Dick Clark said, “music is the soundtrack of your life.” Therefore, everyone needs a playlist to get them through this new semester! Whether it’s the highs or lows, good times or the hard weeks, whatever it is, it should be set to music. So here’s a playlist that anyone can use to make it through this semester year with a bit of background about each song.

When you need a pick-me-up for midterms/finals week-

“Watermelon Sugar” — Harry Styles: This latest Styles song rose to popularity as soon as its release. With its upbeat rhythm and melody, the song just makes people dance. It’s a perfect pick-me-up for when you’re stressed since it’s easy to just let go and get lost in the song.

“High Hopes” — Panic! At The Disco: Yes, the song is very overplayed, but everyone seems to still sing along to it. It’s a song that not only is energetic, but also has a good meaning behind it to keep going and never give up. Which may be the perfect motto for midterms and/or finals week.

“I’m Still Standing” — Elton John:  Another song that has a great meaning behind it, plus, who doesn’t love some older hits? Some people may only know this song from the cover that played in the movie “Sing,” but the original is so much better. It’s another upbeat song and after the music video and Tiktok trend, it now even has its own dance trend.

“Do It All The Time” — I Don’t Know How But They Found Me: This song is just an absolute bop. Most people have no clue what the song is at all, but be assured it has this ‘80s beat mixed with modern music, and it makes for a new sound. It’s another song you can dance around to, and it just lifts your mood immediately.

For the party nights-

“Bud Like You” — AJR: A song all about hanging with friends and just being thankful for the people around you, perfect for a party night with friends. Not to mention AJR songs are addicting and get everyone to sing along.

“Bailando” — Enrique Iglesias, Descemer Bueno, and Gente De Zona: Granted, it’s a song that’s often in Spanish but this is probably one of the most danceable songs out there. It’s a perfect party song due to the classic Latin beat.

“Better Now” — Post Malone: This is one of the songs Malone blew up with. He’s one of the most popular artists out there right now, so it’ll be a song that everyone knows for sure. Not to mention, they seem to play it at every homecoming and prom ever and people always get hyped.

“Red Solo Cup” — Toby Keith: This one’s pretty self-explanatory. It’s literally considered the definitive party song. While it is a country song, it can at least get a laugh out of people while others might actually enjoy the song. Either way, it’s an experience for everyone.

For the mental breakdowns-

“Happier” — Marshmello and Bastille: While a title called “Happier” sounds happy, this song is far from that. It’s all about wanting to change and be happier when you’re at your low. Plus the music video is cry-worthy, so it’ll just put you through all the feelings.

“Learn To Let Go” —- Welshly Arms: This is my personal favorite mental breakdown song. It’s all about letting go and moving on, and it’s a song you can scream from the rooftops. The song hits you right in the heart and allows you to go through all the motions.

“Never Bloom Again” — Waterparks: This sad song will let you soak in all the problems in your life. While it mostly deals with lost love, it still is a hard-hitting one with relatable lyrics. Its soft vibes will let you sulk even further, which is sometimes what you need.

“the broken hearts club” — gnash: Another sad love song. It’s perfect for if your mental breakdown has to do with love. No joke, this is the ideal sad love song. The vocals are outstanding and will let you rest your head.

When you can’t fall asleep-

“Let Me Down Slowly” — Alec Benjamin: The key to falling asleep is soft, calming music. Benjamin’s vocals are so quiet and calming on top of the mellow sound. It leads the way to relaxation.

“Lemon Boy” — Cavetown: Cavetown’s vocals are also soothing. The indie song provides listeners with a story to listen to and fall asleep to.

“Lost Boy” — Ruth B.: Another song with a story, Lost Boy uses piano only to create a warm environment and dulcet tone. Not only is it a great song but it sticks with the soothing nature that you need in a sleeping playlist.

“ilomilo” — Billie Eilish: Eilish’s voice is probably the softest out there, so it’s perfect for nighttime. Not to mention, the song can let you explore your thoughts if you need to get things out of your mind to be able to sleep. It’s good for figuring out what’s keeping you awake.

Hype songs to start off your day-

“Juice” — Lizzo: This one is a must, after all, Lizzo is the hype artist. She’s the queen of self confidence and will definitely get you hype about yourself and life in general.

“Parents” — YUNGBLUD: YUNGBLUD is one of those artists who isn’t afraid to tell the truth about the world. He talks about how parents aren’t always right and how we’re on track to change the world for the better. It’s definitely a song to inspire and also to get frustrations out.

“Born This Way” — Lady Gaga: A classic hype song, this one inspires you to be yourself and be proud of who you are, no matter what. Gaga’s anthem has been a specific anthem to the LGBTQ community, but it’s such a hype song that it can inspire everyone.

“Burnin’ Up” — Jonas Brothers: One phrase makes this song so energetic, “RED DRESS.” It’s the song of most of our childhoods, so it’s not only a hype song but also a throwback. It’ll take you back to the easier times in life. It’s just a song you can sing out in the morning, especially because I’m sure you know every lyric.