With all the uncertainty in the world right now, music has made me feel just a little bit safer. Luckily, some extra time indoors has given me the opportunity to discover new artists and truly appreciate how meaningful a good song can be. Here are a few suggestions that have personally made my quarantine better!

Music To Accompany “The Emo”

Losing the end of my senior year was quite a blow, so I needed some songs for wallowing in my sadness for a little bit. 

It’s Too Late by Carole King

Whenever I hear this song, I imagine rain hitting the bedroom window while writing a letter to an ex-love. Okay, I know that’s dramatic, but you would understand if you listened to the lyrics and instrumentals. The pain in King’s voice is palpable. It’s a beautiful song with an empowering message of growing from heartbreak and finding yourself again after being tied to someone else. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brand New by Loren Cole

I cannot help but think about graduation when I hear these lyrics. Cole reflects on the beauty of her younger years and how she longs for the excitement she had while anticipating special moments in her life. By the end of the song, she realizes there is a silver lining in growing older because there will always be new experiences and happy memories to be made. While I am upset that time is moving so quickly, this song reminds me to remain optimistic about the future. 

 

Music That Inspires Hope

Motivational songs have been crucial for my survival during this quarantine. 

Light On by Maggie Rogers

Feeling overwhelmed by her developing fame, Rogers wrote this song reflecting on her insecurities and fear of sharing her imperfections under the public eye. Her lyrics basically serve as an authentic gateway to herself. The upbeat instrumentals are a constant throughout the song, even as she depicts her struggle with accepting her flaws. I constantly have difficulty being vulnerable with others, nervous of judgement I might receive. However, hearing similar feelings from a musician I extremely admire helps me look at myself with much kinder eyes. 

 

 

 

 

 

Lovely Day by Bill Withers

Bill Withers was such an amazing songwriter, and I was so sad to hear of his passing a few days ago. Lovely Day has been one of my favorite songs for years because I love the positivity behind the lyrics. Even though your situation might seem bleak, being with the people you love makes life more special. And I cannot think of a better time for optimism than the present! Also, I always try to hold the final “LOVELY DAYYYYYYYY” as long as Withers, but never have enough breath. He truly is a legend. 

 

Music For Dancing in Your Bedroom

Whether you need a break from the elearning grind or a pick-me-up after a long cry, these songs are perfect for lifting your mood. 

Think About You by Jacob Sigman

 

It’s groovy!  While not the most uptempo, put-your-hands-in-the-air song, it is perfect for bopping your head as you fold some laundry into drawers. The baseline is fun and the harmonies are pretty, but I personally love the meaning the most. During quarantine, I have missed seeing my friends most of all. This song is about the special love for people who are close to you and how they make life more exciting. And that, my dudes, is worth dancing about. 

 

 

 

 

Silvertongue by Young the Giant

I saw Young the Giant last summer, and the lead singer had the best stage presence I have ever seen. He was bouncing, swaying, twisting; no reservations whatsoever. THAT is the energy I always want to channel in my life. During this song specifically, everyone in the crowd was screaming the lyrics and having the absolute best time. It serves as a reminder that music is powerful, allowing you to forget your worries for a little bit and experience joy. 

 

Music That Makes Me Feel Calm

Some soothing tunes to accompany your walk around the block (while staying six feet apart from your neighbors). 

 Bookstore Girl by Charlie Burg

This song always puts me at ease because of the simplicity of the vocals and instrumentals, as well as the sincerity of the message. The story follows a boy falling in love with a girl he sees at his bookstore everyday. Shocking, I know!! While he reads all of her favorite books, he chooses not to pursue her further because he finds it more romantic to keep this fantasy in his head. Everything about this song feels dreamy and perfect; it is a wonderful escape from the hellhole in which we are currently living!

 

 

 

Cherry Wine (Live) by Hozier

While listening, I feel transported to a tranquil forest. Hozier’s angelic vocals are accompanied by the soothing strums of a guitar and birds faintly chirping in the background. I love playing this song while I’m in my backyard writing or drawing because it makes me feel very peaceful and reflective. 

 

 

I encourage everyone to organize your own playlist for quarantine! It doesn’t need to be organized into categories like mine; the only requirement is that you choose songs that are special to you and provide a little escape from the chaotic world around us. Happy listening!