Soul Music Soul Music at 25
Dec 27, 2025
Malaika Kigodi, a Bristol-based writer, shares how Nina Simone's music helped her navigate difficult relationships and grief. Concert pianist Pascal Rogé discusses the calming effects of Satie's Gymnopédies on a premature infant's heartbeat, highlighting music's life-saving potential. Artist Bridget Griggs reflects on how David Bowie's 'Life on Mars?' connected her childhood loneliness to her vibrant art. Together, these stories celebrate music's profound impact across different life experiences.
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Music As A Birth Companion
- Malaika Kigodi used a three-and-a-half hour playlist during a long IVF and labour period to steady herself through uncertainty.
- When she first held her baby Bill Withers' "Lovely Day" played and she felt sunlight and calm wash over her.
Music Calmed A Premature Infant
- Pascal Rogé described how Satie's Gymnopédie quieted a premature infant's heartbeat in an incubator and helped the baby survive.
- The hospital kept playing that piece nonstop until the baby's condition stabilised.
Song Gave Voice To Childhood Loneliness
- Bridget Griggs connected deeply with David Bowie's "Life on Mars?" as a child, finding empathy and a voice for loneliness amid a difficult home life.
- The song's lyric about the girl with the mousy hair helped her ask if there was life beyond her surroundings.