Madie’s Picks

“Coming Home” – Leon Bridges
“Coming Home” is one of Leon Bridges’ most popular songs and for rightful reasons. It is a simple love song with a beautiful soul sound. I do not typically listen to soul music but Bridges’ music has a vintage vibe that has turned me into a big fan of him.
“Talking to Myself” – Gatlin
Gatlin is one of my favorite indie, pop singers for her lyrical skills and ability to create masterful melodies. The chorus of “Talking to Myself” is especially amazing and so are the lyrics. Gatlin talks about the familiarity of being in a relationship and how hard it is when you lose that. She shows the near-insanity people feel during a difficult breakup but in an upbeat way.
“Dime Store Cowgirl” – Kacey Musgraves
From what is, in my opinion, Kacey Musgraves’ best album, Pageant Material, “Dime Store Cowgirl” is the best song on the album. It is a nostalgic, fun, upbeat country song in which Musgraves talks about her rise to fame and remembering her roots. “Dime Store Cowgirl” gives listeners a real sense of Musgraves’ style of music and her personality.

Ella’s Picks

“Pure Love” – Hayley Williams
Hayley Williams, the lead singer for Paramore, released her first solo album in 2020, titled Petals For Armour, which includes the song “Pure Love.” In this song, Williams expresses how hard it can be to open up and try new things in order to find a relationship that will last. The song is easy to love due to how upbeat it is and the vulnerable, yet relatable lyrics.
“The Walls Are Way Too Thin” – Holly Humberstone
“The Walls Are Way Too Thin” by Holly Humberstone is an alternative/indie song about leaving home and living in a small apartment in London. The song is sad, describing how closed in and alone Humberstone feels. This song is relaxing and is perfect for the days you want to spend by yourself.
“Role Models” – AJR
“Role Models” by AJR is a slow pop song about how artists are not what they used to be. Controversy has become such a common thing, it is difficult to find an artist you enjoy without them being problematic. The song mentions Louis C.K. and quotes Kanye West lyrics, both of which inspired AJR and their music. Louis C.K. and West are now commonly known as being problematic figures, making it harder to enjoy their content.