Music as an outlet in Goldberg’s life

By Paige Ablon

Earphones plugged into her phone, a long day coming to an end, Lucy Goldberg can be found in her room pressing play to Taylor Swift or immersing herself in her own music. Regardless of the mood she enters with, it is guaranteed that after three minutes and 39 seconds of “Shake It Off,” by Taylor Swift, all her worries will be cured.

An activity most are drawn to for its ability to entertain changed Goldberg’s life in more ways than one. Her love of guitar began in kindergarten and continues to intensify. Telling stories to various communities in ways other than conversation comes naturally to Goldberg. Channeling her opinions with music is crucial for her to find joy, even on the worst of days. 

“I remember one time I was pretty down, not having a good day and I started playing guitar,” Goldberg said. “I started playing some Taylor Swift, and it helped a lot. I think it’s also just really fun and a good experience. It’s something to learn.”

Since Swift’s album, Red, first came out in 2012 to now, her music appears in all of Goldbergs playlists on Spotify. Swift’s lyrics and actions on social media are prominent in Goldberg’s life, as is music in general, and serve as more than a hobby to pass time. 

Through music, Goldberg finds connections to the world around her and seeks comfort in the outlet it provides, whether she’s listening to Taylor Swift or learning new chords. 

Last year, Goldberg’s love of storytelling materialized in her own guitar skills. When she plays the instrument, she feels pride in the skills she’s acquired and the ability to play like Swift. Goldberg enjoys learning about herself and others from lyrics. She finds new ways to view the world with each song on repeat. 

“I think honestly music has helped me relate to other people better than other ways. Music for me is the best way to feel a part of the community,” said Goldberg. 

Goldberg finds Swift’s documentary, Miss Americana, interesting since it follows her as she shares the highs and lows of her career. Seeing such a famous individual voice how the media affects her opens a new perspective for Goldberg. 

“She talks about how she has been affected by people talking about her body and mental health,” said Goldberg. “I think it’s really nice the way she opens up and shares it with people.”

While many have hated on Swift’s honesty, Goldberg finds inspiration from the way she behaves on social media, and her confidence to do so. In having this strong role model, Goldberg feels more present in the network of people around her. 

“I think it’s good to have her opinion out there so she is standing for something that she believes in while also educating her audience at the same time,” said Goldberg. “I think that more artists should be doing what she is, and should be spreading their opinions.”