“When there’s nuthin’ left to burn you have to set yo’self on fiiire.” A++ on the creepiness, Creepy Old Man.

There are songs you play in the morning when you’re getting dressed, songs that always remind you of that sweet boy and his summertime smile, songs you work out to, songs you fall asleep to, songs you’ve mastered singing along to, songs you have to have on your iPod when you’re about to go on an adventure. And then there are songs that change your life. Several years ago, “Your Ex-Lover Is Dead” got me through one of my worst heartbreaks, reassuring me over and over, as many times as I wanted it to, that all I have to do is “live through this and you won’t look back.” I know there may have been other things, too—good things such as family and friends and books and breathing space—but when I remember that time in my life I always think about this song and feel the lightness that has already settled so comfortably in my heart. It’s been a while, and my heart no longer knows how to be that heavy.

The main point: Stars is in town, and as if the universe hasn’t given me enough Valentine presents, they’re playing this song live tonight (tonight!), along with my other favorites, “One More Night” and “Dead Hearts.” It’s going to be intimate and powerful and there will be feelings floating around, recognizing the joys and truths in one another. See you there?

xx,
Marla