As I sit down to pen my 200th article, a wave of nostalgia washes over me. This isn’t just another entry for Idealense; it’s a milestone that calls for a special celebration. Over the months, I’ve had the privilege of dissecting trends, unearthing hidden gems, and sharing my unbridled passion for film, books, music, and so much more. Today, as a tribute to this journey, I’ve decided to take a walk down memory lane, revisiting a decade of music that have, in many ways, defined my childhood experience.
From the youth camp pop songs of 2004 to the transformative melodies of 2014, join me as we explore “My Song of the Year” for each year, shedding light on the tracks that not only captured the essence of their respective moments in my life but also left a nostalgic imprint on my soul. This retrospective is more than just a list; it’s a narrative of personal growth, cultural shifts, and the enduring power of music to connect, inspire, and transcend. Let’s celebrate the soundtrack of a decade that continues to resonate within the chambers of my heart.
2004: Ruslana – Wild Dances
In the summer of 2004, amidst the vibrant energy and unbridled excitement of going to my first youth camp, a song emerged as a defining soundtrack to a pivotal chapter in my life. I was 11 years old, standing on the cusp of adolescence, teeming with anticipation for the adventures that lay ahead. That song was “Wild Dances”, the Ukranian entry by Ruslana, a track that exploded onto the scene thanks to winning the Eurovision Song Festival, with its powerful rhythm and infectious energy, capturing the spirit of freedom and wild-heartedness that defined my burgeoning sense of self.
The camp, a melting pot of first experiences, introduced “Wild Dances” as our camp dance, embedding the song in my memory as a symbol of unity and collective joy. It was more than just a dance; it was a rite of passage. As we mimicked Ruslana’s electrifying moves, I felt an exhilarating rush of independence, a taste of what growing up could be. The music pulsed through the air, a wild, rhythmic call to the adventure and discovery that adolescence promised.
It was during these dances, amid the laughter and the awkwardness of first attempts at choreography, that I experienced the fluttering of butterflies for the first time. Dancing with other girls, stepping in sync to the beat, there was a sense of camaraderie, a shared moment of unfettered joy that transcended the dance itself. It was a feeling of connection, of being part of something larger than myself, that would come to define many of my experiences of growing up.
“Wild Dances” by Ruslana wasn’t just a song; it became a metaphor for my first steps into the world and towards adulthood. With every beat, it echoed the sentiments of liberation, of embracing the unknown with open arms, and of celebrating the vibrancy of youth. As the music blared from the speakers, it felt as though it was heralding my entrance into a new, exciting phase of life, full of possibilities and firsts.
2005: Mattafix – Big City Life
Transitioning to high school can feel like being thrust into a vast, unfamiliar metropolis, especially when coming from the more sheltered confines of earlier schooling years. It was during this tumultuous period of my life that “Big City Life” by Mattafix emerged as an unexpected anthem, encapsulating the whirlwind of emotions I felt as I navigated this daunting new landscape. The song, with its poignant lyrics and captivating melody, mirrored my own experiences of vulnerability and the quest for belonging in a setting that seemed as intimidating as a sprawling urban jungle.
High school was my big city – a place where the buildings of academia towered high and the streets of social dynamics were intricate and unpredictable. Much like the protagonist in the song, I found myself trying to find my way, caught between the desire to fit in and the need to discover my own identity amidst the crowd. The lyrics of “Big City Life” spoke to me on a personal level, articulating the struggle and the hustle of adapting to a new environment where everything felt significantly more intense and formidable.
In this chapter of my life, not only was I grappling with the challenges of high school, but I was also exploring the newfound freedom that came with technological advancements of the time – my first mp3 player. This device wasn’t just a means to listen to music; it became a tool for bonding and creating memories. It had a voice recording feature, a novelty that my classmates and I took full advantage of. “Big City Life” became our go-to track, a song we would sing into my mp3 player, capturing our voices in unison, blending our individual insecurities and aspirations into a collective expression of our journey.
2006: The Dropkick Murphy’s – I’m Shipping Up to Boston
In late 2006, a spontaneous decision at the cinema would unknowingly ignite a passion within me, altering the course of my ambitions and shaping my future aspirations. Initially planning to watch “The Holiday” with my sister and her friends, I found myself captivated by a gigantic poster for “The Departed” displayed prominently at the theater. On a whim, I persuaded our group to change plans at the ticket booth, a choice that led to an unexpected cinematic awakening.
“The Departed,” a film that masterfully wove together themes of identity, loyalty, and betrayal against the gritty backdrop of Boston, was my first encounter with cinema that resonated on a profound level. Central to this experience was “I’m Shipping Up to Boston” by The Dropkick Murphys, a song that not only set the tone for the film’s intense narrative but also encapsulated the raw energy and complex emotions of its characters. Its pulsating rhythms and rebellious spirit became synonymous with the film’s aesthetic, embedding itself in my consciousness as the embodiment of cinematic excellence.
The impact of “The Departed” on me was profound and multifaceted. The shocking conclusion of the film left a lasting impression, challenging my perceptions of storytelling and the power of visual narrative. It was in this moment of awe and contemplation that a seed was planted – a burgeoning desire to delve deeper into the world of film, to understand its nuances, and to one day contribute my own voice to the cinematic tapestry.
“I’m Shipping Up to Boston” became more than a song from a movie soundtrack; it represented the moment I discovered my calling. Each chord struck a chord within me, evoking a sense of purpose and direction. My favorite film until the age of 27, “The Departed” (and by extension, the music of The Dropkick Murphys) marked the beginning of my journey towards becoming a film director. It inspired me to pursue schooling and a career in film, setting me on a path to explore the depths of human emotion and the complexities of storytelling through the lens of a camera.
I loved this film so much that I recorded the audio of the trailer on my mp3 player, and knew every word and beat of the trailer by heart. Until this day, I can repeat the trailer by heart.
2007: Avenged Sevenfold – Scream
As the tumultuous waves of puberty began to crash over me, a single performance marked the inception of a significant transformation within. It was at the Scream Awards, an event celebrating the darker, more thrilling facets of cinema and music, where Avenged Sevenfold’s electrifying rendition of “Scream” captured not just my attention, but my very soul. The night was further accentuated by Quentin Tarantino’s multiple wins for “Deathproof,” setting the stage for what would become a pivotal moment in my adolescent journey.
“Scream,” with its pulsating rhythms, aggressive guitar riffs, and visceral vocals, resonated deeply with the burgeoning angst and rebellion brewing within me. It was more than just a song; it was a clarion call to embrace the darker, more intense emotions that puberty heralded. The lyrics spoke to a newfound desire for freedom and self-expression, feelings that were becoming increasingly pronounced as I navigated the complexities of teenage life.
This performance, witnessed at a time when every emotion felt amplified, served as the catalyst for a profound shift in my musical tastes. The allure of heavy metal and rock music became irresistible, offering a sanctuary where the chaos and confusion of adolescence could be both acknowledged and celebrated. Bands like Avenged Sevenfold became my constant companions, their music a backdrop to the tumultuous journey of self-discovery that puberty entailed.
2008: Justin Timberlake – What Goes Around… Comes Around
In the whirlwind of teenage years, where every emotion is magnified and every experience feels monumental, “What Goes Around… Comes Around” by Justin Timberlake became the unexpected soundtrack to my first high school love. It was during a school camp, a time away from the usual routine, filled with the promise of adventure and the thrill of new experiences, that this song intertwined with my personal story, marking the beginning of an unforgettable chapter.
The discovery of the song came during a casual quiz night, an event meant to entertain and bring us closer as classmates. Amidst the laughter and competitive banter, a question about the lyrics of the song became a friendly argument between me and her. Little did I know, the song would soon encapsulate the intense and beautiful journey of my first teenage love. That night, under the cloak of starlit skies, I found myself hopelessly falling for a classmate. It was the kind of love stories are made of, intense and all-consuming, awakening feelings I had never known.
The connection was instant and profound. Later that night, in an act that felt like the ultimate rebellion against the rules of school camps, she sneaked out of her room to join me in mine. As she slipped into my bed, the excitement and nervousness of the moment were overwhelming. There, in the quiet of the night, with the thrill of our secret rendezvous enveloping us, the emotional depth of “What Goes Around… Comes Around” resonated more deeply than ever before. The song, with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics about love and its complexities, became a symbol of our burgeoning relationship.
2009: Rise Against – Prayer of the Refugee
“Prayer of the Refugee” by Rise Against emerged as an anthem of resilience during the most tumultuous period of my life, a time when chaos reigned within the confines of my home, turning each day into a battle for peace and normalcy. This song, with its powerful lyrics and relentless energy, became a beacon of strength, encapsulating the struggle and the unwavering determination to overcome adversity. In moments of despair, its melody would cut through the chaos, reminding me that survival was not just a possibility but a promise. The driving guitars and compelling vocals kept me anchored in fight mode, instilling a sense of defiance against the circumstances that sought to undermine my spirit.
“Prayer of the Refugee” wasn’t just a song; it was a rallying cry, urging me to find my footing in a storm, to fight back against the turmoil, and to emerge not just unscathed but stronger. Listening to it, I was reminded that the essence of survival lies in the refusal to be silenced or subdued, a lesson that has stayed with me, turning the song into a personal anthem of perseverance and hope.
2010: Kid Cudi – Soundtrack 2 My Life
“Soundtrack 2 My Life” by Kid Cudi struck a profound chord in my life during 2010, a period marked by a deep dive into nihilism. In those days, the raw honesty of Kid Cudi’s lyrics mirrored my own internal struggles and thoughts, creating an almost symbiotic relationship with the music. Cudi’s openness about his vulnerabilities and the darkness he navigated resonated with me, offering a sense of solace and understanding that was rare to find.
Among the powerful lines of the song, “I am happy, that’s just the saddest lie,” particularly echoed within me, encapsulating the facade of happiness I often presented to the world while grappling with inner turmoil. This lyric alone became a poignant reflection of my state of mind, articulating a complex emotion that I struggled to express myself. Kid Cudi’s courage in sharing his own battles through “Soundtrack 2 My Life” provided not just a musical backdrop to my life at that time but also a lifeline, reminding me that the feelings of isolation and despair were shared and, most importantly, navigable. The song, in its essence, became a companion through my nihilistic phase, offering a glimmer of connection in a sea of detachment.
2011: Netsky – Everyday
In 2011, as I transitioned from the structured confines of high school to the liberating halls of college, “Everyday” by Netsky became more than just a track to me—it crystallized into my anthem of newfound freedom. This song, with its invigorating beats and the euphoric rush of its melody, perfectly encapsulated the exhilaration of stepping into a world where I could truly be on my own, explore life in a student residency, and embrace the independence I had longed for. The vibrant energy of “Everyday” resonated deeply with my desire to celebrate life, to party without constraints, and to savor the sweet taste of autonomy.
Whenever “Everyday” pulsated through the speakers of a club, it was as if the world paused, and for those moments, nothing else mattered but the music, the dance floor, and the freedom that coursed through my veins. The song became synonymous with my wild days—a period marked by an insatiable appetite for adventure and experiences. It wasn’t just the soundtrack to my nights out; it was the heartbeat of a chapter in my life where every day was a canvas for exploration, excitement, and the pure, unadulterated joy of living. “Everyday” by Netsky wasn’t just music to my ears; it was the anthem of my liberation, a reminder of the days when the world felt wide open, ready to be discovered and devoured in all its glory.
2012: Foster the People – Houdini
In 2012, as I embarked on the ambitious journey to explore my artistic identity with dreams of becoming a filmmaker, “Houdini” by Foster the People became a pivotal soundtrack to this voyage of self-discovery. The song, with its catchy melodies and infectious energy, mirrored the creative turbulence and excitement of diving into the unknown realms of art and storytelling. However, it was the mantra-like lyrics repeated towards the song’s climax—”Focus on your abilities”—that truly resonated with me, serving as a timely reminder amidst the sea of doubts and challenges that often accompany creative endeavors.
This lyric became a personal motto, a beacon of motivation reminding me to concentrate on my strengths and the unique perspectives I could bring to the world of filmmaking. It encouraged me to harness my talents, to refine them, and to believe in my capacity to contribute something meaningful to the art form I was so passionate about. “Houdini” thus transformed from a mere song into an anthem of perseverance and self-belief, encapsulating the essence of my struggle and aspiration.
2013: M83 – Midnight City
“Midnight City” by M83 became a significant part of my life’s soundtrack during a period of profound personal discovery and change. The song, with its ethereal synth lines and hauntingly beautiful melody, provided a backdrop to a momentous time when I was diagnosed with ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). This diagnosis, while initially unsettling, marked the beginning of a journey towards self-understanding and acceptance. It brought clarity to the myriad ways in which ADD had shaped my experiences, my interactions, and my creative process.
The diagnosis was a watershed moment, challenging my perception of myself yet ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of my unique wiring. “Midnight City” resonated with me during this chaotic phase, its soaring soundscape paralleling the tumultuous mix of emotions I navigated—confusion, relief, and a burgeoning sense of self-awareness. The song’s expansive feel seemed to echo my own internal exploration, offering solace and a sense of companionship through its layers of sound.
“Midnight City” became a source of inspiration, encouraging me to channel the chaotic energy of ADD into my creativity. It reminded me that within what some might see as disorder lay a wellspring of creativity, a different way of seeing the world, ripe with opportunities for innovation and artistic expression. The song, in its own way, became a metaphor for my journey with ADD—embodying the beauty in complexity, the strength in understanding one’s self, and the endless possibilities that come with embracing who you are, quirks and all. Through its melodic ebbs and flows, “Midnight City” helped me cope with life’s uncertainties and motivated me to explore my creativity in ways I had never imagined before.
2014: Oscar and the Wolf – Princes
“Princes” by Oscar and the Wolf arrived as a herald of transformation and renewal at a crucial juncture in my life, marking the end of a chapter defined by heartbreak and the dawn of a period filled with promise and rediscovery. After enduring the toughest breakup of my life, I found myself wandering through days and nights in a daze, lost to the world and to myself, akin to a zombie merely existing rather than living. This phase of desolation continued unabated, until a serendipitous encounter at a party became the catalyst for change.
At this gathering, a group of young, vibrant individuals saw something in me that I had long since been unable to recognize in myself. Their invitation to join them in their work felt like a lifeline thrown into the turbulent seas of my despair. Embracing this opportunity, I found myself selected to work alongside them, an experience that not only opened the door to a new world of friendships and happiness but also signified the beginning of my rebirth.
Amidst this whirlwind of positive change, my best friend, seeing the light returning to my eyes for the first time since my breakup, came over to celebrate my newfound job. It was during this celebration that he introduced me to “Princes” by Oscar and the Wolf. The song, with its hauntingly beautiful melody and evocative lyrics, struck a chord deep within me, resonating with the very core of my being. It encapsulated the essence of my journey from the depths of despair to the heights of hope and self-discovery.
“Princes” became more than just a song; it was the anthem of my resurrection, a musical embodiment of the new chapter I was beginning to write. Its notes and words wrapped around my experiences, giving voice to the silent transformation that had taken place within me. Every time the song played, it served as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, the power of new beginnings, and the undeniable truth that from the ashes of our lowest points, we can rise, reborn and renewed. Through “Princes,” I celebrated not just a job or a shift in circumstances, but the emergence of a new me, ready to face the world with fresh eyes and a heart open to the myriad possibilities that lay ahead.
Conclusion
This journey through my “Songs of the Year” from 2004 to 2014 has been more than a mere retrospective look at musical preferences; it has been a voyage through the depths of personal evolution, challenges, triumphs, and the effects of music on our lives. Each song selected for this special 200th-article milestone has served as a marker of time, reflecting the changing landscapes of not only the music industry but also my own journey through life. From the anthems of resilience and rebellion to the melodies of heartbreak and hope, these songs have been the soundtrack to a decade of profound personal growth and transformation.
As we conclude this special edition, it is my hope that sharing these songs and their stories has not only provided insight into my personal narrative but has also inspired you to reflect on your own (musical) landmarks. May we all continue to find solace, joy, and inspiration in the melodies that accompany us through life’s journey. Here’s to the songs that have shaped us, to the ones that will continue to do so, and to the endless power of music to articulate what often remains unsaid. As we look forward to the melodies that will define our future, let us carry forward the lessons learned and the emotions stirred by our songs of the year.
