More Music for Troubled Times

It hasn’t been easy for me to stay at home and practice social distancing. If I go out for a walk to clear my head, I’m instead distracted by trying to keep six feet away from others who have also ventured out for fresh air. My westside neighborhood is usually very busy, but it’s so quiet now that it feels pretty weird. It’s easy to forget that spring is here.

What have I been doing to pass the time? I keep working and make playlists, like the one for this week. I listened to Mirella Freni sing famous Italian arias. I also spent some time looking fruitlessly for a Mal Sharpe LP that I thought I had, but maybe I was remembering the station’s copy and I never owned one anyway. While searching my fairly large but organized vinyl collection, I came across albums from the 1970’s and 80’s that I’d forgotten about and now have a chance to revisit. I’ve been watching documentaries about famous race car drivers like Juan Manuel Fangio. I miss my previous schedule and routine, as well as seeing my friends, but I plan to do my part during this pandemic to help flatten the curve. I’m immensely grateful for what I have, and my heart goes out to those who are suffering.

Thank you to all those who expressed appreciation for last week’s playlist. As we settle into this strange, new normal, I thought I could share more beautiful and meditative music. For this week’s playlist, I’ve plumbed the depths of my musical knowledge to hopefully bring some respite into your home and life. Music is a calming if not healing force during challenging times like our present one. Please let me know at the Rhythm Planet Facebook page if you loved any particular songs as well as how you’re doing. Take care, everyone!