We planted seeds and now that it’s finally spring they’re starting to sprout. For the month of April, Kindergarten contributors compiled their favorite songs to listen to when they’re gardening, on a picnic, or just out in nature in general.
“Everywhere” by Fleetwood Mac
I imagine running through a field of grass, dancing around without a care in the world every time I hear this song. Even though I don’t really get out in nature much, if I’m walking around campus or looking out the car window at the desert landscape around me, once I put on this song I feel much more appreciative of the environment around me. The lyrics, “Something’s happening / happening to me” reminds me of the realization that you’re sprouting, changing into a new you.
“Paprika” by Japanese Breakfast
Yet another song in which I imagine myself spinning in a grassy field while singing the lyrics. Or also imagine sitting on top of a cliff, admiring the view, while this song plays in my headphones after a successful hike to the top. The beauty of the song simply reminds me of the beauty of nature.
“Somewhere Over the Rainbow_What a Wonderful World” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
I don’t think a playlist focused on nature is complete without this soothing mashup. The lyrics of both the songs featured in this track paired with Kamakawiwo’ole’s soft vocals and ukelele makes you feel at peace and appreciative of the world that we live in.
“Far Away” by EASHA
I recently discovered this song, and my brain immediately connected it to nature. Just imagine this! You’re escaping the noisy city, and now time doesn’t feel real. You’re in the passenger seat, windows down, feeling the breeze on your face. You’re looking at the trees and appreciating “the color-changing themes.” At this moment, life takes a pause, and everything is in slow motion.
“Hasta la Raíz” by Natalia Lafourcade
The meaning of this song can change depending on the interpretation of the listener. To me, knowing about the theme for this month, this piece makes me think of the connection between humans and nature. In the chorus, Natalia sings, “I carry you inside, to the root, no matter how much I grow, you’ll always be there” (rough translation), and this can be a message to a significant other, a friend, family, a particular place, or nature itself.
“Mango” by Peach Tree Rascals
This song makes me feel like I’m a character in a movie walking down the sidewalk with a bounce in my step while the introductory credits flash on the screen around me. Daydreaming, soaking up the sun, looking up at the sky with my headphones on. Not a thought in my brain or a worry in my heart. No need to worry about the destination because I’ll find my way there somehow.
“Happy Hawaii” by ABBA
Another escapist song… but quite literal in the way that it tells the story of the desperation to go on a vacation and get away. Maybe the sampled ocean waves in the introduction are meant to mimic the tide pulling the audience right into this song. It sounds like the more relaxing, happy version of ABBA’s “Why Did It Have to Be Me?” and listening to it paints a vivid picture in my mind of the perfect landscape to become attached to.
“Island In The Sun” by Weezer
This is just a given. Of course this song has to make it to the playlist! Besides the yet again reassuring escapism lyrics, I feel like this song omits carefree energy. It’s light, sets the scene for a road trip, an outdoor brunch, a walk on the beach. Or for a dance, like in Aquamarine.
“Radio” by Freak Slug
Winters in NYC are brutal. Which makes the arrival of summer take forever. This song reminds me of summer. Walking around the park with a smoothie and a thousand mosquito bites on your legs. Even when it’s 40 degrees and rainy, Radio just feels so sunny.
“Egyptian Luvr” by Rejjie Snow
Listening to Rejjie Snow always makes me feel like I’m sitting under a shady oak tree. Especially this album, Dear Annie. I really like how catchy this song in particular is. Once I listen to it, it’s bound to be stuck in my head all day. Even when I get back home after a long day.
“This Must Be The Place” by Talking Heads
Feet on the ground, head in the sky. This is just a classic song in general, but it really resonates with me when I think about “belonging” to nature. It’s about wanting to be home, but already being there. That’s how I feel when I’m prancing around outside and finally feel relaxed, free from stress. Plus I just love Talking Heads.
Kindergarten 