The Muse of Music

By: Porsche Foxx

Music has always filled my soul.

I think there’s truth in the idea that the muses are divine inspiration for the arts. In fact, the word “music” is derived from the Greek word “muse,” which is the source of inspiration. Since I was very young, I have felt the power of music from my fingertips to my toes. For me, it all comes back to music, regardless of what mood I am in … or what ails me.

My closest friends know that I can be … well, a little high strung. Music helps me to find my center and relax. Soothing sounds from Enigma, “Return to Innocence,” makes me feel like I’m far away in the mountains and in communion with nature. Girls, when you’re feeling like life is a little too hectic or too overwhelming, just put this song in your CD player, put your earphones on and soak in a tub full of bubbles. I promise, you will find that quiet,  peaceful place in your soul.

For downtime, I like to put on some cool jazz and curl up with a good book.  Try David Sanborn’s “Chicago” and, like me, your spirit will fly free without a worry in the world … like those days when the bills are paid, the house is clean, everyone’s healthy and life is good.

For those times that you need to get away from it all, Latin music from Santana’s “Maria, Maria” will let your imagination take you to the sands of Cancun where you can imagine yourself on the beach with Paco who is just waiting to bring you that margarita – with an umbrella peaking over the side of your glass.

Music stirs my emotions – all of them.

I love the bittersweet sadness of “Open My Heart” by Yolanda Adams or “Better Days” by Diane Reeves that reminds me of my beloved grandmother. I don’t get to see her often, so listening to this song makes me think of her, picturing her face and reminding me of the power of love in my life.

There are songs that make me happy for no reason; and, those that just make me want to dance. I’ll put on “All I Wanna Do (Is Have Some Fun)” by Sheryl Crowe and “Dance Floor” by Zapp and shake my booty – just me and my dog Dynzel who would probably wonder what is going on except that he’s seen me do this more times than I can count.

Other music helps me to process strong emotions, such as “Man In the Mirror” by Michael Jackson, “It’s My Life” by Bon Jovi, “You Gotta Be” by Desiree, “We Fall Down” by Donnie McLurkin and “Bad Day” by Daniel Powter.

Still other songs are those that help me to remember that I am a confident, capable, powerful woman who fully owns herself. Songs like “Video” by India Irie, “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, “Survivor” by Destiny’s Child, “New Day” by Celine Dion, “I Got the Power” by Snap and even the classic “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor. Whenever I feel like “I can’t,” it’s songs like these that help me to know that “I can” … that I can realize and am able to claim my own power.

There are two universal languages: mathematics and music. The poetry of the lyrics have a story to tell us – often, something from the heart. Even if you don’t speak the language or can’t catch the singer’s words, the notes and the melody themselves speak volumes and convey the emotion of the artist and the muse’s inspiration.

Madonna sang that “music makes the people come together” and that’s something I believe. I’ve found this to be true for all of my life. I’m truly blessed to have a career where the muses speak to me. In turn, I hope that my play-list can inspire you to find your center, your soul and to find peace and joy every day through this wonderful, amazing gift from the muses.

Porsche Foxx is indeed a muse of music. She is a star of television and radio waves in many U.S. markets, including Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Houston and, most recently, Atlanta. Ms. Foxx is the founder of Porsche Foxx Community Force, which benefits youths and communities in the Atlanta area.