It's the time in the semester when everything is crumbling around you. Your grades are dropping, your weight is increasing and your life is in shambles. Don't front-- we've all been there.
When times get tough, I often turn to the Broadway gods to get me through. There's something about being able to put yourself in a character's shoes and sing about their lives for a little while. It's freeing in a way.
On days I'm feeling down, I turn to my trusty playlist titled "No Canary." It's got a good mix of songs that help me build myself up again. It hasn't failed yet! Here are a couple of my faves:
1. Out Tonight- RENT
Some of my favorite memories involve me and someone else belting this song-- it's impossible not to. Turn it on, crank it up and you're guaranteed to feel like you're in control of your life (at least for a few minutes).
2. Enough- In The Heights
Ever wanted to harness your inner angry mom? Then this is the song for you!
Seriously, this is the underdog of this show. I cried the first time I saw a cast perform this song. Highly recommended by yours truly.
3. Letterbomb- American Idiot
My mom jams to this song harder than should be allowed, but I can't blame her-- it's that good. This makes every single road trip CD and playlist, and for good reason!
4. The Break- Next to Normal
In an already intense show (and that's putting it lightly), this song is one of my favorites to sing when I need to let off some steam. And it's fun to sing in itself, even if you're not stressed/angry while doing it. Double win!
5. Loud- Matilda The Musical
This song is more fun than anything else-- it's impossible to be upset when you're belting this one out.
6. No Good Deed- Wicked
What's a better way to relieve stress than to chant some made-up spells and sing at the top of your lungs?
I know Wicked gets a lot of flak for being overrated, but if for nothing else, listen to it for this song. It's to good to pass up!
7. Positive- Legally Blonde
If that GIF wasn't enough to convince you that you need this on your playlist, let me help.
Add this one to your playlist. Add it three times. Just do it.
8. Cell Block Tango- Chicago
When my friend was going through a bad breakup, this was the only song she listened to for weeks. I swear!
If you're feeling murderous, try this song instead. And don't let the ladies singing and dancing in prison give you any ideas-- that's not what prison is like. Please don't actually murder anyone.
9. Forget About The Boy- Thoroughly Modern Millie
The namesake of this playlist, this will always be one of my favorites to sing. It's been years since I was able to perform in this musical, but I still belt this song out every time I need a little pick-me-up. It never fails.
These are just a couple of my favorites-- there are so many more. Next time you're feeling stressed, I hope you look to this article for comfort or, at the very least, inspiration.
Now go sing some tunes and get back out there!
