The Soundtracks of 9/11

I know that each and every one of us can remember where we were. We can remember the fear and panic that our nation faced, as well as the heroism and the coming together of our nation as Americans.

As a New Jersey native, with two parents who commuted into Manhattan daily, the events of September 11th, 2001 struck incredibly close to home for me. As I watch the news today, hearing the thousands of names being read off, and listening to Paul Simon, James Taylor and various choirs paying their tribute, I am reminded of the power of music to help heal, comfort, overcome and maybe break the silence that our nation was left in for weeks afterward as we began to rebuild.

In the aftermath of 2001 there was a surge of patriotism mixed with confusion, disillusionment, and sorrow. So many songs were written to honor, question and perhaps express what can not always be expressed through words alone. Artists that contributed to this phenomenon included, Tori Amos with "I Can't See New York" (2002), The Black Eyed Peas with "Where is the Love?" (2003), John Mayer with "Covered in Rain" (2003), Lily Allen with "Him" (2008), Five for Fighting with "Tuesday" (2009), Beyonce with "I Was Here" (2011) and so many more. (A more comprehensive list can be found here.) I find it particularly valuable that these songs were released over a number of years and have kept the memories going.

God Bless America and God Bless all of the families still rebuilding...

Albums Released on 9/11/2001:

They Might Be Giants Mink Car

SOiL Scars

Slayer God Hates Us All

P.O.D Satellite

No Use for a Name Live in a Dive

Nickelback Silver Side Up

The Moldy Peaches The Moldy Peaches

Mercury Rev All Is Dream

Damian "Jr. Gong" Marley Halfway Tree

Long Beach Dub Allstars Wonders of the World

Jay-Z The Blueprint

Ben Folds Rockin' the Suburbs

Fabolous Ghetto Fabolous

Bob Dylan Love and Theft

Dream Theater Live Scenes From New York

Days of the New Days of the New [III]

Mariah Carey Glitter

Biohazard Uncivilization

Alsace Lorraine Through Small Windows