Just press play

Nicole Aikens

Editor’s Note: In a continuous effort to bring you, the reader, fun pieces you can use, we’ve decided to include a playlist from a different staff member each week. We all have different music tastes, and we’re hoping some of our selections might just make their way onto your iPod.

“You and I Both” by Jason Mraz

Jason Mraz is a brilliant lyricist with an amazing voice. “You and I Both” is quite possibly the happiest, most upbeat breakup song I have ever heard. Plus, any of his live acoustic versions are especially good.

“Never Say Never” by The Fray

“Never Say Never” is my favorite song on The Fray’s new self-titled album. I don’t completely understand the lyrics, but that doesn’t take away from the song’s beauty. The overall message is “don’t let me go.”

“America” by Simon and Garfunkel

“America” is about two people on a journey, their relationship and looking for America – finding America being a metaphor for finding yourself. I think everyone can relate to this song in one way or another.

“The Saltwater Room” by Owl City

I’m generally not a big fan of the electronic sounding vocals, but, for Owl City, it works. “The Saltwater Room” is a cute little song about falling in love. The verses don’t make a whole lot of sense at first, but just listen.

“Landlocked Blues” by Bright Eyes

I would not consider myself a Bright Eyes fan, but I think this song is really quite good. It’s a simple song with a lot of meaning intertwined within it. It is powerful.

“Konstantine” by Something Corporate

In eighth grade, I went through a Something Corporate phase, and “Konstantine” was the song that stuck. It’s 9 minutes and 36 seconds of love and heartbreak. If you’re in a relationship, have ever been in a relationship, or will ever be in a relationship, some part of this song will feel like it was written specifically for you.

“Across the Universe” by The Beatles

It’s hard to whole-heartedly pick a Beatles’ song to be my favorite because they are all so great. That being said, if it were a life or death situation, “Across the Universe” would be my choice. It’s a peaceful song with an extremely meditative feel. I fell in love with it instantly.

“The Heart of Life” by John Mayer

“The Heart of Life” basically states, “Yeah, sometimes life sucks, but at least you have some good friends to be there for you and love you.” The live version on “Where The Light Is” is my personal favorite.