One of the reasons why The Rippingtons appealed to be way back in the 80's was the simple fact that I felt like I was going on an adventure without even leaving my zip code. So, when my wife and I were presented with an opportunity for an all expenses paid trip to the Bahamas, I knew I had to load up my first (and favorite) Rippingtons disc to my iPod: Tourist In Paradise.

Being an early riser, I grabbed a quick shower and made it up on deck as we were pulling into Nassau harbor. With coffee in hand, I made myself comfortable on a deck chair, dialed up Tourist In Paradise on my iPod and sipped my coffee as we lazily pulled up to the dock. Very special moment.

I started listening to The Rippingtons as a snot-nosed 20 year old and dreamed of enjoying a tropic breeze with their music accompanying me...and that dream came true this past weekend. Very special to have that beautiful music with me as I gazed over Nassau. Thanks, Ripps.

Abacos (aka Eric)

Thanks for sharing that! Peace.

I never thought of merging songs I'd listened to with my current experiences like that -- usually songs evoke memories when they, by chance, were associated with traumatic or pleasant experiences like breaking up with someone, etcetera. Never thought of being proactive in making that happen.

That' something I just might do! Thanks for the idea.

Now you should book a spot on the Ripps cruise to Nassau in February - so that you can hear the real thing as you gaze out over the island! : )

I listened to the Ripps in the delivery room (16 years ago - I'll spare you the details). The docs and nurses enjoyed the music right along with me! I did not feel as if I was on a tropical island at the time, but the tunes sure did keep me relaxed, or pumped, as needed!

It is a wonderful feeling when one is able to tune into the right song, at the right time - and it does make for happy memories!

My real life "putting the music to life" goal is to ski while listening to "Aspen" (maybe in Aspen). I hum it in my head when I am trying to get down a black diamond (could listen to that song too). I am a good intermediate skier, but sometimes I get a really tense on the steeps (trying to keep up with the 16 year old and his 14 year old brother) and "Aspen" gets me into a rhythm and keeps me calm. Hopefully, I'll remember to bring my iPod out on the slopes this winter!

You better believe it Abacos. Don't just capture the mood.......LIVE IT!!!!

OK, so now you've got me thinking -- I'm a canoeist and former canoe trip guide in Northern Ontario -- wouldn't mind listening to North Star from Curves Ahead as I take a midnight paddle in the moonlight on one of my favorite Canadian lakes...that would create a fond memory.