New music for a new perspective on the new school year

Bring it on

College students spend an inordinate amount of time listening to music. Whether it be with their friends, walking to class, at music festivals, in clubs, bars, classrooms, movies we are constantly flooded with different music.

It says so much about a person, but it also speaks directly to people. Through lyrics, beats, instrumentals, and more, music communicates to all of us.  What is less considered is how we all subconsciously draw inspiration, connection, and feeling through the music we choose to listen to.

Personally, my music choices are a bit strange, but they have definitely shaped who I am today – they are the reason that I am distinctly me. I would like to share some of my favorite songs as a way of sharing my outlook on life. Incorporating some new music into your routine could have some unique effects on your mindset- or give you some new jams for a great first semester!

I’m on Fire: Bruce Springsteen

The Boss, and a great song to light you up before a work out, a big test, a first day, or truly anything. A classic.

Let Me Be: The Turtles

Softer, more folky rock, think Beatles and the Beach Boys. I love this song because its all about being whoever you wish to be, in that specific moment. In your 20’s there is a whole push to find who you are without any respect to the fact that people change. “I am who I am and that’s all I ever can be”; this one of my favorite song quotes and I use it as a source of inspiration to follow what I believe to be right. The only way you can know what your true beliefs are is by testing them and staying true to them. If you notice a belief is not working for you anymore, you have the freedom to shift and change your mind!

Shy Guy: The Guess Who

The title says a lot; it’s about a shy who finds a girl who he can be himself around. It’s a feel good song about being yourself, and finding those you can be yourself around.

Variety Is The Spice of Life: The Doors

Jim Morrison was originally a poet, and his lyrics for his music portray this. Morrison was even buried in Le Pére Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, one of the largest “collections” of the talented deceased. Again, the title says a lot about the song, keep your life spicy and don’t allow a routine to be a rut.

Before You Accuse Me: Eric Clapton

I love this song because it makes me reflect on the times I have judged others, and remembering to first check my own behavior before. Mr. Clapton reminds us of this important lesson all while keeping great instrumentals and killer vocals.

Luxury: The Rolling Stones

In college, especially at USC, everyone is very career motivated, and almost everyone has the desire to be successful and make money. I love this song because it speaks to the “grind” of living a life with luxury in mind. It reminds me that most things in life are not about money.

Ohio: Crosby, Stills, Nash

A legendary band, with many amazing songs. But I use this song to put on my “focus face”, no matter the situation. It has a way of preparing me for a good workout or interview.

As a college student, we can all admit to being lost. These fours year are a time to grow up and figure out what you want to do with your life and your time until you die. It is a tad morbid and highly stressful. We all have different methods with cooping with said stress, and I believe almost all college students find a certain refugee in music. If you’re looking for a pick up, an inspiration, or a reason to get up and get out there, consider mixing up your music and exploring new styles.

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University of South Carolina