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By Scott Mims | Community Columnist

I grew up in a musical family. My grandfather was a gospel songwriter, my dad is a radio deejay, my uncle was in a Christian rock band, and my mother exposed me to country music via trips to Nashville to see the Grand Ole Opry live.

This early exposure to many different styles of music had a profound effect on my life, and certain songs became deeply embedded in my psyche. Certain types of music made me feel like I could conquer the world—whether it was Motown, early rock and roll or gospel, it all moved me in some way.

Having attended Chilton County High School, another source of musical influence was “Blast from the Past,” the annual program in which students perform hit songs (usually oldies) of many different genres. Under the leadership of Rick and Sheri McKee, the school has produced the program since the early 1990s, and it is an important fundraiser for the school.

Between Feb. 21 and 23, CCHS students once again performed “Blast” for the community, and the program continues to showcase all the extraordinary talent that we have coming up in our schools—not only the performers, but also the coordinators, choreographers, parents and everyone working behind the scenes.

I have formed the opinion that the greatest music was made from the 1950s to the 1990s, and I believe many would agree with me. It is thrilling to know that younger generations are being exposed to this music, not only through YouTube but also through productions like Blast. Performing the music is good for them on so many levels—it teaches them musical concepts, it provides an outlet for artistic expression, and it affords them an opportunity to gain experience speaking and performing in front of an audience.

If you have kids, I believe that exposing them to many different types of music is one of the most encouraging things a parent can do.