🎶 Day 1: Mansionair, “Violet City” 🎶

Day 1 Prompt: A song you like with a color in the title…

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“Wide awake in this violet city / Where it washes over me / It hurts to say that I want you with me / Just draped across my frame.” Sigh, “Violet City” is a sleek record that arrives as the seventh track on Shadowboxer, the debut album by Grammy-nominated Australian trio, Mansionair (Lachlan Bostock, Alex Nicholls, and Jack Froggatt).

Mansionair previously appeared on the stellar 2017 ODESZA record, “Line of Sight”, hence their Grammy-nomination in advance of their debut album. Obviously, there is a color in the songs title (violet) and, I definitely like this song. So, why do I like this song with a color in its title?

Well, here’s why I heart “Violet City.” The vocals are lovely, particularly the commanding nature and pureness of the falsetto.  Additionally, the production is epic, characterized by rhythmic intensity, carried by the beat and a barrage of synthetic sounds.  The lyrics aren’t too shabby either, even as it’s easy to get lost in the vibe that Mansionair has brilliantly assembled.  The chorus is pretty sweet:

“Ooh, I can’t help myself, the moment that I let it go
Is when I find I’m in control, in control
Ooh, I need something else, the moment that I let it go
Is when I find I’m in control, I’m in control.”

To me, because of all these reasons, “Violet City” is phenomenal way to kickstart this 30-Day Song Challenge, constructing a month’s worth of songs into one gargantuan playlist, sigh. “Violet City” previously appeared on the colorful playlist, 14 Songs Characterized by Colors.

Day 1: Mansionair, Violet City | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Mansionair • Shadowboxer • Glassnote • 2019

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🎶 Day 2: Britney Spears, “3” 🎶

Day 2 Prompt: A song you like with a number in the title

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“1,2, 3 / Not only you and me / Got 180º, and I’m caught in between.” Kinky for sure.  Day 2 asks for a song you like with a number in the title, so, I’m just following the 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶 like a good boy… 😉

Anyways, Psychology Today defines a paraphilia as “a condition in which a person’s sexual arousal and gratification depend on fantasizing about and engaging in sexual behavior that is atypical and extreme.” The paraphilia that Britney Spears sings about in her no. 1 hit “3” (The Singles Collection, 2009) is Troilism, described by Psychology Dictionary as a “carnal activity where three people are engaged.” ‘Shit just got real’, didn’t it?

Naturally, a threesome comes to mind.  There are parallels between the two, but ‘troilism’ seems to focus on the ‘troilist’ fulfilling their sexual desires. Given the selfishness of troilism, Britney Spears ensures she’s the beneficiary aka the troilist.

“…Counting 1, 2, 3
Peter, Paul and Mary
Getting down with 3P
Everybody loves counting.”

Let me make it crystal clear what I like about this song with a number in the title.  I mean, the number three is okay, but it’s not the ‘end all, be all.’ Really, it’s how utterly catchy and infectious “3” is and definitely NOT Britney’s freaky ways! Honestly, when “3” arrived, I didn’t read into the way I would as a much more analytic blogger and music critic; it’s far more risqué than it seemed at the time. It previously appeared on the quirky, risqué 12 Paraphilic, Fetish Songs –  one of those lists I continue to ask myself, ‘Why did you write that?’ It also appears on tamer, more reasonable lists: 9 Songs That Reference the Number ‘3’ and 11 Number Songs Selected with No Rhyme or Reason.

Day 2: Britney Spears, 3 | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Britney Spears • The Singles Collection • RCA • 2009

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🎶 Day 3: Max Frost, Back in the Summer 🎶

Day 3 Prompt: A song that reminds you of summertime

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“You know that I got regrets / But I burn those shits like cigarettes / Because something’s out of place /… I wish we could just reset…” Hmm, “Burn those shits like cigarettes” – what a lyric!

Anyways, Max Frost is an ‘alternative’ musician from Austin, Texas. Musically, the incredibly talented artist incorporates numerous styles, making his own style, well, incredibly unique.  Frost released his debut album, Gold Rush, in October 2018.  Post Gold Rush single “Back in the Summer” definitely ‘warmed up’ January 2020 with its reminiscent, summery vibes.  Because of that effect, it perfectly fulfills the prompt for Day 3 of the 30-Day Song Challenge: A song that reminds you of summertime.

“Back in the Summer” works out pretty well for Max.  What’s better than a reminiscent single about summer and love? On the chorus, he recollects:

“Back in the summer
When we were lovers
And we had real big dreams in our heads
We were together
Called it forever
Even though all good times have an end
Wish that I could go back again.”

Beyond the reminiscent lyrics, the music is pretty sweet. Best characterized as a ‘pop’ record, it features sleek electronic production work. The synths are striking, while the groove is hip. Basically, there’s an abundance of ear candy.  Adding to that ear candy is the performance by Frost himself, who delivers agile, rhythmic melodic lines with an awesome, lighthearted approach. Even with so many fast-paced, rhythmic melodic lines, there are some more legato, melodic lines that show off the colorful nature of his voice.  Listeners get the full complement. Yeah, Max ‘puts in work’ on this enjoyable, summery gem.

Day 3: Max Frost, Back in the Summer | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Max Frost • “Back in the Summer” • Atlantic • 2020

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🎶 Day 4: Kehlani, “Toxic” 🎶

Day 4 Prompt: A song that reminds you of someone you’d rather forget

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“And that damn Don Julio made me a fool for you…” Grammy-nominated R&B singer Kehlani has been on a musical tear in 2020, releasing numerous singles including the song hand, “Toxic”.

“Toxic” served as the second single from her initially delayed sophomore project, due to the coronavirus pandemic.  Ultimately, It Was Good Until It Wasn’t saw the light of day on May 8, 2020.  Kehlani knows this guy is bad news, even as she participates in his ‘toxic’ sexual endeavors.  For me, fulfilling the prompt of Day 4 of the 30-Day Song Challenge, I think more along the lines of the title itself, and how there’s always somebody in your life you know is ‘toxic’ and detrimental to your well-being.  Yeah, Kehlani enjoys the toxicity here, but in the long run, toxicity is just that – toxic… Okay, I’m repeating myself, moving on!

The lush “Toxic,” set in a minor key, is produced by G.ry and K.Beazy.  Keyboard serves as the primary instrument, yielding moody backdrop which perfectly supports the theme of the record. The focus of the song is matters of the heart.  Look no further than the chorus for how Kehlani is affected by love:

“All of this love is toxic
All of this love is toxic
All these kisses and hugs is knock shit
You a damn drug, you’re toxic.”

That definitely sums it up.  The verses provide additional details, particularly the second verse, which keeps it 100. “Uh, all the sex on replay / Run it back like a DJ,” she sings, continuing, “Surfin’ on your face while you eat that / Tryna make a bad bitch behave, no…” Wow, and this is the opener for It Was Good Until It Wasn’t! Adding to the colorful nature of “Toxic” are uncredited vocals by Ty Dolla $ign, during the pre-chorus, bridge, and chorus in certain parts. Ultimately, “Toxic” is enjoyable, featuring a well-rounded vocal performance, sound production, and alluring songwriting, particularly that risqué second verse, and the catchy pre-chorus and chorus sections.

Day 4: Kehlani, Toxic | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Kehlani • It Was Good Until It Wasn’t • Atlantic • 2020

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🎶 Day 5: Cattle Decapitation, “The Geocide” 🎶

Day 5 Prompt: A song that needs to be played loud

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There is one thing is for sure – death/extreme metal band Cattle Decapitation has a distinct, totally unforgettable and disturbing name. Travis Ryan and company back up the name with an intriguing brand of music that certainly isn’t for the faint of heart – “Carnal Fecophelia Due to Prolonged Exposure to Methane” anybody?

Cattle Decapitation returned turned-up on their ninth studio album, Death Atlas in 2019.  Honestly, any of the songs would fulfill the prompt for Day 5 of the 30-Day Song Challenge: A song that needs to be played loud.  I go with my favorite song from the album, “The Geocide,” which appeared as a track of the week on Music to Atone to, as well as 51 Best Songs of 2019, 15 G Songs Selected with No Rhyme or Reason, and 11 Colorful Songs That Reference Devastating Disasters.  Yeah, I really, REALLY like this song. 

Death Atlas explores the Anthropocene, the most recent geological time period, highly influenced by humans. Cattle Decapitation are pessimistic about it, evidenced by lyrics like, “Fuck the future / Fuck all mankind,” that grace the brutally honest “The Geocide.” Because humans are so destructive and inconsiderate, and we’re firmly entrenched in the Anthropocene, in this foretelling record, we’ve screwed ourselves over.  The music is incredibly chaotic and unsettling, certainly a fitting soundtrack for the destruction of earth.  The guitars are utterly infernal, while the drums pummel to the nth degree.  Adding to this most damned occurrence, Travis Ryan delivers thrilling, incredibly malicious vocals, not to mention overtly pessimistic lyricism.  The keyword is BRUTAL, exemplified by the chorus:

“The universe, it always finds a way to purge
The sustainably inappropriate numbers that once surged
Death always wins, his molten torch forever burns
And to the ashes and the ground we are returned
Life exists to infuriate, berate, and subjugate
The hapless mortals shit-birthed on a human-altered planet Earth.”

Given how over the top Cattle Decapitation are, particularly no “The Geocide,” you’ll have no problem playing this death metal gem loud.

Day 5: Cattle Decapitation, The Geocide | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Cattle Decapitation • Death Atlas • Metal Blade • 2019

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🎶 Day 6: Dua Lipa, “Levitating” 🎶

Day 6 Prompt: A song that makes you want to dance

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Grammy-winning English pop artist Dua Lipa released an incredibly engaging, utterly consistent sophomore album with Future Nostalgia in 2020.  From start to finish, the pop star is on autopilot.

Not only is she ‘on,’ but I dare you find a chorus that won’t get stuck in your head after listening! Very danceable throughout its course, one of my favorite songs fulfilling the prompt for Day 6 of the 30-Day Song Challenge is “Levitating.” Yes, “Levitating” is definitely a song that makes you want to dance, sigh.

“I believe that you’re for me, I feel it in our energy / I see us written in the stars / We can go wherever, so let’s do it now or never / Baby, nothing’s ever, ever too far.” “Levitating” certainly makes a compelling case among the crème de la crème of Future Nostalgia, especially considering the ‘loving’ has Dua Lipa rising/floating, defying gravity.  As aforementioned, every chorus is pretty amazing throughout Future Nostalgia, but the chorus from “Levitating” hits especially hard:

“I got you, moonlight, you’re my starlight
I need you, all night, come on, dance with me
I’m levitating.”

“Levitating” was selected as the Fun Friday entry on Weekly Gems 💎 No. 2: Week of 4-6-2020, in addition to previously appearing on the playlist, 15 L Songs Selected with No Rhyme or Reason.

Day 6: Dua Lipa, Levitating | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Dua Lipa • Future Nostalgia • Warner • 2020

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🎶 Day 7: DaBaby, “Suge” 🎶

Day 7 Prompt: A song to drive to

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“I go where I want, I’m good / Play if you want, let’s do it / I’m a young CEO, Suge / Yeah, yeah.” Honestly, few rappers had a better year in 2019 than DaBaby, who became a breakout star.

The song that put DaBaby on the map is the absolutely infectious “Suge,” which appears on his 2019 debut album, Baby on Baby.  Let me just say, “Suge” is a perfect match for Day 7 of the 30-Day Song Challenge: A song to drive to.

The Grammy-nominated “Suge,” in all its infectious glory, tailor made for grooving to while driving, appeared as the fifth-best song of 2019 on 51 Best Songs of 2019.  What makes it such a bop? First and foremost, it’s the personality – confident and cocky to the nth degree – that DaBaby exhibits throughout this relatively short banger.  If you watch the accompanying music video, that personality is amplified to an even greater level, particular the moves he makes.  Also, contributing to the excellence, is the minimalist production, courtesy of jetsonmade and Pooh Beatz. From the jump, what is clear is the fact that DaBaby is ON… autopilot that is!

“No talkin’, I don’t like to argue with niggas (I don’t)
Ain’t gon’ be no more laughin’
You see me whip out guns, I’m gon’ be done shot me a nigga
I don’t follow no bitches on IG
But all of your bitches, they follow a nigga
And that lil nigga ain’t gon’ shoot shit with that gun
He just pull it out in his pictures (Bitch, uh).”

Day 7: DaBaby, Suge | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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DaBaby • Baby on Baby • Interscope • 2019

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🎶 Day 8: Juice WRLD, “Righteous” 🎶

Day 8 Prompt: A song about drugs or alcohol

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Juice WRLD marked yet another tragic, untimely passing in hip-hop, dying only days after his 21st birthday on December 8, 2019. While alive, Jarad Anthony Higgins had his fair share of demons.  His music reflected a troubling, unsettling relationship with drugs. Even so, both his potential and talent were undeniable.

The first posthumous single from the rapper’s estate, “Righteous” arrived in 2020, showing him in top-notch form musically, even if the drug references are still troubling. Because “Righteous” is a song about drugs or alcohol, it perfectly fulfills the prompt for Day 8 of the 30-Day Song Challenge.

Musically, “Righteous” represents Juice WRLD’s sweet spot musically.  He embraces a melodic approach, while also exhibiting both chill and swagger.  He has a fitting backdrop (Nick Mira and Charlie Handsome), comprised of smooth guitars and anchored by a sleek urban beat. Following the intro, Juice gives us ‘the juice’ with a sweet chorus:

“All white Gucci suit, I’m feeling righteous, yeah
I know that the truth is hard to digest, yeah
Five or six pills in my right hand, yeah
Codeine runneth over on my nightstand…”

Sure, it’s hard to call something druggy sweet, but the chorus is one of the selling points, even representing Juice’s demons.  Those demons spill over into the verses, as the drugs are potent: “We may die this evening / Coughing, wheezing bleeding / … Blood moons are my eyes, stay low / Red and black, they glow.” Unsettling to say the least… It doesn’t stop there, as on the second verse, Juice WRLD goes on to say, “Too busy drinking codeine doin’ high speeds / Crash, pour a four, sip it slow, make the time pass.” Unfortunately, listening to “Righteous,” it seems tragedy and an unfortunate end was inevitable.  Though his career was a brief, Juice certainly made an impact. “Righteous” previously appeared on the playlist, 16 ‘R’ Songs Selected with No Rhyme or Reason.

Day 8: Juice WRLD, Righteous | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Juice WRLD • “Righteous” • Interscope • 2020

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🎶 Day 9: Panic! At the Disco, “High Hopes” 🎶

Day 9 Prompt: A song that makes you happy

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Ambition, determination, and hope are some of the virtues that come to mind when hearing the Panic! At the Disco song, “High Hopes”.  “High Hopes” ranks among the highlights from the alternative collective’s 2018 album, Pray for the Wicked. You could even argue that the record is indeed the crowning achievement.

“High Hopes” is incredibly consistent, kicking off with driving brassy, exuberant production work and set in a major key. Every time I hear “High Hopes,” it’s definitely a song that makes me happy. That, my friends (and perhaps enemies and fiends), fulfills the prompt of Day 9 of the 30-Day Song Challenge.

“Have to have high, high hopes for a living / Shooting for the stars when I couldn’t make a killing,” Brendon Urie sings on the optimistic chorus, continuing, “Didn’t have a dime but I always had a vision / Always had high, high hopes.”  Elsewhere, he speaks about destiny, dreams, “rewriting your history,” and being true to self.  Clearly, this is an anthem for dreamers and encouragement for the non-conformists of the world.  “High Hopes” was featured as Terrific Tuesday on Weekly Gems 💎 No. 2: Week of 4-6-2020, as well as previously appearing on the playlist 14 Songs Sure to Lift You Higher.

Day 9: Panic! At the Disco, High Hopes | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Panic! At the Disco • Pray for the Wicked • Fueled by Ramen • 2018

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🎶 Day 10: Hayley Williams, “Leave it Alone” 🎶

Day 10 Prompt: A song that makes you sad

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Hayley Williams released her debut solo album, Petals for Armor, on May 8, 2020.  One of the songs that appeared on the EP Petals for Armor I that bore a negative connotation is “Leave It Alone”.  Just think about it for a minute.

How did you feel when your parents scolded you as a child and said the expression, “Leave it alone?” Food for thought.  Obviously, “Leave it Alone” runs deeper than that.  It is definitely perfect for Day 10 of the 30-Day Song Challenge – a song that makes you sad.

“If you know love / You best prepare to grieve.” The thoughtfully penned “Leave it Alone,” produced by Taylor York, finds Hayley Williams totally consumed with grief.  The record has an extremely somber tone from the onset, instrumentally and lyrically. On the first verse, she sings, “‘Cause now that I want to live / Well everybody around me is dying / Now that I finally wanna live / The ones I love are dyin’.” Thinking about family members dying – people you care about leaving you – is totally depressing and overwhelming.  On the second verse, she’s further ‘triggered,’ providing a specific example of loss:

“You don’t remember my name somedays
Or that we’re related
It triggers my worry
Who else am I gonna lose before I am ready?
And who’s gonna lose me?”

The centerpiece of the record is the chorus, where “The truth’s a killer / But I can’t leave it alone…”  Clearly, I absolutely love “Leave it Alone” because I’ve featured it literally everywhere.  I used it as a track of the week for Music to Atone to and Somber Sunday for Weekly Gems 💎 No. 4: Week of 4-20-2020. Furthermore, “Leave it Alone” previously graced 11 Solitary Songs That Are Totally Alone, 15 L Songs Selected with No Rhyme or Reason, and 15 Songs That Possess a Negative Connotation.

Day 10: Hayley Williams, Leave It Alone | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Hayley Williams • Petals for Armor • Atlantic • 2020

🎶 Day 11: Drake, “Nice for What” 🎶

Day 11 Prompt: A song you never get tired of

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Drake had a huge year in 2018 with his double album, Scorpion. “God’s Plan” was certainly his ‘ace in the hole,’ but the superb “Nice for What” replaced “God’s Plan” at no. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

“Nice for What” brilliantly samples the beloved, Lauryn Hill classic, “Ex-Factor” (“Care for me, care for me, you said you’d care for me / There for me, ther for me, said you’d be there for me…”). The producers soundly use the sample, speeding it up, yet retaining its original glory. Furthermore, an excellent, old-school, hip-hop soul beat anchors down the record. Yes, I could’ve picked either “God’s Plan” or “In My Feelings” for Day 11 of the 30-Day Song Challenge – A song you never get tired of – but I opted for “Nice for What.”

Drake drops a compelling, rhythmic flow, oscillating between pop-rap and un-pitched rhymes. Musically, he makes good choices, specifically the use of space allowing Hill’s sampled vocals to shine.  Pretty ‘nice’ ear candy from this ‘what’ song you ask me! Among my personal favorite rhymes:

“Gotta hit the club, gotta make that ass jump
Gotta hit the club like you hit them motherfuckin’ angles
With your phone out, snappin’ like Fabo
And you showin’ off, but it’s alright
And you showin’ off, but it’s alright
It’s a short life.”

I selected “Nice for What” as the 10^th best song on 100 Best Songs of 2018.  Furthermore, the song appeared on the ‘nice’ playlist Prepare to Feel the Kindness of These 8 ‘Nice’ Songs as well as the what-centric A Playlist Comprised of 13 ‘What’ Songs.

Day 11: Drake, Nice for What | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Drake • Scorpion • Young Money / Cash Money • 2018

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🎶 Day 12: Lauryn Hill, “Ex-Factor” 🎶

Day 12 Prompt: A song from your preteen years

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“Tell me, who I have to be / To get some reciprocity.” Ah, YES, those timeless lyrics hail from one of the great classics about exes, “Ex-Factor” by Grammy-winning hip-hop/R&B musician, Lauryn Hill.

Even north of two decades since the release of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998), both the album, and that particular song carry ample weight.  Worth noting, “Ex-Factor” was sampled in Drake’s “Nice for What”, which appeared as the song of the day for Day 11 of the 30-Day Song Challenge (A song you never get tired of). Focusing only on “Ex-Factor,” it is a prime example of the plight of love, as well as how potent songs incorporating break ups can truly be.  It’s role in the 30-Day Song Challenge? Well, it fits Day 12: a song from your preteen years (more on that a little later).

At one point, Hill sings, “And when I try to walk away / You’d hurt yourself to make me stay / This is crazy.” Crazy indeed Ms. Lauryn Hill, but, again, exes and broken-off relationship serve among the preeminent topics in music regardless of genre. Yes, “Doo Wop (That Thing)” remains the crowning achievement (and number one hit) from The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, but you can totally feel Hill’s struggle with love – it’s so relatable on “Ex-Factor.” My favorite section of the song is the ‘breakdown’:

“(Care) Care for me, care for me
I know you care for me
(There) There for me, there for me
Said you’d be there for me
(Cry) Cry for me, cry for me
You said you’d die for me
(Give) Give to me, give to me
Why won’t you live for me?”

“Ex-Factor” previously appeared on Throwback Thursday from Weekly Gems 💎 No. 3: Week of 4-13-2020.  Also, it was another song I curated as a track of the week on Music to Atone to. And, showing my age (ugh), the song and album arrived when I was 12 years old – that’s a preteen!’

Day 12: Lauryn Hill, Ex-Factor | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Lauryn Hill, “Ex-Factor” • The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill • Ruffhouse • 1998

🎶 Day 13: Marvin Gaye, “The World is Rated X” 🎶

Day 13 Prompt: A song you like from the 70s

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The late, great Marvin Gaye previously appeared on my ‘X-Rated’ playlist – say it ain’t so Marvin! Well, it’s not so… really.  The only reasons why “The World is Rated X” appeared on 11 Songs That are X-Rated, to Some Extent is because of (1) its song title and the fact that (2) it’s a damn good song.

Honestly, “Let’s Get it On” or “Sexual Healing” are much more risqué than “The World is Rated X” could ever hope to be.  “The World is Rated X” fits the criteria for Day 13: A song you like from the 70s.

“The World is Rated X” keeps Marvin Gaye’s ‘lost’ album, You’re the Man, going strong early on. A superb, socially charged standout, the production is masterful, led by the agile, robust bass lines, and the lush, dramatic strings. Gaye is locked-in, showing incredibly authenticity as he laments the corrupt state of the world.  Particularly at the end, he’s totally disturbed and totally riled up:

“Where’s the love? Where’s the peace?
Where’s the joy? Where’s the hope for us all?
God is watching, He knows where you’re at
Yes, he’s watching the situation, that’s a fact.”

Sure, “The World is Rated X” has appeared as a bonus track on various Marvin Gaye reissues, as well as You’re the Man, but is 70s through and though.

Day 13: Marvin Gaye, The World is Rated X | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Marvin Gaye • You’re the Man • Motown • 2019

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🎶 Day 14: Alicia Keys, “If I Ain’t Got You” 🎶

Day 14 Prompt: A song you’d love to be played at your wedding

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Back in the day, I had mad love for Alicia Keys – that was definitely my GF… in my mind.  Anyways, her very best albums arrived in the aughts, particularly debut album Songs in A Minor (2001) and my personal favorite, her sophomore album, The Diary of Alicia Keys (2003).

The Diary of Alicia Keys is where my potential wedding song hails from, “If I Ain’t Got You.” I’m still mad that John Mayer beat her for the Grammy for Song of the Year (“Daughters” is a great song too).

The reason why “If I Ain’t Got You” fits the prompt for Day 14 (a song you’d love to be played at your wedding) is the fact that it’s a love song.  Alicia Keys is singing to her lover on this neo-soul classic.  The only thing that my girls wants is him – her boo.  This is best exemplified on the chorus, one of the most timeless of the aughts from my perspective:

“Some people want it all
But I don’t want nothing at all
If it ain’t you, baby
If I ain’t got you baby
Some people want diamond rings
Some just want everything
But everything means nothing
If I ain’t got you, yeah.”

Further making “If I Ain’t Got You” the bop that it is – the music and the production work.  That’s all Alicia Keys. She delivers a passionate, soulful vocal, while the piano accompaniment is simply perfect. As a pianist myself, the arpeggiated lines are fun to play as well as lovely to the ears.  Beyond the piano, there’s additional ear candy:  a relatively simple drum groove, bass, smooth electric guitar, horns… Yeah, this just screams love, matrimony, and of course, Day 14.  Now, do I envision marriage? Eh…

Day 14: Alicia Keys, If I Ain’t Got You | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Alicia Keys • The Diary of Alicia Keys • RCA • 2003

🎶 Day 15: Kygo & Whitney Houston, “Higher Love” 🎶

Day 15 Prompt: A song that’s a cover by another artist

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“Bring me a higher love / Where’s that higher love I keep thinking of?” In June 2019, the great Whitney Houston sung once more, albeit posthumously.  How so? Well, via a previously unreleased cover of a Steve Winwood song, “Higher Love”, remixed by Norwegian DJ/producer Kygo.

Cover is a key component of Day 15 of the 30-Day Song Challenge – a song that’s a cover by another artist. In its original ‘cover’ form, “Higher Lover” was recorded in 1991. The Kygo remix features some of the cues we’re accustomed to hearing from his production style/music including vocal loops, bright synths, keyboards, and an anchoring, danceable beat.  Furthermore, there are some pitch-shifted vocals, used in moderation as a cool effect.

What’s great about this recording is that it sounds like classic Whitney Houston, while also sounding like what she might’ve sounded like in 2019.  Houston passed away at the age of 48 in 2012. Clearly, “Higher Love” showcases Houston at her peak. Her voice sounds amazing – high-flying as it did during her heyday. All in all, “Higher Love” is an energetic, upbeat, uplifting song; definitely a feel-good pop-soul record.  “Higher Love” previously appeared on two playlists: 11 Awesome Songs That Tickled My Fancy in June 2019 and 14 Songs Sure to Lift You Higher.

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Kygo & Whitney Houston • “Higher Love” • RCA • 2019

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🎶 Day 16: Prince, “Little Red Corvette” 🎶

Day 16 Prompt: A song that’s a classic favorite

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“I guess I must be dumb ‘cuz you had a pocket full of horses / Trojan and some of them used…” Hmm, Prince definitely knew the power of sexual innuendo… or just sex in general. Exhibit B: “I guess I should’ve closed my eyes when you drove me to the place / Where your horses run free / Cuz I felt a little ill when I saw all the pictures / Of the jockeys that were there before me.”

The aforementioned lyrics confirm his knack for being suggestive without necessarily being explicit.  Sure, the lyrics from “Little Red Corvette” would never be welcomed in church or maybe even some extremely devout folks’ homes, but Prince has been more overt… This song is tailor made for Day 16 of the 30-Day Song Challenge: A song that’s a classic favorite.

If it wasn’t crystal clear, “Little Red Corvette” isn’t really about a car! It’s all about sex, something that Prince put into song so, um, sexually.  Examining the aforementioned lyrics under a microscope, this woman who he plans to hook up with has been with plenty of guys.  Two of my favorite words are quite the source of suggestiveness: horses and jockeys.  Of course, I can’t mention “Little Red Corvette” without highlight the chorus, which is the centerpiece of the iconic record:

“And honey, I say, Little Red Corvette
Baby, you’re much too fast (Oh)
Little Red Corvette
You need a love that’s gonna last.”

“Little Red Corvette” previously appeared on the playlist, In Remembrance: 13 Provocative Songs from Prince.

Day 16: Prince, Little Red Corvette | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Prince • 1999 • Warner • 1982 

🎶 Day 17: Demi Lovato, “Sorry Not Sorry” 🎶

Day 17 Prompt: A song you’d sing a duet with someone on karaoke

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“Payback is a bad bitch / And baby, I’m the baddest / You fuckin’ with a savage…” Demi Lovato definitely drops a sarcastic oops regarding her unapologetic feelings on the feisty, soulful “Sorry Not Sorry”.

“Sorry Not Sorry” kicks off her 2017 album, Tell Me You Love Me (which deserved more love than it received) with a serious bang.  This is a slick, urban-pop joint with crossover written all over it.  I’d definitely sing a duet with someone on karaoke with this fierce cut! This has Day 17 of the 30-Day Song Challenge written all over it!

“Sorry Not Sorry” is comprised of plenty ear candy. There are pitch-shifted vocals, hard anchoring drums, soulful, gospel-tinged piano, and of course synths. Lovato shows off her chops throughout, soaring to the highest of heights.’ Her best moments come on the chorus, where she’s supported by backing vocals.

“Baby, I'm sorry (I'm not sorry)
Baby, I'm sorry (I'm not sorry)
Bein’ so bad got me feelin’ so good
Showin’ you up like I knew that I would
Baby, I’m sorry (I'm not sorry)
Baby, I’m sorry (I'm not sorry)
Feelin’ inspired ‘cause the tables have turned
Yeah, I'm on fire and I know that it burns.”

Something else worth noting about this song is there’s a sick video where producer Oak Felder goes through the recording process in detail. I selected “Sorry Not Sorry” as the 7^th best song of 2017 on my list of 100 Best Songs of 2017. It also previously appeared on the playlist, 13 Oops, Sorry & Other Mistakes Songs.

Day 17: Demi Lovato, Sorry Not Sorry | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Demi Lovato • Tell Me You Love Me • Island / Hollywood • 2017

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[/nextpage][nextpage title=”Day 18″ desc=”Patti LaBelle ‘On My Own'” img=”37475″]

 

🎶 Day 18: Patti LaBelle & Michael McDonald, “Own My Own” 🎶

Day 18 Prompt: A song from the year you were born

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So, Day 18 of the 30-Day Song Challenge makes me reveal my age – ugh! The prompt: A song from the year you were born.  Well, since I’m trying to keep things authentic, and even though I’ve been told I have a babyface and can pass for younger, I was born in 1986. Yeah, now that’s totally out there.

1986 does have some great music, though I will say, there were bigger, better years during the 80s but, can’t change my birth year unless I lie.  So, with that said, I go for one of my favorite duets of all time, “Own My Own” courtesy of Patti LaBelle and Michael McDonald.

Patti LaBelle definitely experienced a resurgence of sorts in 1986.  She’d had success prior to this, most notably with LaBelle before going solo (“Lady Marmalade” is iconic).  Even so, “Own My Own” gave the R&B vet a number one hit – on the pop charts! Clearly, this gorgeous, lush duet between two awesome, distinct, and powerful voices propelled her album, Winner in You, to no. 1 on the Billboard 200, and her sole platinum-certified album from the RIAA.

Not only does “On My Own” feature two legendary musicians, it’s written and produced by a legendary team: Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager.  The form features standard sections (verses, chorus, bridge), but isn’t written ‘predictably’ either.  Patti LaBelle sings the first verse, singing incredibly expressively while also showing tremendous control. She follows with an abbreviation of the chorus essentially. As for Michael McDonald, he matches her on the second verse, also singing with great expression, followed by the full-fledged chorus:

“On my own
Once again, now
One more time
By myself.”

They then sing collaboratively on the bridge, followed by a Patti chorus, another McDonald verse, and the most powerful chorus yet, performed jointly.  Both vocalists let loose on that extended closing chorus, and who would have it any other way! We know Patti can blow the rafters off! Mike too honestly!

Day 18: Patti LaBelle, Own My Own | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Patti LaBelle • Winner in You • MCA • 1986

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🎶 Day 19: Pearl Jam, “Jeremy” 🎶

Day 19 Prompt: A song that makes you think about life

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“Jeremy spoke in class today / Clearly, I remember / Pickin’ on the boy / Seemed a harmless little fuck / But we unleashed a lion / Gnashed his teeth.” One of the heaviest songs from both Songs Centered Around or Referencing Suicide, Vol. 1 and the 30-Day Song Challenge is  “Jeremy.”

“Jeremy” is a gem from Ten, the 1991 debut album by Pearl Jam.  “Jeremy” is a song, written in narrative form, depicting a teenage boy, clearly unappreciated in his life, who ultimately commits suicide.  Hmm, definitely feels perfect for Day 19, a song that makes you think about life.

“Dead lay in pools of maroon below
Daddy didn’t give attention
To the fact that Mommy didn’t care
King Jeremy the wicked
Ruled his world.”

A powerful music video helps to make “Jeremy” feel even more authentic. Even more powerful is that the song was inspired by a real-life Jeremy who committed suicide in front of his teacher and classmates by gun.  The music video finds Jeremy kill himself, but in the censored, distributed version, it confusingly ends with his classmates covered in blood.  Is there a school shooting, mass murder vibe here? No, Rob Galluzzo clarifies that director Bruce Ashley’s “intention is that his blood is literally on their hands”.

Perhaps the reason why “Jeremy” makes me think about life is that too often, we don’t mind how we treat others.  By bullying someone else, we a literally making their life a living hell.  There are many “Jeremys” in the world and rather than treat them badly or ignore them, we must be better, kinder, and more compassionate people.

Day 19: Pearl Jam, Jeremy | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Pearl Jam • Ten • Epic • 1991

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🎶 Day 20: Bon Iver, “21 M◊◊N WATER” 🎶

Day 20 Prompt: A song that has many meanings to you

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Grammy-winning alternative collective Bon Iver, led by Justin Vernon, deliver the eclectic 22, A Million in 2016.  Incorporating electronic cues and acoustic cues alike, 22, A Million is nothng short of intriguing.  While its lyrics can be challenging – drenched in spirituality, numerology, and the most accessibly, romance – 22, A Million makes listeners think.

For Day 20 in the 30-Day Song Challenge, I borrowed “21 M◊◊N WATER” – fittingly the seventh track from 22, A Million – from 13 Wet Songs About Water, Water, Water!. “21 M◊◊N WATER” perfectly fits the prompt: A song that has many meanings to you.  In this case, I’m not so worried about the personal meaning, but the fact that this song has lots to unpack, literally, lots of meanings.

“21 M◊◊N WATER” is filled with thought-provoking lyrics and references.  Like much of 22, A Million, the record embraces numerology. Interestingly, Justin Vernon sings: “The math ahead / the math behind it / it’s moon water.”  What is particularly significant about those lyrics, as well as “21 M◊◊N WATER” isn’t water itself, but the number 7.  First of all, it appears as the seventh track on 22, A Million.  21, the number referenced in the title, is a product of 7. Also, 21 is comprised of three sevens, and 777 is a key Biblical number.

Here’s the thing.  While Bon Iver makes ‘spiritual’ references, “21 M◊◊N WATER” isn’t Christian.  Numerology certainly isn’t associated with Christianity in the least.  It is numbers based, hence why the reference to math signifies its use here.  Why are two opposite ends of the spectrum – Christianity and numerology – referenced within one song? Duality, which is a key component of 22, A Million and runs rampant on “21 M◊◊N WATER.” A prime example? “I’m not sinking – I’m not synching.”  Wow – how clever is that? Backtracking to spiritual association, if you need further evidence that “21 M◊◊N WATER” isn’t Christian, let’s talk about that ‘M◊◊N WATER,’ shall we?  Moon water, per Witchipedia is:

“Moon water is water that has been charged with the energies of the moon. It is a popular way to charge water to be used during a ceremony or spell working or to brew magical potions and may be used for anything you are directed to use water for.”

“21 M◊◊N WATER” is nothing short of intriguing, period. I also used it as Wacky Wednesday on Weekly Gems 💎 No. 2: Week of 4-6-2020.

Day 20: Bon Iver, 21 M◊◊N WATER | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Bon Iver • 22, A Million • Jagjaguwar • 2016

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🎶 Day 21: Fiona Apple, “Shameika” 🎶

Day 21 Prompt: A song you like with a person’s name in the title

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30-Day Song Challenge, Day 21: [Choose] a song you like with a person’s name in the title.  Ah, that’s easy, particularly since I released a playlist comprised of 13 Songs That Feature Proper Names in Their Title.  But guess what? The song that I’m choosing was released after I wrote the list, so, yeah… The song is “Shameika,” a memorable record from Fetch the Bolt Cutters, the long-awaited fifth studio album by Fiona Apple that arrives nearly eight years after her previous album.

It always takes Ms. Apple a ‘hot minute’ to release a new album but she never releases a bad one. Honestly, Fetch the Bolt Cutters ranks among the best albums I’ve heard in years by any musician.  But this isn’t about the album itself! No, it’s about “Shameika.”

“Shameika” may have missed the cut for the aforementioned names-centric list, but it will surely grace a future edition of it.  “But Shameika said I had potential / But Shameika said I had potential,” she sings on the infectious chorus. While Fiona doesn’t describe this Shameika as a friend, she certainly had an influence on her – one of many stories that adds to the sheer excellence of Fetch the Bolt Cutters. Throughout, she recounts her experiences as a child, not to mention throwing in a colorful lyric inspired by bassist, Sebastian.  Musically, the listener is blessed with acrobatic piano lines, and quick, rhythmic, and playful melodic lines. Sometimes, they’re not even melodic – chanted, spoken word.  This is art pop with a lot of approaches idiomatic of jazz.  “Shameika” previously tickled my fancy in April 2020.

Day 21: Fiona Apple, Shameika | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Fiona Apple • Fetch the Bolt Cutters • Epic • 2020

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🎶 Day 22: Lizzo, “Good as Hell (Remix)” 🎶

Day 22 Prompt: A song that moves you forward

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“So, girl, if he don’t love you anymore / Then walk your fine ass out the door.” Attitude! Day 22 of the 30-Day Song Challenge calls for a song that moves you forward.  I know, I’m not a girl, nor would I necessarily characterize myself as ‘fine’ but, I appreciate the empowering message of “Good as Hell.” This is a ‘forward thinking’ song in regard to the fact it entails disallowing yourself to be brought down or dictated by, well, a total douche bag, asshole, etc. I suppose. 

The proud parent of a song that is indeed ‘good as hell,’ Lizzo, had a tremendous year in 2019.  Of course “Good as Hell” long predates the super deluxe edition of Cuz I Love You of which it ultimately appears. The hot commodity of song was made even hotter via the “Good as Hell (Remix)” featuring Ariana Grande. The vocals from Lizzo are on-point, filled with energy.  The personality she infuses into her performance, coupled with brilliant production work by Ricky Reed makes this a totally infectious bop. Adding Grande, particularly with a degree of control and subtlety, works out well, providing a nice contrast, as she sneaks in on the second half of the second verse.  From there, the two trade lines or sing together with remarkable results.  By the final chorus, the duet is quite ripe, giving listeners some epic ear candy – or something like that.  Even if you’re a dude like me, who can resist:

“And do your hair toss, check my nails
Baby, how you feelin’ (Feelin’ good as hell).”

“Good as Hell (Remix)” previously appeared on 15 G Songs Selected with No Rhyme or Reason and 11 More Really ‘Good’ Songs… It’s That Simple.

Day 22: Lizzo, Good as Hell (Remix) | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Lizzo • Cuz I Love You (Super Deluxe) • Nice Life / Atlantic • 2019

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🎶 Day 23: The 1975, “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America” 🎶

Day 23 Prompt: A song you think everybody should listen to

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“I’m in love with Jesus Christ / He’s so nice.”  Hmm, quite interesting coming from an atheist/secular humanist. Matthew Healy of The 1975 doesn’t seem to be speaking about his religious beliefs as much as the character he portrays on “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America” (Notes on a Conditional Form). Featuring uncredited vocals by Phoebe Bridgers, “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America” tackles faith and sexuality. If the wheels aren’t already turning, the reason why I chose “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America” for Day 23 of the 30-Day Song Challenge is because I believe it truly is a song everybody should listen to and reflect upon.

The opening lyric from comes off incredibly spiritual – quite Christian.  However, the issue comes into play on the second verse, with Bridgers assisting: “I’m in love with a boy I know / But that’s a feeling I can never show.”  Why can’t he show it? Well, there’s been plenty of friction between being homosexual and Christian. Often, Sodom and Gomorrah are cited in the purported sin.  Of course, the phrase “Adam and Eve, Not Adam and Steve” predates those ‘sinful’ happenings in Sodom and Gomorrah. Bridgers also has her own moment where sexuality comes to the forefront:

“I’m in love with the girl next door
Her name’s Claire
Nice when she comes ‘round to call
Then masturbate the second she’s not there.”

Wow.  Of course, because both Healy and Bridgers are Christian (contextually), ‘it’s all good’ – NOT. The chorus is the centerpiece:

“Fortunately, I believe, lucky me
Searching for planes in the sea, and that’s irony
Soil just needs water to be, and a seed
So, if we can turn into a tree, can I be the leaves?”

Definitely deserving of its inclusion on 13 Songs That Are Biblical – Sort of, the chorus features a Biblical allusion to Faith being like a mustard seed.  You can argue that Healy desires faith he doesn’t possess, while simultaneously, captures the plight of the gay Christian who is essentially a walking contradiction. Definitely a lot to unpack.  “Jesus Christ 2005 God Bless America” also previously appeared on Awesome Songs That Tickled My Fancy: April 2020.

Day 23: The 1975, Jesus Christ 2005… | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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The 1975 • Notes on a Conditional Form • Interscope • 2020

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🎶 Day 24: The Mars Volta, “Wax Simulacra” 🎶

Day 24 Prompt: A song by a band you wish were still together

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“Am I waiting now? / Does my waiting howl? / Am I waiting now? / Does my waiting howl?” Umm… well… Ah, Day 24 of the 30-Day Song Challenge: [choose] A song by a band you wish were still together.  Getting ambitious and a bit wacky, I return to my glorious days as a The Mars Volta fan, who broke up in 2013.

I know that I probably don’t look like your typical experimental rock/prog-metal enthusiast, but, hey, to quote 2 Chainz, “I’m Different”.  Anyways, I became a fan of the now devoid band (Omar Rodríguez-López and Cedric Bixler-Zavala) beginning with their 2005 album, Frances the Mute. How did I discover them? Well, I was in college at the time (again showing my age) and I remember reading about them and my interest was instantly piqued.

While I could’ve opted for the epic, six-minute gem “The Widow”, instead, I move on to the band’s 2008 album, The Bedlam in Goliath. Here, they absolutely compel on the fourth track, the short but incredibly sweet “Wax Simulacra.” Sweet really doesn’t do “Wax Simulacra” justice to be completely honest. This is one totally badass record.  It’s energetic, intense, loud AF, and totally in-your-face.  Rodríguez-López’s guitars and Bixler-Zavala’s vocals pierce right through your heart, while the drumming by Thomas Pridgen is magnificent (those ‘runs’ though – wow).

The chorus, which appears at the beginning of the opening paragraph is terrific.  However, the best section of the song is arguably the bridge.  It’s not only awesome musically, but the lyrics are pretty intriguing as well. Of course, you could say that about the verses as well. Anyways:

“Bring me the tame
Witness germinates in the child
That word of mouth stutters
Blink at the lonely dice.”

The ending kicks ass too… particularly the raucous soprano saxophone solo. Phew… I totally miss The Mars Volta, sigh.

Day 24: The Mars Volta, Wax Simulacra | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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The Mars Volta • The Bedlam in Goliath • The Mars Volta • 2008 

🎶 Day 25: Mac Miller, “Good News” 🎶

Day 25 Prompt: A song you like by an artist no longer living

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Ah, this is a say day.  Day 25 of the 30-Day Song Challenge prompts to select a song you like by an artist no longer living.  After having to previously lament the breakup of The Mars Volta on Day 24, now the sadness becomes more pronounced because I must choose a song by the deceased. That’s where “Good News”, the crowning achievement of Circles, the posthumous album by Mac Miller comes into play. Miller sadly passed at the age of 26 in 2018.

One of many Jon Brion co-productions on the album, the sound of “Good News” is quite refined, with plucked strings, a subtle, but highly effective, dusty drum groove, soulful electric guitar, and superb, if modest keyboard/synthesizer touches. It’s quite ear-catching, even if it floats, opting for restraint as opposed to being dynamic.

Beyond the backdrop, Miller is on-point; quite reflective. “I spent the whole day in my head / Do a little spring cleanin’,” he sings on the first verse, continuing, “I’m always too busy dreamin’, yeah / Well, maybe I should wake up instead.” On the second verse, he asks, “Why I gotta build something beautiful just too go set in on fire?” Quite deep and incredibly relatable.   The third verse is quite chilling and eerie, with the key lyric, “There’s a whole lot more for me waitin’ on the other side…”  The centerpiece, expectedly, is the chorus:

“Good news, good news, good news             
That’s all they wanna hear
No, they don’t like you when I’m down
But when I’m flying, oh
It make ‘em so uncomfortable
So different, what’s the difference.”

Listening to “Good News” in particular, it’s easy to be saddened knowing that Miller is no longer with us; he had so much to offer.  “Good News” is the total realization of his talent. This gem previously appeared on Awesome Songs That Tickled My Fancy: January 2020 and 11 More Really ‘Good’ Songs… It’s That Simple.  The “Good News” is that Miller’s legacy will endure forever.

Day 25: Mac Miller, Good News | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Mac Miller • Circles • Warner • 2020

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[/nextpage][nextpage title=”Day 26″ desc=”Maluma ‘ADMV'” img=”38268″]

🎶 Day 26: Maluma, “ADMV” 🎶

Day 26 Prompt: A song that makes you want to fall in love

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For Day 26 of the 30-Day Song Challenge, I honestly could’ve gone any number of directions.  The prompt? Choose a song that makes you want to fall in love.  Well, how about “ADMV” (“Amor de Mi Vida”) by the smoking hot Maluma.  What’s the hottest thing about this Colombian superstar? His gorgeous VOICE of course – what did you think I was going to say?

You don’t have to be adept in Spanish to appreciate what your ears are being treated to on “ADMV.” Maluma sings angelically showing off an awesome vocal tone that many male singers worldwide would die to possess. His tone perfectly complements the theme of the song, which is love, specifically “Love of my Life.”

“When our memory fails, and only photographs remain
I forget everything, except that you are mine…”

Spanish to English translations are approximate at best, which is the case with the aforementioned pre-chorus.  That said, the sentiment is clear.  The following chorus, in particular is quite thoughtful, imperfect translations aside:

“When the years weigh on us and the legs no longer walk
Our eyes close and the skin no longer stretches
When the only thing that matters is what we did in life
… You are the love of my life.”

Maluma – “What a man, what a man, what a man, what a mighty good man” – ha-ha! On “ADMV,” he’s quite a man because of such thoughtful, loving lyrics. He’s backed by guitar accompaniment and that’s sufficient.  This is a simple, yet gorgeous ballad; well-written, well-produced (Édgar Barrera “Edge”), and well-performed. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!!  “ADMV” previously appeared on the playlist, 15 ‘A’ Songs Selected with No Rhyme or Reason.

Day 26: Maluma, ADMV | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Maluma, “ADMV” • Sony Latin • 2020

🎶 Day 27: FKA twigs, “Cellophane” 🎶

Day 27 Prompt: A song that breaks your heart

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Question(s): “Didn’t I do it for you? / Why don’t I do it for you? / Why won’t you do it for me / When all I do is for you?” Matters of the heart, ladies and gentlemen – always a superb topic for a memorable song, period.  Furthermore, minimalism itself carries more weight than you might give it credit for.  FKA twigs certainly packed a punch on “Cellophane,” a minimal, alternative/ alt R&B gem from her album, MAGDALENE. 

The ballad, co-written and co-produced by FKA twigs, Michael Uzowuru, and Jeff Kleinman, closes MAGDALENE stunningly. Furthermore, seems like a perfect fit for Day 27 on the 30-Day Song Challenge, which prompts for a song that breaks your heart.

Clearly, FKA twigs simply can’t put her feelings for someone she cared about behind her.  It’s easy to hang on to every colorful note that she sings.  FKA twigs does a little bit of everything from a vocal standpoint, sliding into notes, singing breathily, while fully supporting and belting at other times. It’s a truly complete, haunting, and artistic performance to say the least. What is clear is that the performance is drenched in vulnerability, representing her desire and hope about what appears to be a relationship that didn’t end up working out.  She seems to question her own adequacy, though she shouldn’t.

“And I just want to feel you’re there
And I don’t want to share our love
I try, but I get overwhelmed
All wrapped in cellophane, the feelings that we had.”

I selected “Cellophane” as the 8^th best song on 51 Best Songs of 2019.

Day 27: FKA twigs, Cellophane | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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FKA twigs • MAGDALENE • Young Turks Recordings Ltd. • 2019

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🎶 Day 28: Aretha Franklin, “The Long and Winding Road” 🎶

Day 28 Prompt: A song by an artist whose voice you love

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Aretha Franklin is one of my absolute favorite musicians of all-time. Her voice – nothing short of amazing, angelic, anointed, heaven-sent – you catch my drift! Because Day 28 of the 30-Day Song Challenge requires me to select a song by an artist whose voice I love, I went with ‘The Queen of Soul.’ I was incredibly saddened when the “Respect” icon passed away in 2018 at the age of 76. 

With such a rich catalogue of music, interestingly, some of Franklins’s best songs are actually covers.  Of course, Franklin could sing absolutely any- and everything, so, that’s not surprising when you consider her vocal gifts.

She made her 1972 cover of The Beatles’ classic, “The Long and Winding Road,” truly her own. While The Beatles own the definitive version, Franklin adds mad deep, southern soul, completely transforming it.  It’s one of many gems on an album filled with awesome covers, Young, Gifted and Black (1972).  “The Long and Winding Road” previously appeared on my ‘in remembrance’ playlist, 10 Favorite Soul Classics by Aretha Franklin.

Day 28: Aretha Franklin, The Long…Road | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Aretha Franklin • Young, Gifted and Black • Atlantic • 1972

🎶 Day 29: Elton John, “Circle of Life” 🎶

Day 29 Prompt: A song you remember from your childhood

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“It’s the circle of life / And it moves us all / Through despair and hope / Through faith and love…” “Circle of Life” ranks among the most famous and beloved Walt Disney movie songs of all time – FACTS.  This song featured at the beginning of The Lion King (1994 and 2019) is incredible to the nth degree. I was seven years old when the animated version arrived in all its glory. I also attended the remake, as a *cough* 32-year old… The music was written by the iconic Elton John, while the lyrics were penned by Tim Rice.  In addition to the soundtrack version of “Circle of Life,” John also recorded a memorable version of the record, also appearing on the soundtrack, as well as various compilations, including Diamonds from 2017.

Elton John does a fantastic job singing expressively throughout, but especially on the aforementioned chorus, which continues as follows:

“...‘Til we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle
The circle of life.”

That said, the songwriting, overall, definitely deserves big ups.  Tim Rice shines penning this timeless story, developed on the verses, and capped off on the chorus. “Circle of Life” previously appeared on the playlist, 11 Circular Songs Sure to Keep You Goin ‘Round in Circles.

Day 29: Elton John, Circle of Life | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Elton John • Diamonds • Universal Music Operations Limited • 2017

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🎶 Day 30: Ledisi, “Anything for You” 🎶

Day 30 Prompt: A song that reminds you of yourself

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It wouldn’t be far-fetched to say that Grammy-nominated R&B singer Ledisi (Ledisi Young) has one of the most powerful voices in the game.  For years, Young has been preserving the ‘sanctity’ of old-school, grown-folks R&B.  While this hasn’t made her ‘trendy’ by any means, she is incredibly respected – quite revered.  Young ‘brings the heat’ once more on her soulful single, “Anything for You”.

“Anything for You” is Ledisi at her best, period.  Rex Rideout produces with Young, and as in the past, the results are excellent.  Something about the nostalgia of that gospel-tinged, highly soulful sound, sigh.  The introduction, led by its lazy piano sounds hearkens back to the D’Angelo gem, “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” from 2000. If you’re a lover of neo-soul, you feel like you’ve hit the jackpot here.

Adding to the allure of course is none other than Ledisi, who sings like a beast. Always a powerhouse, she gives us a little bit of everything here.  She exhibits vocal control, but also knows when to ‘let her rip.’  The nuances and the runs are absolutely everything.  The one part of “Anything for You” not touched upon? The songwriting.  Here, Young is willing to do anything for you, best exemplified by the memorable, emotional chorus:

“I’ll do anything for you (I will do anything for you, you)
Heart and soul, I
I’ll do anything for you (You are my life)
My life (One means us two)
Yeah, yeah, I’ll do anything
Anything for you.”

“Anything for You” is Ledisi at her best, period. For those who love vintage, retro-sounding music, this is everything. For those who are dedicated, loyal, hopeless romantics like me, this is definitely a song that remind you of yourself, as the prompt for the 30^th and final day of 30-Day Song challenge.  “Anything for You” fittingly appeared elsewhere: Awesome Songs That Tickled My Fancy: April 2020.

Day 30: Ledisi, Anything for You | 30-Day Song Challenge 🎶

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Ledisi • “Anything for You” • Listen Back Entertainment / BMG Rights Management • 2020