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The Force of Lyrics


Sometimes, in casual conversation, I’m asked, “what genre of music do you enjoy?” It just feels impossible to answer, because I build Spotify playlists based on the theme of the lyrics, not the genre. A playlist could shift from country, to R&B, to Indie Pop, as long as the words fit the sentiment I feel like expressing.


When my depression was at its worst, I curated a playlist written by artists who felt similar pain and sadness but chose to fight on. On the subway ride to work, I would blast it on full volume and think about every single word in these pieces. By being mindful of the lyrics, I felt less alone and I was less susceptible to rumination.


Here is a list of pieces I listened to from a motley of genres:

  • My Mind and Me by Selena Gomez

  • Follow The Sun by Xavier Rudd

  • Only Human by Ryan Mack

  • I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor

  • Closing Time by Havelin

  • Make It Alright by WILD

  • Daydream by Lily Meola

  • Alive by Sia

  • Who Says by Selena Gomez

  • Undefeated by Daughtry

  • Carry On by fun.

  • Vienna by Billy Joel

When I was at the hospital, I spent every spare second of the day listening to these songs. By turning the volume up, the optimistic and encouraging lyrics drowned out—at least a bit—the hopeless thoughts swimming in my mind. I really hope that some of these pieces could do the same for you.

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