I am a volunteer DJ one hour a week at a community college radio station. I host a show playing classic country songs.
Sixteen Tons, by Tennessee Ernie Ford, is a regular favorite of listeners.
One of my daughter’s college friends lives now with his ageing parents to help care for them. His mother has such advanced dementia, she does not even know the man as her son. She usually thinks of him as some kind of caregiver who comes in to help. She rarely communicates by talking.
The family gathers to hear my weekly show on our Internet radio archive site.
One day, they were gathered and I began playing Sixteen Tons. I was told Mother’s eyes brightened and a big smile came upon her face. She began to sing along with song.
The family was shocked and joyful ! Mother had a connection they could see and it was a wonderful moment for the family.
Our musical memories are buried deep inside our minds and this experience proves it.
I try to play the song regularly and advise the family to have Mom listen. It has been a blessing for me to bring a little joy to that family with a special song.
Ode To Billie Joe is a good one too.
The most wonderful story!