First, it’s not Friday. But last Friday, my Wi-fi was down all day due to a crazy wind storm we had and this Friday I have a different post that I want to specifically post on that date. But hey, I definitely jam out other days of the week, so really, it works. #rebelyell
Second, I’m fully aware that it is a bit dramatic to create and share a playlist titled “Post Break Up,” but hey, unfortunately most of us need a playlist like this at point or another. You are welcome.
I’ve been adding songs to this list over the past couple of weeks and it was MUCH harder to keep it under a reasonable number than I thought it would be, which was silly to think because all artists have at least a handful of break up songs to their name. And really, I could have just made the list with only country songs… or only Taylor Swift songs.
So is this list a bit cheesy? Yes, because there was no way I was leaving Dolly out of it. And it is definitely full of angst (my teenage self would be so proud). But it is pretty well-rounded — meaning it covers every stage of a break up and quite a few different situations. So please note, I obviously don’t personally relate to every single song, quite a few are just songs that I enjoy and love to jam out to regardless of what they are about. Enjoy!
p.s. There are a few songs that are explicit, just FYI, if that’s not your thing. #sorrymom
This week’s Jam Session is all about songs that motivate me, some that are upbeat that you can workout to and others that are slow and maybe more calming and uplifting. Both typically have positive messages. I’ve said a few times lately that my attitude just hasn’t been the best and so music is definitely one of my main go-to’s to help change my mood or help me get through things. This list is fun because there is a good mix of newer songs that have been on my radar lately, and a few of them are older, and are some of my all-time favorite songs to help motivate me and change my outlook. There is also a really good mix of genres, which is just a reminder and how vast my music taste is.
A few playlist notes…
If you played high school sports in the late 2000’s you’ll probably agree with me on Eminem’s “Lose Yourself,” and I couldn’t count the amount of times that my sister and I rapped through the whole thing on the way to school. Speaking of high school, I included an early Taylor song, which really takes me back! I tried to not duplicate any of the artists, but my favorite Christian rock band, NEEDTOBREATHE, snuck in there with two songs, because to be honest, almost all of their music motivates me. There are three songs that have the word “Arrow” in the title, though they could not be more different. Ed Sheeran is one of my all-time favorite artists, but I was a bit surprised that I managed to still include him on this list. I don’t know if I’ve ever considered any of his other music to be particularly motivating, but this one definitely hits that point. I hadn’t heard Pink’s song until the Grammy’s this year and am still think back about the impact of her very simple performance. Hope you enjoy this week’s playlist!
I am SO EXCITED to bring back this series. Blogging is such a fun hobby for me and a way to both journal my life and exercise my writing skills outside of work, so in 2018 one of my goals is to blog more regularly. Friday Jam Sessions used to be some of my regular posts, but how I was doing them at the time — choosing one song to highlight for a bunch of different categories and writing a review for each — were just so time consuming so I eventually got out of the habit of doing them. But music and discovering new artists and tunes is still one of my favorite things and I missed sharing these posts. So now that I’ve become loyal to Spotify a few years ago, I am going to switch things up and share playlists I build on there around different themes. This is much easier for me to do because I listen to Spotify almost all day, everyday, regardless if I am at work, in the car or at home. And I’ve always had the habit of sorting songs into playlists based on moods or themes as I go. So right now I am aiming to get one of these posts up about every other week or so. Let me know if there is any particular theme you want me to feature!
To start us out, I decided to look back at 2017 and feature my favorite 10 full albums that were released that year. My music tastes stretch far and wide, but not surprisingly, artists that came out with full albums that I listened to over and over to, were almost all artists that I consider some of my all-time favorites. I decided to put three songs from every album on the playlist, which was NOT EASY. I should also note that Chris Stapleton technically came out with TWO new albums this year (because he’s amazing) but I counted them as one in this list…and still included three songs from each.
Ed Sheeran // Divide
Maren Morris // HERO
Chris Stapleton // From a Room Vol. 1 and 2
Logan Mize // Come Back Road
Harry Styles // Harry Styles
The Greatest Showman Soundtrack
Aaron Watson // Vaquero
Taylor Swift // reputation
Turnpike Troubadours // A Long Way From Your Heart
Halsey // hopeless fountain kingdom
A few playlist notes…
Halsey was a bit of a surprise to me because I don’t recall really liking much from her first album, but I really liked her sophomore album this year. Harry Styles’ freshman solo album solidified that his talents stretch far beyond his work with One Direction and I spent most of 2017 demanding that my friends listen to it. I was over the moon that Logan Mize finally gave us a new full album and proceeded to reminisce about all of his concerts I went to in college. My obsession with Ed Sheeran continues to know no limits and after discovering Maren Morris when her original EP came out a few years ago I have to remind myself that she’s still considered a new artist. After listening to him a bit in college, Aaron Watson shot up my list when I finally caught one of his concerts back in September and was kicking myself for having missed out on more of his music for so long. Maybe its because we’re the same age and I feel like I’ve grown up with her, but I’m still a shameless fan of Taylor, and after being a little concerned about LWYMMD as the first single off the new album, the rest of it was everything that it should be. Turnpike Troubadours has such a distinct sound, and I finally made it to one of their concerts for the first time, which only solidified my love for their music. Chris Stapleton’s sound continues to memorize me and I will never be able to wrap my mind around the fact that he spent so many years writing for other people before making it on his own. I FINALLY saw him live in concert this past year, and he is even so much better live — if that is possible. Finally, I couldn’t not mention the album that seems like everyone can’t stop talking about, and that is The Greatest Showman soundtrack. The movie was SO GOOD and the soundtrack has been on loop in my car for weeks. I think I know every word to every song by now.
I am sure that I forgot or overlooked a few albums, but I did have these others on my list when I was planning this post, so I suppose they deserve honorable mention.
Little Big Town // The Breaker
Thomas Rhett // Life Changes
Old Dominion // Happy Endings
Grace VanderWaal // Just The Beginning
Demi Lovato // Tell Me You Love Me
And these are artists with albums coming in 2018 that are on my radar so far that I am looking forward to.
I love music. My taste is very diverse — continually being shaped by an unique combination of people, places and experiences. I never try to pawn myself off as someone who “knows music,” because I have too much respect for those who do. I did dance and took piano lessons growing up, but trust me, you do NOT want to hear me sing. But music is a topic that I never tire of and I love swapping recommendations. Please join in and share your own picks! View past posts HERE. ********
Yeah, so the past few weeks just weren’t happening on the music/blogging front. I usually work on these post throughout the week, but I kept getting to Thursday evenings with nothing started and no motivated to bust one out in one night. My sticky notes in my planner and notes in my phone were getting a bit ridiculous though so I’m back at it.
1.Favorite New (new-to-me) Artist/Band Eric Paslay
Eric Paslay isn’t actually all that new to me, he’s one of those country song writing- turned artists that I’ve listened to since his very first single, “Never Really Wanted.” I sometimes wonder how its possible to continue to find what I think are fresh, unique sounds in country music, but I’ve loved everything that this guy has put out so far. His entire debut album is worth a listen with my favorites, “Keep On Fallin” “She Don’t Love You”and “Deep As It Is Wide” ( a remake of the original song he cut with Amy Grant and Sheryl Crow.) Right now I’m obsessed with his new single above, “High Class.”
2.Jam I Have on Repeat Hello – Adele
I’m pretty sure most of the world hasn’t taken this off of repeat.
3.Favorite Collaboration, Cover, Remix or Mashup I Know Places – Vance Joy ( original by Taylor Swift)
I swear I really do try to focus on not repeating too many artists each week, but obviously my love for Vance Joy knows no end. This was my initial favorite off of T-Swift’s 1989 and Joy’s stripped down version just sounds so beautifully sad and I don’t think its meant to be a sad song.
Whatever, I’m pretty sure Vance Joy is what angels sound like…
4.Favorite Spotify List Heartland Drive – Spotify
Guys, this is a solid list. Country, rock, classic’s and new singles. Now I just need a road trip…
5.#SoulMusic I’m Obsessing Over Tiger Striped Sky – Roo Panes
This soothing indie jam popped up on my Spotify a few months ago and has become a staple on my #soulmusic playlist.
6.”Oldie, But a Goodie” I Heard This Week Srubs – TLC Listen HERE
When this popped up on my Spotify, I about choked on my coffee from laughing… I had completely forgotten about this song. The 90’s man, they were one of a kind. Chick bands just aren’t the same anymore. Of course this led me down a rabbit hole on YouTube, so while we’re at it, why not also listen to “Waterfalls.” You are so very welcome…
7.Current Beat That Makes Me Want to Dance…in the Car…Jamming With the Windows Down Getting Ready to Get Down – Josh Ritter Listen HERE
I vaguely remember listening to Josh Ritter before, but when I first heard this song, I couldn’t quite remember who this contemporary folk singer was. Well, I think it’s safe to say that I am definitely a fan right now.
8.Taking Me Down Memory Lane I’ll Be There For You – The Rembrandts
9.Work, Work it Out Fire N Gold – Bea Miller Listen HERE
I have no idea who this chick is, she looks like she’s 13 and I can’t decide whether she reminds me of early Paramore or if she’s more of a pop singer. I wouldn’t say that the song is all that brilliant but its a song beat to add to your running/workout playlist, and maybe a few jam sessions in the car.
10.Making Me Want to Fall in Love Like I’m Gonna Lose You – Meghan Trainor ft. John Legend
Not a Meghan Trainor fan? That’s fine, she’s even a bit much for me sometimes. But this song has a timeless sound, and though I never would have thought to put her voice with John Legend, it’s magic.
But then again, I also think John Legend sounds like an angel. Maybe he and Vance Joy can start a band. Anyway, moving on…
11.Guilty Listen of the Week Friend Zone – Danielle Bradbery
Friends, I really did make an effort to not like this song. I quickly skipped it the first few times I heard it and I’m sure I have a lot of friends rolling their eyes. But it’s just fun and so stinking catchy. I didn’t watch her season of The Voice, but you have to admit that the girl has got pipes.
12.Popular Song That Is Making My Ears Bleed Me & The Rhythm – Selena Gomez Listen HERE
Ugh. I swear I love her songs or I hate them. There’s no in between. This is obviously the latter. It’s just annoying.
13.Country Pick of the Week Heartbeat – Carrie Underwood
If you know me, then you might be surprised by this one because I’m typically not much of a Carrie Underwood song. It’s not that she’s not talented, I’ve just never been a huge fan of most of her songs. But I’m a sucker for a solid, simple country long song, and I shamelessly love that Sam Hunt is on the harmonies. AND its great to blast in the car, so I’m sold.
BONUS: My Voice Picks, Week 3 – 6
The main problem with slacking on these posts is that now I’m behind on my weekly picks for The Voice and wish I had the space to add some commentary. But obviously that is not happening so here is just a catch-all list of my favorite performances.
October is National Pasta Month and the 25th was World Pasta Day. In addition to some editorial and social media coverage at work, I organized two “Pasta Day” potluck lunches at my office. I made my Grammy’s stack salad and modified it to go better with a pasta base. Everyone in the office seemed to enjoy the lunches and there were so many yummy dishes!
What I’m Reminiscing About…
Turning 25 is, as the hipsters say, “giving me all the feels.”
For the most part, everything in my life can be addressed with “How did I get here?”
Not funny? Hmm inside jokes are complicated.
Anyways, I thought this Buzzfeed article, 19 Signs You’re Finally Becoming An Adult, pretty much sums up life right now.
What I’m Loving… Kansas City Royals!!!! #TakeTheCrown Trader Joe’s Almond Nut Butter
The wonderful reception and feedback I am getting on my new “The Road I Traveled Series”
My new discovery… dirty chai!!!
It might be awhile before I make it back there again, so I crammed as much in as I possible could and left with a full heart.
What I’m Dreading… My always long, and always random to-do list. That’s the problem with being an obsessive list maker. I also finally got around to applying for TSA pre-check (not in time for my next trip) and got my appointment scheduled.
And as ALWAYS, I’m dreading winter.
What I’m Working On… I finally finished my fall burlap wreath (L) for my new office at work (which I wrote about here) and then my co-worker loved it so much that he asked me to make another one (R) for his entry way at home. I was pretty happy with how they turned out!
What I’m Excited About… As much as I hate winter, it does mean the holidays. Ever since I left for college, my birthday has always roughly marked two months before I go home for the holidays and when I officially start my countdown — and that had remained the same in post grad. During those two months I tend to get homesick a bit more often than usual. So… today marks 50 days until home sweet home again!
What I’m Watching… As I mentioned in last month’s “What’s Up Wednesday” post, I was watching Friends for the first time from start to finish on Netflix and had been avoiding the last few episodes of the series because I didn’t want it to end. Well, I finally accepted it and faced the end. I sent a SnapChat of the scene where Rachel is individually saying goodbye to each of the friends to my bestie Megan in Kansas because she just finished the series as well and the scene hit a little too close to home for me…aka I cried. Seriously, every 20-something needs the friends in their lives.
As I’m writing this I am also mastering my multi-channel TV watching skills with the Republican debate, Game 2 of the World Series (GO ROYALS) and the Trailblazers NBA season opener.
I couldn’t decide on just one.
This week, I also enjoyed this blog post that has been floating around titled, “Screw Finding Your Passion.” It’s a little blunt and definitely has some unnecessary language, but it really breaks down a topic that I have talked in circles about with different people and gives it a refreshing (minus the language) message that really resonated with me.
What I’m Listening To…
I haven’t posted a Friday Jam Session in a few weeks. I just haven’t been all that motivated to work on them throughout the week and when I would get to Thursday, they just didn’t happen at all. But my lists and comments are getting a bit long, so I’ll definitely be back at it this week.
In the meantime, like the rest of the world, I can’t stop listening to Adele’s new single “Hello”
And I’m loving this stripped down version “Out of the Woods” from T-Swift. I think I like it better than the original.
What I’m Wearing…
Like always, I never remember to take pictures of the (very) few outfits that I deem shareable. I did throw on my new blanket scarf this morning that I AM OBSESSED with. I mentioned last month that I spent all of last winter not being able to decide what print and colors I wanted so I never got one. Back in August, I decided that it was a must-have item this season and finally chose this one. It is so warm and soft, and mixes and matches well with quite a bit of my wardrobe. I wore it once over dress as a shawl with a thin belt over the top… and the jury is still out on that style. But I am completely convinced that everyone needs a blanket scarf in their life.
What I’m Doing This Weekend…
Watching the World Series and packing for my next work trip…
What I’m Looking Forward to Next Month… Early next week I head out to Lake Tahoe for a fall board meeting for my job. Since my Spoo grandparents live nearby, they are going to pick me up from the airport and spend the rest of the day with me. I haven’t seen them in over 3 years, so I’m REALLY excited!
And of course, Thanksgiving!! This year I’m headed down to Raleigh, NC for a little Friendsgiving action with some fellow Oregonian/K-State/East Coast transplants.
This Month’s Bonus Question: What’s your favorite Thanksgiving recipe…
Ugh. Talking holiday food traditions makes me homesick.
Dad’s tri-tip and pork loin. Grammy’s mashed potatoes. Cousin Lisa’s pretzel salad. The Jorgensen family’s sweet rolls and more… Good thing all of those things are usually at the Christmas dinner table as well.
******
Well, that’s what’s up this Wednesday!
Cheers!
{Sort of like a “Friday Five” or a “Life Lately” except it’s probably not Friday, and I gave up on the idea of a catchy alliteration. These are some bits and pieces of my glam #postgradlife. See past posts HERE}
**********
1. One Day at a Time
The last two week’s since I returned home from Guatemala have been pretty stressful at work. Everything turned out great, they were just a bit stressful…
I was humored that the next page on my quote book knew exactly how I was feeling.
2. Happy 25th Birthday Megan
“Maybe our girlfriends are our soul mates and guys are just people to have fun with.”
– Carrie Bradshaw
From age 18 to 25, we’ve been asking ourselves lately “how did we get here?” Not sure that there’s an actual answer to that, but I know it involves a lot of cheesy memories.
3. Wheel of Musical Impressions
So I’m not really an Ariana Grande fan, but seriously, I have to admit that her musical impressions were really impressive, and funny.
4. T-Swift Love
Tonight my bestie Megan is going to the Taylor Swift concert in Kansas City with tickets that she won on the radio! The grand plan was that I was going to fly there and go with her. Unfortunately it didn’t work out, (but I am going to visit Kansas for a three-day weekend in October!) Over the last few months I have become a little obsessed with all of the guests that she continues to feature at each of her stops, and I can wait to hear about who shows up at this show!
Almost everything that I love about sports and particularly the game of basketball is because of my Grampy. No matter what it was that my sister and I were involved in from basketball, soccer, cross country and golf to even dance team and FFA, he always played the role of coach and cheerleader, investing in us the best way he could to make sure that we came …out on the other side as better people. When I decided to go to college at K-State he immediately became a Wildcats fan, learning stats and hearing big news even before I would hear it on campus. People usually knew that he was the only person whose texts I would respond to during games. Even living so far away from home it allowed us to remain close and share something we both loved. On the outside he’s super passionate about sports, and while I’m very excited to finally see him in the coach’s seat, its not really about that. My Grampy taught us that sports are about investing in other people and challenging yourself. They are about hard work, discipline and committing yourself to something you love.
These kids really don’t know what they are in for this season. I love you Gramps! I can’t wait to discuss your team for a change!
8. Ready for Fall
It’s slowly starting to feel like fall in D.C. and I am loving this candle that I picked up at Target. It has three layers: pumpkin nutmeg, bonfire nights and vanilla dolce. So far I’m loving it.
9. Basic
Just humor me, and take the quiz. I promise a good laugh.
You know you want to.
I love music. My taste is very diverse — continually being shaped by an unique combination of people, places and experiences. I never try to pawn myself off as someone who “knows music,” because I have too much respect for those who do. I did dance and took piano lessons growing up, but trust me, you do NOT want to hear me sing. But music is a topic that I never tire of and I love swapping recommendations. Please join in and share your own picks! View past posts HERE.
********
Everyone, I want you to Meet Megan (and her pup Luna)! Megan is my best friend from college. We met at the Women’s Smurthwaite Scholarship House our freshman year at Kansas State and went on to live together for 4.5 years. Our friendship began over sharing and talking about music, and after dozens of road trips, concerts and late night jams to get through studying, music continues to be at the center of that friendship. Megan is now a food scientist, working for a spice and ingredient company in Wichita, Kan. I’ve been traveling for work in Guatemala this week and since I mention her in almost every Friday Jam Session post anyway, I decided she was the perfect choice to fill in for me!
1.Favorite New(ish) Album How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful – Florence + the Machine
I’ve always been a Florence + The Machine fan, but this new album takes it to a whole new level. Right now I’m struggle to pick a favorite. Seriously though, Listen to ALL OF THE SONGS.
2.Favorite New(ish) Collaboration Heavy Crown – Iggy Azalea ft. Ellie Goulding (Explicit) Listen HERE
This is my new favorite song to rap along with in the car…or in my apartment…or when walking my dog in public. It’s cool, my neighbors already think I’m crazy anyway.
3.Favorite New (new-to-me) Artist/Band The Score
I can’t actually figure out how I discovered this band. I think it was one of those late night YouTube searches for one thing which led me to another then another until suddenly I was in a completely different genre of music and falling in love with a new band. My favorites by them are the song above, “Oh My Love,” as well as “This Beating Heart” and “Don’t Wanna Wake Up.”
4. Jam I Have on Repeat Jackie and Wilson – Hozier Listen HERE
After the radio played “Take Me to Church” about every half hour for a solid few weeks, I was definitely an anti-Hozier type of person. However, on a whim, I got the CD from the library to listen to in the car. Oh my gosh, I’m so glad I did!! The rest of the album is so much better than the one obnoxious song the radio community chose to play.
5. Favorite Cover, Remix or Mashup Radioactive/Pumped Up Kicks – Megan Davies
I always get worried when I first see two songs that I really, really love being put together in a mashup because it always has the potential of ruining one of the songs for me. But THIS.This is pure genius. This girl and I think her sister do a lot of different mashups and covers. So while you’re at it, definitely listen to more of their stuff.
6. Favorite Spotify List Acoustic Afternoons This has become my go-to playlist for afternoons at work. It’s the perfect mix of acoustic versions of songs, covers and new artists.
7. #SoulMusic I’m Obsessing Over Georgia – Vance Joy Listen HERE I know Amanda recently featured Vance Joy’s album, but later this month I’m going to a Taylor Swift Concert in Kansas City and Vance Joy is currently on tour with her, and I’ve been going through spurts where I listen to Vance Joy and Taylor Swift songs over and over and over. Every time this song comes on I stop what I’m doing and close my eyes and wish that I could inject this song into my bloodstream. Like Amanda says, it is the definition of #soulmusic.
8.Song That is Currently Cracking Me Up Girls in Bikinis – Lee Brice Listen HERE
I realize that this isn’t one Amanda’s normal categories, but I really felt the need to share. I went to a Lee Brice concert last week and he sadly did not play this song, but it would have been hilarious if he had. I heard it the first time in my car and proceeded to play it 3 more times in a row because I was laughing so hard.
9. Current Beat That Makes Me Want to Dance…in the Car…Jamming With the Windows Down Roots – Imagine Dragons
I love everything about this song. I love the piano, the singing, but I especially love the drums and the beat. This song makes me want to jump around and dance and just go crazy! (Let’s just pretend that I am NOT turning 25 soon)
10.Taking Me Down Memory Lane Our Song – Taylor Swift Listen HERE
This song is from back when T-Swift was singing country and her first album had just come out. She had curly long hair and a twangy singing voice. And now she’s all grown up and I still really love her songs.
11. Work, Work it Out Lean On – Major Lazer feat. MØ & DJ Snake Listen HERE
I haven’t actually worked out to this song yet…but I feel like it would be a very good workout song. Plus I really wanted it to be on this list and couldn’t figure out the best place for it. So this’ll do.
12.Making Me Want to Fall in Love Riser – Dierks Bentley
Amanda said it best last week…everything about Dierks Bentley makes me want to fall in love. #amen
13. Guilty Listen of the Week Anything Goes – Florida Georgia Line
I denounced Florida Georgia Line. Really, I did! Once they started getting just too bro country for me, I said goodbye. Their first song or two on the radio I liked. But soon they were overplayed and annoying, and ever since then everything they have come out with drives me absolutely crazy…except this song. I CANNOT tell you why I like this song. Every fiber of my being says I shouldn’t (especially with a video like this). But the song starts up on the radio and I find myself turning up my volume and singing along #sorrynotsorry
14.Song That I Originally Loved, But Is Now Overplayed Cheerleader – OMI (Felix Jaehn Remix) Listen HERE
The first time I heard this song I thought it was catchy and fun. The 800th time I heard it, I yelled and turned the radio off. I’m very done with this song.
15.Popular Song That Is Making My Ears Bleed Watch me Whip (Nae Nae) – Silento Listen HERE
I can’t even. That’s the only unintelligent thing I can muster up to say, #ijustcanteven.
16.Country Pick of the Week Blue Bandana – Jerrod Niemann
Since I’ve got several different concerts coming up, this song has terrible timing. It’s all about being a gypsy and following bands across the country and going to all the wonderful music festivals. It makes me want to quit my job and live out of a van, which isn’t feasible and would not end well. But it makes me seriously consider it.
Bonus 5: Over the next couple of months I will be going to several different concerts which I am freakishly excited for. So my Bonus 5 are songs from the different artists I’m going to see.
Thank you so much Megan for sharing your jams this week and helping me out while I was traveling! There are a few new ones to add to my playlists, and a few that I was planning on featuring soon myself! I only wish we could have been jamming to these in the car together!
I love music. My taste is very diverse — continually being shaped by an unique combination of people, places and experiences. I never try to pawn myself off as someone who “knows music,” because I have too much respect for those who do. I did dance and took piano lessons growing up, but trust me, you do NOT want to hear me sing. But music is a topic that I never tire of and I love swapping recommendations. Please join in and share your own picks! View past posts HERE. ********
**********
1.Favorite New(ish) Album Wild Ones – Kip Moore
When I read that this was only his sophomore full album, I had to remind myself that Kip Moore hasn’t actually been around that long. He has a lot of my favorite songs from college and is one of the artists that I have been listening to since the very start of his career. He’s a songwriter, which I respect even more, with a gritty blue-collar country rock sound. Right now “Lipstick” above is my favorite off of the new album, but the title track, “Wild Ones,” is close second. I am also really like “Comeback Kid”, “I’m to Blame”,“Backseat” and “Girl of the Summer.”
2.Favorite New(ish) Collaboration Where It All Begins – Hunter Hayes ft, Lady Antebellum Listen HERE
You know, I didn’t start out a bit Hunter Hayes fan, but he’s really grown on me with his new album. And the vocals from Lady Antebellum in this song blend well with his voice. New band member for Lady A?
3.Favorite New (new-to-me) Artist/Band James Bay
I’m loving this guy’s voice, which you will probably recognize most from “Hold Back the River.” I kept trying to put different songs of his in other categories before I decided it made more sense for this one. “Let It Go” featured above is practically the definition of #SoulMusic to me, but then again so is “Move Together” and “Need the Sun to Break,” which I’ve also had on repeat lately. Then just this week I discovered his 2015 Spotify Session where he covered Alicia Key’s “If I Ain’t Got You.” Ummm… #swoon
4. Jam I Have on Repeat Elastic Heart – Sia (Piano Version) Listen HERE
5. Favorite Cover, Remix or Mashup Smelly Cat – Lisa Kudrow with Taylor Swift
I know I referenced Friends last week, but seriously though, this might be one of the best things EVER. Taylor Swift has been inviting celebrity guests to all of the stops on her 1989 tour, so I mean, why not? Personally I think it was brilliant and hilarious. If you have NEVER watched Friends, then just skip this one because you won’t get it. (If this is true then we also need to chat about your priorities in life.)
6. Favorite Spotify List “Piano Ballads” by Spotify
Friends is was a bit of a long and trying week, and I kept returning to this playlist for just a bit of a break from all of the chaos. The playlist’s description says it all: “Pop unplugged. Only the best piano ballads – vocals and keys front and center.”
7. #SoulMusic I’m Obsessing Over Smile – Mikky Ekko
I first heard this song in the trailer for the movie “Paper Towns,” and it’s continued to stick with me. It’s a simple, light hearted song, providing lots of room for nostalgia and memories, much like the book and movie did for me. I thought it fit really well so I was surprised not to see it on the final soundtrack.
8.”Oldie, But a Goodie” I Heard This Week Her Life’s A Song – Alan Jackson Listen HERE
This throwback came up on my Timehop this week and made me smile. There are a lot of different definitions of what country is, but for me it starts with guys like Alan Jackson.
9. Current Beat That Makes Me Want to Dance…in the Car…Jamming With the Windows Down Freedom – Pharrell Williams
I haven’t completely decided if I actually like this song, I just really like singing it in my car and screaming the “freedom” part.
10.Taking Me Down Memory Lane Get This Party Started – Pink Listen HERE
So I may or may not have done a jazz dance duet to this song with my best friend Kayla, when we where 5th graders (?) one summer at the county fair. I swear I would share a picture, but I don’t have one. I do remember we wore matching tie-dye pink tank tops and our black Nike basketball shorts. I also distinctly remember that is how I got my left split down because we had to be opposite and Kay called dibs. LOL, if only I could still do that at all!
11. Work, Work it Out The Walker – Fitz and The Tantrums
This is great to workout to but this is also my FAVORITE song to walk to work to in the morning, it always puts me in a good mood. I promise though, I really do walk like normal person.
12.Making Me Want to Fall in Love Say You Do – Dierks Bentley
Basically everything Dierks sings makes me want to fall in love.
13. Guilty Listen of the Week Dirrty – Christina Aguilera Listen HERE So my co-worker definitely caught me jamming to this on a Throwback Thursday playlist. Oops. #sorryimnotsorry
However I will say about the music video… I had forgotten how well, “dirty” it was LOL. My question is, did she let her parents watch that?! #coveryoureyes
14.Song That I Originally Loved, But Is Now Overplayed Honey, I’m Good – Andy Grammer
I love this song, I just need a break. Anyone agree?
15.Popular Song That Is Making My Ears Bleed I Really Like You – Carly Rae Jepsen
Just make it stop, ok?
However, listen just ONCE while watching the video because two words: TOM HANKS.
16.Country Pick of the Week That Don’t Sound Like You – Lee Brice
Lee Brice was my first college concert and the first of countless concerts that I have been to with my best friend Megan. We weren’t 21 yet so when we got to Longhorns (the country dance hall in Manhattan, KS at the time) we camped out front and center. It was AMAZING and still one of my favorite college memories. His first single “Love Like Crazy” had just peaked on the country music charts, eventually to become the longest-charting song in the chart’s history. He was another new guy that I had followed since the beginning so I knew a lot of his songs, but he also sang a lot of songs that he had written for other people (ahem, remember Garth Brooks’ “More Than A Memory”?) Four years later he was back in Manhattan on a bigger stage, with a much bigger audience and a LOT more hit songs. Last night, Megan saw Lee Brice again in Wichita and every Snapchat she sent made me super nostalgic. I wish I could have been there again!
Can’t believe this was 5 years ago!! (2010)
BONUS: My Top 7 Favorite Lee Brice Songs (sorry I couldn’t pick 5)
The Good Stuff 