As a singer-songwriter, I consider myself responsible for both writing and promoting music that doesn't suck. I try my best! Today, I've put together a list of songs that definitely deserve a spot on your summer playlist. If a particular song just isn't resonating with you, no worries, just move onto the next one. There's something on this list for everyone!
An important note: I've included YouTube videos for your listening convenience, but do these people a favor and make sure they get paid for their work. Buy their music and add them to your Google Play and Spotify playlists. Supporting good music means you're probably going to keep getting good music!
Alas, the fab 10 are:
1. "Dancing By Myself" - 4 Door Theatre
I met a couple of the guys from 4 Door Theatre while in line for a Mayday Parade / The Maine concert in the midst of an awful snowstorm. They were so fun to talk to, and their high energy actually made me forget I was freezing my tail off! I have a feeling their concerts would be a blast. "Dancing By Myself" is the perfect track to shake off a bad day, make a long drive fun, or throw yourself a solo party. Also, can we talk about that falsetto? I'm sold. These guys are going places.
2. "Gold" - Vinyl Theatre
I found my "Gold" when I discovered this song. Also, I'd just really love to listen to this song during a lightning storm. Don't ask me why. After just one listen, Vinyl Theatre easily became one of my favorite bands. Fueled By Ramen did a good thing when they decided to work with these guys! If you dig this song, I'd also recommend "Breaking Up My Bones." Actually, their whole album is perfect. You need all their songs.
3. "In My Head" - MJ Walker
MJ Walker is the keyboardist for Paradise Fears, but don't doubt his ability to perform solo! He also has some mad producing skills, which is why I'll be heading to Orlando in mid-August to record my album with him. "In My Head" comes from his debut EP entitled "The Shift." All of its songs serve up powerful, proactive messages. It's worth a listen in its entirety!
4. "Lullaby" - Chargaux
Chargaux's music is the kind of stuff I never knew needed until it was laid out right in front of me. If you've never taken a listen before, you're missing out! It's so cool to watch these women interact with each other as they play; it's clear they just get each other. Equal parts fun and chill, "Lullaby" is a track that can set the mood for all sorts of occasions.
5. "Navy" - Kilo Kish
Kilo Kish's music and visuals possess a hypnotic quality and an urban feel. Take a moment to appreciate her lyrics - they are seriously out of this world! "Navy" is one of her songs I can't get enough of.
6. "Brutus" - The Buttress
Okay, okay, hear me out. If you're weirded out or frightened at first, you're not alone. In fact, it's almost expected. Listen to it again. And again. Repeat until you can't stop listening to it, because I promise you, it will happen. You'll realize that the Buttress is actually doing some really cool sh*t. I discovered her music through the writing of a friend, and now that I've listened, I seriously can't get enough of her. She's largely recognized for "Miracle Gro," but for me, "Brutus" is one of her tracks I keep coming back to. Give it a listen when you feel the need to stew in your anger or contemplate something. It's also a good song to lift weights to!
7. "hold on" - Lewis Watson
I freakin' love this song. "hold on" is proof that yes, a songwriter can write acoustic songs that are both wicked good and might also play at your local bar or nightclub. As always, Lewis Watson nailed this one. Good for nightlife, good for runs, good for just sitting and grooving. Take your pick.
8. "I'll Carry You" - Brighten
Brighten has some pretty gorgeous music. I'm enchanted by "I'll Carry You." Whether it's the instrumentation or the chorus's charming melody, this song has a way of picking up your spirits by the end of your listen. This song is perfect for playing at the lake or on a camping trip!
9. "Panic Cord" - Gabrielle Aplin
This song is beautiful and heartbreaking. I really can't believe I only recently discovered Gabrielle Aplin. In "Panic Cord," she perfectly captures an immensely uncomfortable situation: not being able to reciprocate the same feelings to someone who has feelings for you. Have no fear, if your summer fling doesn't work out, Gabrielle will be there for you!
10. "That Old Corolla" - Nick Santino
If there's any consolation for living in a world without A Rocket to the Moon, it's that Nick Santino still puts out music. Bless him! His album "Blue Skies" was perfection, and so is "Savannah." "That Old Corolla" is nostalgic as heck, and it makes getting older a little more bearable.Turn it up the next time you take a drive down a dirt road.
Well, that's my list. What songs would you recommend?
