We’ve been receiving dozens of stories from people coast to coast about the transformative power of music. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we are publishing a story every day in May.
Submitted by: Ron Sexsmith (Facebook, Twitter)
When I was a kid, growing up in St Catharines Ontario music was pretty much my best friend.
My Dad wasn’t really in the picture but he left behind a box of 45’s that I was allowed to play.
They were mostly 50’s Doo-Wop, Country and early rock n roll stuff like Little Anthony And The Imperials singing “Tears On My Pillow” Johnny Cash “Ring Of Fire” and my favourite was Buddy Holly singing “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” (written by Paul Anka) Thee 45’s and the music I heard on the radio which all so melodic and thought-provoking made me feel like the world was a magical place.
Across the street from me was a kid named Terry Venus whose Mother for some reason, was not in the picture and we would hang out together in his bedroom which looked out on Galbraith Street and listen to HIS 45’s. Great songs such as “Lean On Me” by Bill Withers or “I’m A Believer” by The Monkees. This was the late 60’s early 70’s and music was always playing whether it was on a car radio or someone’s transistor radio while you played outside. It created this wondrous soundtrack to my childhood and made me feel less alone in the world. It made a lasting impression on my soul that I feel to this very day as I write these words.
Music is my hero and my very best friend.
