One of the things that I’m super passionate about is music. I don’t think I’ve ever met an individual that dislikes music, but music is a huge influence and part of my life.
When somebody asks me how I listen to music, I’m prone to answer the question in regards to what device or program I use to access songs. However, if you were to ask me now, I would have two words for you – the playlist.
There’s something about the playlist that I feel is so personal about. Because mixtapes are a thing of the past, I think using songs communicating an idea is one of the best parts about music. Whether the playlist is historical or conveying a mood, I feel connected to the maker of the playlist just from listening to their compilation of songs.
In this world void of the traditional album listening experience, listening to music seems to come in fleeting moments rather than a cohesive time. Trust me, I think it’s great to go from Lana Del Rey to Paul Simon with a click or a swipe. However, playlists can have linearity to them that tell a story, and that’s amazing. The following GIFs and lists will clearly articulate on how much I love playlists and why you should too.
Note, if you want to try out some playlists, check out Spotify, 8-Tracks, and Rookie. These three are some of my favorites for playlists. Tumblr searching and talking to your friends is great to find playlists, too!
1. You learn more about people from their playlists
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Once all of your Facebook lurks have proven exhaustive, looking at playlists (usually on Spotify) that people make is the next step in finding out about a person. I don’t think music or playlists is 100% indicative of what a person is like, but sometimes music and lyrics are the best ways to connect.
2. You find unexpected gems that you forgot about
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There have been numerous times when I’ve been listening to playlists and I hear a song that had left my music lexicon. It’s great when you’re listening to a ’90s music playlist and all of the sudden that song you used to sing along to on Radio Disney shows up.
3. You hear new songs from artists that will become your future obsession
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I think one of the greatest things about playlists is the combination of songs you know and love, and the songs you will grow to know and love. I have found so many of my favorite songs and musicians from just listening to a playlist. If you’re ever on the lookout for new music, playlists are the first place to look.
4. Cool cover art!!
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I absolutely love it when playlists throw in some art. It could be the creative side of me, but seeing art incorporated helps me feel connected to the music. Also, it’s cool to see another side of the playlist maker’s vision.
5. Great way to bond
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It’s really fun to share playlists with your friends, but it’s also fun to make them with your friends. A collaborative effort in making a playlist is like a conversation. It’s fun to listen to them with friends and sing together on your favorite tracks, and listen to some of their favorites.
7. You might start making your own
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After listening to playlists, I started to make my own. I use them to relate to the world and myself, and each track is comparable to an entry in a diary. Playlists are great to explore, listen to, and create.