Why I will never look at some songs the same way again 😱(Updated)

The title is so dramatic, and yet, the truth is that most of us have a powerful connection with music. This is common with authors since many have a specific song that they listen to when envisioning a scene. It also might be connected to certain characters, especially the protagonist.

For me, there's a list of songs that I automatically associate with pivotal scenes, powerful characters, and of course, a whole lot of violence. I'm going to share a couple of examples with you.

One song that stands out to me is Masters of Puppets by Metallica. If you haven't heard of it, the best description for it is powerful. I automatically associate the song with my series protagonist, Jorge Hernandez. More specifically, in the book The Devil May Lie. This character is bold, daring, and confident in a way that almost borderlines on sociopathic.  

Ahh...but I didn't say he was crazy. If anything, he tends to have tunnel vision and doesn't notice or listen to the naysayers on either side. If he does, Hernandez is dismissive. Unlike most people, this is a character that sees the big picture. He has distinct ideas about how the world works and doesn't let insecurities, fears, or inadequacies slow him down. Masters of Puppets is a song that embodies this character in a way that will never allow me to see it the same way again.

Another song that embodies a character would be Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne. There's a certain unhinged, erratic sense to it that perfectly captures Diego Silva, a secondary character in my series. I started Always be a Wolf with Diego flying down the road in a new sports car with a terrified Chase in the passenger seat. Diego finds the entire experience thrilling - from the fast car to scaring the crap out of his friend - which gives you a strong sense of who this character is and what drives him. 

There's also a power behind this song which also captures Diego. It doesn't matter that he's a secondary character because he's no shrinking violet. There's a strong sense that if Jorge Hernandez were to step back or leave the series, Diego would take over. Meanwhile, it's clear that he's learning from the master and looks up to him. There's a reason why Hernandez refers to Silva as his 'hermano' (brother) that shows the power of this relationship.

Music will always be an inspiration to me. Characters, scenes, and strong emotions are born from it, and the result is always a surprise.