As a lover of all things music, I find it impossible to resist any opportunity to engage with a giveaway that features a musical story. Music, in its many forms, has an extraordinary and profound impact on individuals and cultures alike. It transcends the barriers of language and geography, creating a universal language that resonates deeply within the human experience. The ability of music to evoke emotions and transport us back in time is remarkable; it can conjure memories of people, places, and moments that have shaped our lives, much like the way certain foods or familiar scents can trigger nostalgia. I often reflect on how specific songs can take me back to a summer spent with friends, a quiet evening with family, or even a fleeting encounter that left a lasting impression. Each note and lyric serves as a time capsule, preserving the essence of those experiences and feelings. For instance, the sound of a particular melody might remind me of carefree days spent at the beach or the warmth of a loved one's embrace during a poignant moment. This powerful connection that music fosters is something I cherish deeply.
I can proudly say that my appreciation for music spans across all genres. From the soulful melodies of R&B and jazz to the energetic beats of rock and hip-hop, and the intricate harmonies of classical music to the catchy rhythms of pop and country, each genre offers its unique flavor and emotional depth. This diverse musical palate is a gift I owe to my wonderful parents, who played an instrumental role in shaping my musical passion. They always encouraged exploration and introduced me to a wide array of musical styles throughout my upbringing. I remember weekends filled with living room dancing where we would listen to everything from the classics of the The Rat Pack and Aretha Franklin to the more contemporary sounds of artists like Gloria Estefan and Bel Biv Devoe. Their eclectic tastes opened my eyes to the vast world of music, teaching me to appreciate the artistry and creativity that each musician brings to the table. This foundation has not only enriched my life but also fostered a sense of community and connection with others who share similar passions.
In conclusion, music is not just a form of entertainment for me; it is a vital part of my identity and a means of connecting with the world around me. The stories that music tells and the emotions it evokes are invaluable, and I eagerly anticipate any opportunity to share in those experiences, whether through giveaways or simply through conversations with fellow music lovers. This book satisfied my lyrical soul and I loved sharing in author Marcus J. Moore's retelling of how music had an impact on his life as well.
The Review
“High and Rising: a.k.a. The De La Soul Book” by Marcus J. Moore shares the unique biography of hip-hop group De La Soul intertwined with stories from the authors own life. This book is a fervent ode to De La Soul for their stylistic creativity which flipped hip-hop on its head and disrupted the scene with originality and integrity. It’s clear to me that De La had an incredible impact not only on rap as a whole but also the author and many others in the Black community who saw that it was ok to express individuality and take the road less traveled regardless of what others thought or said. I really enjoyed how Moore drew and compared parallels between his own transformation through life to similar transitions taking place for De La through the years. I thought this book was a fresh, interesting, and informational story on what some might consider a lesser known hip-hop trio and the mark they had on not only hip-hop, but also community and culture as well. Recommend for any lovers of hip-hop or music history!
Overall Rating: 5 / 5 Stars
Finished Reading On: August 27, 2024
Book Information
Author Name: Marcus J. Moore
Publisher Name: Dey Street Books
Published Date: November 19, 2024
Final Thoughts
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