It's that time of the year- we have about a month left in the semester and the final week stress is starting to build up. In a constant whirlwind of papers, tests, WINNING NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS (shout out to Villanova, still not over it), and keeping up with our extra-curriculars, it is easy to get swept up in the stress and let it take a toll on your mental and physical health. I was there last semester, and I have decided that this time around, I'm going to change it.
Like most people my age, music is not only something to listen to, but an escape. When listening to the right song, one can hopefully forget their troubles for about three minutes and find solace in the music blaring from their speakers. That being said, we all have different tastes in what music is the best, but I am pretty confident that the songs I am about to list will make you forget your stress for a little bit, pump you up, or maybe just make you tap your foot and bop your head, because what else can you ask for in a song?
1. Sir Duke- Stevie Wonder
This is a major throwback, and this probably sound weird coming from a 19 year old, but who can feel down when listening to Stevie Wonder?! The answer to that is no one. If you like this, I also suggest Superstition, For Once in My life, and Isn't She Lovely.
2. Wannabe- The Spice Girls
Full disclosure- this song will be stuck in your head for DAYS, but that's okay because it's The Spice Girls. Added bonus: you can always look to their outfits to add some humor to your day. (I'm looking at you, baby spice.)
3. Run the World (Girls)- Beyonce
Do you need to be reminded of how much of a boss you are? Look no further. The words are empowering and can make those with two left feet (like myself) feel that they can break out into a Beyonce-esque dance routine. Even if you're not listening to the words, who can resist yelling out "GIRLS" with this song?
4. Treasure- Bruno Mars
Are you beating yourself up? Don't worry, because Bruno Mars is here to tell you that you are his treasure. Yeah you, you, you, you are.
5. Jumpman- Drake and Future
I am aware of how big of a jump (no pun intended) this is from my previous recommendations, but this is the perfect song to listen to if you're working out to relieve stress.
6. Reflections- Misterwives
Studies that have been done by me on myself show that it is scientifically impossible to not dance in your seat when the chorus of this song comes on. And you can believe me, because of science.
7. Cake By The Ocean- DNCE
What else can you ask for here? It's catchy, you get the nostalgia of listening to a Jonas brother, and it shouts out one of the best foods in the world- cake.
8. You Make My Dreams- Daryl Hall and John Oates
Great song, it is guaranteed to make you feel a little happier. However, the one downside is that their mullets and John Oates' mustache may stress you out, so I recommend looking away from the album cover.
9. I'll Be That Friend- Jodie Abacus
If you're a former choir singer like myself, this is a must for your playlist. The harmonies are awesome and will most likely make you feel a little nostalgic. This song is more chilled out than other songs on the list, but it is guaranteed to comfort you and remind you that your friends have your back.
10. Makes Me Wonder- Maroon 5
If you're stressed in the angsty, "I hate everyone" type of way, this song is for you. Maybe you're listening to this song and imagining telling off your professor with the infamous pre-chorus. As to whether I know this from experience, all I will say is that I can neither confirm nor deny it.
And last, but defintely not least...
11. September- Earth, Wind and Fire
I may be biased considering I grew up listening to this song, but I will firmly stand behind my opinion that this song is one of the happiest songs out there. The horns are blaring. The falsetto is incredible. This is THE song to listen to if you are trying to escape for a few minutes.
Whether or not you like these songs is not the point of this article. The point is to remember to take a step back from the stress of everyday life and appreciate something simple like a really good song. Music has the power to make you feel a certain way. So I urge you all to take advantage of that and use it to make yourself happy, because you deserve it.
