arts & culture

This might be one of my favourite intros off this playlist. First, I love the distorted vocal— “woah”—that begins the track. Then suddenly the listener emerges into a spring-sounding setting of birds chirping. This world building evokes such an ethereal moment of engagement; the imagery acts as a lovely reminder of what nature has to offer, both sonically (bird chirps) and visually (sunlight).

4. “Texas Sun” Khruangbin & Leon Bridges

A Khruangbin x Leon Bridges collaboration never misses! I specifically chose to place “Texas Sun” before the transition to the ‘Oldies but Goodies’ section of the soundtrack because Leon’s voice lends itself to soul singers of the 50s/60s. Leon’s monologue moment at 3:09 reveals his character and extends notions of storytelling—an element that he does very well throughout his work.

SCENE 2 : OLDIES BUT GOODIES

5. “Feels Like the Sun” Donnie & Joe Emerson

I recently discovered this duo by finding the song “Baby”—the third track off their 1979 album Dreamin’ Wild. I fell in love with their vocals on “Baby” because of how soft, and emotive they feel. This instrumental track does indeed feel bright and lively.

6. “Sun Is Shining” Bob Marley & The Wailers

Growing up in California, my family raised me on Marley’s music. There is something unique about the specific pairing of reggae and hot, sunny weather.

Threading the themes of changing times and taking chances, I think Bob Marley’s persona undoubtedly presents ideas of rebellion and revolution that are rooted in the desire for change. Springtime conjures a sense of awakening, as does Marley’s music. His sound and identity forever connects to his ethos.

7. “Sunny” Bobby Hebb

Bobby Hebb released his soulful jazz track,“Sunny,” in 1966. Icons such as Marvin Gaye, Wes Montgomergy, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Cher all created their own renditions. I chose Hebb’s for this soundtrack because of the pioneering role he played in the existence and popularization of the song’s transcendence across genres and subgenres. An easy and simple listen that reflects gratitude and love.

8. “Here Comes The Sun” The Beatles

This one is a given. A timeless track. I’ll let the energy of the song speak for itself. Side bar: relating back to Hebb, the 1966 Beatles’ tour included Hebb as an opening act!

9. “You Are The Sunshine Of My Life” Stevie Wonder

Stevie’s sincere disposition creates a sentimental song, worth belting to someone you love. The sunshine metaphor exists as a consistent figurative element to the genre of love songs, and Stevie exemplifies this motif in an explicit, affectionate way.

10 “Everybody Loves The Sunshine - 9th Wonder Remix” Roy Ayers Ubiquity & 9th Wonder

Ayers’ 1976 song holds a significant place in pop culture. While most people are familiar with this original version, I chose the Verve Records remix because of the production by 9th Wonder. Hopefully this track will shift your habitual, typical way of hearing the original, and offer a new perspective to accompany the Ayers sound we already know and adore.

SCENE 3 : BUMP THESE

11.

This has been one of my favourite songs ever since the 2019 release of “Queen & Slim.” My ideal way to listen to this song is in the car—and that setting fits this track’s essence because of the distinct presence of the blue Pontiac Catalina that the main characters ride in the film. Watching the sunset is one of my go-to activities—no matter the season—but when that spring equinox hits, it hits different. This song is your reminder to take a drive, solo or with a loved one, and go catch the Sun—preferably with windows down and speakers loud.

14. “SUN CAME OUT” Gunna

My favourite part of this song is the first part of the chorus: “The sun came out (The sun came out) / I went and bought a drop-top (Yeah) / Party on the block (Party on the block) / Lookin’ like a car lot (Yeah-yeah, ooh).” Anytime anyone mentions a drop top, I’m all for it; it’s a dream to ride in a classic car drop top.

15. “Sunshine”Tom Misch

Tom Misch is so groovy! UK jazz/hip hop/ rap strongly makes me want to travel abroad to explore London’s music scene. Misch’s more recent projects tend to reach audiences more than his earlier work, however, “Sunshine” stands as one of his most fun songs. It’s a bop for sure.

16 “Island In The Sun” Weezer

Play this one after Lil Baby, and keep your speakers bumpin’. Short but sweet, Vince delivers a nice flow over a steady beat. I adore Vince’s love for California; his past two projects really showcase the admiration for his city. My go-to Portland “sundown” spot is council crest park—preferably sitting on the grass and benches during the warmer days. Sunset and sounds—one of the prettiest pairings.

This song is so early 2000s.. “Island In The Sun” draws listeners in with its catchiness, or at least I feel that’s what it did after its release. When I listen to this song, it makes me super grateful that I lived in San Diego for as long as I did, and that experiencing beach days was so easily accessible. I realize much of my listening tendencies rely on the specificity of space—whether it be in the car, at the park watching sunset, or at the beach—I always connect the two entities of sound and space.

To listen to a live debut of this soundtrack tune into PSU’s college radio, KPSU.

WHEN : Every Thursday @ 8-9PM WHERE : https://kpsu.org/ WHO : EZspinz (me!)

Letting the “sunshine” shine on you is so important when attracting metaphysical light and then reflecting that sunshine back into the world. I love this track because of Latto’s expressive attitude toward not letting the bullshit phase her. I listen to this song whenever I need that reminder. A feel good song, for a feel good time(s).