Weekly Playlist: 4/1/25

“The Giver” - Chappell Roan

Chappell Roan has finally dropped a new single, titled “The Giver,” after her viral rise to fame for her critically acclaimed album, “The Rise and Fall of A Midwest Princess.”

The track combines traditional country instrumentation with modern pop elements, delivering a playful and empowering sapphic anthem that celebrates female sexuality.

There is no denying Roan’s remarkable vocals, effortlessly shifting between smooth, sultry tones and bold, assertive delivery. Her voice carries a similar power and southern twang to that of Dolly Parton, creating an authentic feel with country warmth.

The rhythm is undeniably danceable, with a vibrant energy that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Additionally, the inclusion of the countrymen's sample singing, “She gets the job done,” is the cherry on top.

In “The Giver,” Roan shows her evolution as an artist, confidently blending genres and celebrating individuality, making it clear that she is here to stay. - Allison Curley

Allison Curley is a second-year majoring in digital and print journalism. To contact her, email amc9204@psu.edu.

“The Very First Night (Taylor’s Version)” - Taylor Swift

Unfortunately, since the weather still can’t decide whether it’s winter or summer, I’ve decided to pick a song that, whatever mood I’m in, I just can’t skip. That is “The Very First Night (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift.

She did not release this on the original “Red” album back in 2012. Thankfully, this song was released from the vault in 2021 in Red (Taylor’s Version). I believe it is a perfect “From The Vault” song because of the way the song gets out of the gate.

The music is upbeat and the tempo is at the perfect speed to sing along to. The first lyrics of the song are “I wish I could fly,” and the song makes you feel that way. While it does take some time to get into the meat of the song, the guitar strums evoke a powerful feeling.

The first lead-up lasts 17 seconds, with just lyrics and guitar. Then, the bass drum builds up suspense. The rest of the drums kick in at around 33 seconds. At 48 seconds, all the other instruments start playing, and it truly feels like flying.

“The Very First Night (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift is an amazing song to scream at the top of your lungs with your friends or vibe out to while doing homework. - Jack Harrison

Jack Harrison is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email jkh6603@psu.edu.

“I Know The End” - Phoebe Bridgers

Recently, I was completing the three-hour journey from my parents’ house back to State College while listening to my extensive travel playlist. I was driving alone through Lancaster, Pa., when “I Know The End” came on shuffle.

It was nighttime, and something about the way the darkness was illuminated only by the headlights of other cars in addition to the feelings of rural isolation that Lancaster tends to evoke meshed perfectly with the song to create the most somber and surreal atmosphere.

Bridgers’ voice flutters softly above the peaceful and uneasy instrumental in the first section of the song. It somehow manages to convey both feelings of claustrophobia and freedom as the subject quietly processes the world’s impending doom.

The final verse culminates in one of the most climactic build-ups I’ve ever heard in a song. It’s a truly visceral experience from beginning to end, and it’s perfectly fitting as the final track on its album, Punisher. - Megan Schmotzer

Megan Schmotzer is a third-year majoring in media studies. To contact her, email mls7350@psu.edu.