“Stressed Out” — Twenty One Pilots. This is probably the only Twenty One Pilots song you know if you don’t know Twenty One Pilots. It’s not the most positive song around, but it’s certainly relatable and probably a good choice if you feel like you need your music to commiserate with you about the stress you’re under.
“Jason’s Song (Gave it Away)” — Ariana Grande. A new one from Ariana, this song is just really chill and pretty catchy. This song is about sticking it to someone who did you wrong, and while it’s got a laid back tune, it’s full of the confidence you need to get through all of your exams.
“Every You Every Me” — Placebo. This one was recommended by my sister, who has a love for 90s bands. I have to admit they’ve got some good stuff. This song in particular is nice for kicking back, but I’d also recommend “Pure Morning” from the same album as this one, which is a personal favorite of mine.
“24K Magic” — Bruno Mars. This one just came out recently, and it’s reminiscent of “Uptown Funk” in that it has a good beat that’s sure to get your toes tapping. It’s also dripping with confidence, which is something we could all definitely use right about now.
“King and Lionheart” — Of Monsters and Men. I love this song because of its lighthearted tune and adventurous lyrics. It makes you want to go out and explore alongside your favorite person (or people) without a care in the world.
“Lights Down Low” — MAX. Another rec from my sister! Although I haven’t yet gotten into music by MAX, an artist that I would consider up-and-coming, I did see him open once at a Fall Out Boy concert, and he was pretty good. If you like this song you should definitely listen to some of his other stuff too.
“Young Volcanoes” — Fall Out Boy. Is it even a real playlist from me if there’s not at least one Panic! at the Disco and/or Fall Out Boy song on it? No, no it’s not. This is such a feel good song, and it always makes me think about hanging out with friends in the middle of summer.
“Three Little Birds” — Bob Marley. Classic Marley, this song reminds you that “every little thing is gonna be alright.” If you’re really feeling the strain from all the different responsibilities that you’re juggling, this is a message that you might need to hear.
“Dog Days are over” — Florence + The Machine. This song has the classic “I don’t care vibe to it” which is perfect if you’ve got six tests and two papers coming up in the next week. Rather than letting yourself get bogged down with stress simply listen to this song and feel it all slip off your shoulders.
Well there you have it. I hope this helps at least one of you out there through your midterms. Hopkins can be stressful, but remember, there is great music out there to get you through it!
