For as long as I can remember, music has inspired me. I’m in awe of how a song can instantly change someone’s mood and an artist can capture your experiences. I grew up listening to many different genres with my mom loving Broadway show tunes whereas my dad enjoys classic rock. My sister too likes classic rock along with country and pop. I have many memories with specific songs and the people I associate them with. During the pandemic, music remained a source of comfort as I navigated this uncertain time. As the months of social distancing progressed, I found myself missing the people and places I used to see often. I then decided to make a playlist to compile these feelings. Here are some of my favorite songs from my playlist: Home is Where The Heart Is
1. “Keep Your Head Up” by Ben Howard
I recently heard this song for the first time and immediately added it to my playlist; Interestingly, I heard it on Instagram. The song demonstrates the importance of staying strong amidst hard times. I think we can always use a hopeful song that helps us realize how far we’ve come.
2. “Welcome to New York” by Taylor Swift
Not only am I a longtime Swiftie, but I too love going on an adventure in New York City. As someone who goes to the city many times a year, New York was one of the first places I visited after the lockdown. This song also makes me think of Taylor Swift’s 1989 tour back in 2015. Like many others, I can’t wait to attend live performances once again.
3. “Precious Love” by James Morrison
I first heard this song when my sister recommended it to me last year. For me, “Precious Love” is a thank you to all the people who’ve stood by a person’s side. Whenever I listen to it, it reminds me to count my blessings and not take my loved ones for granted.
4. “Grow As We Go” by Ben Platt
“Grow As We Go” is about moving on and the challenges that come with it. I often think that people feel pressure to have everything figured out on their own, but the lyrics emphasize the value of leaning on people. The song illustrates how change takes courage and is valuable for growth.
5. “People Help The People” by Birdy
Birdy encourages listeners to have empathy and look out for others in “People Help The People.” Since I first heard the song years ago, I interpret it differently. In a lot of ways, 2020 was a wake-up call for all of us. While bad news seemed constant, I was moved by stories of unity and compassion.
6. “Beige” by Yoke Lore
I gained a deeper appreciation of this song when I read about its meaning from Genius: Behind the Lyrics feature on Spotify. Yoke Lore explains that he wrote the song to genuinely tell someone how much they mean to him. I think picking a color is a unique and powerful way of showing those feelings.
7. “My Hometown” by Bruce Springsteen
Given his ties to New Jersey, Bruce Springsteen’s music has a large presence in my house. Since I lived at home last semester, I have a stronger connection to my own hometown. The song too references social and political events that are still relevant today.
8. “Say” by Moon Taxi
This song comes Moon Taxi’s latest album, Silver Dream. This song is about taking risks and not being afraid of what people think, a message that really resonates with me. I’m a firm believer in facing fears and speaking up for yourself.
9. “betterman” by Virginia to Vegas
I recently heard this song again when I was in the car with my roommates. Even though this semester isn’t the same, I’m grateful to be back on campus with my friends. The song demonstrates we all make mistakes, but you’ll never regret trying to improve. This is a lesson I’m hoping to carry with me throughout the year.
10. “Place We Were Made” by Maisie Peters
I’m drawn to the nostalgic imagery that appears in this song to describe various relationships and memories. It reminds me that people can drift apart, but there will always be stories that bind them together. I love the idea of not forgetting where you came from and the people who shaped you are.
11. “Saltwater Gospel” by Eli Young Band
Since I’m young the beach holds a special place in my heart and brings me closer to God. There’s something calming about the sound of the ocean and the salty air. My favorite week of the year is the annual family vacation to the Outer Banks in North Carolina. I also love spending days at the Jersey Shore and shopping in different beach towns.
12. “When I’m With You” by Ben Rector
This song reminds me of my close family and friends who keep me grounded let me be myself without judgment. While I love meeting new people, I take some time before I open up to them. If you haven’t listened to Ben Rector yet, I recommend checking out his feel-good music.