This week’s application pairs a classic rock song with instrument play to target a variety of objectives in several different domains. With just a little lyrical adaptation, we’re able to address clients’ needs while also maintaining the original flavor of the song.
Possible Goals Addressed:
- Impulse control
- Choice making
- Discrimination between slow and fast
- Discrimination between high and low
- Gross motor skills
- Creative expression
Music used:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BN1WwnEDWAM
Headon, T., Jones, M., Simonon, P. & Strummer, J. (1982). Should i stay or should i go [ recorded by The clash]. On Combat Rock [CD]. Los Angeles, California: Epic Records.
Materials needed:
Hand instruments (rhythm sticks, shakers, etc., visual aids if appropriate)
Application:
The music therapist will adapt the lyrics to the song “Should I Stay or Should I Go”, by The Clash. Repeat the song as appropriate to include various clients choosing different options. Additional resources such as visual aides or the use of body percussion can also be added to fit the individual needs of clients.
Choices that the music therapist can insert into the adapted lyrics include the following:
- Should we play fast or play slow? (proceed to the chorus while playing fast or slow)
- Should we play high or down low? (proceed to play the chorus tapping/shaking high or low
- Should we stop or should we go? (if client says stop, pause and then cue the group to say “go” and proceed to the chorus. If the client says go, immediately proceed to the chorus)
Lyrics:
Should I Stay or Should I Go (Adapted Version)
Verse 1
[name], you got to let me know
Should I stay or should I go?
If you say that you are mine
I’ll be here till the end of time
So you got to let me know
Should I [insert action] or should I [insert action]?
Chorus
Should I stay or should I go now?
Should I stay or should I go now?
If I go, there will be trouble
And if I stay it will be double
So come on and let me know
Should I [insert action or should I [insert action]
Verse 2
Now [shake/tap] down by your knees, knees, knees
Come on, let’s [shake/tap] down by by your knees, knees, knees
One day it’s fine and next it’s black
Well, come on and let me know
Should I [insert action or should I [insert action]?
Chorus
Should I stay or should I go now?
Should I stay or should I go now?
If I go, there will be trouble
And if I stay it will be double
So come on and let me know
Should I [insert action or should I [insert action]
