Column: Music has meaning

Cheyenne Fitzgerald, Staff Reporter

Everyone can agree they have heard a song that has touched them, saved them or made them feel a little less alone at times.

It’s an incredible opportunity that many artists use to touch the hearts of their fans and attempt to make a difference in this world.

Unlike many women around my age I am not a big Justin Bieber fan.

Recently Bieber released his new album, “Purpose,” that is completely unlike his previous works.

Bieber, with the help of Skrillex, Halsey, Ed Sheeran and many other A-list producer and writers, brings to life many of the judgments and obstacles he faces.

Upon listening to my Pandora the song “Purpose” came into the mix, and as I listened to it I felt provoked to listen to the rest of the songs on the album.

Though many of his songs in this specific album were a good listen I found his song “Life is Worth Living” to be the most important of them all.

Though Bieber’s perspective for the song was coming from his faith, I think everyone can interpret the song for himself or herself in a way that they can relate.

The chorus says “Life is worth living, so live another day/ The meaning of forgiveness/ People make mistakes, doesn’t mean you have to give in.”

Those lyrics alone can hit home for just about anyone, especially in the college community when we are all trying to balance so many aspects of life while facing all the obstacles in our way.

Not only do the lyrics of the song seem to be impactful but also I got a little curious and went to YouTube to find the music video.

Emma Porter and Patrick Cook, both accomplished dancers, dance a remarkable duet depicting the struggle before redemption.

Porter begins the dance after you see a seemingly self inflicted gun shot wound to her shoulder that stays visible throughout the dance before she is suddenly healed at the end of the song.

I don’t think you have to be interested in dance or even know how to dance for that matter to be touched by this piece.

Though not everyone has struggles to that extremity, I strongly believe anyone can find a way to relate to such a personal song.

Just like Bieber isn’t my personal favorite I’m sure he’s not some of yours, however, if you get the chance I’d recommend listening to some of his new songs, the lyrics might just hit home for you.

Cheyenne Fitzgerald is a senior journalism and psychology major. She can be reached at 581-2812 or cmfitzgerald@eiu.edu