CommRadio Weekly Playlist: 9/21/25

‘New York’ — Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) [Original London Cast Recording]

This week I’ve been on a big musical kick, and a new favorite of mine is New York from Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York).

The track kicks off the show with so much energy and charm that it’s impossible not to get hooked right away.

It’s performed by Sam Tutty and Dujonna Gift, the only two stars of the musical, whose chemistry is infectious. Tutty’s smooth, buttery voice has a warmth that pulls you in, while Gift brings a comedic vibrancy that sets the perfect tone for the quirky, heartfelt story about to unfold.

What I love most about New York is how fun and silly it feels while still capturing the excitement of possibility. It’s a track that makes me want to dance, smile and maybe even book a flight to New York myself.

For me, this song is pure musical theater magic. — Madison Rush

Madison Rush is a fourth-year majoring in public relations. To contact her, email mkr5957@psu.edu.

‘CALL ME’ — greek

One of my favorite parts of scrolling TikTok lately has been discovering new music. My For You page has been serving up some great tracks from artists I’d never heard of before.

The song CALL ME recently popped up on my feed, and it instantly caught my attention. It has an addictive alternative R&B sound that feels like something I’d been searching for.

Naturally, I looked into the artist behind the track — greek. I found out he released an album this year featuring several other songs with a similar vibe.

There’s something especially satisfying about stumbling upon a song online that not many people know yet. I’ve already shared it with friends I knew would appreciate it. Always keep an eye out for new music — you never know what gem might pop up next. — Noah Vickery

Noah Vickery is a second-year majoring in public relations. To contact him, email nmv5292@psu.edu.

‘The Subway’ — Chappell Roan

Long awaited by many, The Subway was finally released this August by Chappell Roan. Personally, I haven’t been listening to much else since.

It’s an emotional, beautifully crafted song — and the perfect one to scream with your friends. For my roommates and me, yelling the final verses from our patio has become a nightly routine.

The Subway is the kind of track that makes you want to sing. I didn’t immediately see the appeal when I first heard it, but after my friends forced it into our daily rotation, it’s grown into one of my favorites.

The song begins slow, emotional and reflective, before building into the catchy chorus most listeners would recognize.

For me, The Subway will always bring back memories of warm weather and the first few weeks of school. — Lucy Bielecki

Lucy Bielecki is a third-year majoring in telecommunications. To contact her, email lpb5533@psu.edu.

‘You Get What You Give’ — New Radicals

In the latest edition of songs I listen to while walking around campus, we have this one. It popped up on my TikTok For You page about a week ago, and it’s been stuck in my head ever since.

I’ve always been aware of the song and thought it was solid, but lately I’ve started to appreciate aspects I used to overlook.

It’s one of the most positive and uplifting songs I’ve ever listened to. It feels like the type of track a movie character would hear at the exact moment they’re about to give up — and it convinces them to keep going.

The song is so unapologetically positive that it might feel off-putting to some, but for me, it’s the perfect dose of optimism. That’s why it’s been a constant on my playlist lately. — Nikolai Wagner

Nikolai Wagner is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To email him, contact njw5648@psu.edu.

‘La Cura’ — Frankie Ruiz

There’s nothing I love more than cooking a quality dinner after a long day of classes and work. I’d argue the music in the background plays a pivotal role in how the meal turns out.

Lately, I’ve been playing Spanish salsa music any chance I get. I’ve even been known to dance around the kitchen with my Honduran roommate, Miguel.

This week, we’ve mainly been listening to Frankie Ruiz, one of the most famous salsa artists. His song La Cura has been my personal favorite. The track is featured on the 2008 album El Papa de la Salsa, a fitting name for Ruiz.

Although I have some trouble understanding the Spanish lyrics, the rhythm and instruments make it hard not to get up and dance. The trumpets are crystal clear and drive the song forward. Ruiz’s nasally, distinctive voice pairs nicely with the complex drums in the background.

I highly recommend checking out La Cura and other songs by Frankie Ruiz. — Matthew Peters

Matthew Peters is a fourth-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, please email mbp5830@psu.edu.