Music Review: Fall 2019 Playlist
Article by Demi Taveras
Photos Courtesy of https://samsmithworld.com
As we welcome November, we say goodbye to the fall season and hello to the winter. The weather gets a tad cooler, the excitement for the holidays builds, and with that, our soundtracks for our lives shifts. Before we jump headfirst into the Christmas music, let’s take a look at some of the best songs that became our soundtrack during the fall of 2019.
- “Motivation” by Normani: “Motivation” is the debut single from ex-Fifth Harmony band member Normani Kordei. What really made me constantly play this song was the ’00s aura about it – her music video was based around this aesthetic, but the song itself reminds me of those cute Janet Jackson-type pop songs I listened to growing up. Normani is a pop girl to watch as she continues to move up in the music industry.
- “hope is a dangerous thing for a woman to have” by Lana Del Rey: Lana Del Rey released an album this year, and this was the last track on the dreamy alternative record. For this song, Del Rey sings poetry soothingly along to a gentle piano. Might just be my new favorite lullaby.
- “China” by Anuel AA, Daddy Yankee, & Karol G, featuring J Balvin & Ozuna: So we have several big-name, Latin artists to work with here. This reggaeton hit samples Shaggy’s “It Wasn’t Me” but also uses a couple of lyrics that were in Daddy Yankee’s old school reggaeton songs. Love a good song that simultaneously allows me to dance and capitalizes on nostalgia!
- “Good Thing” by Zedd & Kehlani: Even those who don’t follow the EDM scene know of Zedd and the bangers he’s put out over the years. He’s obviously one of the biggest DJs right now, and I really enjoyed listening to a slower, chiller beat from him. Plus having Kehlani on it preaching about self-love? I’m sold!
- “Thriller” by Michael Jackson: Was it really October if you didn’t hear Thriller every other day? In my opinion, no, it was not! I have to include this song not only as a huge Michael Jackson fan but because it really is a staple for Halloween and will always be on my fall playlist every year!
- “Juice” by Lizzo: Lizzo’s yet another woman who took over in 2019. I love how many positive, pick-me-up songs Lizzo has in her repertoire. This one has to be my favorite. I could imagine this song being played in the background of a movie while a character just struts down the street, fresh from a new makeover. It’s just so fun to listen to.
- “How Do You Sleep?” by Sam Smith: I’ve always gotten the biggest side-eyes from everyone when I reveal I’m not a fan of Sam Smith. Smith just wasn’t an artist I really connected with, but this song really has grown on me since its release. It’s also one of Smith’s more upbeat songs.
- “Come Thru” by Summer Walker & Usher: Remember how I mentioned capitalizing on nostalgia earlier? This song does just the same by sampling Usher’s “You Make Me Wanna.” Usher, where have you been? We’ve missed you; R&B isn’t the same without you. We’re glad to have you back for this lovely little remake with Summer Walker!
And with that, we say goodbye to the fall season and hello to the winter. Now, the playing of Christmas songs for two months straight can commence!
