Thanksgiving provides those who celebrate with a time to express gratitude towards the people and things in our lives that we may sometimes take for granted. As busy students, listening to music is often an important part of our daily routines, whether that be the song we play to pump ourselves up before class or jam to with friends on the weekends. Yet, some songs stand out from the background soundtracks to our lives and hold a special place in our hearts. This week’s 13 Beats shares tracks members of The Colgate-Maroon News editorial staff would like to give thanks to. From childhood nostalgia anthems to feel good tunes, this playlist can accompany your upcoming break travels while offering the chance to learn more about a few of the people who help deliver your weekly campus updates.
1. “Silver Lining” – Mt. Joy (2018)
“This song came to me by chance a few years ago as a suggested song that auto-played after my own playlist had finished. I love how the beat transitions between a slower, more soulful tempo and one that is upbeat and intense, filling the listener with emotion. This ballad is one I play almost every day and I find it always matches whatever mood I am in, leaving me hopeful, nostalgic, excited and invigorated all at the same time.” – senior Claire Dodds, multimedia manager.
2. “Green is the Colour – Live BBC Radio Session, 12 May 1969” – Pink Floyd (1969)
“I’m always thankful to find new variations of music I love, and this recording adds depth to a classic by pairing familiar ocean sounds with the song’s already beautiful melody. At Colgate, I’m far from home, but when I listen to this short and sweet track, it feels less so.” – senior Rio Lacey, managing editor.
3. “Ghost of You” – 5 Seconds of Summer (2018)
“5SOS, my favorite boy band of the 2010s and beyond, released this song in 2018 and I’m thankful that it’s been stuck in my head ever since. Their best song (in my opinion) is lyrical, a staple shower song and always puts me in an introspective mood.” – senior Samantha Wotring, editor-in-chief.
4. “Wonderful Tonight” – Eric Clapton (1977)
“This song reminds me of my parents and their relationship because they used to play it a lot when I was growing up.” – sophomore Norah Hendrickson, assistant news editor.
5. “High & Dry” – Radiohead (1995)
“This song reminds me of my dad and my family. Although it doesn’t happen often since I’m away at school, it’s always nice to get everyone together to talk and listen to music, and Thanksgiving is a perfect opportunity for that.” – senior Ryan Stuzin, executive editor.
6. “Let It Happen” – Tame Impala (2015)
“As soon as I hear the artist’s signature drum and synth beat, I am instantly transported to August 2019 when I was fortunate enough to see the track performed live. It was an unforgettable experience that I will always look back on fondly as one of the best concerts I have ever attended. The memories I’ve associated with this song have taught me how music can be a tool for connection and healing.” – senior Heather Holm, special projects manager.
7. “Shower” – Becky G (2014)
“I heard this song for the first time at summer camp when I was 11. It’s simple, but it makes me think of being a kid, running around in the sun feeling light and happy and free.” – senior LJ Coady, senior editor.
8. “The Thing” – Pixies (1990)
‘The Thing” is set during the fictional event that aliens touch down in Las Vegas, and follows the narrator as he quickly forgets his preoccupations and drives down to say hello. Aside from the upbeat track, I’m always glad to think about the question it poses – would I, too, drive toward the unknown when the mundane is disrupted by the extraordinary?” – sophomore Joshua Repp, head arts & features editor.
9. “Sundress” – A$AP Rocky (2022)
“This song has accompanied many of my favorite memories. It’s calm and relaxing sound always puts me in a good mood.” – junior Ian Gisiger, head sports editor.
10. “Helplessly Hoping” — Crosby, Stills & Nash (1969)
“I always find myself playing this song whenever I’m on a plane — especially those long flights home over Thanksgiving Break. Its contemplative lyrics evoke the same sense of warmth and comfort that I feel when surrounded by family and friends during the holiday season.” – senior Ryan Dugdale, editor-in-chief.
11. “Second Hand News” – Fleetwood Mac (1977)
“I’m thankful for this song because it’s a really fun, upbeat song that never fails to put me in an energized mood.” – junior Reade Fenner, head baker’s dozen editor.
12. “Anything” – Adrianne Lenker (2020)
“I am thankful for this song because it has a soothing melody and its lyrics remind me to be grateful for the little things in life and the people around me!” – junior Amanda Krowitz, head commentary editor.
13. “Badlands” – Bruce Springsteen (1978)
“It reminds me of my family and always motivates me when I’m feeling down.” – senior Ellie Weber, copy editor.
