Ode to Spring: A Playlist

Oh, sweet spring! The smell of flowers and color returning to the world- hope for the season! Here are songs that remind me of the sun filtering through the blinds and laying softly on your cheeks, of the brisk wind, and of life-renewing after a dormant winter. 

“The Only Living Boy In New York”- Simon & Garfunkel

Simon and Garfunkel’s music has always reminded me of comfort and peace. The soft guitar melodies paired with Paul Simon’s sweet voice bring forth visions of a sunny spring day. This particular song portrays so wonderfully the feeling of a blissful day and having “nothing to do but smile.” I think it is a lovely comparison with the spring season.

“Mrs. Morgan”- The Go-Betweens

The upbeat melodies and drumbeat of this song make me think of dancing around the kitchen making breakfast on a spring morning. The lyrics also go well with the transition into spring, as he describes someone who “never wanted to see the rain.” 

“You You You You You”- The 6ths

This song, from the soundtrack of Pieces of April, is a sweet account of falling in love with someone. The singer’s lovely voice is accompanied by simple guitar chords, making a dreamy sound. She compares falling for someone to the start of the spring season when the “flowers bloom in May.”

“Strawberry”- Paul Baribeau

This song is another sweet love song, one of my favorites of all time. Baribeau compares his lover to many beautiful things, such as strawberries and the ocean. He uses magnificent imagery and descriptions to portray the feeling of being deeply in love with someone and the admiration that comes with it. 

“Think of Rain”- Margo Guryan

Guryan’s calm voice reminds me of a running stream through a field of flowers. This song in particular radiates peace and calm, as she reminisces on a relationship. The soft, humming melody illuminates the ears and reminds one of a Mayflower.

“There’s Too Much Love”- Belle and Sebastian

Belle and Sebastian’s music contains upbeat guitar melodies and Murdoch’s bright voice, comparable to Simon and Garfunkel in some ways. This song in particular reminds me of a hopeful spring day, as he sings about how much love there is in the world.

“This Will Be Our Year”- Dear Nora

Since spring is often associated with hope and new beginnings, I thought this song would be perfect to include. Originally a song by The Zombies, this song is about finally feeling hope after a period of sadness. The singer describes feeling hopeful about the year to come after the “darkness [had] gone.”

“Right Down The Line”- Gerry Rafferty

This is one of my favorite “feel-good” songs of all time. It’s another song about being in love, and someone sticking by your side. The smooth guitar and beat make it a perfect song to dance to, and it always puts me in a great mood.