Billy Joel once said, “I think music in itself is healing. It’s an explosive expression of humanity. It’s something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we’re from, everyone loves music.”

Life in quarantine is, for the lack of a better word, weird. I know that I am not alone in feeling that the days have become monotonous. Waking up, working out, reading, and cleaning have grown beyond repetitive. No matter how hard I try to stay positive, an inevitable sense of unease encircles the nation.

Life at home has provided much needed family time and sleep, but the search for positivity would not be possible without my music. Everyone is touched by music. It sheds light even in the darkest times. Below, I have listed songs that are getting me through these crazy times.

Spotify Playlist here.

“Black and White” by Niall Horan

Horan released his new album, Heartbreak Weather, just days before quarantine break. The first song, “Black and White,” has been blaring through my phone since its release. The song is calm, yet equally amazing to passionately scream throughout the house. The song declares Horan’s love for an unknown person and provides the listeners with an overwhelming desire to dance. 

“Scared to Live” by The Weeknd

This past week, The Weeknd released his new album, After Hours. “Scared to Live” is the perfect song for just about any occasion. Whether you are sad and want to cry, want to dance, or need enjoyable background noise, this is the song for every occasion.  

“Resentment” by Kesha

Though the album was released earlier this year, I just recently discovered this song. This album, High Road, is Kesha’s return to music after her high-profile lawsuit with a former collaborator. The entire album is wonderful with a range of energetic songs to calmer tunes, like “Resentment.” Kesha collaborates with fellow artists, Brian Wilson and Sturgill Simpson, and their vocals mesh beautifully. This song is one of my favorite songs to relax to; it is exquisite. 

“Peach Fuzz” by Caamp

I recently discovered Caamp, and they have quickly escalated to one of my favorite bands, with “Peach Fuzz” as my absolute favorite song of theirs. Classified as alternative folk, the instrumentals in this song are noteworthy. I can always count on this song to cheer me up with its passion and soul. I highly suggest checking out the whole album!

“That Way” by Lil Uzi Vert

Lil Uzi Vert released the album Eternal Atake earlier this month after three years since his last album. Now, I admit, rap is not my favorite. However, this song is an exception. With my free time, I have been trying to work out from home, and I highly suggest this song, blaring at full blast as you push through the daily workout. The song opens with a version of The Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way,” which is also a great song, so I knew that this song had potential even before listening. 

“Stay” by Alt Bloom

Alt Bloom is another artist who is fairly new to me and is another one of my favorites. “Stay” features catchy lyrics, soothing instrumentals, and Bloom’s strong vocals.This is another song for any occasion. 

“We Find Love” by Daniel Caesar

“We Find Love” is one of the most beautiful songs and one of my all-time favorites. Caesar’s music classifies as R&B/Soul, a wonderful pairing. Like the title states, this song exemplifies Caesar’s journey finding love and the struggles that come with it. I highly suggest this song to lift the spirit. 

“Center Point Road” by Thomas Rhett

Thomas Rhett released his album Center Point Road in late 2019. The album’s title track encompasses good country music, though not the stereotypical country. The song reminisces on Rhett’s life growing up in Tennessee, and the sound is inspiring. Fellow country singer Kelsea Ballerini is featured, giving the song even more depth. 

“Spirits” by The Strumbellas

“Spirits” has always been my go-to mood-booster song. My favorite part about the song is the strong instrumentals. The drums instantly improve my mood. Not to mention, this is the perfect song to scream out loud.

“HAPPINESS” by NEEDTOBREATHE

I feel like I needed to include this song on my playlist because we all need some happiness currently. This song truly is a mood-booster. Similar to “Spirits,” “HAPPINESS” includes strong drums and passionate vocals. I try to listen to this song at least once a day because, I promise, it does evoke a smile. 

“Right” by Mac Miller

As many Pittsburghers know, Pittsburgh native Mac Miller died in 2018, though his legacy continues to thrive. Prior to his death, Miller worked alongside Jon Brion on the album Circles. Early this year, Brion and Miller’s family released the album. “Right” is one of my favorites from the album. Miller’s soothing voice instantly calms the mind. His lyrics are deep and meaningful, while the song is calm enough to fade into the background. 

“The Age of Worry” by John Mayer

In a time where worry and angst seem to flood everyone’s mind, Mayer reminds us that worry is normal. I have loved this song since its release in 2012, but it seems to resonate even more strongly now, given the current situation of the nation. Close your eyes and embrace the worry, for it will eventually pass. 

I hope you enjoy at least one of these songs. In an ever-changing world, music is constant, and I doubt I’m alone in deeply appreciating that.