Frank’s Five: Songs that Keep Me Moving

Frank's Five: Music and songs that keep me moving

Music has always been a constant in my life. It’s been a source of inspiration, comfort and strength for me, especially as I navigate life with Parkinson’s. My favorite songs aren’t just tracks I enjoy listening to—they’re anchors, each one carrying a message and feeling that resonates deeply within.

Take “Dream On” by Aerosmith. The line “You’ve got to lose, to know how to win” speaks directly to me. Living with Parkinson’s has taught me that the setbacks, the struggles, and even the losses are all just part of understanding life’s victories. It’s a reminder that resilience grows from the challenges we face.

Then there’s “Hey Jude” by The Beatles, the long version. There’s something that’s so comforting in that endless “na-na-na” outro. It feels like a communal chant, a space where hope and connection really come alive. It reminds me of the strength I’ve found in the Parkinson’s community and how music can provide a feeling of belonging and a release from the outside world.

Sinéad O’Connor’s “Feel So Different” in its live version is another favorite. The power and raw emotion in her voice are electrifying. In many ways it reminds me of the strength I’ve had to summon on this journey—how vulnerability and honesty, like hers in that performance, can also be sources of empowerment.

David Gilmour’s guitar solo in Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb” is pure transcendence. When I hear it, I feel transported, like the music itself is healing me. There’s something about that solo—it’s like it bypasses everything else and connects to my soul directly. I feel like it reflects the role music plays in my life, bridging the gaps Parkinson’s creates, providing a feeling of comfort, even when the world feels like it’s weighing down on me.

Finally, the medley on Abbey Road’s Side Two by The Beatles is a masterpiece of flow and connection. Each track transitions seamlessly into the next, just as life does. Parkinson’s has its moments—some joyful, some challenging, some reflective—and this medley feels like an ode to the rhythm of it all. The groove throughout reminds me that even in difficult times, finding the right rhythm can help me keep moving forward, one step at a time.

These songs remind me why I keep embracing life, music, and the community around me. 

Here are YouTube links for each song:

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