If you’re like me, you’ve got an iPod stocked with hundreds of songs and yet still can’t seem to find the perfect track to listen to on shuffle. It’s like having a closet full of clothes with nothing to wear. We yearn for something new. Here are seven of my top music picks for the month of September:
1. Closer (feat. Halsey) – The Chainsmokers
“Closer” is a classic summer track, made for blasting over the car radio with the windows rolled down. Unlike previous works by The Chainsmokers such as “Roses or Don’t Let Me Down” the composition takes a less shrilling sound and is a perfect hybrid of electronic meets R&B. Vocals are performed by Chainsmokers member Andrew Taggert and pop singer Halsey.
2. Sucker for Pain (with Logic, Ty Dolla Sign, & X Ambassador) – Lil Wayne, WizKhalifa, and Imagine Dragons
As soon as Suicide Squad hit theaters, like everyone else I knew, I had to see it and I thoroughly enjoyed it. But that’s a review for another time. The soundtrack debuted on iTunes a few months before the film’s release, including “Sucker for Pain” as one of their singles. A compilation of hit rappers and rock group Imagine Dragons merges a hardcore feel with a creepy sensation. If you’re looking for a song to bring out your inner super-villain, this is the track for you.
3. Brand New Moves – Hey Violet
New to the music scene, Hey Violet’s debut EP “Brand New Moves” is the perfect ode to early 80’s pop riffs and early 2000’s soft spoken vocalists. It’s a great track for getting ready to hit the town with your best friends.
4. Brave Enough (feat Christina Perri) – Lindsey Stirling
I’ve followed Stirling since her early collaborations on YouTube. Her art is a breath of fresh air in today’s music industry. “Brave Enough,” while an upbeat electronic violin masterpiece, is a song of vulnerability thanks to vocals covered by Christina Perri.
5. Cold Water (feat. Justin Bieber & MO) – Major Laser – Covered by Conor Maynard & Alex Aiono
I recently discovered cover artist Conor Maynard on YouTube. Maynard is best known for his R&B style within his covers. “Cold Water,” which is originally sung by Justin Bieber, is a an upbeat dance jam, but Maynard slows it down. Composing a piano cover amongst his own original beats releases a new perspective of love and the vulnerability exposed while in it.
6. Rise – Katy Perry
An anthem for olympians, “Rise” is a personal reminder to be true to yourself even when there are voices of doubt. I hold respect for Perry. Her music continues to call on self-love and empowerment. This track inspires its listeners to rise up (no pun intended) and to own their paths of life.
7. Snapback – Old Dominion
Another car ride anthem, “Snapback” is a fun and flirty tune with a heavy focus on guitar solos. I’m new to the Old Dominion bandwagon, but if you’re looking for a bridge into current country hits, this is the track for you.