So this summer, I started regularly driving to work. And one thing I’ve noticed, aside from the obnoxiousness of the other drivers around me when I’m trying to change lanes, is that my car seems incredibly quiet. To combat this problem, I curated myself a Spotify playlist so poetically titled “car” to start once I turn on my ignition and listen to until I reach my destination. I can only assume that I am not the only young driver who has issues trying to find songs with the right mix of meaningfulness and pop so as to not make you fall asleep. Here are some of my current favorites to listen to:

1. For the one who enjoys feeling nostalgic: “Work It” by Missy Elliot

You might not remember her all that much from when you were a kid, but you just might be able to recollect how Missy Elliot had an amazing Super Bowl performance as a surprise guest during Katy Perry’s performance in 2015. Missy Elliott speaks about how she is unique and she will not change who she is for anyone in the music industry. Elliott also lets you know that if you are, in fact, a fly girl, you can get yourself pampered.

2. For the one who needs to know that it does get better (or at the very least that there are others going through the same thing): “Shake It Out” by Florence + The Machine

Florence+The Machine’s “Shake It Out” was popularized once again after being covered on FOX’s hit show Glee. When you feel like things can’t get any worse and that everyone is against you, Florence+The Machine tell you to just brush off the naysayers. This song is brilliant to listen to with the bass increased.

3. For the one who didn’t know there was Bollywood music on Spotify: “Kar Gayi Chull” by Badshah

Kar Gayi Chull is from the Bollywood movie Kapoor & Sons (Since 1921). Kar Gayi Chull is a classic Bollywood dance party song, complete with the catchy beat and semi-choreographed dance moves for any person to be able to enjoy.

4. For one who likes Top 40 music: “Never Forget You” by Zara Larsson and MNEK

A friend of mine somehow found this song long before it actually became popular in the United States, and my entire friend group continuously got it stuck in our heads. Larsson is popular in her home country, Sweden, for winning Talang, their version of America’s Got Talent. The electro dance music in this song as well as the strong vocals make it very catchy and a must-listen.

5. For the one who’s looking for that girl power: “Thirsty” by Daya

Daya is quickly becoming a favorite of mine with songs like “Sit Still, Look Pretty” explaining how she doesn’t need romance to be happy and that she’s quite pleased being in charge. Daya’s strong vocals are complimented by the hilariously relatable lyrics that remind us all of fighting off the thirsty.

I sincerely hope this helps alleviate the mind-numbing boredom you all feel while sitting in you car at 0 MPH waiting for the traffic on the freeway to move. Good luck!