I wish someone told be about a year through music

“I wish someone had told me” is a series of posts that feed into our inquisitive nature at CN&CO. Each week we hear from someone in our network about something interesting or surprising that’s recently happened or occurred to them – or lessons they learnt. These blogs are a way to pay it forward and form part of CN&CO’s belief that the world can be a better place – and we all have a responsibility to make it so. This week’s post is by Gianluca Tucci.

Christmas is knocking on our doors. Put your hand up if you still haven’t played a Mariah Carey, Michael Buble, Louis Armstrong or rendition of jingle bells tune? A sky not so full of hands I would imagine appearing.

Soon 2019 will be goodbye and as Adele would put it, hello 2020.

As I sit writing this I wish blog whilst listening and watching Coldplay in concert in Paris, I can’t help but think what an impact music has played and continues to play in my life.

One of my favorite things to do at this time of year is unpack my experiences and reflections from the year through music.

Music is a form of art that has this ability to unearth every type of emotion from a being. It has no limits, catches you unexpectedly, and it’s an industry that is made up of plenty uber-talented people. The best part, every single person on earth is a musician in their own right.

Music has no boundaries as to where, when or how it can touch your soul. In a single second, whether it’s the lyric of a song, the beat of an instrument or the dance move from the 1980s, music energises our bodies and minds.

If I look back on the year through music…

The Ndlovu Youth Choir’s rendition of Whitney Houston’s and Kygo’s Higher love in the semi final of America’s Got Talent show reminded me of the power of perseverance and pushing the boundaries that you set. Dream, dream bigger and don’t forget your journey, the diversity of people in your path, all whilst keeping your destination in mind.

I watched Travis Scott’s documentary Look mom I can fly for the fifth time yesterday, and it reaffirmed my passion for sneakers, fashion and more importantly that no matter how many times you try, your attitude and mindset are key to striving for your goals (no matter how big they are). Also, the power of collaboration and change, there are ideas out there waiting to take flight.

Listening to Ed Sheeran sing Castle on the Hill back in March live, again reminded me to not take myself too seriously and rather what you do, in work and in life. I am grateful for all this year has brought in experience, change and growth. Most importantly our moments with family and friends are priceless.

Jonas Blue’s Polaroid was a travel memento, it brings back unbelievable memories of seeing, breathing and taking in NYC for the first time with my girlfriend, Keshia and then touching down on the Dominican Republic’s shores for what was outright the most amazing trip to Club Med Punta Cana in September.

Miles Davis remains one of my all-time favourites, it was only two weeks ago I found out that he was murdered by his father in 1984 (a year before I was born). His music remains an ever-present on my Spotify most played list, his music touches the soul and opens the mind especially in times when I find myself stuck or indecisive.

Chelsea dagger brings out my football side and passion to the max. A tradition of mine is to play it before every Juventus football match. No coincidence it’s the same song that fills the stadium every time they score. Perhaps 2020 will finally bring European glory!

Last and most importantly, Robbie Williams’ Feel comes out on the top of my list. Not only is it one of my Mother’s favourite songs, but it’s a testament to life and the ups and downs it brings. She was diagnosed with cancer earlier in the year and now at the end of the year stands tall, healthy and looking better than ever having kicked it out of her system.

On this wonderful music note, I can say this is the greatest moment and gratitude I have for 2019 and I can’t wait for the beat of 2020 to begin!

Take a moment, listen to music, reflect on your favourites and enjoy… Best wishes for 2020 fam!