CommRadio Weekly Playlist: Jan. 23

Story posted January 31, 2023 in Arts & Entertainment by CommRadio Arts & Entertainment Department.

Here, members of the Arts and Entertainment Department will talk about the songs that dominated their playlists during the week and what makes them so good.

“It’s My Life" - Bon Jovi

Don’t fact-check me on this, but I believe the saying goes, death, taxes and me not shutting up about being from New Jersey.

It’s been a bit of a stale period for music; with albums like “Midnights” and “SOS” being overplayed in my earbuds, I have resorted back to some of the oldies, which have led me to my new music hyper fixation.

“It’s My Life” by Bon Jovi is such a sick song; from the synth instrumental to the spirited lyrics, this track is just going to do it for me every time. Whether I need a pump-up, am upset over something, am stressed or am even in a good mood, “It’s My Life” is going to do it every time.

References like “Tommy and Gina who never backed down,” the names from the iconic “Livin’ On A Prayer,” or “like Frankie said I did it My Way,” an homage to fellow New Jersian Frank Sinatra make the powerful, motivating lyrics hit even harder.

I have developed a dependency on this song to get anything done, so I’m sure I’ll be sick of it soon. But then I’ll have the “Glee” mashup “It’s My Life/Confessions Part II” (which, yes, outperformed “It’s My Life” on the charts) to fill that void, so don’t worry. - Sophia D’Ovidio

“Stick Season” - Noah Kahan

Even during this snowy and gloomy week, I can’t seem to turn this song off. “Stick Season” perfectly encapsulates summer vibes with a smooth tempo, emotional lyrics, and a catchy chorus.

Noah Kahan’s voice shares heartbreak through an unforgettable beat. Throughout the song, a banjo plays which adds an influence of summer and reminds me of a time with warmer weather. All the elements work perfectly with Kahan’s vocals and overall feeling the song gives to the listener.

The chorus, which I can’t seem to get out of my head, although it is sad when thinking about the words, is upbeat and exciting. My favorite lyrics are: “No, I am no longer funny 'cause I miss the way you laugh once called me forever now you still can't call me back”.

Whether I’m singing “Stick Season” in my head or listening to it with headphones, as I doodly bop around campus and complete errands Kahan's song constantly plays. - Natalie Simone

“Jackie Brown” - Brent Faiyez

Is it even possible to overplay this track? Listening to “Jackie Brown” hits like the first time I did last summer.

Needless to say, as I let Spotify choose my musical fate on my way to class, the algorithm struck gold when it landed on this track.

This song is arguably one of the best on Brent Faiyez’s “Wasteland,” and can absolutely compete with “All Mine',' both the original version–which is in his top five songs on Spotify – and the Jersey Club remix released last week.

Even though the arrangement is pretty dynamic, there is a striking balance between vocals and the background music in the track, which makes it even more appealing to the ear.

Considering I was hooked to this track last summer, it brings me back to warmer days, which I continue to long for as Happy Valley hits lows in the 20s and teens.

Until the winter is over, “Jackie Brown” will be the closest to warm weather I’ll get for now. - Abigail Chachoute

“Closer To You” - Carly Pearce

It is no secret that State College’s weather has been gloomy and cold this week. In themes like these, I always find myself listening to upbeat and fun songs that remind me of happy days and warmer weather.

“Closer To You” by Carly Pearce is a perfect example of a song that makes me feel like it is a sunny spring day and it instantly puts me in a good mood.

Released in late 2018, “Closer To You” was the first single off Pearce’s second studio album. Written by Hillary Lindsey, Gordie Sampson and Troy Verges, the song describes Pearce missing her partner and wanting to be with them for as much time as possible. She even suggests running away in the middle of the night just so they can be alone without the pressures of the world.

As a self-proclaimed country music connoisseur, I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that legendary songwriter and producer Michael Busbee, known professionally as Busbee, lended his talents to the production of this song.

Staying true to his skills in the world of country music, Busbee ensured that the song has a very evident guitar throughout. Additionally, the pacing of the lyrics keeps the song lighthearted and electric without leaning too much into the “pop” side of country-pop music. - Rachel Newnam

“Eenie Meenie” - Sean Kingston (feat. Justin Beiber)

Nothing gets me pumped for the gym quite like listening to sixteen-year-old Justin Bieber singing “catch a bad chick by her toe.”

“Eenie Meenie” the 2010 classic by Sean Kingston featuring Justin Bieber is an absolute banger.

I can’t lie this song is perfect for in the car, at the gym, or even trying to impress a bad chick. The potential is endless.

More than that though, this song is so relatable. With lyrics like, “She’s indecisive She can’t decide” and “You can’t make up your mind,” I feel totally seen by Kingston.

This song features a nostalgic feel and launches me back to the elementary school days where my only worry was having Bieber fever.

Most definitely would recommend listening to this song for a pick me up if you’re ever having a bad day or just want to strut around campus like a queen. - Savannah Swartz

Sophia D’Ovidio is a second-year majoring in digital and print journalism. To contact her, email sgd5184@psu.edu.

Natalie Simone is a first-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email nvs5790@psu.edu. 

Abigail Chachoute is a second-year majoring in journalism. To contact her, email axc6070@psu.edu. 

Rachel Newnam is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email ren5102@psu.edu.

Savannah Swartz is a second-year communications major. To contact her, email at sms9072@psu.edu.