Ancestry.com

My DNA: A Restless Globetrotter with Viking Echoes

Every one of us is a unique tapestry of stories, experiences, and ancestral whispers. Born in Germany, a land steeped in history and culture, I always believed it to be the anchor of my identity. But life, with its intricate twists, had other plans.

While Germany provided the canvas for my early years and ignited my passion for electronic music, it never truly felt like home. An inner restlessness, a yearning for distant shores, always stirred within me. My mother – never too fond of my adventurous mind – often called me “restless” and a “globetrotter,” and she couldn’t have been more accurate.

An exploration into my DNA paints a vivid picture that resonates deeply with my inner wanderer:

  • England and Northwestern Europe: 44%
  • Sweden and Denmark: 16%
  • Wales: 4%
  • Northern Italy: 2%
  • Ireland: 2%
  • German-speaking regions of Europe: 32%

While the Germanic heritage was evident, it was the Northern influences that truly resonates. Every journey to the North, whether to England, Sweden, or Denmark, feels like a homecoming. The landscapes, the people, the very ethos of the North seem familiar. With a a bit of a physical appearance reminiscent of a Viking and a northern-like seriousness, coupled with a dry and dark humor, I often feel more at home among the fjords and northern lights than in the center of Europe.

And amidst these revelations was another that leaves me in awe: Ernest Hemingway, the literary titan, is my 9th cousin, meaning we share common relatives 9 generations back. To think that I share a lineage with a man whose words have touched the very soul of humanity is both humbling and exhilarating.

This exploration into my DNA is a testament to the intricate web of existence. We are more than the sum of our parts, shaped by a myriad of influences and histories. Our true essence isn’t just defined by our birthplace but by the myriad experiences, memories, and ancestral calls that resonate within us.

As I continue that odyssey, finding fragments of home in the most unexpected places, I’m reminded of Hemingway’s words:

It is good to have an end to journey toward; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.

Reflecting on this journey of discovery, both of self and ancestry, it’s evident that life has been a whirlwind. The path has been filled with challenges, moments of breathtaking beauty, and experiences that seem enough for more than one lifetime. Through it all, I’ve come to a place of acceptance. I take life as it comes, embracing each moment, each revelation, and each challenge. And while the journey has been incredibly full and often relentless, I find solace in the knowledge that when the day comes, I’ll be in acceptance of that too, having lived and experienced enough for multiple lifetimes.

P.S. fun facts:

  • I’m also related to the Heavy Metal singer Doro Pesch (which I like as a person but am not a fan of her music) and artist/painter Franz Kels, both from Düsseldorf, Germany. A huge bunch of my ancestors are from Düsseldorf, starting in the year of 1490.
  • My great granduncle went to the USA on the “Fürst Bismarck” in 1902. That’s why I still have many relatives in the Philadelphia area today.
a cassette player with headphones attached to it

The Best-Selling Songs of the 80s in the UK and Germany

I’m delighted to take you on a nostalgic journey again, back to the heart of my youth and a remarkable decade in music – the 1980s. Being born in 1973, my formative years were spent in the midst of an explosive era of music innovation and creativity. The unforgettable melodies, the iconic artists, and the cultural movements that framed this period have left a lasting imprint on me. Each song on this list sparks a unique memory, a moment of time encapsulated within the chords and lyrics of these classic tunes.

Back then, we saw a massive shift in the music landscape, from the raw acoustic and earthy sounds of the 70s, transitioning into the vibrant, electronic, and synthesized beats of the 80s. This era was marked by its pioneering use of new technology, synthesizers, and production techniques, a stark contrast to today’s music that thrives on digital platforms, streaming services, and social media influence. And of course, let’s not forget the extraordinary fashion statements – the big hair, the neon colors, and the shoulder pads that were as bold as the music itself!

Now, join me as we travel back in time, revisit the top-selling and most popular songs in the UK and Germany for each year of the 80s, and explore how these hits shaped the music and culture of the time.

Right before we dive into this musical journey, a little surprise awaits you at the end of this post – a link to a carefully curated Spotify playlist featuring all the top-selling songs from the 80s in the UK and Germany that we’re about to explore. Keep reading and enjoy this nostalgic trip, knowing that a musical treasure trove awaits you!


1980

  1. “Another Brick in the Wall (Part II)” – Pink Floyd
  2. “Call Me” – Blondie
  3. “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” – The Police
  4. “Woman in Love” – Barbra Streisand
  5. “Super Trouper” – ABBA

1981

  1. “Tainted Love” – Soft Cell
  2. “Bette Davis Eyes” – Kim Carnes
  3. “Endless Love” – Diana Ross & Lionel Richie
  4. “Stand and Deliver” – Adam and the Ants
  5. “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” – The Police

1982

  1. “Come On Eileen” – Dexys Midnight Runners
  2. “Eye of the Tiger” – Survivor
  3. “I Love Rock ‘n Roll” – Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
  4. “Ebony and Ivory” – Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder
  5. “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” – Culture Club

1983

  1. “Karma Chameleon” – Culture Club
  2. “Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson
  3. “Every Breath You Take” – The Police
  4. “Flashdance… What a Feeling” – Irene Cara
  5. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” – Eurythmics

1984

  1. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” – Band Aid
  2. “Relax” – Frankie Goes to Hollywood
  3. “I Just Called to Say I Love You” – Stevie Wonder
  4. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” – Wham!
  5. “Ghostbusters” – Ray Parker Jr.

1985

  1. “The Power of Love” – Jennifer Rush
  2. “Careless Whisper” – George Michael
  3. “We Are the World” – USA for Africa
  4. “I Want to Know What Love Is” – Foreigner
  5. “Easy Lover” – Philip Bailey & Phil Collins

1986

  1. “West End Girls” – Pet Shop Boys
  2. “Don’t Leave Me This Way” – The Communards
  3. “Take My Breath Away” – Berlin
  4. “Papa Don’t Preach” – Madonna
  5. “Rock Me Amadeus” – Falco

1987

  1. “Never Gonna Give You Up” – Rick Astley
  2. “La Isla Bonita” – Madonna
  3. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” – Whitney Houston
  4. “With or Without You” – U2
  5. “It’s a Sin” – Pet Shop Boys

1988

  1. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses
  2. “A Groovy Kind of Love” – Phil Collins
  3. “One More Try” – George Michael
  4. “Orinoco Flow” – Enya
  5. “Desire” – U2

1989

  1. “Like a Prayer” – Madonna
  2. “Another Day in Paradise” – Phil Collins
  3. “Eternal Flame” – The Bangles
  4. “Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)” – Soul II Soul
  5. “The Look” – Roxette

And there we have it – a nostalgic look back at a decade filled with iconic hits that defined my youth and the music landscape of the 80s. Each song holds a precious memory, a flash from the past, a reminder of how far we’ve come, and yet, how these classics still manage to inspire and influence us today.

The 1980s was a decade unlike any other, a pivotal period that reshaped music and brought a fresh wave of sound that still reverberates today. Comparing the music scene of the 80s to today’s scene showcases a fascinating evolution – from record players and mixtapes to digital downloads and streaming services. Yet, the magic of music remains unchanged – it continues to inspire, unite, and empower us in so many ways.

As we listen to today’s music, we’re reminded of how it’s built on the foundation laid by these legendary 80s hits. These songs – their beats, their lyrics, their spirit – continue to influence modern artists, reminding us that even though times have changed, good music remains timeless.

Thanks for taking this journey with me, through the highs and lows of the music that marked my coming of age. Music is more than just a melody, it’s a connection to our past and a bridge to our future. I hope these songs brought back fond memories for you as well and continue to inspire as we navigate the rhythm of life.

Till the next nostalgic trip, keep the music playing!

As a special treat to accompany this nostalgic journey, I’ve compiled a Spotify playlist featuring all the songs mentioned above.

Camelot Wheel Mixed In Key Harmonic Mixing

Harmonic Mixing and Composing with the Camelot Wheel

Harmonic mixing and composing have become essential skills for modern DJs and music producers, as they strive to create seamless, engaging, and emotionally resonant mixes and compositions. The Camelot Wheel, a popular tool in the electronic dance music scene, offers a systematic and intuitive approach to harmonic mixing, making it easier for artists to identify compatible musical keys and create harmonious transitions between songs. This essay explores the concept of harmonic mixing, the functionality of the Camelot Wheel, and its practical applications in both mixing and composing.

Harmonic Mixing

Harmonic mixing refers to the process of blending two or more musical tracks that are harmonically compatible, meaning they share the same key or a closely related key. This technique allows DJs and producers to create smooth transitions between tracks, enhancing the overall flow and emotional impact of a mix or composition. By paying close attention to the harmonic relationships between songs, artists can build tension, create moments of release, and maintain a consistent musical narrative throughout their sets or compositions.

The Camelot Wheel: A Practical Tool for Harmonic Mixing

The Camelot Wheel, also known as the Circle of Fifths, is a circular diagram that visually represents the relationships between the twelve major and twelve minor keys in Western music. Each key is assigned a unique alphanumeric code, with major keys labeled from 1B to 12B and minor keys labeled from 1A to 12A. Adjacent keys on the wheel share a close harmonic relationship, making them suitable for mixing or composing.

The simplicity of the Camelot Wheel lies in its ability to quickly identify harmonically compatible keys. DJs and producers can easily find the next track by moving one step clockwise, one step counterclockwise, or one step inwards or outwards from their current key. These transitions will result in a mix that maintains its harmonic coherence and enhances the overall listening experience.

Applying the Camelot Wheel to Mixing and Composing

In the context of DJing, the Camelot Wheel can be used to plan and execute harmonically coherent DJ sets. By analyzing the keys of their music library, DJs can build playlists that smoothly transition from one track to another, keeping the energy level and emotional impact of their sets consistent. The Camelot Wheel can also help DJs experiment with creative key changes, allowing them to develop their unique sound and style.

For music producers and composers, the Camelot Wheel serves as a valuable tool for crafting harmonically rich and diverse compositions. By using the wheel as a guide, composers can easily explore different key relationships and modulations, adding depth and complexity to their work. Furthermore, the wheel can help producers identify and arrange the sections of a song in a way that creates a compelling harmonic narrative.

I have created 2 tools based on the camelot system that could help you mix or compose easier:

Conclusion

The Camelot Wheel has revolutionized the way DJs and music producers approach harmonic mixing and composing. By offering an intuitive visual representation of the relationships between musical keys, the wheel enables artists to create seamless transitions, enhance the emotional impact of their work, and develop their unique sound. As harmonic mixing continues to gain popularity across various genres of music, the Camelot Wheel remains an indispensable tool for DJs and producers alike.