Summer jams for summer tasks

For many of us, commitments like work and school have made this summer a lot busier than we initially expected. I’ve personally turned to music as a resource to keep me afloat in the midst of it all. To help anyone looking to do the same, I’ve curated a list of songs that are great for handling specific responsibilities/situations. Feel free to take a look and have a listen: 

Tasks and Tracks

Morning Shower: 

Engelbert Humperdinck: A Man Without Love    

Like most people, after coming to terms with the unfortunate realization that it’s time to get out of bed, I find that I need a boost to fully wake me up. As someone who isn’t into coffee, I rely on a shower and some good tunes instead. Since hearing it as the opener to the Disney Plus show “Moon Knight”, this upbeat classic has helped me get the days off to a better start. Singing the first words of the chorus; “Every day I wake up”, I’m reminded that I exist, which I sometimes forget while going through the motions.  

(Alternatives: Electric Feel by MGMT, Wonderful by Burna Boy) 

 

Drive to Work/School: 

Anderson Paak: Parking Lot 

The “Ah, here we go again” feeling of going back to work or school the next day can be hard to deal with, especially when you’re low on motivation. You’re probably thinking about all the things you have to get done in the day and how little time there is to get through them. To try and fight back any negative vibes in the morning, I listen to some calming music. Anderson Paak’s mellow tone and the steady beat of this song give me a more optimistic perspective when it’s hard to find.  

(Alternatives: Innerstate by Zaia, Sunflower by Rex Orange County) 

 

Rain Watching

The Marias: Carino 

For some reason it’s been unusually rainy in Kelowna this summer. While I already love the comfort of simply being at home, the rain makes it feel cozier and more importantly makes me feel less guilty for sitting on the couch all day. As boring as it may sound, I genuinely enjoy just watching the rain while a chill song plays in the background. The subtle groove of “Carino” by The Marias is the perfect sound to hypnotize you in that moment of daydreaming. 

(Alternatives: Rhiannon by Fleetwood Mac, Plastic 100C by Sampha) 

 

Study Session

Justice Der: Passionfruit 

I think you’ll all agree with me when I say that studying is one of the hardest chores to consistently get done in good time. It’s just hard, particularly when you have to do it for the class you hate but are required to take. There are, however, small things that can make studying a little easier. One of them is music. As someone who struggles to focus when dealing with complex ideas, I can’t listen to music when working on deep concepts. For work based more on repetition or memorization, I find that a melodic instrumental like Justice Der’s “Passionfruit” is great for motivation and keeping a good study-pace. 

(Alternatives: Debold by Vegyn, Tadow by Masego and FKJ) 

 

Cleaning

Sunni Colon: Jújú 

Cleaning is another task that can be daunting, especially when you have to fit it into an already full schedule. While it doesn’t make it any less demanding per say, a good song can definitely lift the clean-up mood. Whether you’re rocking out with your guitar broom or working the Windex spray, an energetic and bouncy tune like JúJú can make the manual labor go by that much quicker. 

 

(Alternatives: Silent Hill by Kendrick Lamar, Gunz N Butter by A$AP Rocky) 

 

Cooking

Mac Miller ft. Anderson Paak: Dang 

There are obvious things that affect the end result when cheffing it up. For example, using the right ingredients and setting the oven to the right temperature. However, there are certain intangible conditions that I believe (superstitiously maybe) can actually make the food taste better. Immaculate vibes are one of them. To effectively season your dish with good energy, turn on a banger like Dang. This song guarantees great flavor 

(Alternatives: Hunnybee by Unknown Mortal Orchestra, The Palisades by Childish Gambino) 

 

Beach Day

The Cavemen: Osondu 

It’s summer. If it’s not raining and you’re not at work or in class, there’s no reason for you to not be at the beach. Soaking up some rays and being by the water is a great way to get away from life’s responsibilities. While you’re at it, some simple rhythmic tunes like “Osondu” can set the relaxing tone for the day.  

 

(Alternatives: Sáré by Simi, Satellite by Harry Styles) 

 

Work Out

Drake: Overdrive 

The new Drake album has been the hottest topic since its release. Most of the talk has been widespread disapproval of the project, with a rare few including myself actually admitting to liking some of the tracks. The good thing is that those of us who are into songs like Overdrive can use the quick-paced beat to get through that last rep. Everyone else who hates the song can use it as motivation to finish strong and turn it off.  

(Alternatives: Outstanding by Gunna, Feel the Vibe by BJ the Chicago Kid) 

 

Celebration

Tyler The Creator: RUNITUP 

You’ve made your bed. You’ve graduated from university. You’ve meal prepped for the week. There are so many accomplishments, big and small, that you could and will make in your life. In these moments, it is important that you recognize the hard work and effort it took to get there. Tyler’s boastful lyrics serve as a reminder to “run it up” when you deserve to. 

 

(Alternatives: Praise the Lord by A$AP Rocky, September by Earth Wind and Fire) 

 

Sad Boi Hours

Patrick Watson: Je te laisserai des mots 

No matter how strong they seem, everyone has their sad boi hours. Whatever it is that gets you in your feelings may be hard to face but should be accepted and dealt with. A somber and reflective song like Patrick Watson’s “Je te laisserai des mots” can help you lean into the moment and process your thoughts and emotions.  

 

 

(Alternatives: Trouble by Omar Apollo, If I Get High by Nothing But Thieves) 

 

Sleep

Frank Ocean: End  

If you’re feeling a little restless and struggling to fall asleep, a calming and quiet song can help ease the tension. The slow beat and smooth tone of Frank Ocean’s “End” will put you to bed right away. It almost feels like a pathway between consciousness and dreaming.   

 

 

(Alternatives: Joe Blazey by Dominic Fike, Redemption Interlude by Zacari) 

 

If you’ve read this far, I’m assuming you love music. In that case, I hope that you found a song or two that can brighten up your summer. If not, then see this as a reminder to keep using healthy crutches to help you stay the course! 

---