There is no doubt that music is something that everyone listens to, whether as a way to escape, wind down, or focus. However, it can be very easy to get caught up in listening to only one certain type of music, leading to boredom and a desire for hearing something refreshing. With multiple genres, new releases and oldies, bands and solo artists, it can sometimes be overwhelming to find that certain tune that will bring you out of your music slump. The following is a short list of the songs that I am currently listening to. I attempted to include a good variety that stretches across several moods and genres.
For theater lovers:
“Never Ever Getting Rid of Me” by Cast of Waitress
“Sun and Moon” by Cast of Miss Saigon
Yes, these are both love songs, but “Sun and Moon”’s calming melody is perfect for just winding down at night. “Never Ever Getting Rid of Me” is a lot more upbeat and theatrical, but a great tune if you just want to happily think about that significant other (real or not).
For an efficient workout:
“Hold Me Up” by Conrad Sewell
Fast paced and full of electric beats, sure to motivate you to run a couple more laps on that terrible treadmill.
For heartbreak/a bad day:
“July” by Noah Cyrus
A simple tune, with just a guitar, Cyrus’ stunning voice, and lyrics like these are sure to make you shed a tear:
“So tell me to leave, I’ll pack my bags, get on the road
Find someone that loves you better than I do, darling, I know
‘Cause you remind me every day, I’m not enough, but I still stay”
In need of a mood booster:
“Inner Smile” by Texas
“Pick U Up” by Foster the People
“Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing” by Stevie Wonder
“I” by Kendrick Lamar
Although these songs come from different generations and genres, they all feature bouncy melodies and/or communicate positive, confident messages to brighten your day and make you feel good about yourself.
Songs for pure joy:
“Lights Up”-Harry Styles
“Golden Hour”- Kacey Musgraves
Musgraves’ “Golden Hour” is the song I would personally suggest to those that do not like country music. It’s a dreamy love song that includes both pop and country music elements. “Lights Up” is a new release that isn’t incredibly fast paced; it’s ultimately its lyrics that make it such a joyful, freeing bop. (I also suggest watching the music video).
When something or someone has been bothering you:
“G.O.M.D” by J. Cole
Nothing like a fire yet thoughtfully written J. Cole rap to get your blood flowing (in a good way).
The songs listed above are just a few of my personal preferences. A lot of them are out of my musical comfort zone that typically consists of R&B and hip hop. Don’t be afraid to listen to songs you usually wouldn’t listen to. For those who are struggling to find new music, I suggest paying attention to the songs used in commercials or your favorite movies and TV shows. Shazam it, and you might find your new musical obsession. Happy listening!