Parker Potter, a former archaeologist, historian, and retired lawyer, has found solace in the familiar melodies of his nighttime music routine. For the past five or six years, he has relied on his Echo Dot to transport him to cherished memories, one song at a time.

Rediscovering the Soundtrack of a Lifetime

Carole King and the Echoes of the Past

Every night, Parker requests Carole King's music on iHeartRadio, which not only provides him with the soothing tunes of the iconic singer-songwriter but also introduces him to the work of her contemporaries. These familiar melodies have the power to conjure up vivid recollections, transporting him back to the small house party in high school where Tapestry and Sweet Baby James were the only albums played. The closing number of the Broadway musical Beautiful, "I Feel the Earth Move," also evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding him of the live performance he witnessed.

Soundtracks of Specific Memories

Parker's musical journey extends beyond Carole King, as various artists and songs have the ability to trigger specific memories. George Harrison's "My Sweet Lord" takes him back to the backseat of his best friend's family car, driving between the towns of Orange and Chagrin Falls in Ohio. The opening chords of Suite: Judy Blue Eyes" by Crosby, Stills & Nash instantly transport him to the driver's seat of his car, cruising northbound on Parkview Avenue in his hometown of Bexley, Ohio. Similarly, the familiar tunes of Cat Stevens's "Peace Train" and Carly Simon's "You're So Vain" evoke memories of his high school bedroom, getting ready for the day ahead.

Uncovering the Mysteries within the Music

While the nostalgic power of music is undeniable, Parker's nighttime listening sessions also raise intriguing questions. He ponders the meaning behind Paul Simon's concern about his mother taking away his Kodachrome, and wonders why James Taylor is amazed by his own feelings in "Your Smiling Face." These lyrical enigmas add an extra layer of intrigue to his musical explorations, inviting him to delve deeper into the stories and emotions woven into the songs.

Evolving Perspectives and Newfound Appreciation

Over time, Parker's relationship with the music he listens to has evolved, allowing him to discover new layers of appreciation. What once seemed like a simple song, such as Carole King's "Jazzman," has now become a source of fascination, as he focuses on the intricate saxophone work by Tom Scott. Similarly, the haunting note that Karen Carpenter hits in "We've Only Just Begun" has become a captivating focal point, burrowing deep into his consciousness.

Dedicated Listening Sessions and Rediscoveries

Parker's nighttime ritual has also led him to dedicate entire listening sessions to specific instruments, such as the bass guitar or the drums. He marvels at the way the drums are pushed to the forefront in Billy Joel's "Uptown Girl" and the mesmerizing drum work at the end of James Taylor's "Fire and Rain." These focused listening experiences have also allowed him to rediscover and appreciate artists he once dismissed, such as Gordon Lightfoot, whose guitar work and voice he now deeply admires.

The Joyful Moments of Familiar Melodies

Among the many songs that Parker enjoys, there are a select few that bring him a special sense of joy and delight. The ethereal beauty of Roberta Flack's "Killing Me Softly," the heartwarming tones of Karen Carpenter's "Rainy Days and Mondays," the crisp elegance of Jim Croce's guitar in "Operator," and the powerful performance of Art Garfunkel in "Bridge Over Troubled Water" are just a few of the tracks that never fail to captivate him.

The Magical Harmonies of Crosby, Stills & Nash

However, the song that stands out as Parker's ultimate late-night favorite is "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes" by Crosby, Stills & Nash. The harmonies in this track are nothing short of magical, and Parker's subconscious mind is so attuned to the song that it will wake him up if it plays after he has already drifted off to sleep. This deep connection with the music he loves is a testament to the enduring power of the melodies that have become the soundtrack to his life.