Letter #9: Someone’s love story
And now…
On November 1, I heard my first “Last Christmas” of this season. I hereby declare that we’re officially in Whamtember. It doesn’t feel like it though. I don’t smell winter yet.
I wonder if this song is still plays anywhere other than in Japan. Do you still hear it around the holiday season? In malls or streets?
Love returned
Last Christmas starts with the lyrics “Last Christmas, I gave you my heart. But the very next day, you gave it away.” This reminds me of the loong line I saw at the returns counter in a Canadian shopping mall. The day was Boxing Day, the day after Christmas. I heard people were returning gifts they didn’t like and exchanging them with what they liked, and it’s normal there. I was aghast at their coldheartedness… or should I call it practicality?
Wham! isn’t singing about that custom, is it?
Intangible possessions
I know some may disapprove, but I use music streaming services. I switch Spotify and Apple Music depending on my mood or convenience of that time.
What I like about Spotify is that they (to some degree) introduce famous bands and indie musicians on the same level. Many musicians share their version of playlists and it’s really fun, too. Apple Music is amazing when it comes to its detailed description and very organized discographies (something Spotify doesn’t do so well). It’s great when you like to dig into an artist’s roots. And if you’re into Japanese music, I think they have a wider selection.
In the past, I also tried Amazon Music and I felt like it’s a completely different game. It’s harder to find what you want to listen to, and you never know what comes out. But thanks to this, I discovered one or two musicians that I might never have found otherwise. So I’m glad I gave it a try.
It would be nice to have all my favorite albums physically on my shelf, but my space and budget are limited, so I’ve chosen convenience over the the pleasure of owning. Gone are the days when I’d sleep with my favorite album next to my pillow. These days, I buy digital editions when I find music that makes me think, “I have to have this.”
How I discover new music
I use streaming services, but I rarely check their suggested playlists. They are often biased by trends and promotions and they don’t really click to be honest.
I think the method I used most to dig new music is still Shazam. I check it everywhere when I hear something nice, and it’s actually fun to listen to the tracked music later. It reminds me that music can sound different depending on the time, place, and occasion. A song might sound perfect in the late-night McDonalds, but not so much in the daylight with headphones on.
A story of someone
I also try to be open when taxi/uber drivers ask “Do you mind if I play music?” I think it’s a nice way to discover new music (as long as it doesn’t affect their driving) and a good way to start a conversation.
One time, a driver asked me if it was okay to repeat one song. Although I thought it was a bit odd, I ok’d it without thinking much. Then, I regretted it over the next 10 to 15 minutes. As soon as the song started, I understood what happened to this driver. The driver went silent and began to sob quietly. I don’t remember how many times the song repeated, but by the end, I could sing the chorus along with it.
It was definitely an awkward moment at the time, but now I see this as a fond memory. I still remember the chorus and I sing it sometimes. (Here’s the song.)
Have a lovely week.
La la la la la la la~,
Setsuko
