Have you ever wondered what music Colgate University president Brian W. Casey listens to? For this week’s 13 Beats, he has generously offered us a glimpse into the 13 songs in his current heavy rotation, each accompanied by a short blurb written by him. The list consists of a mix of contemporary indie hits and danceable tunes spanning a variety of genres. His choices reflect a positive, down-to-earth and eclectic taste. The most recent release on his list is Doechii’s surprise collaboration with SZA at the end of 2025. Sharp verses with a melodic hook speak on her rise and perseverance against Misogynoir in the music industry. Sub Sub’s song “Past” is a rich and groovy instrumental, while Angus and Julia Stone’s “Chateau” is a folk-pop song floating on its own wavelength. Listening to this playlist might give you some new insight into Casey or help you find your next favorite song. 

1. “Choosing Texas” — Ella Langley (2025)

     I tend not to like country music, but this song is essentially a perfect song. It’s beautifully sung, and like all really good country songs, it has a great story.

2. “I’ll Believe Anything” — Wolf Parade (2005)

      This was on the soundtrack of the Canadian hit “Heated Rivalry” (which we all watched and loved) and made one of the most powerful scenes in that series even more amazing.

3. “Together Again” — Janet Jackson (1997)

      Because I am feeling a Janet Jackson moment coming again in our culture, which is a very good thing.

4. “Delete Ya” — Djo (2025)

        This song not only has a story, but a vibe as well. It somehow has a 70s underground sense, with an 80s overtone.

5. “girl, get up” (Explicit) — Doechii & SZA (2025)

       Doechii might be the most interesting artist out there now, and on this cut, she dives into some sense of anger that is driving. Brace yourself, and dive in.

6. “What Once Was” — Her’s (2017)

      Again, a song that combines 70s underground sounds with an 80s shine, with a melancholiness that just stays with you. Listen to this when you have a long drive.

7. “Past” — Sub Sub (1994)

     Before they became The Doves, this group was “Sub Sub.” This older song is atmospheric and compelling. It should play over the closing credits of your next favorite indie movie.

8. “Casio” — Jungle (2018)

     Jungle has made some of the best music over the past few years. Casio is among their most charming.  

9. “coney island” — Taylor Swift (feat. The National) (2020)

     This is Taylor Swift at her songwriting best. “If I can’t relate to you anymore, then who am I related to?” Her duets with The National somehow make her a better singer as well.

10. “Suzanne (At the Church)” — Mark Ronson & RAYE (2025)

     We all know Suzanne, that person you know who will always be cooler than you, yet you can’t walk away from them. Mark Ronson always produces great songs. This one is among his best, with a real Amy Winehouse-influenced vocal track. 

11. “Chateau” — Angus and Julia Stone (2017)

    This brother and sister duo are smart and interesting. This song is off their amazing album Snow and is another one of those songs that, when you listen to it while driving, makes you think you are starring in your own indie movie.

12. “Black Friday (pretty like the sun) Remix” — Lost Frequencies (feat. Tom Odell) (2024)

      This song proves that electronic music can actually be emotional. The yearning that drives this song makes the slick production values not merely bearable, but moving.

13. “The Walk Home” — Young the Giant (2022)

    It’s commencement season, and I always get nostalgic this time of year. This is a song about nostalgia, but about getting ready for The Next Thing. Play it when you want to be fortified.