I was very, very sick two weeks ago.
While I was holed up in my room, feeling like the grandpa from “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Spotify was my best friend.
Here are the songs that kept me sane while I was self-isolating.
‘Too High’ — Goody Grace ft. Jesse
This song in particular has been cycling through my rotation at least three times a day. There’s something about this track that makes it perfect for laying in bed and simply soaking up the vibes.
I can’t go without acknowledging that this song — along with several others that find their way into my weekly rotation — was a recommendation from a friend. Thanks, Ash!
‘I Get Around’ — 2Pac ft. Digital Underground
I’ve ventured out of my comfort zone this year. As a result, I’ve found myself listening to a lot of ’90s and early 2000s rap and hip-hop. It’s been a joyful experience, and this song is one that’s truly stuck out to me.
‘So Real’ — Jeff Buckley
I’ve listened to bits and pieces of Buckley’s record “Grace” over the past few months. I’ve liked every song I’ve heard so far, but this one struck me hard for some reason.
Buckley’s vocals on this song remind me of Robert Smith, frontman of The Cure, so maybe that’s why I like it so much.
‘Sho Nuff’ — Leon Bridges
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This track is another that has been essential for my rotting away in bed days. I can’t get enough of the mellow beat and Bridges’s smooth vocals.
‘Nothing Compares 2 U’ — Sinéad O'Connor
This is arguably O’Connor’s most famous song, and for good reason. It’s truly a masterpiece, and it’s been a staple of my mucus-riddled all-nighters.
‘Eau D’bedroom Dancing’ — Le Tigre
I don’t know quite how to describe it, but this song makes me feel like I’m experiencing a melancholic and angsty moment in a coming-of-age movie. Maybe it’s because I’ve been trapped in my room for so long, but regardless, it’s an excellent track.
‘Mama Said Knock You Out’ — LL Cool J
Did my roommate make fun of me for listening to this? Yes (thanks a lot, Georgia). Am I ashamed? No. This one goes crazy.
‘Want U Around’ — Omar Apollo ft. Ruel
This song makes me feel like I’m floating in space. Apollo and Ruel’s voices mesh together in the most perfect way. Do me a favor: Put your headphones on and listen to this song around midnight to 1 a.m. on full blast. Mind blowing.
‘Chick Habit’ — April March
I know, this one is completely out of place. However, I recently rewatched “But I’m a Cheerleader,” and this earworm simply can’t leave my head after that opening montage.
Speaking of which, I highly recommend “But I’m a Cheerleader” if you haven’t seen it.
‘Uuuu’ — Steve Lacy
I’m just now realizing how many songs are in my rotation this week that involve a “u” in the title. Anyway, I don’t know much about Steve Lacy’s music, but there’s something about this short track that keeps me coming back.
‘He’s So Easy to Love’ — Roddie Joy
This is a sweet oldie that I actually found through a playlist actress Mia Goth made for film company A24. I’ve become quite fond of music like this; there’s something comforting about it that fills me with joy.
‘Judge Judy’ — Tyler, The Creator
Tyler’s new record, “CHROMAKOPIA,” dropped on Oct. 28. I’ve been a fan of his music since my high school years, so I was eagerly anticipating the record, and it did not disappoint. This track is my current favorite from the album.
‘Disease’ — Lady Gaga
We are so back, Little Monsters. While I’ve loved Gaga’s jazz era, I’ve been missing the Mother Monster we know and love. This single did not disappoint.
‘Behold a Lady’ — Outkast
At this point, I think Outkast will become a staple of these playlists. Every time I re-listen to “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below,” I find a new track to become my stand out.
‘FDT’ — YG ft. Nipsey Hussle
This was written after election day. I won’t elaborate any further.