Letters build words that are molded around sound. Pushed out into the world by the physical effort of the body, it washes over us, binding us to some, separating us from others, soothing our hearts, and dredging up the past. It forces us to move our bodies. It sets a tone. It lets us know if the bad guy is hiding somewhere in the room and when that long awaited kiss is a breath away.
Music.
I love all genres of music. My iPod is an eclectic blend of Rob Zombie, Jay Z, musical soundtracks, Bruno Mars, George Winston and everything in between. Yes, I sing along (read: belt it out) as I’m flying down the highway. No, I don’t do any of it justice, but, I’m not trying out for The Voice anytime soon, so I think I’m safe.
The music highlighted and interwoven throughout Diesel is so important to me. As I was writing, I kept bumping into artists and songs that spoke to Elliot and Diesel’s journey. I found songs that reminded me of Eden. Music that made me want to go running (not with the Eden crew, Bain would run me off the road!), dance, and, yes, songs that forced more than one episode of bawling. The sounds that echoed the anxiety, desire, and triumph of these characters became such an integral part of this work, I had to share it with you.
Here are some of my favorites –
I’m On Fire by Bruce Springsteen. It’s an old song but when Elliot plays it for Diesel, it’s the first time he communicates his desire for her. Despite being in limbo about Bain’s position in Diesel’s life, he is testing the waters. Plus, Springsteen has such a gritty voice, the sensuality of this song speaks volumes. Here’s a snippet of the lyrics…
Hey little girl is your daddy home
Did he go and leave you all alone
I got a bad desire
Oh-oh-oh, I’m on fire
I am a HUGE Maroon 5 fan! Moves Like Jagger was the perfect fit for this couple. I’ll fill you in on an insider tip – Deese changed her ringtone when Elliot stepped into the picture. You only hear a few seconds of it when she wakes up from an accidental sleepover…. Whoops! How did that happen? *smirks*
Maybe it’s hard
When you feel like you’re broken and scarred
Nothing feels right
But when you’re with me
I’ll make you believe
That I’ve got the key
I have to pay homage to all the pop divas that inspired me during this process. Christina, Britney, and Katy were a huge help while writing. Love those ladies! I must acknowledge Divinyls, and the late Christine Amphlett, for creating such a perfect song in I Touch Myself. Despite the brazen title, the lyrics could not be more pure. Diesel sneaks this song onto Elliot’s iPod simply because it speaks the words she struggles to say to him.
You’re the one who makes me come runnin’
You’re the sun who makes me shine
When you’re around, I’m always laughin’
I want to make you mine
I close my eyes and see you before me
Think I would die if you were to ignore me
A fool could see just how much I adore you
I’d get down on my knees, I’d do anything for you
Need some more inspiration? Here’s the list!
Adele, the entire 21 album. Seriously, that woman is amazing!
Jay Z, Empire State of Mind
Green Day, She’s a Rebel
The Killers, Mr. Brightside
The White Stripes, The Hardest Button to Button
Beastie Boys, Slow and Low
Peter Gabriel, Blood of Eden
Lastly, a huge THANK YOU to the Dave Matthews Band. Since I’m not into posting spoilers, I’ll leave you with this.
You cannot quit me so quickly…
Thank you for coming to the blog, supporting Diesel, and her crazy crew. I would love to hear from hear from you! Post your thoughts, music that has inspired you or has been the background noise to your own writing, or just post a little shout out!
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