Rap:
“Kookies” by MF DOOM
Why I chose it:
I chose this song because of the classic rap elements in this song and DOOM’s storytelling and wordplay. Overall, this song is a true classic.
“Kookies” by MF DOOM is the closing song on his album “MM…FOOD.” The song is close to a Langston Hughes poem, Harlem Sweeties, as well as sampling the closing theme to Sesame Street. Read more about it at https://genius.com/Mf-doom-kookies-lyrics
Hip-Hop:
“Boiled Peanuts” by Doechii
Why I chose it:
I also chose this song because of Doechii’s ability to tell a story through her music. She talks about how she grew up in Florida and she brings up aspects of her neighborhood. There’s a bunch of unique visuals throughout the song as well as a bit of humor; truly the perfect blend.
“Boiled Peanuts” is the third track listed on Doechii’s new album, “Alligator Bites Never Heal.” She reflects upon her upbringing in the lyrics of the song, especially life in her neighborhood. Read more about it at https://ratingsgamemusic.com/2024/09/02/doechii-alligator-bites-never-heal-album-review/
Pop:
“After Midnight” by Chapell Roan
Why I chose it:
I chose this song because of its particular upbeat and fun rhythm. This song is great for if you just need something feel-good and happy. Roan’s music has such an unpolished and theatrical charm to it, perfect for dancing.
“After Midnight” is the third song on her album “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.” She talks about having fun after midnight, despite her mother saying “nothing good happens after midnight.” Read more about it at https://genius.com/Chappell-roan-after-midnight-lyrics
Rock:
“One Way Or Another” by Blondie
Why I chose it:
This song is a great classic, but I feel that it needs to be appreciated more. It has an incredibly catchy chorus that’s easy to sing along with, as well as some synthesizers that bring you all the way back to the 80s. It’s an amazingly fun song loaded with charm and allure, so give it another listen.
“One Way Or Another” is the second track on Blondie’s album “Parallel Lines.” It talks about the real life story of Debbie Harry’s stalker, and was a moderate success in 1979. Despite this, it remained a classic. Read more about it at https://genius.com/Blondie-one-way-or-another-lyrics
Indie:
“Ana” by The Pixies
“Ana” is the sixth song on the Pixies album “Bossanova.” This song is actually an anagram for the word “SURFER.” It has a magical chord progression and what their front man Frank Black describes as a “cute little riff.” Read more about it at https://www.songfacts.com/facts/pixies/ana
Why I chose it:
If you need something calm with a catchy sound, this song is for you. Its mix of soft lyrics and guitar riffs are magical. The song is so hypnotic with its different key changes and vocal harmonies. And if you like it, I recommend the others on the Bossanova album! (Velouria, Havalina, Blown Away, and The Happening)
Punk:
“The Haunting” by Misfits
Why I chose it:
I chose this song because of its raw intensity and the signature haunting vocals it provides. It has such a great and dark rhythm as well as some horror movie imagery. Overall, this song is such a cool gem.
“The Haunting” is the Misfits’ 13th track (which is fitting if you think about it) on their album “American Psycho.” It’s a very lyrically dark and deep song, but it has an overall upbeat rhythm. This song is also possibly an homage to the 1963 horror film “The Haunting.” Read more about it at https://genius.com/Misfits-the-haunting-lyrics
R&B:
“Love Me Not” by Ravyn Lanae
Why I chose it:
This song is purely addicting. It has such a beautiful, almost chant-like verse with amazing instrumentals. The chorus alone is magical. I love this song so much I can’t put it into words, so give it a listen.
“Love Me Not” is the seventh song on Ravyn Lanae’s album “Bird’s Eye.” It’s a song filled with emotion about a past love gone wrong and self discovery. Read more about it at https://www.undrtheradar.co.uk/all-features/ravynlenaesingles
Country:
“Cowboy Casanova” by Carrie Underwood
Why I chose it:
Even if you don’t like country music, this song will have you singing along. It has addicting vocals with rock inspired riffs and the combination of those elements is simply amazing. It’s definitely some of Underwood’s best work.
“Cowboy Casanova” is the first track on Underwood’s album “Play On.” In the song, she warns about a certain type of guy that she calls a “Cowboy Casanova.” Read more about it at https://genius.com/Carrie-underwood-cowboy-casanova-lyrics
Overall Just Sad Music:
“Let Down” by Radiohead
Why I chose it:
This song will have you crying by the end of it, I pinky promise. The vocals on this song are absolutely devastating in the best way possible, this song is a work of art. There’s such an atmospheric sound to this song and I still get goosebumps when I listen to the chorus. You definitely have to listen to this song at least once in your life.
“Let Down” is the fifth song featured on Radiohead’s album “OK Computer.” This song was actually recorded at 3 a.m. at St. Catherine’s Court in the ballroom. But you just have to trust me when I say this song is perfectly devastating (you’ll love it). Read more about it at https://genius.com/Radiohead-let-down-lyrics
