Music is as much a part of my life as is air. I love all types of music, and am thrilled when I find new music to obsess over for a bit.
Most of my days are filled with activities that require intense concentration. Whether I’m evaluating clinical cases during the day as a pharmacist, or I am responding to emails in the evening, music helps me stay on track. I tried to spend some quiet time on the drive home yesterday and not turn on any music, but found that I just started singing all the way home.
While I have had only very little actual training, and chopsticks is the limit of my piano skills, music and singing is in my blood. True confusion time…I’ve always had a dream of being a jazzy lounge singer (before you judge that statement listen to Pink Martini, truly unique, fun and inspiring music). 
One of the musical genius additions to Pink Martini in the past few years has been Storm Large (who is my spirit animal). Pink Martini has been amazing from the start, and their live shows are one of a kind and not to be missed. The addition of Storm has brought an elevation to the sultry desire that lives in the depths of all jazz. 
Because I can’t be at a live show everyday, I am constantly looking for new music to experience. While we were traveling through Ireland, the music that was playing in a small cafe caught my ear, which was Paolo Nutini’s 2006 album “These Streets.” I’ve been listening to this album since we got back.
Paolo Nutini is a well-known Scottish/British singer/songwriter and rose to fame from this debut album. The songs “Last Request” and “Jenny don’t be hasty” are two of my favorites.
The other singer that I am currently listening to and is a constant in my playlists is American jazz singer, Melody Gardot. Melody not only has one of the most clean and crisp voices, but she is also an incredibly inspiring individual.
In 2003, Melody was hit by an SUV while riding her bike and suffered extensive head and spinal injuries. Her recovery process included being confined to a bed for a year, and intense physical therapy to relearn basic tasks. The accident also left her hypersensitive to sound and light, which is why you will see her in sunglasses in almost every photo. An integral part of her rehabilitation was music therapy. Melody’s physician suggested the use of music therapy to help the brain develop new pathways and repair damage (there are numerous studies showing the benefit that music has on our brains, and comment below if you would like more information on the topic).
Melody began writing songs and performing as part of her recovery, and now visits hospitals and universities as a music therapy advocate. To-date, Melody has released four albums. One of my favorite albums of Melody’s is “My One And Only Thrill.” I’m in love with the tracks “Baby I’m a Fool” and “Your Heart Is As Black As Night.”
What are you listening to? What music inspires you?
Founder of Shoulders With Freckles and SUMMERSKIN, as well as a Pharmacist, Melanoma Survivor & Mom.
