Weekly Playlist: 1/27/25

“Shelter from the Storm” - Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan is a hot topic right now, thanks to the recent biopic “A Complete Unknown” being such a smash hit. As a result, It inspired many to revisit Dylan’s work, myself included.

Dylan’s 1975 album “Blood on the Tracks” is one of the most notable works in music history, and features several timeless classics, one of which being “Shelter from the Storm”

This track tells the narrators' story of a relationship with a woman, which began with bliss and lust, but then over time turns south.

There’s been much speculation surrounding the true origin of the song, and the meaning behind the lyrics. Many argue that the story is one of Dylans’ own experiences, while other fans tend to argue that the story is total fiction.

“Blood on the Tracks” was famously written post Dylan’s divorce from his wife Sara, and some suspect the song entails how things unraveled between the two.

What the meaning behind Dylans’ words are, we may never know. However, regardless of whatever the background is or Dylans’ connection with the lyrics, “Shelter from the Storm” is one of the best songs off “Blood on the Tracks” and is worth a listen for everyone. - Sketch Morton

Sketch Morton is a fifth-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email sam7539@psu.edu.

“2008” - Rex Orange County

After several years of releasing five iconic albums full of trending songs, Rex Orange County’s most recent release features one of my new favorites. The diverse tune “2008” which was created in “The Alexander Technique” album is an artistic formation of lyrics acknowledging signs of the times throughout the year 2008 and Alexander O’Connor’s emotions pertaining to growing up.

The nostalgic sentiments of this song expressed themselves through lyrics acknowledging older memorabilia with mentions of CD players and other studio albums such as Ye’s release of “808s & Heartbreaks” and “Paper Trail” by T.I.

As a Rex Orange County enthusiast, I have always been drawn to the melodies that O’Connor comes up with but this new beat alongside the tempo ranges and vocal breaks instantly drew me in. When I am listening to “2008” it can bring out a spectrum of emotions and can feel soothing like a cup of fresh coffee alongside parts that make me want to break out dancing.

This bittersweet alternative song has only been out for shortly over four months after releasing this past September and it has been blasting in my headphones ever since. I plan to trademark this into my collection of songs of the year! - Jessica Goldstein

Jessica Goldstein is a second-year majoring in digital and print journalism. To contact her, email jng5536@psu.edu.

“So High School” - Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift is obviously on repeat in this household, and I’ve been feeling “So High School” recently.

“So High School” details a love making Swift feel like she’s 16 again – watching movies, avoiding waking up parents and friends and playing video games.

Fans speculate the song is about NFL-boyfriend Travis Kelce, specifically when Swift says “You know how to ball, I know Aristotle,” a relationship between an athlete and a writer.

It’s so upbeat and happy, and if you can catch a glimpse of Swift’s performance from “The Eras Tour” when Kelce is there, please watch it.

“So High School” is one of my favorite songs from “The Tortured Poets Department,” and it’s a great way to start the day. – Adrianna Gallucci

Adrianna Gallucci is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, please email amg7989@psu.edu.