I was trying to brainstorm what I could focus on in my next blog post, since it’s been a while. If I’m being honest, my goal is not to write about my job in this space. That said, since my last post I haven’t really done much other than work.

So here’s my new grand idea:

I’ve always loved music. And tons of different types of music, depending on my mood. I use Spotify every day to listen to whatever I feel suits my day or my habits. One of my favourite features of Spotify is the ability to go back and check out what you’ve been listening to lately. Sometimes I surprise myself with the range of random tracks I’ve managed to accumulate during the previous week.

So here goes nothing, I’m sharing a sampling of the songs I’ve tuned into this week. Some might be old, some might be new, some might be obscure or might be popular, but you can be sure of one thing: they’re me.

Phil Collins – In The Air Tonight (1981)

I really do love Phil Collins, but there’s something special about this song – and no, I’m not referring to when he lights it up on the drum leading into the chorus (although that’s part of it).

I think it’s the general build of the track that really makes you feel like… it’s coming in the air tonight? I guess that makes sense then, huh? Either way – wicked jam.

Favourite lyric: But I know the reason why you keep your silence up, no you don’t fool me. The hurt doesn’t show, but the pain still grows – it’s no stranger to you and me.

Hozier – Work Song (2015)

THIS SONG.

Yes, it’s by the guy who sings “Take Me To Church”. And no, that’s not his best song. If you haven’t had the chance to check out Hozier’s album… seriously, what are you doing in life?

Anyways, “Work Song” reminds me of a hot, sultry summer day after a few beverages (the alcoholic kind). His lyrics and vocals exude that feeling when you’re a bit addicted to one person and they’re all you can think about. One of my favourite memories of this song is 80,000 people clapping the back beat during Hozier’s set at Coachella on a sweltering desert day.

Favourite lyric: When my time comes around, lay me gently in the cold dark earth. No grave can hold my body down, I’ll crawl home to her.

Oh, Marie – Louis Prima (1956)

This song reminds me of barbeques my parents used to have when I was little. My mom taught me how to jive to Louis Prima and his music is instant good vibes.

I find Louis Prima perfect for cooking and cleaning, it always brightens my spirit.

Favourite lyric: Uh baby, tell me you love me. Kiss me once while the stars shine above me.

YOUTH – Troye Sivan (2016)

To be honest, I still don’t really even know who Troye Sivan is. This is the only song of his I’ve really listened to, but in the way of pop music – this is about as good as it gets for me this week.

Favourite lyric: It’s actually the weird sounds after the chorus. Is that a synth? Is that what the youth (pun intended) call a drop? Either way, I’m digging it.

Linda Ronstadt – Do What You Gotta Do (1993)

Okay so the most bizarre thing happened to me. I listened to Linda Ronstadt’s album, Winter Light, when I was driving last week. I used to listen to this album before bed when I was little, so it always relaxes me. It’s also kind of depressing.

Anyways, APPARENTLY, this song (originally by Johnny ivers but famously covered by Nina Simone) was sampled by none other than Yeezy for his new track, “Famous”. This totally caught me off guard when I heard it today. Rihanna sings the piece of “Do What You Gotta Do” but I’m sorry, there’s no way Ri Ri can belt it out like Linda does at 2:35ish. Listen to this track for all the feels.

Favourite lyric: From the very start, it’s my own fault for what happens to my heart. You see I’ve always known you’d go.

James Bay – When We Were On Fire (2015)

I’m usually an acoustic kind of girl but this song is one of the few times I dig the album version more. I think it’s because the back up singers give almost a choir vibe, which I LOVE. (see my obsession with Madonna’s Like A Prayer for more information on said obsession) James Bay is generally pretty fantastic and was one of my favourite concerts last year.

Favourite lyric: Now I know, I know, that we’re losing light. Our love is dying, out cold on the floor, like a fallen star that shines no more.

Frank Sinatra – My Way (1969)

I listen to crooners a lot when I’m working. I remember getting distracted last week when this song came on because there’s really nothing like Frank’s inflection and emotion in “My Way”. The build from beginning to end is raw and pulls you in. There will never be another Frank, sorry Buble.

Favourite lyric: I’ve loved, I’ve laughed and cried. I’ve had my fill, my share of losing. And now, as tears subside, I find it all so amusing. To think I did all that and may I say, not in a shy way. Oh, no, oh, no, not me, I did it my way.