With back to school here and summer still hanging on, a girl could go a little crazy during the day. It makes sense then that the iPod has been set to the “folksy” mix. These aren’t truly all folk songs but they are the songs that take me back to the early days of my adulthood when we always had people in our house and there was always music on. It couldn’t be party music every night. Sometimes it was just the six-CD changer on shuffle to provide background for our chatter and laughter. Those were good days. They were relaxing, if not totally carefree days.
I need the music of those days this week, when I’m slammed with the hectic nature of an adulthood that revolves around three spinning tops. Here are more than my usual five, because there are over 85 on that playlist. Fast or slow, each one soothes my tired soul.
Justin Townes Earle, Mamas Eyes:** This kid’s name and lineage means he’s got quite a legacy to live up to. So far, so good. Nothin’ soothes this city girl’s soul like a little country pickin’.
Kristin Andreassen, Crayola Doesn’t Make a Color for Your Eyes: If you read last week’s MVM about Men, this is the song my nephew texted about. He was right. Also, this video is perfect for this back-to-school week.
Moe, New York City: Love. Love. Love.
Joshua Radin, I’d Rather Be With You: Sigh.
Ray LaMontagne, You Are the Best Thing: This isn’t his best, but it’s the one I first heard and now I am in love with every word he sings. This is the music that makes me physically crave red wine and a smokey club. These days, it makes a great beat for stirring, kneading or sauteing.
Amy Winehouse, Tears Dry on Their Own: The lyrics, her incredible voice, the throwback melody all add up to a reminder of what a loss of someone the music world should have known more of.
Eric Hutchinson, Back to Where I Was: Seems a fitting ending. Also, this video reminds me of when I had time and energy to sit in the aforementioned smoky clubs and listen to stuff like this.
**Side note: I never make music recommendations, but even if you don’t like country, listen to the rest of this album. Then buy it. Every song is better than the next and none sound the same.
P.S. Looking for more parenting guidance and tips for self-care? Check out From Chaos to Calm a guided training to help you feel better in this tough season.
