New year, new playlist

By Morgan Carrigan

These are my top five songs that need to be added to your playlist to start off the new year. Jam to these songs on the way to class or while you’re running on the treadmill for an instant mood boost.

“Angels” by Chance the Rapper featuring Saba

This is Chance the Rapper’s year. I see a lot of potential in him to become successful. He is honest when he raps, and his creativity oozes out of every track. He has multiple successful songs under his belt and I think “Angels” is one of them. In the song, the Chicago native raps about his city and gun violence. It has a solid connection to our area and pairs with a catchy beat. Although it came out late last year, I highly suggest adding this tune to your gym or an upbeat party playlist.

“Panic Cord” by G Frsh

This tune is currently my favorite. Although it doesn’t have many lyrics, it offers a fresh beat that is extremely catchy. This is no doubt a tune to bump in your headphones to instantly better your mood. I highly recommend you put this feel-good song at the top of your playlist to either start or end your day.

“What a Year” by Big Sean featuring Pharrell Williams

Big Sean reflects on 2015 in his latest tune “What a Year.” He raps about the success of his album “Dark Sky Paradise” which sold more than 350,000 copies in the U.S. as well as his breakup from pop sweetheart Ariana Grande. Adding Pharell to this track was genius, as his unique flare is a perfect pair to Big Sean’s lyrics. It is a perfect to start the new year with a reflection of the last.

“Stay” by Kygo featuring Maty Noyes

Also released in 2015, “Stay” by Kygo is very underrated. It is an electric tune that is very upbeat. Kygo is extremely talented and it’s blaringly obvious in this track. He is another artist who is set to have a big year in 2016, so be sure to watch out for him. In the meantime, put this song on your playlist for a definite crowd-pleaser.

“$ave Dat Money” by Lil Dicky featuring Fetty Wap and Rich Homie Quan

Lil Dicky released this song as the first single on his debut album “Professional Rapper.” Saving money is undeniably a resolution in 2016, but also for its unique rap. Usually rappers like to brag on about how they blow their money on their lavish lifestyles, but Lil Dicky went in the opposite direction. In the video, Lil Dicky knocks on doors asking to use homes to record his video to save money. The song and video are hilarious and really make you think about spending your money wisely.