From capturing emotion, connecting people of different backgrounds, to exploring different personas, music says a lot about who we are and how we perceive the world around us. I've come up with a list of 11 essential songs. This is for my professor and classmates of "The 'I' of Music" (in no particular order).

1. "Can't Help Falling In Love" by Elvis.

Holding a special place in America's heart, this gentle and sweet ballad eternalizes the King and his vocal talents. Many artists throughout the years have recorded their own versions of this song but Elvis's original recording remains unparalleled.

"Take my hand, take my whole heart, too."

2. "Higher Love" by Steve Winwood.

If you're obsessed with syncopation and groove this song is for you! Winwood combines a contagious upbeat rhythm with lyrics about the powerful love that transcends lust and romance and characterizes human experience.

"Down in the heart or in the stars above."

3. "You" by The 1975.

Combining quotable lyrics and guitar-driven beats, The 1975 cleverly creates a carefree sound that captures the spontaneity and energy that characterizes youth.

"You're alive, at least as far as I can tell you are."

4. "I Miss You" by blink-182.

With a slightly darker sound, blink-182 uses a drum loop, melancholy piano, and an underlying groove to expertly achieve the acoustic and angsty elements of the song, both lyrically and instrumentally.

"Like indecision to call you and hear your voice of treason."

5. "Everyday" by A$AP Rockey, Rod Stewart, Mark Ronson & Miguel.

A perfect blend of old-school rock and modern hip hop. This song progressively experiments with slow groove, orchestral instrumentals, and the use of different vocalists.

"Waiting here to find the sign that I should take it slow."

6. "Free Fallin'" by Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers.

An American classic. A sound-good-feel-good song that is best played on full blast. The simple beat, warm instrumentals, and Tom Petty's voice work together to create a cinematic atmosphere that will leave you wanting to go outside and spread the love.

"I wanna free fall out into nothin'
gonna leave this world for a while."

7. "Teenage Dirtbag" by Wheatus.

When you listen to this song you won't be able to stop youself from belting out and playing an air guitar. Wheatus's narrative and sound give a pop rock/punk twist on the typical high school experience.

"I've got two tickets to Iron Maiden, baby
Come with me Friday, don't say 'maybe.'"

8. "You're Beautiful" by James Blunt.

This haunting song perfectly depicts the emotions and thoughts we feel in those moments where a beautiful stranger passes us by in public. The vulnerability and honesty of the lyrics make this song undeniably addictive.

"And I don't know what to do because I'll never be with you."

9. "Iris" by The Goo Goo Dolls.

This song's soft swaying beat, grand instrumentals and chorus creates a "greater-than-life" sound that will have you thinking about the meaning of life. Epic.

"And I don't want the world to see me
'cause I don't think that they'd understand."

10. "You Shook Me All Night Long" by AC/DC.

If you need an energy-boost, this classic rock-and-roll song will not fail you. The crackling, raspy vocals paired with the energy from the electric guitar will make you want to call your friends and start your own rock band in your garage.

"She's one of a kind she's mine all mine."

11. "I'll Be" by Edwin McCain.

This song means everything to me. It is beautiful, perfect, and everything in between. I'll let this one speak for itself.

"You're my survival, you're my living proof
my love is alive and not dead."