When Music Brings Back Memories
When Music Brings Back Memories
Pull up a chair and sit awhile
July 9, 2026
Dear Friend:
Looking back, I realize my life has always had a soundtrack. Every generation in my family brought different music into my life, and somehow I was lucky enough to enjoy them all. My parents belonged to the Greatest Generation. Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, and Frank Sinatra filled our home. My mother's favorite was Frank Sinatra, and The Andrews Sisters always reminded my father of the World War II years. Their music became part of the background of my childhood.
My cousins were pre-World War II babies, and they had their own music that I spent many happy hours listening to. I particularly remember riding around in a convertible with the top down, the radio playing the music of the 1950s. Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Miles Davis, and Buddy Holly became part of those memories.
Then of course there was my own generation. My siblings and I were post-World War II babies. Every Saturday we hurried through our chores so we'd be ready for American Bandstand. Before long, my parents' living room became our dance floor. We danced, laughed, and sang along to the songs that would become the soundtrack of our teenage years.
As an adult, I wasn't particularly fond of country music, much to the chagrin of my then-husband. His family loved country music, especially my mother-in-law. I just couldn't join in. Her favorite was Conway Twitty, but there was also Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, George Jones, and George Strait.
Fast forward several years later on a lazy afternoon I found myself listening to CMT. Country music had changed over the years. I remember thinking to myself “This is not bad.” That was the beginning of my love for Country Music. I would later live in Nashville the home of country music.
Today you will find music from many different genres on my cell phone. I happily ride along in my car listening to the music I love so much.
Looking back, I realize my musical journey taught me something much bigger than music. Every new style I discovered reminded me that change isn't always something to fear. Sometimes it introduces us to things we never knew we'd love.
Even today, one familiar song can transport us back to a special moment, a special person, or a special time in our lives. Music has a wonderful way of keeping our memories alive.
I'd love to hear about the songs and artists that have stayed with you over the years. What music brings back memories for you? There's a good chance your favorites might bring back memories for someone else, too.
Until next time, stay well, stay safe, and stay connected to those you love.
Be well,
Emma
Emma is the voice behind Sharing with Seniors, where every story starts with a memory. Through stories of family, friendships, music, traditions, hometowns, and life's simple pleasures, she invites readers to pull up a chair, stay awhile, and remember the moments that have shaped their lives.