Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are in a serious situation, but I need a break from the gloom, doom and bullying by way of hoarding. Music has always been my refuge and watching those beautiful Italians singing to each other from their balconies reaffirmed my belief that music is the answer. So until the old normal returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

I was having trouble trying to decide which song I would share from this legend since anything she ever sang was perfection.  But yesterday the answer was clear that I had to share her version of a famous beautiful Italian aria.

I decided that after witnessing the people of Italy giving us yet another glimpse into their indomitable spirit with a new heartfelt show of solidarity.  This time it was not from their balconies but in the sky from their air force.  A group of planes soared overhead complete with a smoke display in the colors of the country’s flag accompanied by opera legend Luciano Pavarotti’s recording of “Nessun Dorma”.  Let me just say I have always been proud to be an Italian-American but never more than in these past few weeks. A lot of individuals like to make themselves honorary Irish people on St. Patrick’s Day, so how about becoming honorary Italians for a little while and follow their lead in how brave and resilient they are in continuing to handle the pandemic? I know it’s scary and difficult but Iet’s try to stay strong together.  Forza.

The song is from the opera “Turnadot” written by Italian composer Giacomo Puccini.  It became Pavarotti’s signature song (and subsequently Italy’s anthem) after his 1972 recording of it was used by the BBC as the theme for the 1990 World Cup.  He performed it twice on the eve of the games during a concert by the Three Tenors. The first time it was as a solo and the second was as an encore with the other two singers. Pavarotti was supposed to perform it at the 1998 Grammy Awards after he received his Living Legend Award.  Unfortunately he had to cancel that appearance at the last minute due to a severe cold.  That is when this woman stepped in-on a moment’s notice-to sing it instead.  And the rest, as they say, was history.  But what else should we expect from a queen?

This past Wednesday (March 25)  marked what would have been her 78th birthday  Happy birthday, Aretha.  We miss you.  Love, the world.  And to Italy, Ti Amo.

Aretha Franklin at the 1998 Grammy Awards (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Aretha Franklin: “Nessun Dorma” (performed at the 1998 Grammy Awards, written by Giacomo Puccini circa 1924).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.