We all know how many mixed feelings are conjured as we endure the first few days of being back at school, whether it’s middle school, high school, or college. Back-to-school shopping is either great or exhausting (depending on how you feel about shopping), reuniting with your friends is exciting and fun, and going back to class can go either way when it comes to feelings. So here’s a playlist for all those exciting, exhausting and overwhelming feelings you get in the craziness that is returning to school.
1) Good Day- Nappy Roots
Pretty self explanatory in the title, but listening to this song as you wake up will truly put a smile on your face in the morning, which can make a big difference for the rest of the day.
2) Send Me On My Way- Rusted Root
This song always gets me in a good mood, and often makes me want to walk with a purpose. Also, it reminds me of Ice Age, so that’s a bonus. Perfect for rolling up to school with your head bobbing every which way.
3) Sodom South Georgia- Iron & Wine
Whenever I listen to Iron and Wine’s quiet and soothing vocals, I automatically take a deep breath and close my eyes. After a long day, this song is guaranteed to relax you.
4) September- Earth, Wind & Fire
I find that sometimes the best study break is a three-minute dance party, and what’s better than some good ol’ 70s disco music.
5) LFT- Quadron
This song is less for a specific purpose and more just for easy listening to a groovy and catchy tune.
6) Lay Me Down- Sam Smith
This song is ideal if you want to release your emotions by belting at the top of your lungs. Also your voice will sound great because you’ll hear Sam’s voice as well and it will sound like you are as good as Sam Smith. What could be better?
7) We Can’t Be Friends- Dream Koala
This is one of my favorite songs to study to. It is calm, without lyrics, and has a cool mystical quality to it.
8) No Scrubs- TLC
This is a great example of the R&B that became so popular in the late 90’s and early 2000’s. Perfect for basically any occasion.
9) The Nearness of You- Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong
It’s hard to not love the the combination of Ella’s smooth voice and Louis’ gravely voice together in this sweet love song. When I listen to it I like to pretend I’m ballroom dancing with someone in an old jazz club in New Orleans in the 50’s. Feel free to create your own fantasy.
10) O- Coldplay
I will always have a special love for Chris Martins’ beautiful falsetto, and this song accentuates it perfectly. I find that O always make me contemplate my life while I swoon over his soothing voice.
