If you ask me what my all around favorite music genre is, anyone who knows me well, know that it’s country. But if you were to ask me what my favorite “music mood” was, I think many more of you would be surprised (Or are just confused by what I just said LOL).
Making playlists is something I’ve been doing for a LONG time. From the beginning when I had an iTunes in middle school I started created playlists and mixed CDs, all revolving around different themes, events and moods. I actually still have a lot of my old mixed CDs in my car and like to pop them in every once in a while for a fun throwback. Anyway, above all, my favorite “music mood” is by far what I’ve always personally called “soul music.” I know that I should probably find a different name, because traditionally “soul music” is associated with jazz, gospel and the blues, but the label has just always stuck with me. So what I am referring to is essentially slower, laid back music, often with a single instrument. Most often, this music isn’t your really passionate love songs or really sad songs, but more of a lighter dose of either of those, or just a bit more lighthearted. And it is always best listened to on a cozy rainy day, or a relaxing, warm sunny day.
When I decided that this was going to be an upcoming feature playlist, it was way too long (hundreds of songs), so I started picking through over the past couple of weeks, and then separated that into two lists. I followed my usual rule and tried to focus on including a big variety of artists, instead of multiple songs from the same artists. Which is SO HARD, considering some of my favorites, like Vance Joy, could have whole albums on here. I’ll also say that, for the most part, I don’t really put country music on a playlist like this. In my mind, that is a different kind of playlist.
The first list that I am saving for later features my all-time favorite self-proclaimed “Soul Music,”… all songs that are permanently on repeat. But today’s post is still pretty great, and since we’ve been having quite a few warm spring rainy days where I live recently, labeling this as my “Rainy Days” playlist was perfect.
I’ve said many times before that my taste in music stretches far and wide. But if I had to listen to only on genre of music for the rest of my life, it would be country music. And if I had to be more specific, I would choose 90’s country music (followed closely by outlaw country and Texas/red dirt country).
I can’t help it. It is what I was raised on, and honestly, I think it played a large part in why I love good storytelling.
This was by far the hardest playlist so far to keep under a certain number. I could have easily created this long of a playlist with just a small handful of my favorite 90’s country artists, but there were also quite a few single hits that I could not overlook. So I limited myself to 1-2 songs per artists and for the most part, kept it to upbeat songs, though there were a few slow songs that snuck in. I also did quite a bit of double checking to make sure that the songs featured really were from albums that came out between 1990 to 1999. I had so much fun picking through these albums, since so many of them we had a home growing up.
And just so no one yells at me… I am well aware that there is no Garth Brooks on this list, but his music is not on Spotify.
I hope you enjoy this one as much as I enjoyed putting it together! Happy Friday!
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
I will forever be perplexed by how so many great and wonderful things in life can coexist with things that are hard and confusing.
I realize that is what part of what grace is, but on the day-to-day, I often have to tell myself out loud to slow down and breath.
I have been really missing this view lately.
I always think of these words when I think about “my mountains.”
‘The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still’ -Exodus 14:14
Yesterday, spring started to show itself again so I decided to end my day with a long run and a few other views that have won me over.
It is not the same, but I certainly do not take for granted where I live.
I know there are many people who will not ever get to travel to our nation’s capital. Or they will, maybe once as a tourist, but will never take the time to relax and enjoy a lazy evening on the Mall. They will not become familiar with it like it is their own backyard.
And like the mountains do for me, I know a lot of people look upon these views for strength and steadiness.
I guess what I am saying is that it is important to remember that it is indeed possible to “only to be still” anywhere I am.
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 Sundown Heaven Town – Tim McGraw
So this album will actually be a year old next week but there have been a number of singles throughout the year that I’ve continued to come back with it. Sometimes it’s hard to wrap my around the fact that Tim is now considered one of the old guys in country music. And with the infusion of new and “bro” country, I know sometimes people blame some of the other guys for “selling out” their sound for what’s popular. I always roll my eyes because I think that is somewhat that natural ebb and flow of music and looking back I think people would find many past examples of that. I love this album because it still has that signature Tim McGraw sound, but tries out a few new things. It’s hard to choose but I think the song above is my favorite, but I also love “Shotgun Rider”, “Meanwhile Back at Mama’s” and “Overrated.”
2.Favorite New(ish) Collaboration Verge – Owl City ft. Aloe Blacc
This is a fun song and an interesting collaboration. I am kind of surprised that I like it though. Back when Owl City first came out with his first single “Fireflies” I was NOT fan. Talk about an overplayed song. I just didn’t get the appeal. One the flip side I loved Aloe Blacc’s first big song “Wake Me Up” that was he featured on with Avicii. I understand though that a lot of people got sick of it.
3.Favorite New (new-to-me) Artist/Band Jess Glynne
Her YouTube channel featured this acoustic version, but I think I prefer the original in this case. Anyway, I was planning on using the song as my “Jam I Have on Repeat”, but considering I have also had her song “Hold My Hand” on repeat all summer and I was immediately obsessed with “Rather Be” where she offers guest vocals when it came out late 2013, it is pretty safe to say that she fits better in this category. I love her energy and raspy voice, not to mention she has AWESOME curly red hair.
#Holla
I’m also loving “Don’t Be So Hard On Yourself” and “My Love” from her debut album.
4. Jam I Have on Repeat Move On – Clare Dunn
I have no idea who this chick is and to be honest the music video is a bit too much, but I’m not waiting for this song to annoy me because I’ve played it so much. It’s a fun one to get into and I appreciate a solid girl jam.
5. Favorite Cover, Remix or Mashup Wildfire – Aaron Watson Listen HERE
It’s not often that I like a cover more than the original, and even though I really like John Mayer’s original version, I think really think it was meant to be a simple country song.
6.Favorite Spotify List “Wild Country” by Spotify
It just felt like a summer country music week and this playlist was just the ticket.
7. #SoulMusic I’m Obsessing Over Wings – Birdy Listen HERE
Apparently, this song is a few years old, but I only recently discovered because of the artist’s work on a soundtrack and her cover of Skinny Love (at age 15!). This girl’s voice and this song in particular both have a beautiful, haunting sound that I love.
8.”Oldie, But a Goodie” I Heard This Week Kings and Queens – 30 Seconds to Mars
I LOVE when you entirely forget about a song and rediscover it on accident. 30 Seconds to Mars has never been a band that I listened to a lot from and 6 years old probably isn’t considered and “oldie,” but obviously it was long for me to forget how much I loved this song when it first came out. It’s definitely going back on my workout and car playlists. Also, I can’t believe I’m saying this considering I am outspoken about how much I don’t like long hair on guys… but I think I prefer Jared Leto with long hair, at least over the do he has in the video.
9. Current Beat That Makes Me Want to Dance…in the Car…Jamming With the Windows Down Pumpin Blood – NONONO
This song is kind of random and trippy, but it is a blast to dance and jam to in the car.
10.Taking Me Down Memory Lane Since U Been Gone – Kelly Clarkson
Can you believe this song is 11 years old?! I had this album and knew every single world to every track. My Dad may or may not have been a Kelly fan too. We’ll go ahead and let him blame it on having two teenage daughters.
11. Work, Work it Out In My Head – Galantis Listen HERE
Solid beat for a good run.
12.Making Me Want to Fall in Love Stuck With Me – Timeflies Listen HERE
I know they’ve been around for a few years and are one of those success stories of artists/bands who “made it” after working hard to build a following on YouTube, but I’ve never really been a fan. So I was a bit surprised that I kept coming back to this song. It’s simple and sweet.
13. Guilty Listen of the Week Levels – Nick Jonas Listen HERE
I’m sorry, but I really couldn’t help it. I have no shame #JoBros4Ever
14.Song That I Originally Loved, But Is Now Overplayed Worth It – Fifth Harmony Listen HERE
I DO NOT love this song at all…it actually make my ears bleed, but I know its catchy and its been really popular this summer. But seriously though, when can people be over this song soon please. I also just really wanted to feature this song so I could share this hysterical video of this girl jamming to the song in the car….
15.Popular Song That Is Making My Ears Bleed What Do You Mean – Justin Bieber Listen HERE
I wanted to give the Biebs a chance, but no, just no. Not sure if was him or the freaking metronome sound throughout the whole song that drove me more crazy… and don’t get me started on the music video that I should not have wasted my time on.
16.Country Pick of the Week Nights on Fire – David Nail Listen HERE
I’ve continued to wonder over the years why David Nail isn’t more popular. It amazed me when his single “Whatever She’s Got” came out in 2013 and there were still people who thought he was a new act. Country acts tend to be a be dime a dozen from time to time but I’ve always liked this guy’s sound and think more people should check him out!
BONUS: People, it is officially college football season!
It is well known among Kansas State fans and many of our Big 12 opponents that Coach Snyder is very traditional and has been using the same pre-game playlist throughout most of his tenure, with only a few changes. I did Friday Jam Session way back in my old format that I thought I would resurrect. See the original post HERE.
The Good Stuff 