I have absolutely no idea who I would be today if it were not for music and I am certain that if I were not able to listen to music, I wouldn’t function. Whether it be through headphones or the radio or the computer, I always have a stream of tunes going. Music shapes all of us and  is a powerful tool that has been around for centuries.
My music taste is all over the place, so I apologize, because this list is going to be a genre jumper. It’s interesting what music can do. It can take you from a high to a low and back again. Yet, most often, I seek out the type of melody that exhilarates you: the kind that makes energy surge into your legs so you’ll dance or the type that immerses you in a moment or even the type that makes pain blossom like a flower, so large and beautiful that it’s petals press against your ribcage.
This list is filled with favorites and although there is no way they could include the entirety of my music library, they are definitely worth listening to!
“Blue”– Marina and the Diamonds
To begin, this is a very special artist. I’ve listened to Marina since I was young, and I have always stuck with her. She is a wonderful person, with honest lyrics, especially in “Blue,” which mixes melancholy lyrics with a upbeat tune. It knows how to drag you up when you’re in a low, with Marina’s siren-like voice urging you to dance the entire time.
“I Want it All” – Karmin​
This song makes me dance. Karmin’s beats grow as the song progresses and by the bridge, there’s no way you can stay off your feet. It’s a perfect song to get yourself pumped up in the mornings and definitely one to sing in the car.
“Nobody” – Mitski​
Remember earlier, when I mentioned that flower pressing against your chest? “Nobody” does exactly that, with the added benefit of making you dance. Though her lyrics are simple, Mitski is skilled in emotion, tugging at your heartstrings with her vocals. It is a hauntingly beautiful song and every time I listen to it, the world seems amplified. It’s overwhelming and welcomed. I request that you listen to this alone the first time; you’ll thank me later.
“Lone Digger” – Caravan Palace
Fun fact, I love electro swing and although not a prominent genre, it hides countless gems within it’s song rosters. “Lone Digger” is one of them. With sultry vocals, a fantastic beat, and great instrumentals, it’s not easily forgotten. After every listen, I wonder why I haven’t learned how to swing dance yet.
“Dance” – Danko Jones
There’s nothing like good ol’ rock. “Dance” sends shockwaves through me and makes me jump. I have had it on repeat more times than I can count. It’s a workout song, a running song, a screaming song; it’s a little bit of everything. It is not very well known, but give it a try. If you need to get your blood flowing, my first recommendation will always be this.
“God is a woman” – Ariana Grande
Ever since Ariana has released this track, I haven’t stopped listening. It is a stunning woman-power ballad, completely flawless in it’s execution. Ariana’s love can be felt through her vocals; it never fails to cheer me up. Especially in this current age, a song of this sort is a necessity. Keep it on repeat, ladies!
“Hearing Damage” – Thom Yorke​
Before you click play, let me warn you, there is no easy way to access this song, because it was used in Twilight: New Moon, during Victoria’s chase scene and is held exclusively on the album. I know this, because I have tried so many ways to get it on my phone. “Hearing Damage” is without a doubt immersive, with sensual undertones and a slow beat, pulling you into whatever fantasy the song may conjure up in your head. I will never, ever grow tired of it.
“Body Talks” – The Struts ft. Kesha​
The last on our list and also the newest, having been released this past summer. I immediately fell in love with “Body Talks.” Everything about the song—the vocals, the tone, and even the video’s visuals—comes together in perfect harmony. It’s a fun, carefree, rock number that you’ll adore.