What does being a “witch” mean? The term gained a lot of popularity in 2019, from President Trump claiming witch hunts, to Lana Del Rey using witchcraft, to some amazing new books coming out about modern witches. The word once mostly associated only with Halloween is gaining traction in a way I see as exciting. Pam Grossman, witch and author of Waking the Witch: Reflections on Women, Magic, and Power, wrote, “The witch is the ultimate feminist icon because she is a fully rounded symbol of female oppression and liberation.”
Whatever ‘being a witch’ means is up to the individual. You can choose your own meaning. Whether it be be spells, magic, or costumes; feminism, female empowerment, or courage; music, art, or literature – the concept of witches is open to anyone (yes, men too) and discriminates against no one.
To me, The Midwest Witch, the term personifies empowerment, magic and music. Using “witchy” music to celebrate life is something I do every day. I’ve put together a playlist of my favorite witches from 2019 to ring in the new decade.
Celebrate the Season of the Witch (every season) with the witchiest songs of 2019. Happy New Year, witch! Find the official playlist with even more tracks by clicking here or searching Elise McGannon in Spotify.
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New Love Cassette, Angel Olsen
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Blood Sisters, Fee Lion
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Body, Julia Jacklin
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Andromeda, Weyes Blood
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control, Shura
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Cheap Queen, King Princess
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So Hot You’re Hurting My Feelings, Caroline Polacheck
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Full Moon in Gemini, Vagabon
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Going to the Beach With Haley, Black Belt Eagle Scout
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Home To You, Cate le Bon
Honorary mentions:
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Asexual Wellbeing, Okay Kaya
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Fallingwater, Maggie Rogers
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In The Air Tonight, Lucy Dacus
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Norman F***ing Rockwell, Lana Del Rey
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Simulation, Diane Coffee
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Stupid Fish, Cherry Glazerr
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Cattails, Big Thief
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Glitter and Blood, American Queers