Playlist: yellow
11. “Many Men” - 21 Savage, Metro Boomin
Genre: Hip-Hop, Rap
Concept: The song focuses on the concept of success and that “many men” would want to see him dead. Throughout the track, the rapper discusses his past involvements and illegal activities as still haunting him. However, he has striven past them and even suggests many people wish death upon him out of revenge or pure jealousy.
Why I love it: Everyone has those songs that initiate an immense amount of serotonin and adrenaline. For me, the amazing bass, clever lyrics, and themes generate great amounts of confidence and overall inspiration. The beat is excellent and overall, the flow is better than most rap songs I like. Also, Morgan Freeman’s words at the end of the song actually make you ponder about the way we live and have others affect us.
"The evil man envies the good in others. What this means is all hatred is really born from hatred itself and can only serve to aid in one's own destruction. This is the downfall of many men” (Big Rube). Narrated by Morgan Freeman.
10. “Cigarettes on Patios” -Babyjake
Genre: Pop
Concept: His lyrics are meant to relate to the average teenager, partying and having fun to their heart’s content. The lyrics are carefree and overall give off a summer vibe. It’s a song you’d blast while driving towards a beach in the middle of summer.
Why I love it: I think this is self-explanatory! Throughout all of summer, I found myself gravitating towards this song when hanging out with friends, or even when I was just in search of a mood booster.
9. “Drew Barrymore” - Bryce Vine
Genre: Hip/hop, rap
Concept: Bryce Vine compares his lady to the iconic Drew Barrymore, who he believes is the ideal version of a woman. The song is lighthearted and just as iconic as Drew Barrymore.
Why I love it: Bryce Vine has a very distinct voice that already separates him from many artists. The beat selection is honestly the most wonderful part of the song, its lyrics and bass pairing perfectly together. I have been obsessed with this song for so long, and every time it comes on, I’m still equally as excited. This is just one of those songs that will stick in your head all day until you’re forced to listen to it again.
8. “Chasin’ You” - Morgan Wallen
Genre: Country
Concept: The lyrics suggest that after a splitting of two partners, one is still chasing the other and will always keep them in their mind. The song’s story is about a man who chases after his ex lover and even while in another relationship, can only dream of finding a love similar to his past. He hopes that the woman can understand his deep connection to her.
Why I love it: Although sort of sad in its lyrics, the song is still upbeat and light. It offers a sense of unusual comfort in a time of sadness or regret. I will admit the song is good at making you dejected, but Morgan Wallen is best at making depressing concepts a little less depressing.
7. “Sweater Weather” - The Neighbourhood
Genre: Indie rock, Alternative/Indie
Concept: A little steamy in its meaning, the song explores intimacy and relationships between two people. It can also be interpreted as making the best of your situations or even finding yourself.
Why I love it: The carefree and light tone of the song carries well into a late night drive or just a solo dance session. Its catchy lyrics and vocal effects add to its fun nature and bring incredible amounts of happiness to whoever is listening. If you’re in the mood for viby music… this is it.
6. Yellow” - Coldplay
Genre: Britpop
Concept: The concept is actually pretty ambiguous. The world “yellow” is different for each person and the song is supposed to be different for everyone. The general idea may be a tribute song for anyone you look up to or love.
Why I love it: Coldplay is famous for songs that are meaningful and beautiful in nature, this song being no different. Its lyrics appear random and scattered, but the uniqueness is impeccable. The simple beat and melody are perfect for the vibe of the song. The word “yellow” to me symbolizes one’s reason, their intent for living. Whether this be hope or pain, the result is life itself. The word “yellow” in its simplicity brings into perspective the version each of us see our own selves and lives.
5. “Money Trees” - Kendrick Lamar, Jay Rock
Genre: West Coast hip-hop, Hip-Hop/Rap
Concept: The song depicts the process of becoming wealthy, with hardships and struggle leading to a richer life. However, it is clear he discusses negative attributes of acquiring wealth, including the process to it. The song demonstrates a balance of wealth and living.
Why I love it: I’m pretty sure most people who have heard this song will agree in its iconic lyrics and beat. The entire song is a masterpiece in itself, giving you a sense of encouragement and wanting to pursue a well balanced life. If you haven’t heard this song, I strongly suggest you do.
4. “Forget You” - Ceelo Green
Genre: Neo soul, Pop
Concept: The song is used almost openly to venting any anger towards anything. Let me explain. Ceelo created this song a cathartic way of releasing his frustration and anger specifically to success, however, it can be interpreted in any way imaginable.
Why I love it: The song is heavily therapeutic. There is nothing better than screaming this at the top of your lungs to release my frustration or anger built up. This cause of frustration can be anything and everything. There is no way you haven’t already heard this song. If you really haven't... I feel sorry for you.
3. “Younger” - Ruel
Genre: Pop
Concept: The song centers around relationships (friendships,partners, etc.) eventually falling out of touch. People leave and life goes on…. the song is a heartfelt representation of how that feels.
Why I love it: You can always count on Ruel for relatable and heartfelt songs that still are extremely catchy. His songs are “smooth” and have slow beats and up-tempo music at the same time. “Younger” faces a harsh and scary reality everyone goes through at some point. I love every aspect of this song, from the instrumental to the lyrics, I could play it for hours on repeat.
2. “Are You Bored Yet?” - Wallows
Genre: Alternative/Indie
Concept: The song is actually about a person watching the sunset with their lover and being worried that the relationship is boring their partner. They ask them if they are bored.
Why I love it: The simple image is actually incredibly powerful. This feeling of worry is unlike others, and the song perfectly captures it. The tempo is slow and melodic, emphasizing the lyrics and resting upon a very simple beat. It is so very mundane yet so very worldly at the same time. You already know this song is iconic, and for good reason.
1. “Someone To You” (Acoustic) - BANNERS
Genre: Alternative/Indie
Concept: The song captures perfectly the ideal of falling in love, enjoying your life, and finding a calling.
Why I love it: The beginning is simple, with a strumming of guitar. It builds a simple melody and catchy beat, captivating you instantly. As he sings, you are drawn in, feeling as if you are THE main character. I can only explain it best by stating you are the main character when listening to this song. The lyrics are not complicated and extremely powerful. You can only wish to feel this amount of happiness and love in any relationship. It makes you want to roll down your windows on ANY night, and scream the lyrics at the top of your lungs. The acoustic version just enhances these emotions. This masterpiece by the BANNERS will always be my favorite song.