2020 has provided me with a whole lot of alone time, arguably more than I bargained for. Some of the many things I’ve done during that time have been listening to music and curating killer playlists while I’m at it. I’ve both discovered new music and relistened to old favorites, all from the comfort of my own bed. As the cold weather rolls around and we get back into spending a whole lot of time cozied up indoors, I can’t think of a better way to enjoy my hot cocoa and fuzzy blanket than listening to comforting music. Be it music that is near and dear to my heart, or music that is just downright cozy, these albums are my definition of a perfect afternoon.
The Stranger – Billy Joel
If there’s one album on this list that I believe is both beautifully cozy and has a soft spot in my heart, it’s The Stranger. The Stranger is both upbeat and comforting, from the existential feeling of “Vienna” to the upbeat vibe of “Only the Good Die Young.” This is the first record I ever bought for myself, and it truly has something for everyone. Staff picks – Vienna, She’s Always a Woman
Folklore – Taylor Swift
Predictable, I know. I am a huge Taylor Swift fan if you haven’t noticed already, and folklore is arguably her best album. It’s poetic, full of raw emotions, and unlike anything she’s released before. Folklore is the ideal album to listen to on repeat wrapped up in your cardigan. I love it so much, I even had a photoshoot inspired by it (shameless plug, I know). Staff picks – betty, august, seven
Rumours – Fleetwood Mac
Another album I grew up listening to, and cannot get enough of. A product of band drama, it is by far their most successful album. While fueled by rage and adultery, it’s a perfect album to vibe to on a laid-back afternoon. Perhaps you’ve even seen all of Tiktoks skateboarding to “Dreams,” which is truly how I’m trying to be. Staff picks – Dreams, Never Going Back Again, The Chain
Pure Heroine – Lorde
Lorde’s entire discography is absolutely incredible, and while I love both of her albums, I have to go with Pure Heroine. You may recognize “Royals” and “Ribs,” but the rest of this album is often overlooked. It is beautifully written, emotional, and an absolute no-skip album. I spent about half of my Sophomore year of high school listening to this album on repeat, and if you have yet to listen to it, I know you will too. Staff picks – The Love Club, 400 Lux, Buzzcut Season
Sweet Baby James – James Taylor
I’m not one to typically have a favorite artist, but right now if I had to choose, I would pick James Taylor. The feeling I get when listening to his music can only be described as a nostalgic warm hug. His music makes my heart all warm, all I want to do is gaze longingly out a window. Staff picks – Fire and Rain, Sweet Baby James
I could seriously go on forever, but I hope this list comes in handy next time you’re bundled up in your favorite pair of sweatpants looking for some cozy music.
