My dear Natasha,

I have a problem with my one true love. Music. Music is my life, but not in a healthy way. It has led me to social shunning, massive party fails and the need to leave potential long-term partners, after seeing their record collection. Some of my friends get it and see it just a quirk of mine. Others, however, see it as rude, embarrassing and anti-social. The lowest point was when I took my iPod and headphones out one night, knowing that we were going to a club that played music that I think is atrocious. After about an hour of dancing around to it, I slipped on my headphones and zoned out to my own music, removing myself from the situation, my friends AND, little did I know until later, a rather beautiful someone who was trying to get my attention… What should I do about it? How can I become more accepting of music that doesn’t necessarily fit my ideals? You’ve worked with music nearly all your life... any tips?

#musisnazipartyfail AKA Pauly.

Woah there, Pauly,

First, you might want to reconsider how you hashtag your thoughts to Twitter. Why not go for something that shows the signs of change? Something more optimistic about your attitude to music?

Ok, to be honest with you, I do still have moments of music snobbery, as everyone does, but I have learnt how to let some of the songs, that really rile me up, wash over me without issue. It’s all about remembering that there is a song out there for everyone. You have your music, I have my music and they, everyone else, have their music. I understand that it is hard to abide by some of the choices your friends make but have you ever thought about what they think of your tastes? I bet you’re sat there thinking, ‘well, my taste is awesome’, well, sorry to be so blunt, but perhaps it isn’t. For the people that are reading this they most probably think that your music collection is made up of rare editions of classic rock records, cutting edge electronic soundscapes, that sound like wind passing through a forest, and indie music from indigenous communities. Whereas, actually, it could include rare Spice Girl b-sides, extended edits of Yello and Carly Rae Jepsen (which I am secure enough to say, I LOVE). You know what I mean?

Now, focussing on taking your headphones to night clubs… the only person that should be wearing those is that DJ (and anyone who has particularly sensitive hearing but want to party. I know of a girl called Sandra who had to wear prescribed earmuffs, they were something else). Anyway, you should be feeling rather embarrassed that you did that. You’re not only isolating yourself, you’re missing out on fun with your friends and enjoying the music that they like together. And, as for missing out on someone special, COME ON. Music can still be the love of your life, but it certainly isn’t going to hold you at night. You got to man-up and think about what it is you’re doing. Do you really want to be ‘that guy’ who analyses a person’s music preferences as a way to determine the path of a potential relationship? Don't let the rhythm get you down!

Sort it out.

Natasha.