CommRadio Weekly Playlist: Aug. 29
“Family Line” - Conan Gray
This might be the song that truly sets Conan Gray apart from his pop-music peers and all of the other Gen Z singer-songwriters who write songs on their bedroom floors and draw influence from Taylor Swift.
The 23-year-old singer-songwriter is from Texas, and “Family Line” is on his second studio album, “Superache.” The song discusses the way that family trauma can affect young people, and the way it has affected him.
Gray has shared previously that his relationship with his parents was never great, and has written about it in other songs, but this song paints a clear picture of it.
Perhaps the best part of this song is its almost haunting bridge, where Gray talks about how many people who have issues with parental figures try to “undo” the things that have happened to them. The lyric, “I was a kid but I wasn’t clueless / (someone who loves you wouldn’t do this)” really leaves a lasting impression.
This is the song that truly separates Gray from his peers, and showcases his abilities as a songwriter really well.
- Izzy Charboneau
“Like a Stone” - Audioslave
Sometimes I crave music of the past, and that’s usually when I turn to my favorite rock hits of the '90s.
This is the ideal song to jam out to because the instrumental is super catchy right from the get-go, and it only gets better when the explosive chorus is added to the rhythm.
Just when you think this song can’t get any better — there’s more. The bridge has no words at first, just an energetic synth packed with power. The melancholy lyrics that follow, paired with the somber tone of the band’s lead singer, Chris Cornell, creates a compelling suspense for the next chorus.
I find this song beautiful because it is sad yet vigorous, and the energy it creates perfectly satisfies my desire for rock music. It has definitely been on repeat for me this week, as it gives me the motivation and zest I need to go about my day.
- Rachel Fisher
“deja vu”- Olivia Rodrigo
As a result of Billy Joel bringing Olivia Rodrigo out at his concert this week, I have had her hit “deja vu” on repeat.
Throughout the peak of “SOUR’s,” popularity “deja vu” always felt like it got overshadowed by the breakout “drivers license” and inescapable “good 4 u.”
But with Joel's friendly reminder, I have reconnected with the track.
“deja vu” has some of Rodrigo's most compelling and clever lyricism. It manages to be both simple and witty. The ability to portray true heartbreak and petty anger simultaneously is beyond impressive.
In fact, it was the lyric “I bet that she knows Billy Joel cause you played her 'Uptown Girl'” that earned her the special guest spot at Joel’s concert.
In addition to the lyrics, the unique instrumental and addicting bridge of “deja vu” makes it one of the most captivating songs in Rodrigo's discography.
- Sophia D’Ovidio
Izzy Charboneau is a second-year majoring in journalism. To contact her, email ijc5186@psu.edu.
Rachel Fisher is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email rlf5481@psu.edu
Sophia D’Ovidio is a second-year majoring in communications. To contact her, email sgd5184@psu.edu.
About the Contributors
Sophia D'Ovidio
First-Year /
Sophia D’Ovidio is a first-year from Allentown, New Jersey. She is now a communications (undecided) major at Penn State University. Sophia intends on pursuing a career in journalism. Sophia writes for the CommRadio Arts department.
Rachel Fisher
2025 /
Rachel Fisher is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. She is the DJ Coordinator of the Arts and Entertainment Department and an involved member, focusing on music and TV news. She is from Ocean, New Jersey, and is interested in singing, food, music, and audio production. Follow her on Instagram @rachelfisherrr_
Isabelle Charboneau
/ Journalism
Izzy Charboneau is a second-year student majoring in digital and print journalism. She is from Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. Izzy is in the news department and the arts and entertainment department of CommRadio. In the arts and entertainment department, she contributes to many listicles, writes reviews, participates in talk shows, and co-hosts a podcast. In the news department, she is on a weekly newscast and writes news stories. To contact her, email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
