Being my hardest semester yet, music has carried me through the fall entirely. Making time for yourself is always important for your mental health, especially with tough academics. With a heavy course load, it is essential to have some form of release, whether through hobbies, sports, or music. For me, music has been most helpful, so I thought I would share 10 of the many songs that kept me sane. My music taste is all over the place, ranging from jazz to pop to electronic to even rock. Having an open music taste allows me to have a lot of amazing songs to relate to through every emotion.
1. “too little, too late” by Laufey
Laufey is one of my favorite artists, so I was extremely excited to see that she released an album right before this semester started up. This song is my favorite from the album, as it is slower and emotional in comparison to the rest of the album, where she was more experimental in her typical jazz and pop genre. The build-up from slow and easy on the ears to an emotional belt by the end makes it even more enjoyable to listen to. I could feel the saddening emotions that she is trying to convey, and it makes me connect to it extremely.
2. “Pixelated Kisses” by Joji
Since Joji has not had a release in three years, I was overjoyed to see his return to music. Being a fan of his for years, his sudden release really stuck with me. This sound is much louder and electronic than his older music, and I love it so much. This change of sound, while keeping his usual soft vocals and harmonies, made me put this song on repeat. I wish it were longer so I could appreciate it even more, but I cannot express enough how amazing this song truly is.
3. “Deserve Me” By Kali Uchis and Summer Walker
Ever since this album came out in 2023, this song has always made an appearance in my numerous playlists. This is my favorite song she has ever made, and I will never be tired of it. Both Kali Uchis and Summer Walker have such beautiful voices, making it an even better listen. Though their voices are so soft, the message of confidence pushes through entirely. This will always be one of my favorite songs of all time.
4. “20cm” by Tomorrow x Together
Speaking of favorite songs of all time, this song is my absolute favorite. This has been my top song for years now, and I cannot get enough. This is not a usual sound from TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), and I wish they had more songs like this because it is just that amazing! From the smooth harmonization, R&B sounds, and soothing vocals, it all blends perfectly and makes me listen to it over and over again. I cannot get enough of this song, and I am sure I will never get sick of it.
5. “Hear me out” by Maggie Lindemann
An entirely different sound from my previous song, I love having a variety to listen to. Her music is so intense and relatable that over the years, I found myself listening to her more and more. The heavy guitar makes me want to blast this in my headphones and pay attention to nothing else. The entire album is so extreme and has a variety of sounds, but this song in particular stood out to me because of how emotional it is.
6. “Y SI Fuera ELLA” By Shinee
Though this is not an original song, this cover is just as beautiful. This is sung by Jonghyun of SHINee and he has an incredible voice. As the main vocalist of SHINee, he really put his entire heart into this song and I could feel it completely. His powerful vocals really stood out to me and I find myself listening to this quite often this semester more than ever.
7. “Time of my life” by Peach PRC
Since this semester was a heavy workload, I needed a song that would hype me up, and this did just that! I love listening to Peach PRC when I need a boost of energy because her songs are so catchy and uplifting. I particularly love how this song talks about being young and alive, as it makes me realize that it is okay to have fun and forget about the academics for a while. It is good to take some time to enjoy yourself rather than pushing yourself too hard.
8. “2 soon” By Keshi
This song is my favorite song by keshi. Many of his songs have appeared in my playlist since 2022, and his songs have always been amazing. This song was one of the first songs I heard by him, and I used to, and still do, belt out each word when I listen to it. It is definitely a song that I relate to, which was important for me to feel at ease, definitely during stressful times this fall.
9. “BAJA pa’ acá” By Rauw Alejandro AND ALEXIS Y FIDO
This fall, I have been playing this song on repeat. It immediately boosts my energy, which I definitely need nowadays, and I cannot stop listening to it. The instrumentals make you want to dance and party along to them. I really adore Rauw’s voice, and it is so addictive to listen to. This entire album is also quite incredible, so I highly recommend giving it a listen!
10. “ghostin” by Ariana Grande
Lastly, this song always makes an appearance when I study. Whether it is in a playlist I made or Spotify automatically plays it because I love it so much, I will always go back to this song. It is very down-to-earth and humanizing, making it relatable and a go-to choice. Yes, it is on the sadder side, but the emotional and vulnerable aspect of this song makes it that good.
Songs of the Fall Semester: recap
This stressful semester came with many ways to calm down and relax, the main way being listening to music. The fall came with many ups and downs, but having songs to listen to for each emotion helped me through it! I have listened to most of these artists for years, and they always bring me comfort. Having songs that I relate to and make me feel different emotions allowed me to push through the fall with joy.