Everyone has those songs that mean a lot to them. However, I've noticed a trend that most lists include older music. Personally, I get that old songs can be significant and nostalgic, but I wanted to create a list of modern day artists whose tunes have influenced me during my life! Here are the ten songs that I've grown to love:
1. Muse--Exogenesis Symphony III
Although Muse is well known for their loud, drum and guitar heavy songs, they've also written a couple of slow, orchestral songs. "Exogenesis Symphony III" is the third part of a refreshing concerto piece. It's melodious and Matt Bellamy's voice shines through like the angel he is, but it's this video which makes the song's meaning poignantly beautiful. I think we all have regrets, and this song makes me want to live a life free of them.
2. Arcade Fire--Wake Up
I've had the great pleasure of hearing this song played live, and it was so moving. This song was used to promote the film Where The Wild Things Are, and is now one of Arcade Fire's most well-known songs. It starts slow, then builds up and gives the listener hope for better things!
3. Bombay Bicycle Club--Lights Out, Words Gone
This slow song is a song that makes you want to slow-dance (the music video has people slow-dancing) and go out and enjoy nature! The lead singer's voice is smooth and cool, and the tune just oozes relaxing vibes.
4. The Script--The Good Ol' Days
Like the song implies, this song makes you remember the good times--be it high school, college, or adulthood! I saw The Script a couple of years ago, and this song is definitely a fan favorite. These Irish Rockers certainly know how to make a light and refreshing song!
5. Kodaline--Way Back When
This song makes me remember my old friends whenever they're far off at their respective colleges. Slightly nostalgic, this song makes me appreciate every moment I can share with my with friends and family. Like the song says: "I hope that I can say / When all my days are done / That I had my fun."
6. Snow Patrol--Signal Fire
If you need a love song, look no further. Snow Patrol manages to capture your heart's deepest feelings in their songs. Although Snow Patrol is widely known for more mainstream songs like "Chasing Cars" and "Run," all their music comes emotionally packed. If you want to enjoy a joyful twist to the Spiderman story, then this official music video is right up your alley!
7. Lily Kershaw--As It Seems
I love the television series Criminal Minds, and was sad to see one of my favorite actresses (spoiler alert!) leave the show back in Season 7. The writers and directors did Emily Prentiss', an FBI agent's last episodes, justice. As the BAU team enjoys their last days with her, As It Seems plays in the background and it's become a song I love and cherish.
8. Lifehouse--Broken
With a slightly melancholic tune, this song brings you back to the post-breakup feels. Despite the typical emotions associated with this song, you can't help but sing along during the chorus!
9. Coldplay--Yellow
Many people are familiar with this incredibly successful band. This song is one of the first ones I listened to in my middle school days, and it's one which sparks a special place in my heart! My favorite lyrics were "look at the stars / look how they shine for you / and everything you do" because it never failed to make my teenage self smile and want to dance. The song has a catchy tune, which is why after all these years, you can still occasionally catch it on the radio!
10. Brand New--Limousine
This song is probably one of the saddest ones on this list because of the meaning behind the song. The song is about 7-year old Katie Flynn, who died in a car accident caused by a drunk driver. This song makes me appreciate my life, and reminds me of the value behind everything we do.
There are definitely a million other great songs out there (that aren't written by old guys) which are considered classics! In my opinion, what a song makes you feel is what makes it special. For me, these are my current picks, and I hope you enjoy them as much as I do!
