on, but it still came from the show, and I love it. I had this song on a CD in my truck, and I am pretty sure I played it constantly for at least 4 months. And that's not an exaggeration. I think this song is pure and simple genius. I haven't decided if I want to be singing it or have someone to sing it to me, but in the meantime I am going to play it on repeat.

I realize that I didn't explain myself very well, but in all honesty, this list was just for me. These songs tell so much about the Avrielle of right now. And I want to remember. I need to remember the struggles and hopes of this time of the great unknown. Because really it is very exciting thinking that I am free to do anything and that I will never have this freedom again. Sometimes I just need to push away the fear and remind myself of all that can be ahead.

I also think these songs prove I need to find my wounded man. It will either cure me of the obsession or give me my epic love.