Music - What I'm Listening To

Friday Jam Session: Post Break Up

Just keeping it real over here on all accounts.

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

What are you listening to lately?

See past Friday Jam Session posts HERE.

Music - What I'm Listening To

Friday Jam Session: Motivation

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!

What are you listening to lately?

See past Friday Jam Session posts HERE.

Music - What I'm Listening To

Friday Jam Session: March Madness

It’s finally here. The time of year when it is both acceptable and expected to watch basketball all day long. It’s time for March Madness.

Holy buckets do I love basketball.

Much to my dismay, I did not turn out to be the greatest athlete, but I did play up through my freshman year of high school and more importantly, I come from a basketball family. Among many players, my dad, grandpa and uncle all were, or still are coaches. I grew up on the sidelines watching my dad play city league and attended practice almost every day when he coached and became his stat book keeper. My grandpa has owned Blazers tickets for years, used to call high school games for the local radio station and expects a routine update and discussion on how our Wildcats are doing. I have learned to love the game inside and out.

Yes, March Madness is upon us. Between questionable refs and what I’m sure must be record for the amount of courts rushed, this sure has been an exciting season of college ball. This week’s jam session is dedicated to music that motivates us, gets up pumped up and reminds me of the hardwood.

More by Usher
This song was released to promote the 2010 NBA All-Star game. The coolest part….besides the fact that Usher and the song are just plain awesome? His dance moves in music video reflect moves on the court. So. cool. You’ll have to go directly to YouTube to watch it though, the settings wouldn’t allow the video to be embedded.

http://youtu.be/ZDzWQALFZKg

Hall of Fame by The Script ft. Will.i.am
Beautiful blend to two very different voices, beautiful piano and beautiful message. Everyone needs a little bit this from time to time. Personally I love the dancer’s story in the music video.

The Fighter by Gym Class Heroes ft. Ryan Tedder
This was one of my musical obsessions of 2012. Yes, basketball is by far my favorite, but I would consider myself an all around sports fan. I love the grit of this song and the story they weaved with U.S. gymnast in the music video gives me chills. Athlete, sports fan or just an average joe, I’d argue that everyone can find a way to connect with this one.

Lose Yourself by Eminem
Go ahead and get your raised eyebrows out of the way. I not so secretly love Eminem and this one takes me back to high school sports. And if you are going to judge me, don’t, and judge my sister instead. She can rap the whole thing. I’m so proud

The Champ by Nelly
This one was original released for college bowl week in 2012 but is featured here in a season highlight for the 2012-2013  K-State men’s team. You can view the original video here. I’ll admit, I have a hard time relating to people who look at sports and just don’t get it. So if I told you that I’ve lost count of how times I have watched this or that I might have teared up a bit, many of you would roll your eyes, but others, regardless of whether or not you are K-State fans, would understand.

Enjoy March Madness everyone! and Go Cats!

Go Cats!