Back when I was navigating a particularly murky chapter of my life, I stumbled upon Prinze George on Spotify and unknowingly found a soundtrack to my own resilience. It was during that less-than-stellar summer I briefly touched on in Day 3 of this 30 Day Song Challenge – a period marked by a soul-crushing job and a relationship that offered little in the way of kindness. Then, I heard “Upswing.” The opening lyrics resonated with a force that felt almost uncanny: “When the miles extend, when I can’t pretend anymore, when my power bends, when I’m face to face with the dust on the floor.”
It mirrored my own reality. I was chasing a hollow sense of achievement in a workplace where my skills were stifled, and investing energy into a relationship devoid of genuine care. For what felt like an eternity, I wrestled with feelings of inadequacy, until a crucial realization dawned: I held the power to change my course. I didn’t need to contort myself to fit into molds crafted by others’ expectations of love. True growth lay in aligning with my authentic self, finding a professional space and personal connection that embraced who I truly was. I owed it to myself to seek out belonging, to cultivate joy, and to nurture my own sense of self-worth. This journey of self-recognition, of understanding that challenging times don’t negate the possibility of a brighter future, is the very essence of “Upswing.”
“Upswing” isn’t just a song; it’s an anthem I return to constantly. Whether it’s during my daily commute, a relaxed drive, or when I’m grappling with moments of distress, its impact remains profound. It’s an uplifting, deeply moving, and genuinely beautiful piece of music. It serves as a potent reminder of a difficult phase in my life and the invaluable lessons learned, while simultaneously fueling my determination to rise above adversity. For anyone participating in the 30 day song challenge and seeking a song that truly reflects personal growth and resilience, “Upswing” by Prinze George is an exceptional choice.