Winter to spring: a playlist in transition

Sasha Haynes, Life & Arts Reporter

After what felt like a longer-than-usual winter, believe it or not, spring is peeking right around the corner. With compounding amounts of work and break only days away, many students may be in dire need of sunny days and an escape. 

From songs of sadness to mellow sounds to joyous tunes, The Daily Texan compiled a list of songs to accompany students through the winter to spring transition.

Winter


“Boredom” by Tyler, The Creator featuring Rex Orange County and Anna of the North

The downside to winter can be the boredom that comes with it. This mellow track reminds listeners to “find some time to do something.” 

“505” by Arctic Monkeys

This song signals a time of loneliness, such as when one is thinking of the idea of returning to someone they love. The line, “but I crumble completely when you cry,” is a haunting reminder of the winter loneliness we have all faced before.

“Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song)” by Billy Joel

“Moving Out” is Billy Joel’s critique on how capitalism can encourage overexertion for little reward. The song ends with a car driving out, seeking freedom beyond starving away. “Moving Out” encourages listeners to never settle for less in a world of economic turmoil. 

In-Between

“willow” by Taylor Swift 

This whimsical song with Taylor Swift’s soft, ethereal voice inspires listeners to become vulnerable and allow acceptance of one’s own personal feelings and struggles. 

“Love Me More” by Mitski

“Love Me More” by Mitski almost transports one back to the ‘80s, with its classical beat one can dance to without a care in the world. The song has hints of joy, but lyrics such as, “How do other people live? I wonder how they keep it up,” and pleading repetitions from the singer, remind listeners of the song’s tragic undertones. 

“Don’t You Worry ‘Bout A Thing” by Stevie Wonder

The groovy instrumental music brings subtle imagery of sunshine and peace. Stevie Wonder pulls listeners away from the hardships of life singing, “Don’t you worry ‘bout a thing.” Despite the single being released in Wonder’s 1973 Innervisions, the tune and its soul still holds up in current times.

Spring

“Sunflower” by Rex Orange County 

“Sunflower” reminds us that though life is never easy, nor painless, a “sunflower still grows at night,” and our troubles will soon be gone. 

“telepatía” by Kali Uchis

Kali Uchis’ “telepatía” portrays the love of a relationship withstanding long distances. The whimsical guitar and dreamy instrumental brings this feeling of love to life. 

“Sunny” by Boney M.

This 1976 hit, from the group that has released hits such as “Rasputin” and “Gotta Go Home,” brings the true energy of spring into full action. The funky beat encapsulates the ‘70s so well, bringing joy and light all around. “Thank you for the sunshine bouquet,” indeed.