Absolute Favourites

My parents both love classic soul music, and the amount they played it whilst I was in my mum’s belly must have had an impact on me! For me, nothing really beats that classical soulful sound. The guitar solo in the middle is a highlight, and the smooth vocals backed by the rest of the band throughout the rest of the song draws me into the song every time I listen to it.

Spotify data has informed me that this is my most listened to song of all time. I love the autotune on the vocals, and how the lyrics reflect on the past and express hope for the future. The heavier instrumentation in the chorus transitions seamlessly into the beat on the verses. I will never get sick of this song (or this album)!

The pain and heartbreak is so evident in Lauryn Hill’s vocal performance on this song. Something about the melody and the delivery of the lyrics always gives me goosebumps. She is just as talented at rapping as she is singing and so her profound influence on Hip Hop and R&B isn’t surprising. I was also lucky enough to see her perform live at the O2 Arena in December 2018. I have definitely belted this song out during many solo car journeys!

This song is dreamy. The soulful bassline and psychadelic synths appeal exactly to my taste, creating such a smooth and funky feel. Also, the song encompasses the important message of making the most of the life we have, with each chorus ending with the line: “We’ll live with dark, just take the ride”.

Thought I’d end the list on a more up beat note! This is such a feel-good song. Mac Miller’s verses have lots of witty moments and Paak’s soulful vocals compliments him so well. Most of the songs on my absolute favourites playlist are on the more down-tempo side, but this is a song I have always gone when I need something light-hearted and uplifting.