I’m not keen on background music. I know people who find it soothing, I find it distracting. I think it’s because my brain doesn’t get the “background” part of background music. When I hear a song I like, it draws my full attention. When I hear a song I know and like, it transports me to a time and place I associate with the tune. In certain situations, I also have a tendency to pull random song lyrics from the filing cabinet in my brain. It’s difficult to recall exactly as I’m writing because I’m consciously thinking of potential connections, but “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” (Rolling Stones), “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” (Stevie Wonder) and “Holiday in My Head” (Smash Mouth) are on the playlist. I’m dating myself with these references, but what the heck, “Boogie Shoes” (KC and the Sunshine Band) runs through my head when I’m having a really good day. Music also has the ability to transport me to a different time and place. “Tighten Up” by The Black Keys sends me back to college in Charlottesville, Va. When I hear Louis Armstrong sing “La Vie en Rose,” I’m in Paris walking along the Seine with my husband. Dave Brubeck’s “Take Five” transports me to a starry night in Istanbul. I may not be keen on background music, but I am tuned in to the rhythm of life. Do you have a song that transports you to a favorite time and place? Share you musical connections using #globility. — Lisa Matte, editor in chief