As someone who likes to listen to music, I’ve compiled a list of songs that I think you should listen to. While these songs may not be the most popular, I think they’re worth a listen.
Dear Emily – Emei
In this very emotional message to her former self, Emei warns “Emily” of the world and all the hurt to come. She asks Emily to calm down and stop talking. This song from the album “Scatterbrain” describes Emei’s struggle with “Emily” with a beautiful outro that will haunt you for days. This song is definitely worth at least listening to, and if you like it, try the full album, I dont think you’ll be disappointed
May I Have This Dance – Francis and the Lights
May I Have This Dance is an upbeat song where the singer is well, asking a girl to dance. This track is a very fun approach to something kind of stereotypical. It’s simply a refreshing take on a cliche tradition. The production is unusual but welcomed with the addition of the upbeat drums in your ear at the chorus. This song never fails to be a fun listen when it comes on in my playlist. It’s romantic in a way that sounds like Francis is practicing his task in front of the mirror. I’ve loved this song since I was little and it’s such a pleasure to listen to.
Black and White – The Staves
The Staves are a band of 3 sisters that grew up making music and they remain one of my favorite groups. “Black and White” is from the album “If I was,” which is actually produced by Justin Vernon of Bon Iver. The lyrics are jam-packed with metaphors and similes, and the song itself is full of drums with tons of pocket, and an electric guitar that ties it all together for its indie folk rock vibe. If you like this song, totally listen to their most recent album, All Now!
Say It – Maggie Rogers
Maggie Rogers is one of the most unique and bold artists I have come across. Her sound is very unique, contrasting the rest of the music world’s uniform sound. Her song “Say It” is such a great example of this. Coming off of her debut album, Heard it in a Past Life, this song is about a crush that Rogers wishes she could pursue, but is afraid to. This track uses really distinct production techniques, such as this funky synth sound, and odd drums that actually really tie the song together.
Wish You Well – Sierra Ferrell
I am not a fan of country music, and I never will be. But even though Sierra Ferell is a predominantly country artist, she created a beautiful folk ballad about trying to forgive someone who has done her wrong. Honestly, my favorite part of this ballad is her emotionally intelligent lyrics which are tied together with an acoustic guitar. This song is so beautifully heartbreaking and one of my favorite takes that I have seen on healing from pain.
Longing Reality – Charlotte June
Charlotte June is a young woman that I discovered through her covers on YouTube. She captivated me with her passionate and emotional voice. As I looked at her channel, I was happy to find her original music. “Longing Reality” is a beautiful and simply made song about wishing those scenarios you make up in your head were real. This song really reminds me of “Ceilings” by Lizzy McAlpine. Longing Reality is such a bittersweet song and I think it is my favorite song of June’s. I hope that she continues to make music as she really is a hidden gem.
