Throughout the pandemic, music has been my escape from the hell I’ve dealt physically, mentally, emotionally, professionally and personally.
As if my musical tastes weren’t bizarre enough, it was validated this year in 2020.
Some are greater than others, but one thing remained the same. Each song left a tremendous impact on me and I truly began understanding why having different tastes is common ground.
I’ve made two blogs looking back at 100 songs I “felt the vibe,” focusing on both 2018 and 2019. There are nine songs that were in either or both lists, and it’ll be indicated below the song.
Not only that, I actually want to start off with seven songs that aren’t on Spotify (my only criteria on making my Top 100 list), but enjoyed quite a lot and I hope those who read this do as well.
Lisa Lougheed – Run With Us (1986)
For some wicked reason, this song flows well with the final minutes of Days of Thunder (“This one’s for you, Harry!” scene). It’s a shame this song isn’t on streaming services because I just love this record.
How I caught wind of this song? B- Mask’s “The Sly Trilogy Retrospective” series. Notably, his chapter on Sly 2: Honor Band of Thieves.
Fleetwood Mac – Dragonfly (1971)
I just want to listen to this gem on the road without requiring myself to go on YouTube and go through the bullshit ads! This song is so damn enriching and quite the psychedelic jam.
Would’ve come in handy when I took the long bus ride from Sacramento to Los Angeles in late October.
Emiko Furakawa and Mie Shimizu – Alone But At Ease (1997)
I’m far from an anime guy, but this movie was one of the most memorable I’ve seen this year. Maybe, top-10 most mind blowing flicks ever.
This song is quintessential 90s, which is why I just dig it despite the scene being psychologically sad. If you haven’t seen the movie, do so at your own discretion. It can get bloody!
Ray Conniff – La Gota Fria (1995)
All these years later, it’s a really enjoyable song I pop on every now and then. I wish the 40th Anniversary album would come out so people can listen to this captivating track opener.
1919 – A Hymn to the Night (2017)
I call it a real rare song that doesn’t get talked about in general from this group, considering they’ve been around for a real long time. It has everything that I like from recent songs, that 80s vibe and rather dark tone. Give it a listen!
John Pratt – Out (1996)
It’s one of those made for TV tracks that sounds so bad ass, but the context of this song when played in the movie is far from bad ass. Despite not being the greatest video quality, the full film can be seen online. Holds up real well on what not to do in a relationship.
Widowspeak – Plum (2020)
Who knew a song about a fruit and color (not purple, Angus) would stand out? Guess there’s a first for everything, but one song about food did make the cut for those who love song subjects related to such thing.
Hope you guys enjoyed those songs, but let’s really dive into the songs that resonated to me most.
Without further ado, let’s jump right into the 100 songs I enjoyed most with every clip having a backstory.
100) Capone – Streets Favorite (Oh No) (2005)
Call me an old fart, but I can’t get behind the app aside from a handful of clips (ex. The “Dreams” guy from Idaho)! But dammit, Ryan Vargas’ scheme of that company is boss though.
Okay, you’ve seen the videos with the instrumental, but it’s an actual rap record. However, I didn’t hear it from the app, it was from my good friend Emerson’s video on the WET AF Turkish Grand Prix. You’re welcome!
The origins of the sample comes from The Shangri-Las’ 1964 single “Remember (Walking in the Sand).” Pass it along!
99) Metallica – Wherever I May Roam (1991)
2019 RANKING: NO. 72
More so, when you travel around the West Coast like I’ve done so far in my journeyman motorsports media career. The road is indeed my bride for the time being, but someday I’d love to find “the one.”
98) Sim Dane – Africa (2020)
At least I can associate the Toto original with this F1 parody about the African GP needing to happen to legit match the billing of a “World Championship.”
The FIA requires tracks to hold a Grade 1 License to host a grand prix, something the continent doesn’t have right now.
97) Silva Hound – Addict (2020)
96) Jack Stauber – Buttercup (2017)
It’s a really weird record, but my taste was already weird. Naturally, I found out the name of the song and it was too damn catchy to ignore. May have mimicked the chorus in the shower, I don’t know. Gotta love random songs!
95) ZZ Ward – Blue Eyes Blind (2012)
As the closing track to the show, it was an amazing vibe when things were quote-on-quote “normal.” I’ll forever associate this song as a time period where things were promising, aside from 2/16/20 of course.
94) The Pharcyde – Passin’ Me By (1992)
Why? It’s a more relatable because many men have simped for ladies that were out of their leagues.
Personally, I saw it a smooth AF rap jam that goes under the radar in a timer period where most West Coast rappers were talking about gangs, sex, drugs and murders.
93) The Sisters of Mercy – Never Land (1987)
It’s right up there with “Afterhours” when it comes to songs that are meant to be heard deep into the night. Dark, mysterious and unknown vibes is where the group thrives.
92) Harry Styles – Watermelon Sugar (2019)
I see right through it and know it’s sexual themed. One of the only good number-one hits from this year by the way.
91) Soul II Soul – In the Heat of the Night (1990)
This one was an elusive find because I first heard it from Classic Game Room’s Sega Rally Championship review at around 2009. Too bad I can’t find that particular version with the electric guitar and Casio keyboard though. Maybe someday.
90) The Reticent – Losing My Religion (2012)
How I found this cover? Well, a random Beverly Hills, 90210 video highlighting the infamous relationship between Brenda Walsh (played by Shannen Doherty) and Dylan McKay (Luke Perry) of course!
89) Creed – What If (1999)
Nothing wrong with the actual version, but this one is a whole different energy and shows Scott Stapp’s powerful voice. As the saying goes, live renditions can be better than what’s recorded in the studio.
88) VÉRITÉ – Blackout Christmas (2020)
I’m not the biggest novelty song kind of guy because it’s just not my cup of coffee, but VÉRITÉ didn’t pull any punches on her memoir song.
87) Above the Law – Murder Rap (1990)
One of the more underrated songs of its time that’s gotten plenty of love because of Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas and rightfully so. That game and GTA IV really grew on me this year and I can see why it’s extremely beloved by fans of the once superb franchise.
86) Eddie Money – Two Tickets to Paradise (1977)
85) Anna Calvi feat. David Byrne – Strange Weather (2014)
Such a raw and sad record I often felt it struck a nerve when life was bringing me down throughout the latter half of 2020. Real damn good duet record from the 2010s are rare and it’s usually done right.
84) School of Seven Bells – Music Takes Me (2016)
I gravitated to this song for a strong period of time and it’s sad the group split after the passing of Benjamin Curtis in 2013.
83) Metallica – Frantic (Live) (2019)
Yes, Lars Ulrich’s pot pans and everything makes it such a guilty pleasure single! Remember this, I’m a guy who put Creed on this list and enjoys Limp Bizkit. Sorry, not sorry!
82) The 1975 – If You’re Too Shy (Let Me Know) (2020)
Catchy and lyrically alarming as there’s some truth in its message which is why I find it so intriguing. Great storytelling and well done layered track.
81) Beach Bunny – Rearview (2020)
How I understood this song was relating to a breakup with some feelings remaining. To the point where anxiety kicks in where apologies and regret are the two main words. The ending is where it’s loud and clear as to why this song is well structured.
80) Ozzy Osbourne – Bark at the Moon (1983)
I find this song miles better than “Crazy Train” if you ask me. Might be bias because it’s featured on the original copies of Grand Theft Auto: Vice City. Fun going full speed when this song plays on V-Rock.
79) Chris Isaak – Wicked Game (1990)
2019 RANKING: NO. 59
I didn’t met anyone that made me fall in love, but for some strange reason that love was shooting photos and writing about racing. Something I miss doing at full capacity since 2/16/20.
78) Lana Del Rey – Summertime Sadness (2012)
Needless to say, my expectations and fantasies clashed, resulting in a disappointing school year. Guess the sadness was real as the song intended to be. Oh well!
Fast forward to 2020, I heard an 80s remix of this song and just loved it. Like it brought a whole new life to an already amazing hit.
77) SATV Music – Fight (2018)
I heard this track at the end of Race to Perfection where Formula One drivers past and present reflected on the first 70 years of motorsports’ premiere discipline.
What a record to wrap-up the documentary and hearing the instrumental throughout my time in Sacramento, Roseville, Los Angeles and Bakersfield, it brought raw emotions. I just got to keep fighting to make 2021 better. I got no other choice at this rate.
76) K. Flay – High Enough (2017)
I’ve only heard one K. Flay song called “FML” back at Idaho in 2016, so I gave this 2017 song a shot. Let’s just say raw AF isn’t the right term and call it a day.
75) Prodigy – Breathe (1997)
Whatever it may be, Al Snow got the “Head” gimmick over and the crowd were chanting for the mannequin called “Head.” The 90s were something else.
74) The Pretenders – Middle of the Road (1984)
Might be a neat idea to create a video, but the college days are over, so forget that of ever happening.
73) Evanescene – Going Under (2003)
72) Queen – One Vision (1986)
It hit different this summer and I sure hope when things get back to normal, I can play this while riding on a bicycle at some beach. Time will tell, but the way things are going, 2022 may be that summer.
71) Rob Dougan – Clubbed to Death (Kurayamino Variation) (1995)
I didn’t first hear that song from the 1999 film, but in a YouTube video back in 2006 which highlighted the ill-fated 1994 San Marino Grand Prix.
While that video has been long gone, I do feel like I’m either a part of the system or in the matrix.
70) Bronski Beat – Hit That Perfect Beat (1985)
69) Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion – WAP (2020)
Problem is that it’s 2020 and people can’t fully shout their lungs out to this song. Unless, it’s in Asia and the one place I stayed near Hollywood in October. You won’t catch me rapping to this because it would be so wrong and honestly bad!
At least with this number-one hit, it’s not too repetitive where it’s just the chorus. There’s actual verses which is rare in my book with mainstream music. From that point of view, I don’t mind this raunchy AF song. Again, not one to blast outside of parties.
68) KRS-One – Step Into A World (Rapper’s Delight) (1997)
67) System of A Down – Aerials (2001)
At least the enjoyable part of flights is the aerial views. I’m a window guy for that very reason, my trips should be enjoyable as possible.
66) Black Sabbath – Iron Man (1970)
While it’s totally not related to the Marvel superhero, there’s one relatability factor. People aren’t wanted from time-to-time. However, there’s always a comeuppance to look forward to.
65) Metallica – 2×4 (1996)
For some strange reason, when the pandemic began, I dug this song so much. I felt like it belonged on the custom radio station in Grand Theft Auto IV. Hell, I used to think that game was what Metallica fans felt about both Load and ReLoad.
These days, GTA IV is the equivalent of …And Justice For All. Extremely underrated and at times overlooked because the album fell in between Master of Puppets and Metallica (GTA IV was between San Andreas and GTA V as far as main games). In fact, GTA and Metallica go hand-in-hand when you really think about it.
64) björk – Army of Me (1995)
It was such a complicated time period that I don’t really like looking back on. Solid song nonetheless.
63) Mike Jones feat. Slim Thug and Paul Wall – Still Tippin’ (2004)
2019 RANKING: NO. 70
62) Van Halen – Poundcake (1991)
Not often you see someone use a power drill as a guitar pick to create one of a kind sounds. It proves the genius of Eddie Van Halen and the legacy he left behind. Rest in power, EVH!
61) Gary Glitter – Rock and Roll Pt. 2 (1972)
Thanks to both The Office and Joker, this song can be about getting sugared up on Pretzel Day and dancing on stairsteps. It’s probably for the best in this day in age.
60) The Human Beinz – Nobody But Me (1967)
Then the pandemic hit and I suddenly enjoyed hearing this on the Season 7 opener of The Office. You know that cold opener, so I don’t need to add a link here. Do yourselves a favor, don’t fall behind in life! Stanley would appreciate it!
59) Shanks Mansell & Martha Bean – Love Is Contagious (2016)
While I’ve yet to be in a serious relationship, I’m aware that love can be both dangerous and contagious. Kind of going through that right now, so it explains why I heavily dig this.
58) Curtis Mayfield – Little Child Runnin’ Wild (1972)
I could play this for an hour and each time hearing it sets a different mood without fail. You’ll hear this song on Friday before the big climax unfolds.
57) Pantera – Cemetery Gates (1990)
56) System of A Down – Toxicity (2001)
Lyrically, it’s an evergreen because those issues are still being dealt with. The pace is appropriate where it just kept building and building, ending on a maddening tone. It’s left me asking for more, but I like it the way it is.
55) Metallica – Sad But True (1991)
Besides, “sad but true” is a phrase I commonly use. Rather than posting the studio version in this blog, here’s a live performance from Oakland nearly 30 years ago.
54) Daughter – New Ways (2016)
I always try to finding different ways to escape from the pain and agony life provides. At the same time, every way has its pros and cons where I must keep myself relevant.
Just got to keep finding new ways to waste proper time without consequences which is easier said than done.
53) Opus – Live is Life (1986)
Unlike LeBron James (MJ is the GOAT), Maradona actually rivaled Pele to be considered as such in my book. The story behind this video is also unique if you want to read about it online.
52) Tool – Ænema (1996)
The message about LA and certain folks needing to swim came to life with one person who tried to be a media member so hard in March. It’s known as the infamous “MRI/Las Vegas Fiasco” in the world of NASCAR. For whatever reason, this song was the first thing I thought of.
Looking back and now knowing how that hack was a massive creep, I wasn’t wrong feeling that way. Aside from that event, the song itself rules ass.
51) Frankie Goes to Hollywood – Welcome to the Pleasuredome (1984)
2018 RANKING: NO. 2
2019 RANKING: NO. 7
There’s a lot pleasures in this world (different from this video by the way) and glad WW84 utilized this song the way I’ve always envisioned it. Physical attraction, not what people felt about the group in the 80s.
While I’ve given up certain pleasures, there’s still some fun to be had away from home. Not right now, but soon. This song is among the top-10 I heavily affiliate with the decade.
50) björk – Human Behaviour (1993)
It honestly doesn’t sound too dated either because of its lyrics and amazing sound. Quite an interesting single from the 90s I didn’t mind listening a lot this year.
49) Inner Circle – Bad Boys (1987)
48) Enigma – Sadeness (1990)
There’s something about the year 1990 having so many bangers and gems. Enigma’s signature hit being no different. One of those “escape from reality” records I play at night that’s for sure.
47) Bolier, Arem Ozguc, Arman Aydin and NBLM – Imagine (2017)
The beat is so moving that I often forget the context of the song. Might explain most songs of this current time period where the beat is my main takeaway than the message of the track.
46) Dum Dum Girls – Bedroom Eyes (2011)
45) Oingo Boingo – Weird Science (1985)
However, this is one of those I don’t mind at the slightest! Fun, catchy and worth listening in the state of Florida back in February. As for the movie itself, classic!
44) Republica – Ready to Go (1997)
2018 RANKING: NO. 3
2019 RANKING: NO. 13
43) The Aces – Touch (2017)
42) Metallica – Enter Sandman (Live) (1992)
Jason Newsted being a backup vocalist really amped up the band’s live performances and quite frankly, his biggest contribution. This too was another record I played when I was away from my mundane non-media job.
41) Pantera – Primal Concrete Sledge (1990)
The bass/drum combination is so contagious, I can’t help myself when I head bang to it. No way to escape from it because “Primal Concrete Sledge” is such an addicting thrash masterpiece.
40) The Aces – 801 (2020)
Now, I only lived there in 2000 (Taylorsville, UT to be exact), but the vibes I get from “The Beehive State” still grows by the year. It’ll happen when you know a few friends that either studied or lived there. I’d love to hear from those folks if this song sums up the mood down there, but I’ll probably never know.
39) The Aces – Just Like That (2018)
What I like about The Aces is their storytelling where I can see it from both sides. “Just Like That” is one of those records. Do I plan of playing this when I try the test again? Perhaps, but time will tell.
38) David Bowie – Fascination (1975)
I visualize myself dancing with a partner like it’s some damn 70s flick. No, not Saturday Night Fever style! My own style where the crowd are watching and are in awe of our chemistry. What a dream that was. I’d rather have unrealistic dreams than ones involving death and embarrassingly hysterical tears!
37) Neil Diamond – Crunchy Granola Suite (Live) (1972)
Now, the reason why it ranks so high on my list is because I played this during my trip to Evergreen Speedway in August. It was my first event I shot photos since the pandemic began and felt like playing it. I love the adrenaline rush Neil provided and why I liked the song in the first place back in 2014 when I first heard it from that ’85 coverage.
36) Manuel Turizo, Rauw Alejandro and Myke Towers – La Nota (2020)
35) Eddie Murphy – Party All the Time (1985)
He was mad over (popular) in that time period and with help by Rick James, it’s actually a helluva good song. Dated AF, but it’s what makes the 80s flashy in my eye.
34) Guns ‘N Roses – Welcome to the Jungle (1987)
33) Lil Troy – Wanna Be A Baller (1998)
Probably for the better since just about everyone in this Houston rap classic are dead. Fat Pat was already dead when the song was released, so it’s a cursed record.
Aside from the dark tale, I just fucks with it. Another one those “hits different” songs that’s come to define 2020. Especially, when I hear it past 1am PST.
32) The Aces – Going Home (2020)
31) Tom Petty – Runnin’ Down A Dream (1989)
You can thank NBC by playing ZZ Ward’s cover. Not only that, but both ESPN and FOX used this then and there. Naturally, it was going to make my list in some capacity and in 2020, it was the time it most resonated with me.
30) Meg Myers – Running Up That Hill (2019)
Myers’ cover is a prime example where its miles better than the original. I find Bush’s version extremely overrated and just not enjoyable.
This version was the first song I genuinely loved starting off the year. I can actually understand the context of the song in a vibrant and colorful way that neither Bush nor Placebo could’ve accomplish.
29) Sade – No Ordinary Love (1992)
It’s honestly a fantasy mood and an easy track to fall asleep when everything else doesn’t work. This record also symbolizes the end of one love process and the start of a new one. Hits different when I’m not at home. So different, it made the Top 30.
28) Roxette – The Look (1988)
I love this record for its catchy nature and amazing chemistry between the late Marie Fredriksson and Per Gessle. There’s a few people I totally see fit the bill of having such a look. Maybe someday, I may have to convince a partner to own the karaoke competition with this song. That being said, “X for Doubt!”
27) School of Seven Bells – Signals (2016)
This was the third song I’ve heard from the group and it had an action 80s tone, but harsh reality lyrics. When you feel for someone, but when the magic is gone, it can be awkward. Guess that’s how love works sometimes.
26) Aaron Johnson, Jesse Murphy and Avi Bortnick – The Ballad of Gay Tony Theme (Downtempo Mix) (2009)
The first time I heard this smooth and chilling song was in an video highlighting why GTA IV is better than GTA V. It’s true by the way! Found the song and it blew me away. An amazing mix of dreamy and funky that gives me some hope for a better tomorrow.
Like, today might’ve sucked, but there’s always something positive that lies ahead. It’s a song that pops in my head when thinking about a crush, so there’s more than just optimism.
25) 2 Unlimited – Get Ready for This (1991)
I prefer the vocal version than the instrumental you hear a lot more since it came out in ’91. Like, a whole lot more! Fun to listen on the road as well.
24) VÉRITÉ – Save Up (2020)
The chorus in particular symbolizes that demonic time period. No desire of going back to those nights and that’s okay. I can let it go and focus on greener pastures. When songs hit a nerve, then I know it’s flawless in my eye so kudos to VÉRITÉ.
23) The Aces – Physical (2017)
22) Within Temptation feat. Tarja – Paradise (What About Us?) (2013)
Riffs reeks of awesomeness and both Sharon den Adel and Tarja’s vocal range really shine bright here! I can’t believe I didn’t hear this song until this year because I would’ve loved playing it back in my KUOI days.
21) Bon Jovi – Bad Medicine (1988)
20) Beach Bunny – Painkiller (2018)
Not often a song name dropping Tylenol can be so damn fascinating. The solo in particular, my god it’s so fun hearing it due to its surf nature. Despite the meaning of the song being quite angst and in your face.
19) The Weeknd – Blinding Lights (2019)
Not even Bruno Mars’ “Locked Out of Heaven” got that rating, so I consider it as a perfect record by today’s standards! It’s an 80s vibe masterpiece, putting him at a higher pedestal among today’s top musical acts. Lyrics are unique that’ll stand the test of time as the Double 20s is in its infancy.
He’s grown on me from being a rather boring act (“Can’t See My Face”) at first to now an potential elite performer for what I hope is a transcending decade in mainstream music.
18) Kacey Musgraves – High Horse (2018)
We all have that one person who we’d love to see leave and never come back. I’m no different because I do wish some people can take their high horse and buzz off. It’s how I feel about most people since I graduated from college in 2016.
17A) Culture Beat – I Like You (London Mix) (1990)
I consider it a rare song because if you weren’t alive in the late 80s and early 90s, you probably might not understand (including myself) why this genre is beloved and inspired many of today’s acts from Europe. Great question to ask your parents if you’re in the 25-40 age demo. Besides that, the ideal way is reading the YouTube comments section to get the vibe.
17B) Culture Beat – I Like You (1990)
16) Queen – Dragon Attack (1980)
2018 RANKING: NO. 20
I detect zero flaws because the whole group was on top of their game when they made “Dragon Attack.”
15) Prince & The Revolution – I Would Die 4 U (1984)
Society was falling apart due to the unrests and pandemic, my life and career was in shambles. I just needed something to avoid those low points. Prince came to the rescue and it came at a perfect time.
Powerful isn’t the right word to describe this song and the synth is a whole different kind of energy. So addicting!
14) VÉRITÉ – younger women (2020)
What an emotional pop roller coaster “younger women” is! Especially, the ending of the song where her chorus delivery is heart throbbing.
13) Cinderella – Don’t Know What You Got (Till It’s Gone) (1988)
Months later, this song became personal because I had to cope with the fact I must move on from a past secret love. #MissingRing
I also found out this was played in an AEW video package about Kenny Omega and “Hangman” Adam Page. Funny, considering I literally had to “turn the page” (pun intended).
12) Genesis – Mama (1983)
2019 RANKING: NO. 54
Anyways, this song just keeps getting better each year. So sinister, dark and bone chilling this hit is! Love can be cruel, especially when it’s so one-sided and unrealistic from the eye of the person lusting for “mama.”
11) Megadeth – Hangar 18 (1991)
Why is this song not used in racing compilations or video packages?
The whole second half alone should get the average viewer amped up for a race! Hell, this song screams destruction more than Area 51. Awesome metal record! Beast AF solos all around, so what more do you want from Megadeth?
10) Metallica – Welcome Home (Sanitarium) (1986)
2018 RANKING: NO. 49
Even when I had to risk my life by working with unruly people, this song was on my mind 24/7. Felt like I was walking inside a hell in a cell, knowing I’ll leave mangled.
Thankfully, my health has been great and I should be thankful for that. I know 2020 sucks, but if there’s one definite positive, that would be it!
9) Casper, Nio García, Darell, Nicky Jam, Bad Bunny, and Ozuna – Te Bote (Remix) (2018)
I don’t fuck with Latin records these days, but I must make a total exemption here. I wish I could tell you how the vibe would be if I hear this song at a club, but that chapter is over. I’m too old for that lifestyle!
There’s some truth to the song regarding what I was mentally going through. Probably why I played this for much of 2020 because I got nothing better to do.
8) Faith No More – Midlife Crisis (1992)
At 26, it damn sure feels like a midlife crisis and I fear when that time period legitimately happens. Glad I don’t have to worry about it right now, so I can enjoy this in your face track.
7) Jon Bon Jovi – Blaze of Glory (1991)
“Blaze of Glory” oozes the Western lifestyle and being on the road. It’s a living mood when I really thinking about it. My life (more so with my media career) feels like a damn Western movie where I must survive, otherwise I’d lose the battle. If the latter happens, it damn sure better be when I felt like I’ve accomplished a lot and look back with zero regrets.
6) VÉRITÉ – Somebody Else (2016)
Some say Nonpoint’s rendition of “In The Air Tonight” is better than Phil Collins’ (I don’t fully agree with it, but I like both), “Somebody Else” is that example for me. I tried to comprehend what this song was all about, but I finally got it!
There are times where I’m okay moving on, but seeing that person in a new relationship is frustrating. Again, love is such a cruel mindfuck.
5) Kacey Musgraves – Slow Burn (2018)
Yes, I walked to the track and found a way to make it work. People just don’t understand the sacrifices I’ve made to get from Point A to Point B! Someday, they’ll realize my commitment to this profession known as motorsports media.
While the song was based on an LSD trip, it’s quite the tune. Amazing opener to the 2019 Grammy Album of the Year and it’s an album I really enjoy.
4) Suicidal Tendencies – Institutionalized (1983)
2019 RANKING: NO. 9
Yeah, my taste in music and soda can be questioned, but it doesn’t warrant batshit insanity.
The moment this song plays on my playlist, I don’t skip it. All I do is turn the song up to 11 and shout the lyrics.
3) ‘Til Tuesday – Voices Carry (1985)
Before Aimee Mann became a critically acclaimed songwriter in film, she co-wrote this top-10 hit. Finally, I understood why it’s such a powerful 80s new wave single. The lyrics are raw and authentic that still holds up well.
There are toxic relationships in this world and ‘Til Tuesday weren’t blunt about it and that’s why I admire this song today.
2) School of Seven Bells – Ablaze (2016)
It’s both uplifting and a tad gloomy because the lyrics implied the impact he left on Alejandra Deheza’s life. Beautiful retrospective song accompanied with an unforgettable tune.
We simply have that one person that “set it all ablaze” in our lives where there’s an amazing connection. Often, greater than others which was my main takeaway from this extraordinary song.
1) Mazzy Star – Fade Into You (1993)
This beautiful, soothing and an emotional shipwreck of a song played at the Shake ‘n Stake in downtown Seattle, and there was no looking back. I quickly fell in love with this 90s gem.
Honestly, it became a no-brainer that “Fade Into You” was going to be my favorite song this year. I do feel like a person in my life doesn’t know how I feel about her. It’s rather strange she doesn’t know right now and probably never will.
Feelings aside, this song is perfectly crafted thanks to vocalist Hope Sandoval and guitarist David Roback, who died two days after first hearing the song.
I might’ve even tried avoiding shedding a tear one night because of hearing it in the super relatable and inspiring 1995 film Angus. Everything about the dance scene was right. It’s the kind of nervousness I pictured when I thought about the lyrics. It’s the kind of escape from reality people want to have in a relationship. Even a simple interaction can make a difference.
I’ll admit one more thing, while binge watching The Office for the first time ever from start-to-finish, I called “Fade Into You” as the Jim and Pam song. Don’t ask me why I labeled it as their song! I can’t explain it! Anyways, this song is an all-time favorite of mine. Time period be damned!
There you have it! Another music blog is in the books. I sure hope you’ve discovered new tracks to put on your playlist.
My tastes are all over the damn place, but that’s how I roll. Hope 2021 can provide even more findings and memories because it can only get better from here.
Until we meet again, doubt me if you insist, prove me wrong if I give consent.