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News
Why Crying Can Be Just the Release Your Body Needs why-crying-can-be-just-release-your-body-needs

Why Crying Can Be Just the Release Your Body Needs

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Learn how to let it out, plus the perfect playlists for when you're feeling sad, lonely, heartbroken, helpless or in grief
Kit Stone
MusiCares
Jun 17, 2020 - 2:51 pm

“Life is hard.” You’ve heard the phrase. You may have even said the phrase. And while it’s true, it is an oversimplification of what daily life can truly feel like, especially right now. The past few weeks have been heavy, to say the least, in a new and different way. Amid the COVID 19 pandemic, the ongoing fight for racial justice, and managing your own daily to-do’s, a lot of us find ourselves emotionally overwhelmed with no time or space to decompress. It’s as if our emotions are at full capacity — a water balloon ready to burst with the prick of a pin. Instead of allowing ourselves to empty by letting the water flow, we attempt to tape over the hole and try to move forward.

During this new era, people all over the world are looking for ways to cope while adjusting to what’s happening. A lot of us lean on common stress relievers - music, art, exercise, journaling, etc. - to ease some of our emotional discomforts and provide us a few moments of peace. With all of these wonderful options available, we tend to overlook a simple and sometimes more effective activity — a good cry.

Tears have gotten a bad wrap throughout the years. Did you ever cry at school and get teased? Did you cry in front of a loved one only for them to dismiss your feelings? Have you ever lost control of your cry only to be told to “stop being dramatic”? In some settings, crying is seen as immature or as a sign of weakness. This is a vulnerability that some cannot afford. As a result, they work hard to hold back their tears. It doesn’t mean they can’t feel. On the contrary, they feel very deeply, but don’t show it out of the false sense that their tears are a signal of fragility. They are unaware of the true benefits that can come from crying.

All crying, however, is not equal. Our bodies actually produce three types of tears: basal, reflex, and emotional. Basal tears are in our eyes to lubricate, nourish, and protect the cornea. They serve as a protective barrier that shields your eye from everyday dirt and debris. Cutting onions or being exposed to smoke activates reflex tears. When your eyes get irritated, reflex tears fill your eyes with water to release antibodies to fight off the bacteria from whatever is causing the irritation. 

All crying is not equal. Our bodies actually produce three types of tears: basal, reflex, and emotional.

Finally, we get to emotional tears. These tears are evoked from feelings of joy, fear and most commonly, sadness. Although we may feel sad, setting our emotions free through crying could be what we need to begin to lift ourselves up. “Among the hormones released when you cry is Oxytocin - a hormone that helps alleviate both physical and mental pain,” said Dr. Brian Wind, Ph.D., Chief Clinical Executive at JourneyPure. “If you don't cry, especially when facing a tremendous loss or trauma, you're probably holding those emotions in and not giving yourself a chance to feel better.”

Crying also releases endogenous opioids or endorphins, the same “happy hormone” that’s released when you exercise that leaves you with a feel-good feeling. Your tears also contain stress hormones so when you cry, your stress levels could decrease. Even though the problem isn’t gone, crying can lighten the way we feel about it.

"Crying can be an important part of mental health. It allows us to soothe ourselves, to self regulate,” said Dr. Sandi Curtis, certified music therapist. “Music can be a great way to elicit our emotions and to regulate them. Sometimes a good song to cry to followed by something more uplifting can be helpful."

Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, a group of scientists from the Center for Interdisciplinary Music Research in Finland, discovered that there are three ways people tend to use music to manage negative emotions: solace, diversion, discharge.

"Crying can be an important part of mental health. It allows us to soothe ourselves, to self regulate,” -Dr. Sandi Curtis, certified music therapist

Solace, like the word itself, is when you’re sad and seek out music that makes you feel heard and less lonely. Diversion is when you choose music to distract you from your feelings.

To give in to your emotions and allow for release you’ll choose discharge. Discharge is when you find music to match your mood to help you go deeper into your emotions in order to facilitate release.

Writer Leo Tolstoy said, “Music is the shorthand of emotion,” and that statement couldn’t be more true. Many artists, past and present, have used music to express their own feelings. And through their vulnerability, they have granted the rest of us a means of escape and reflection, and release. From Broadway hits like Les Miserables' “I Dreamed A Dream,” to Eric Clapton’s “Tears in Heaven,” there are an innumerable amount of songs across all genres that can evoke the strongest emotions.

Here are a few song suggestions to help lead you to a tearful release.

When you’re feeling sad and/or alone:
“I’m In Here” by Sia
“Anyone” by Demi Lovato
“U” by Kendrick Lamar
“Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
“Lithium” by Evanescence
“Mad World” by Gary Jules
“1-800-273-8255” by Logic ft. Alessia Cara and Khalid
“Nobody Knows” by P!nk

When you’re feeling hopeless:
“A Change Gone Come” by Sam Cooke
“Can’t Take That Away” by Mariah Carey
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Aretha Franklin (written by Simon & Garfunkle)
"Try" by Colbie Caillat
“The Climb” by Miley Cyrus
“Rise Up” by Andra Day
“Titanium” by David Guetta ft. Sia
“Glory” by Common and John Legend

When you’re feeling grief:
“Your Words” by Tori Kelly
“Dance With My Father” by Luther Vandross
“Tears In Heaven” by Eric Clapton
“One Sweet Day” by Mariah Carey ft. Boyz II Men
“Joanne” (Where Do You Think You’re Goin’?) by Lady Gaga
“See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa ft. Charlie Puth
“Wake Me Up When September Ends” by Green Day
“Supermarket Flowers” by Ed Sheeran           

When you’re feeling heartbroken:
“What Hurts the Most” by Rascal Flatts
“If You’re Not the One” by Daniel Bedingfield
“Ex-Factor” by Lauryn Hill
“A Home” by Dixie Chicks
“Still In Love With You” by Sade
“We Can’t Be Friends” by R.L. and Deborah Cox
“Say Something” by A Great Big World ft. Christina Aguilera
“Someone Like You” by Adele

Never underestimate the impact of a few moments of tears. As with most things, moderation is key. If you begin crying and find yourself unable to stop, take the time to seek out professional help.

Learn more about how you can donate to or apply for assistance via the Recording Academy's and MusiCares' COVID-19 Relief Fund.

Learn more about the financial, medical and personal emergencies services and resources offered by the Recording Academy and MusiCares.

Kit Stone is a multimedia storyteller and digital content creator. A native of California, she credits her love of all things creative to the influence of the Bay Area culture she grew up in, and the part her family, Sly & the Family Stone, played in shaping it. Since receiving her degree in visual storytelling and media production from Cal State East Bay, Kit has used her passion for storytelling to inspire, educate, and entertain. When she’s off the clock, you can find her curled up with a good book or watching episodes of "The Golden Girls."

READ MORE: 6 Music Games To Play For A Virtual Game Night With Friends & Family

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Johanna Söderberg of First Aid Kit

Photo: FilmMagic/Getty Images

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Musicians Reveal The Songs That Comfort & Heal songs-support-11-musicians-reveal-music-heals-them

Songs Of Support: 11 Musicians Reveal The Music That Heals Them

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We checked in with artists across a variety of genres to ask what they're listening to during these trying times
Andy Meek
MusiCares
Jun 5, 2020 - 4:13 pm

During this time of pandemic and societal unrest especially in the U.S., people turn to music for a light in the darkness, as events have taken both a physical and mental toll. But musicians are like everyone else, in that they, too, need music to turn to right now, for some comfort and reassurance of their own.

As one half of the Swedish folk duo First Aid Kit, Johanna Söderberg has a very specific, tried-and-true antidote she turns to when confronted with bad news and hard times. It involves the 29-year-old musician and songwriter pulling out her copies of albums like GP and Grievous Angel by Gram Parsons and singing every line she knows by heart while the music blasts throughout her apartment. Sort of her mental equivalent of tapping the “Home” button on the iPhone, it’s a quick reset by returning to the old favorites she’s loved for most of her life when things start to get too crazy outside — a practice that’s proven especially useful during the coronavirus pandemic and the lockdowns that have interrupted the lives of so many musicians like her.

“When times are difficult, I tend to rely on my musical equivalent of comfort food,” Söderberg tells MusiCares. “For example, ‘Diamond Day’ by Vashti Bunyan is such a song. It fills me with calm and an appreciation for the slow and mundane aspects of everyday life.” The songs on those Gram Parsons albums, Söderberg continues, “bring back so many memories from my life on the road. They give me hope that soon I’ll be back on that stage performing again.”

Along the same lines as Söderberg’s go-to tunes, we asked 10 more musicians across a spectrum of genres to tell us what they’re listening to right now — and, specifically, what songs give them hope and comfort — as many of these artists have been forced to scuttle tours and shows and are quarantining around the world, unsure of what the future holds.

Ruth B.

Ruth Berhe, known by her stage name of Ruth B., is a singer-songwriter from Edmonton, Alberta, whose debut album Safe Haven was released in 2017.

“To Zion” by Lauryn Hill — Music has always been my go-to during any times of trial and tribulation, whether that’s writing my own stuff or listening. I think, for me, an artist/album I always find myself going to during these times is The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, by Lauryn Hill. Especially right now, I just think -- I respect her so much as an artist, as a woman, as a black woman, for the music she made. Her songs, for a young woman to listen to, they just always resonate with me. There’s a song for kind of every feeling and mood. And I feel like some of the issues and battles she faced are still relevant today. And I can still relate to it, even though it came out so many years ago.

My favorite song on there is “To Zion.” It’s very much a story. It kind of touches on a bunch of the issues she faced and problems she had to overcome. But she does it in such a beautiful way by telling this story. Music can really make people feel understood. Even though you don’t know exactly what she was going through, and she doesn’t know exactly what I'm going through, a song can connect you with one another.

Alex Bleeker, Real Estate

Alex Bleeker is the bassist for the band Real Estate, which released its new album The Main Thing at the end of February, right as the coronavirus pandemic was arriving in the US.

“Let's Make a Deal” by Linda "Babe" Majika — Back in March when the lockdown began, my friends and I started a radio show called Quarantine Dreams. It keeps me actively searching for new music, and for some upbeat dance jams to keep the vibrations high. I stumbled upon this tune a few days ago and I can't stop listening. Instant Boogie.

“Whole Wide World” by Wreckless Eric — This early power pop classic has been hitting home in a new way these days. I'm supposed to be on tour, but instead I'm grounded at home .... I'm longing to be traveling "the whole wide world"....

“Hello Take Me Anywhere” by Night Shop — My old buddy Justin Sullivan, best known for his drumming stints in some notable groups (Flat Worms, The Babies, Kevin Morby’s band) is really coming into his own as a songwriter. He just put out this new tune and it's getting to me in all the right ways - clever lyrics and classic melodies. His wistful, homespun, nostalgic video for this tune brought a tear to my eye.

Bethany Cosentino, Best Coast

Bethany Cosentino is a guitarist and the lead singer for Best Coast, for which she’s one-half of the rock duo along with multi-instrumentalist Bobb Bruno. The band released its latest album Always Tomorrow on February 21.

“Only Over You” by Fleetwood Mac — In hard times, I don’t particularly turn to “joyful” or upbeat music. I gravitate to music that makes me really feel something, and this song makes me feel everything. The lyrics are just real and raw and relatable. I think we can all relate to just feeling crazy and obsessive over things in our lives, and sometimes it just helps to have those feelings mirrored back at you by someone else. Fleetwood Mac is my favorite band of all time, and I feel like they just do that so well — mirror my feelings back at me. This song in particular just has an easiness about it, the background vocals especially feel very relaxing and they are easy to focus on and kind of zone out to. The whole back half of this song in general, the guitar solo, the background vocals, the steady drum beat, it just helps you tune out the work and kind of drift away into the song.

Ivan Barias

Ivan Barias is an award winning and multi GRAMMY-nominated producer and songwriter. Barias serves on the Recording Academy’s Board of Trustees and also co-chairs the Producers & Engineers Wing Steering Committee.

“Higher Ground” Stevie Wonder — To me this is the song that embodies perseverance and never quitting despite the many obstacles life and tough times may bring. It’s about being deliberate in what you were put here to do and and to never let the circumstances deviate us from the journey of peace and love for everyone.

“Move On Up” by Curtis Mayfield — Another uplifting song that uplifts not only because of the infectious groove but because of the feeling that it instills in you. That feeling is that anything is possible despite what life keeps throwing at us. The lyrics “Just move on up for peace you'll find. Into the steeple of beautiful people where there's only one kind” sounds like pie in the sky but it’s still encouraging nonetheless.

“Las Caras Lindas” by Ismael Rivera — A classic Salsa song that celebrated what it was like to be a Black Latino in the 70’s. Ismael Rivera sang about feeling proud to be black and how beautiful the faces of Black people looked while dealing with the many difficulties of the time. The song translates to “The Beautiful Faces” in the English language. I think aside from the beautiful lyrics it illustrates that despite all of the pain Black people have been through they still manage to smile and give their love to the world. When I listen to this song as a Black Latinx man in America, despite the pain I see I still feel that love is what’s going to save us all and allow us to heal in the end.

Nora En Pure

South African-Swiss DJ Daniela Di Lillo​, better known by her stage name of Nora En Pure, hasn’t been able to perform in front of a live audience in months, since clubs and concert venues around the world remain closed. In the meantime, she’s been streaming regular shows to Internet audiences - and she’s planning to release a new track every month through the end of the year. Her first new track during the lockdown is “All I Need.”

During the last few months, I’ve enjoyed some classic tracks that always lift my spirits and some others that I was working with for my record label, Purified Records.

“Don’t Worry Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin — This is probably my number one feel-content song. I have always loved this song and often whistle it even without noticing, and suddenly I feel happier. Even my dog responds to it by now. It has this genuine lightness that you don't get in many songs nowadays.

Greatest Hits by Pink Floyd — Having so much time at home, we listened to some playlists of Pink Floyd and thoroughly enjoyed their greatest hits while cooking or dancing around a little in our living room. Their music takes your mind off current things quite easily.

“Moonlight” by Alex Breitling — I signed this track (to Purified Records) shortly before the lockdown and managed to play it out during some sets before all the events got cancelled. It's such a soothing track and with these memories in mind it holds a special place and the longing to get back out there to play and connect with people again.

“For Every Forever” by Mathame — I closed my first livestream during the lockdown with this track when the situation was still very fresh. It was a Beatport stream with donations for the Covid-19 relief fund, and a lot of interaction was going on. I wanted to close with this track as the vocals and the theme seemed very fitting to the current situation, giving hope and assurance. Since playing it there, this track has become very emotional for me and will always remind me of this time.

Seth Avett, The Avett Brothers

Seth Avett is a multi-instrumentalist as well as one of the singers and founding members of the folk rock band The Avett Brothers. The band’s latest album is Closer Than Together.

“That’s How Strong My Love Is” by Otis Redding — From the opening chords of “That’s How Strong My Love Is,” we’re all invited into such a deep, universal groove … and then, immediately, Otis Redding’s voice connects us even further. His voice is so wonderfully full of soul and power and the lyrics are so simple and bold. The song reminds me of my own strength of heart and it reminds me of the love of God.

“Get By” by Talib Kweli — For me, “Get By” by Talib Kweli is possibly the greatest example of positivity ever recorded in song form. The words are uplifting. The sample is intoxicating. The delivery is perfect. The vibe is absolutely unstoppable. And if the rhythm of it doesn’t move you, you oughta check your pulse.

“Own Light” by Brother Ali — Brother Ali’s “Own Light” is a beautiful reminder of what, how, and why we feel so deeply. He is one of America’s greatest living poets to my mind, constantly weaving words to celebrate the complexity, diversity, and above all, compassion of the human experience.

Sarah Jarosz

Sarah Jarosz’s music blends folk, Americana, and roots traditions, and she’s a multi-instrumentalist who plays the mandolin, guitar, and banjo. Her new record, World on the Ground, will be released on June 5.

“Lovers In A Dangerous Time” by Bruce Cockburn — I’ve loved this song for many years, but I rediscovered it recently when Shawn Colvin covered it on her IGTV. It’s taken on a new meaning during a global pandemic. "Nothing worth having comes without some kind of fight / You’ve got to kick at the darkness ‘til it bleeds daylight." That’s songwriting at its best right there, and a mantra for the present day.

“Cattails” by Big Thief — Big Thief have been making some of my favorite new music in recent years. The melodies and lyrics are equally enriching. This is a warm hug of a song - like a painting that’s been on your wall for years but you just remembered to really take another look at it.

Marco Pave

Marco Pave is a hip-hop artist and rapper who released his debut album “Welcome to Grc Lnd” in 2017.

The Recession by Jeezy — An album I would say helps me a lot in dark times, I go to The Recession by Jeezy. Which is impactful, very impactful to me in a way, because I came of age during the Great Recession. Growing up in the shadow of that, that was an album and that was an artist literally speaking about it as it was happening. It did two things. It gave a light to what was happening, but it also gave hope to what was happening. Because at the same time, he was still growing a successful career as an artist. And it was, like, this is the reality now, and this is how we adjust to it.

“In a Sentimental Mood” by John Coltrane and Duke Ellington — I would say a song I go to often is John Coltrane’s “In a Sentimental Mood.” Just to pop out and get out of any kind of negative mood.

Damian Kulash, Ok Go

Damian Kulash is the lead singer for the rock band Ok Go. The band’s newest song, the just-released “All Together Now,” was inspired in part by Kulash’s own bout with the coronavirus.

“Post-War” by M. Ward — It’s on the album “Post-War,” and it’s just a quiet, beautiful, honest … it’s like a salve on my soul, you know?

“Lay Down” by Son Little — He’s got some more upbeat, bluesy things, but this is, like, a really beautiful, quiet, soul song.

A lot of what we’ve been listening to is ’60s soul, dance music, because my two twins - we need a soundtrack to their lives. We do some “Wheels on the Bus” and so forth, but music that they want to just get up and jump around to. It’s been really fun to go - oh, right, Sam & Dave! Or, The Monkees. I don’t know if in other times I would have wanted to play them more contemporary music and this is just a desire to bridge with the past or something, but it feels like what we want is to be, like, here’s what goes in the time capsule, kids. Let me play Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band for you, you know?

John Carter Cash

John Carter Cash is a singer-songwriter who’s also the son of June and Johnny Cash. His new album The Cash Collective: Hey Crow! will be released on June 19.

“Helplessly Hoping” by Crosby, Stills & Nash — This is a love song, and communicates the desperation and sadness associated with a love that never will be. But its honesty opens the heart, and the pure emotional expression heals.

“Pancho and Lefty” by Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard — This tale may be a work of fantasy, but being lost in a story brings us to a different place, and in doing so, perhaps our own struggles don’t seem so important.

“Paranoid” by Black Sabbath — Pure rock and roll angst. Get the wiggles out.

“Whispering Shifting Sands, Parts I and II” by Johnny Cash — My father Johnny Cash invented the concept album. These two songs of cinematic vision recall a time in the American West when all was new and unknown. The haunting melody creates a vision better than the movies.

“Let the Lower Lights be Burning” by Tennessee Ernie Ford — This is a gospel song but written by a captain of a ship who prays that “the lower lights be burning,” those of the lighthouse on the shore. It is a song of hope and lends a recognition for the need for guidance, both spiritual and realistically.

“Winter” by Tori Amos — Tori Amos is a master. Her music has literally saved my life on at least three occasions. To me, “Winter” is the most important song on Little Earthquakes.

Learn more about how you can donate to or apply for assistance via the Recording Academy's and MusiCares' COVID-19 Relief Fund.

Learn more about the financial, medical and personal emergencies services and resources offered by the Recording Academy and MusiCares. 

 

 

GRAMMYs

Photo: Ramon Costa/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

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Virtual Game Night: 6 Music Games To Play 6-music-games-play-virtual-game-night-friends-family

6 Music Games To Play For A Virtual Game Night With Friends & Family

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Try these creative ways to stay connected, have fun and maintain good mental health during quarantine
Kit Stone
MusiCares
May 25, 2020 - 12:35 pm

For some, the first week of the stay at home order felt like a vacation — a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We watched too much television, ate too many snacks, danced in our pajamas in the middle of the afternoon, and rekindled our relationship with our favorite bedspreads. 

But for family-oriented individuals, the stay-at-home orders hit differently. Sunday dinners and game-nights have been put on hold to ensure everyone's safety during the pandemic. That doesn't mean that you can't spend quality time with your loved ones, it just means you need to get a little creative. 

The saying is true, you don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone, and not being able to connect with friends and family in the way that we’re used to can take a toll on your emotional and mental health. So, we’ve got to get creative on ways to incorporate family time even if you can’t physically connect. Establishing a routine game night, even virtually, can provide the emotional lift you need to help you maintain during the quarantine. 

Spending time with family and friends, even virtually, can relieve stress, decrease anxiety and depression, improve sleep, improve relationships, and make you happier all around. As long as you have wifi, you can organize a game night that can still add hours of family fun to your day. 

If you come from a musical family where get-togethers turn into impromptu concerts or viral TikTok videos, this list is for you. These virtual music-themed games can increase your musical knowledge, give your friends and family a peek into your musical taste, get your creative juices flowing and lift your mood. 

1. Verzuz 

Instagram got an instant upgrade when mega producers Timbaland and Swiss Beatz went hit for hit in the first Verzuz challenge. Since then, millions have gathered around their phones, tablets, and computers and watched artists like Teddy Riley and Babyface, Ryan Tedder and Benny Blanco, Erykah Badu and Jill Scott, and most recently, Ludacris and Nelly go hit for hit. You don’t have to wait for the next chart-topping artists to experience your next battle. Pick your favorite artist and challenge a friend. You can even invite others to listen in and choose the winner.  

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2. Don’t Forget the Lyrics 

Are you a master at song lyrics? Well, even if you’re not, this will be a fun game. Each person takes turns playing a piece of a song. Without warning, stop the song and have the challenger finish the lyrical phrase. In order to get the point, they have to finish the lyrics word for word. If you want to be nice, you can let the other player sacrifice a point in order to give them a clue. The first person to get 12 song lyrics right, wins! Options: You can change the number from 12 to 20 or just 5, depending on how long you want to make your game.

3. Name That Tune

Start by playing an intro of a song. Before the verse starts, stop the song and wait for the other person to guess the title and the artist. Only the correct title gets the point. Partial or “almost” titles don’t count. Play one-on-one, or in teams. Make it more challenging by sticking to one genre or a specific decade. The parameters are up to you, so have fun with it!

4. Music Trivia

Normally, for this game, you would need a trivia master. That person would have to create a Google Doc of musical categories and questions similar to Jeopardy. Thankfully, we’ve got you covered with the “Ask GRAMMYs” music trivia game, compatible with Alexa and Google Home. You can test your music knowledge in categories that cover country music stars to rock legends and previous GRAMMY winners. The game refreshes every Monday with a new category so choose your team wisely. Check out this calendar to see what’s coming next. 

https://twitter.com/RecordingAcad/status/1253372567328612353

Looking for the perfect way to stay entertained while social distancing? Test your music knowledge with our weekly #GRAMMYTrivia.

Simply say "Ask GRAMMYs" to your #GoogleHome or #Alexa to get started! https://t.co/XPr5BmzzW3

— Recording Academy / GRAMMYs (@RecordingAcad) April 23, 2020

5/25 – The GRAMMYs Goes To The Opera
6/1 – Pride + Music
6/8 – The '60s
6/15 – The '70s
6/22 – The '80s
6/29 – '90s R&B

5. Song Association

This game can be played one-on-one or with teams. One person gives a member of the opposite team a word. That person has 10 seconds to sing a song with that word in it. If the time runs out, the person doesn’t get the point and it’s the other team’s turn. The first team or player to get 10 right, or however many you decide, wins. Easy words to start with are colors, places and objects.

6. Dance Freeze

Dancing carries its own benefits to health and wellness. Something as simple as moving your body can boost your cognitive performance, mood, and improve your cardiovascular health. It’s also an activity that all ages can enjoy from your barely walking tots to your more seasoned relatives. Designate a DJ. The DJ will play music and the other players will dance. Once the DJ stops the music, the players have to freeze in whatever dance position they’re in. The DJ watches to make sure they’re frozen in place. Anyone that moves is automatically out. The last player dancing wins. This a great game to get the whole family up and moving.

Kit Stone is a multimedia storyteller and digital content creator. A native of California, she credits her love of all things creative to the influence of the Bay Area culture she grew up in, and the part her family, Sly & the Family Stone, played in shaping it. Since receiving her degree in visual storytelling and media production from Cal State East Bay, Kit has used her passion for storytelling to inspire, educate, and entertain. When she’s off the clock, you can find her curled up with a good book or watching episodes of "The Golden Girls."

Read More: 11 Meditation Apps To Help You Get Calm & Centered During Quarantine & Beyond

Read more: How To Use Music Techniques To Prepare Healthy Food

Learn more about how you can donate to or apply for assistance via the Recording Academy's and MusiCares' COVID-19 Relief Fund.

Learn more about the financial, medical and personal emergencies services and resources offered by the Recording Academy and MusiCares. 

GRAMMYs

Bono

Photo: Shirlaine Forrest/WireImage

News
U2's Bono Shares 60 Songs That Saved His Life bono-names-60-songs-saved-his-life-his-60th-birthday-playlist

Bono Names 60 Songs That Saved His Life On His 60th Birthday Playlist

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To celebrate turning 60, the U2 frontman and 2003 MusiCares Person Of The Year shared an epic and eclectic playlist of music that inspires, delights and heals
Nate Hertweck
MusiCares
May 11, 2020 - 3:26 pm

Believe it or not, Sunday marked Bono's 60th birthday. To celebrate, the GRAMMY-winning U2 frontman and philanthropist shared a playlist of songs near and dear to him aptly titled "60 Songs That Saved My Life."

https://twitter.com/U2/status/1259423345386405888

These are some of the songs that saved my life…. the ones I couldn’t have lived without… the ones that got me from there to here, zero to 60… through all the scrapes, all manner of nuisance, from the serious to the silly… and the joy, mostly joy… https://t.co/V7TKfStr6J pic.twitter.com/hiRednbxHf

— U2 (@U2) May 10, 2020

His advenvturous playlist covers a lot of musical ground, from David Bowie's "Life On Mars?" to Kanye West's "Black Skinhead," and Billie Eilish's "everything i wanted" to Sex Pistol's "Anarchy in the U.K." - and that's just in the first five songs! The ecletic mix of tunes spans many decades, genres and moods. 

"These are some of the songs that saved my life," Bono wrote in a note accompanying the playlist. "Through all the scrapes, all manner of nuisance, from the serious to the silly... and the joy, mostly joy..."

The superstar singer also has posted a series of thank-you letters to the artists who created the music on his playlist. The first group of personalized notes contains heartfelt messages to Eilish and Bowie, as well as Daft Punk, Massive Attack, Kraftwerk and more, and can be read on U2's website.

"I wanted to thank the artists and everyone who helped make them," he wrote in reference to the notes. "I am writing a fan letter to accompany each song to try and explain my fascination..."

Who knows, the reverent and fun project may inspire other artists to identify the music and the music creators responsible for saving their lives, especially now, as music remains a much-needed source of support, inspiration, and, as Bono says, "joy, mostly joy."

Bono was honored by MusiCares as Person Of The Year in 2003 not only for his musical accomplishments but also for his extensive philanthropic work. Listen to Bono's "60 Songs That Saved My Life" playlist on your favorite streaming platform here.

Learn more about how you can donate to or apply for assistance via the Recording Academy's and MusiCares' COVID-19 Relief Fund.

Learn more about the financial, medical and personal emergencies services and resources offered by the Recording Academy and MusiCares. 

 

David Lee Roth (L) and Eddie Van Halen (R)

David Lee Roth (L) and Eddie Van Halen (R)

 

Photo: Robert Yager

News
2021 MusiCares Charity Relief Auction Announced 2021-musicares-charity-relief-auction-additional-items-announced-bid-items-bob-dylan

2021 MusiCares Charity Relief Auction Additional Items Announced: Bid On Items From Bob Dylan, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, David Lee Roth & Many More

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The marquee lineup of items at the 2021 MusiCares Charity Relief Auction, benefitting the MusiCares Foundation, will feature items from ABBA, Cyndi Lauper, Kenny Chesney, Reba McEntire and many others
MusiCares
Dec 23, 2020 - 11:41 am

MusiCares, the leading music industry charity, and Julien's Auctions have announced the marquee lineup of items to be sold at the MusiCares Charity Relief Auction, which takes place live in Beverly Hills and online Sunday, Jan. 31, 2021.

Benefitting the MusiCares Foundation, this official GRAMMY Week event precedes the 2021 GRAMMYs. Proceeds from the auction will benefit MusiCares to provide aid to music people devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic. MusiCares provides the music community a support system of health and human services across a spectrum of need, including physical and mental health, addiction recovery, unforeseen personal emergencies and disaster relief.

BTS kicked off the initiative in the previous announcement of their generous offering of their pastel-colored ensembles (estimate: $20,000-$40,000), worn in their 2020 music video for "Dynamite," the global superstars' smash hit and first No. 1 single in the U.S. BTS earned their first GRAMMY nomination for the song in the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance category at the 2021 GRAMMYs, alongside other pop icons like Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande, Taylor Swift and Bon Iver, and Justin Bieber and Quavo.

An exciting highlight added to the auction will be a black jacket embroidered with rhinestones worn by music icon and original Van Halen singer, David Lee Roth, on stage performing with Van Halen during their landmark 2007-2008 tour when he reunited with the band for the first time since 1984. The jacket was also featured in a photograph accompanying this lot signed by Roth with Eddie Van Halen taken backstage by photographer Robert Yager. The jacket was seen in Roth's recent tweet with the photo in tribute to the late guitar legend on Oct. 6, the day of Van Halen's passing with the words, "What a Long Great Trip It's Been.." (estimate: $2,000 - $4,000). 

Pete Townsend

Pete Townsend | Photo Courtesy of Artist

Also headlining are two items from the legendary Bob Dylan: a 2018 "MONDO SCRIPTO" print with Dylan's handwritten lyrics to "Like A Rolling Stone" on one side and the drawing on the other signed by Dylan (estimate: $2,000 - $3,000) and a hardcover copy of Bob Dylan's 2004 book "Chronicles," signed on the inside by Dylan (estimate: $800 - $1,200). 

Another exceptional addition to the auction stage will be Pete Townsend's blue boiler suit and long beige linen "kimono" coat (estimate: $4,000 - $6,000) worn by the iconic guitarist while jumping in the air and performing with The Who during their epic shows at the Hollywood Bowl and Wembley Stadium last year.

Making a special appearance is an acrylic and spray on canvas painting of singer and musician Chris Martin performing live with Coldplay by Billy Morrison, the artist and guitarist of Billy Idol's band since 2009 (estimate: $8,000 to $12,000). The mixed media, acrylic and spray on canvas is signed by both Martin and Morrison.

Chris Martin (L) and Billy Morrison (R)

Chris Martin (L) and Billy Morrison (R) | Photo Courtesy of Artists

Other notable items announced are a framed "No Time To Die" single cover lithograph, signed by Billie Eilish, FINNEAS and Daniel Craig, of the GRAMMY-nominated song from the forthcoming James Bond film, No Time To Die; a Lady-Gaga-signed Chromatica vinyl LP; a pink signed guitar from Machine Gun Kelly; Foo-Fighters-signed drumheads and signed Taylor-Hawkins-used drumsticks; a Fender Player Series Stratocaster guitar signed by Eric Burton and Adrian Quesada of the GRAMMY-nominated Black Pumas; Alice Cooper's Welcome To My Nightmare 1975 album lithograph by award-winning movie poster artist Drew Struzan; Nikki Sixx's signed signature J-4 Sixx bass guitar; Marshmello's signed mascot head gear; and forthcoming items from Mark Ronson, The Estate of Chris Cornell offered by Vicky Cornell, The Estate of George Harrison and more.

Nikki Sixx

Nikki Sixx | Photo Courtesy of Artist

"Partners like Julien's Auctions allow MusiCares to continue to support musicians and industry professionals with our relief efforts," Laura Segura, Executive Director of MusiCares, said. "During GRAMMY Week, we want to encourage everyone to support the thousands of people behind the scenes of the music that are still out of work and struggling through the pandemic."

Highlights from the 2021 MusiCares Charity Relief Auction include (with estimates): 

  • Snoop Dogg's self-portrait dog wearing a "Doggy Style 25" gold chain painting on canvas signed by Snoop Dogg, which was created in commemoration of his 25th Anniversary Doggy Style in 2019 ($1,500-$3,000).
  • A single sheet of partial handwritten lyrics written by HAIM for their 2020 song "The Steps" that includes step-like drawings ($800-$1,200).
  • A purple Meyer The Hatter fedora hat with yellow grosgrain band signed on the inside by Elvis Costello, who has also drawn a caricature next to his signature ($600-$800).
  • Cyndi Lauper's jean jacket with original artwork by artist Lola Arrillaga on the jacket signed inside "Painting by Lola," by Lauper with a heart and piece sign drawing ($1,500-$3,000).
  • Kenny Chesney's signed Epiphone Pro-1 NA acoustic guitar and accompanied by a photograph of Chesney with the guitar ($2,000-$3,000).
  • Brian May's signed black "PS Paul Smith" long-sleeved button-down shirt accompanied by a signed photograph of May performing at the closing ceremony of the Olympic Games at Olympic Stadium in London on Aug. 12, 2012 ($1,000-$2,000).
  • Reba McEntire's ballgown satin skirt with tulle and off-shoulder, long-sleeved lace top ($1,000-$2,000).
  • A postcard and music sheet for ABBA's song "Does Your Mother Know," each signed by all four ABBA band members ($800-$1,200).
  • A pair of black leather Linda Farrow Collaborations and Veronique Branquinno sunglasses owned and worn by Yoko Ono ($1,000-$2,000).
  • A champagne-brown velvet jacket with scarf collar worn by Brandi Carlile in a photoshoot for By The Way I Forgive You album and Warner Music Pre-GRAMMY party in New York City on Ja. 25, 2018 ($1,000-$2,000).
  • A framed color photograph of Leon Bridges taken in Brussels in 2018 signed by both Bridges and the photographer ($600-$800).
  • Eminem's red Kangol cap signed "Shady" by Eminem ($600-$800).
  • Tanya Tucker's handwritten lyrics to "Bring My Flowers Now" ($800-$1,200).
  • Joe Walsh's (The Eagles, Ringo Starr and His All-Starr Band, and James Gang) signed Gibson Les Paul Standard guitar with the original Gibson hard shell case donated by Gibson Guitars ($2,000-$3,000).

JULIEN'S AUCTIONS PUBLIC EXHIBITION & LIVE AUCTION LOCATION
Julien's Auctions Beverly Hills
257 N. Canon Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Monday, Jan. 25 –Friday, Jan. 29, 2021
Daily from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. PST
Free to the Public

LIVE AND ONLINE AUCTION 
MusiCares Charity Relief Auction 
An Official 63rd GRAMMY Week Event 

Sunday, Jan. 31, 2021
Session I: 1 p.m. PST

REGISTERING TO BID
Registration is required to bid in this online auction and can be done in person at the exhibition or online before the sale at the Julien's Auctions website. Registration page to bid by phone, proxy or in person, or online at JuliensLive.com to bid live online, or by calling 310-836-1818. For inquiries, please email info@juliensauctions.com or call 310-836-1818.

PLACING BIDS
There are four ways to bid in Live Auctions:

  1. Bid with Julien's Auctions online and live in real time at JuliensLive.com or via the iPhone App.
  2. Bid over the telephone through an auction house representative.
  3. Bid in person in the room at live auction events
  4. Bid in advance by absentee bid. Absentee bid forms are printed in the back of each catalogue, and are also available by calling Julien's Auctions or online.

MusiCares Launches "Help For The Holidays" Initiative On Giving Tuesday 2020

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