Meaning: Rita Coolidge, an American musician, beautifully encapsulates the profound experience of connecting with a song in this quote. As a ballad singer, she reflects on the process of receiving and interpreting various ballads, some of which don't resonate with her at all while others deeply move her. In these few sentences, Coolidge conveys the complexity of emotional response to music and the deeply personal nature of artistic interpretation.

The quote suggests that Coolidge has a discerning and emotional connection to the music she performs. She acknowledges that not every song that comes her way strikes a chord with her. Some ballads, she notes, "would go over my shoulder and float off the top of my head," indicating a lack of emotional resonance. This speaks to the subjective and personal nature of musical interpretation. What one artist may find deeply moving, another may find unremarkable. Coolidge's openness about this aspect of her experience as a musician highlights the importance of emotional authenticity in musical performance.

However, the quote also reveals the profound impact that certain songs have had on Coolidge. She describes hearing a song that "would absolutely shake me," indicating a powerful emotional reaction. This raw and honest expression of being deeply affected by music speaks to the universal power of music to evoke emotion and touch the soul. Coolidge's words also imply the transformative nature of these experiences, as a song has the ability to shake her, suggesting a deep and lasting impact.

It's worth noting that Coolidge's comment also sheds light on the vulnerability inherent in the artistic process. As a performer, she exposes herself to a wide range of musical material, and not every song resonates with her. This vulnerability is an integral part of the creative process, as artists open themselves up to the possibility of being deeply moved or left untouched by the music they encounter. Coolidge's willingness to share this aspect of her experience offers insight into the emotional and personal investment that musicians bring to their craft.

In a broader sense, Coolidge's quote speaks to the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect with individuals on a deeply emotional level. The fact that certain songs can "absolutely shake" her suggests that music has the ability to reach into the depths of human emotion and touch something profound within us. This sentiment underscores the universal appeal of music and its capacity to evoke powerful and often unexplainable emotional responses.

In conclusion, Rita Coolidge's quote provides a glimpse into the emotional complexity of musical interpretation and the deeply personal nature of artistic expression. Her candid reflection on the varying impact of different songs highlights the subjective and deeply emotional connection that musicians have with their craft. Coolidge's words serve as a reminder of the universal power of music to move and inspire, and the deeply personal nature of the artistic experience.