Weekly Playlist: Nov. 11

Here, members of the Arts and Entertainment Department will talk about the songs that dominated their playlists during the week and what makes them so good.

"Sunday Morning" - Maroon 5

One of Maroon 5’s most iconic songs, “Sunday Morning” was released in 2002 on the band’s album “Songs About Jane.” It’s a classic feel-good song about love and longing that leaves me wanting to bake cookies for the people I love most and gives me all those warm, fuzzy Sunday feels.

The track perfectly captures the desire to spend a cozy weekend with a loved one, with lyrics such as “Come and rest your bones with me” and “Driving slow on Sunday morning and I never want to leave.” The soulful vibe of the jazz and pop instrumentals creates a relaxing and inviting atmosphere that makes it the perfect track for a lazy Sunday.

Though it gets a bit repetitive at times, the repetition seems to sum up what a Sunday morning is all about — relaxing, going with the flow and feeling content with where you are.

Best listened to while cuddled up in bed with a warm drink, “Sunday Morning” has been my go-to all week long. - Claire Silfies

“Stick Season” - Noah Kahan

“Stick Season” was the anthem for me and my friends the summer after my senior year of high school. We’d blast Noah Kahan’s 2022 album out the car windows as we drove aimlessly along our small town’s roads. We climbed a random mountain in Vermont with “Stick Season” blasting from a handheld speaker.

Fortunately, my family has embraced my love for the folk artist. I was able to see him in concert with my mom and sister, who have both become avid fans. “Stick Season” is always playing on the Sonos at my house. I think even my dad has become a fan.

As the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving tend to be a mad rush here at college, with everyone trying to finish projects and assignments before the big break, this music can fill a much-needed role. With all these assignments, you need some great background music and fortunately, all of Noah Kahan’s songs fit this criteria.

Every time I listen to his songs, they sound like beautiful mumbles with the chords combining in unison to the humane storytelling of the murmured words. Each time I listen, I’m able to decipher more words of the story, which makes his entire album a perfect playlist for a long day studying away. - Sarah Taylor

“ROCKMAN” - Mk.gee

Mk.gee is an artist that my good friend recently recommended to me, and I’m so glad he did. Mk.gee has really started to gain some popularity this year after the release of his album “Two Star & The Dream Police.” He even made an appearance not long ago on SNL.

“ROCKMAN” is Mk.gee’s most recent single and it sounds amazing. Immediately noticeable is the heavy influence from The Police. All of Mk.gee’s music features extremely impressive guitar playing, and this song is the perfect example.

It seems to be a trend lately that artists are trying to imitate the sound of the 80s. While this is necessarily a bad thing, the outcome is often cheesy or just not good. Mk.gee’s “ROCKMAN” however, is an excellent 80s-inspired tune.

This song feels great to listen to and doesn’t get old after multiple listens. I look forward to more music like this from Mk.gee. - Noah Vickery

“Haunted (Taylor’s Version)” - Taylor Swift

There has always been a rhythm that I would hear in television shows, but I could never find a song where this beat was present.

One day when I was listening to all of Taylor Swift’s albums on shuffle, “Haunted” came on. When it started playing, the rhythm had matched exactly what I had been looking for.

The lyrics are about Swift waking up and realizing someone she is in love with is slowly fading away.

She originally released this song in 2010 but re-recorded it in 2023. Personally, I am a bigger fan of the re-recorded version.

When I hear the lyrics put in front of this rhythm, I can immediately feel the emotion that Swift is trying to express.

This song will be played repeatedly on my playlist for a long time. - Ashley Mascaro

“Better Off” - Deela

Featured as the closing track on her recently released EP “Good Girl No Dey Play,” Deela’s “Better Off” is an addictive outro. Real and reflective, the song’s lyrics will definitely stick in your head.

Starting strong with her lyrics “Why you only ever think of me only when you need something, our relationship don’t feel right” Her chorus cues in retaliation, “I’m better off without you tho.”

It is a self-assuring song embodying the freedom and relief that come with cutting toxic ties. Deela’s lyrics, like “I know it’s give or take, that’s how life’s set up, huh? You give and give, not take—it’s time I let you go,” emphasize the strength it takes to move forward.

The line “I’d rather be alone” highlights confidence and reinforces that letting go can lead to peace. It’s something many can relate to, whether it’s about any troubling relationship.

One of my favorite key parts of the song is the repeated adlib “why, why, why, why, why,” a highlight echoing the confusion and frustration tied to the experiences.

Don’t miss Deela’s new EP for more track like this one. - Kakii Kibua

Claire Silfies is a first-year majoring in public relations. To contact her, email cms9215@psu.edu.

Sarah Taylor is a second-year majoring in telecommunications. To contact her, email smt6314@psu.edu.

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

Ashley Mascaro is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email aem6398@psu.edu.

Kakii Kibua is a third-year majoring in communications. To contact her, email kxk5866@psu.edu.