As the snow melts and the cold subsides, it is common for BCA students to think that the vibrant season of spring is the ideal chance for new beginnings and fresh starts. However, in reality, spring may be the hardest months to stay motivated for students, even more than winter. It’s right in the middle of the school year, making it easy to lose inspiration. Plus, the sunny weather may actually put more pressure on students and make them feel like they need to suddenly improve and have academic comebacks. However, listening to positive music can help BCA students embrace this seasonal change and keep them refreshed.

“As the end of the school year approaches, music is a good way to make studying less mundane and more enjoyable,” said one sophomore.

The following playlist, composed of seven songs with genres that include indie, R&B, and jazz, can relieve some of that stress during the spring semester. For optimal listening, I recommend listening in order. You can also listen along on Spotify or Youtube. Enjoy!

• Lauren – Men I Trust

  

This breezy 2016 single by Canadian indie pop band Men I Trust resembles the wind on a cool spring day. Its light, toned-down nature makes it fitting for quiet bus rides to and from school, or just when you need some calming alone time. Watching the film-like music video, which depicts a bike ride through a lush green forest, may also give you some peace of mind.

• Show Me the Way (feat. Raphael Saadiq) – Earth, Wind and Fire

Raphael Saadiq joins classic R&B group Earth, Wind and Fire for this groovy medium-tempo track included in the group’s 2005 Illumination album. The song’s fresh, upbeat melodies and sentimental lyrics make it a fun pick-me-up for when you’re feeling a little discouraged.

• Tokai – Taeko Ohnuki

Japanese singer and songwriter Taeko Ohnuki presents a relaxed, easy-listening song that is just as sunny as the title of the 1977 album it’s in, Sunshower. This track is representative of Ohnuki, who was influential during the 1970s Japanese city pop movement. If you enjoy J-pop, smooth jazz, or city pop, this song, which is a hybrid of all, is definitely for you. Even if you don’t, Onuki’s clear, unpretentious voice is perfect for bringing some positive energy to your day.

• Mayday (Feat. Joy) – Crush

Korean R&B singer Crush collaborates with K-pop idol Joy in this 2020 single that wholly complements the radiant mood of spring. Crush’s soothing, melodic voice, combined with a memorable, rhythmic accompaniment, will surely give you a boost of energy.

• Lovefool – The Cardigans

The hit song “Lovefool” by Swedish pop rock band, The Cardigans, has become popular

yet again after being originally released in 1996. The straightforward lyrics and evocative harmonies give the song a pure, unique charm that makes it timeless. Listening, or even singing along to this song is great for taking your thoughts off other sources of stress.

• Ditto – NewJeans

  

This standalone single by K-pop sensation NewJeans perfectly embodies the dreamy, wistful atmosphere of spring. Despite their recent debut in 2022, their catchy songs and aesthetically pleasing retro concepts have already made them quite popular. “Ditto” in particular presents a mellow tune that is nostalgic yet simple. This makes it perfect for clearing your mind when there are too many thoughts rushing through your head.

• You Must Believe In Spring – Bill Evans

This sentimental song by jazz pianist Bill Evans from his 1981 album of the same name suggests the significance of spring. Perhaps Evans is trying to reassure listeners by saying that even the sadness that can accompany spring will eventually come to an end. Whatever the title means, the quaint, somewhat melancholy tunes of Evans’s piano playing may resonate with you when you’re having your own negative thoughts.

Though this playlist was only composed of seven songs, I hope you discovered a new artist or song that you like. To go even further, I also hope this article served as a reminder that it’s okay not to be okay, even during such a bright season like spring.