Do you like listening to music? It might sound like a silly question, because honestly — who doesn’t? There are so many incredible artists out there, countless genres to explore, and upbeat rhythms that instantly lift your mood. What’s not to love? Personally, music has always been like a huge part of my life. I listen to music every day. For those who are curious, let’s take a little dive into my Spotify playlist.

A person’s playlist can say so much about them. I think we become our most honest selves when no one else is around. My Spotify playlist is pretty simple. Of course it changes from time to time, but not drastically. Most of the time, I’m just completely obsessed with five songs, playing them on repeat until I’ve memorized every lyric. I don’t have a “favorite” artist and honestly, I find that freeing. It usually just depends on the song. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve listened to “Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cirus, trying to feel every bit of emotion in the lyrics, or nodding my head to the amazing beat of “Midnight Sun” by Zara Larsson. These are also the songs I attempt to sing along to — to only fail miserably.

 Most of the songs in my search history aren’t even new. Tracks like “POV” by Ariana Grande, “Cardigan” by Taylor Swift, “I Wanna Be Yours” by Arctic Monkeys, and “Birds of a Feather” by Billie Eilish are what I like to call “wholesome” songs. There’s something about the beat, the honesty in the lyrics, and the emotions being conveyed — makes them feel comforting. Listening to them feels like living inside old castles on rainy days.

I also love Sabrina Carpenter, and I wouldn’t be surprised if several of her songs end up in my Spotify wrapped. She has such a playful approach with her lyrics, and they’re simply fun to listen to. Interestingly I find myself listening to female artists more often. Maybe bit’s because they capture feelings we often struggle to put into words. Songs like “Labyrinth” by Taylor Swift, “We Can’t Be Friends” by Ariana Grande, and “So Easy” by Olivia Dean are perfect examples of that.

As much as I love ballads, I have to admit that I’m a big fan of pop songs. Tracks like “Seven” by Jungkook, “Levitating” by Dua Lipa, and “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter. When I really think about it, there are so many songs and artists I would love to talk about, but I don’t think I could fit them all in one article. There are also certain empowering songs like “Run the World” by Beyonce, “Breaking Dishes” by Rihanna, and “Labour” by Paris Paloma carry a kind of strength that stays with you. Every artist brings their voice, and perspective into their music, and that’s one of the things I love most about it. They bring their own flavor, aesthetic and story. Sometimes certain places or moments of my life remind me of specific songs or artists. Being in a bookshop or walking museum it feels like listening to Lana Del Rey, while travelling on a plane somehow reminds me of Coldplay.

 Most of the time I have my earphones on when I travel. Even when I’m walking to get groceries, heading to the library, or going to my class, my headphones are usually on. Music has quietly become an important part of my day-to-day routine. I mean, imagine a world without music — that would be pretty boring right? Music speaks to me in ways I sometimes need. I feel heard and understood when I have my playlist on. When I’m exhausted, music gives me hope. When I need to move on, it helps me grow. Music also helps me connect with people. Sometimes it gives me ideas to work on or thoughts to reflect on. In a strange way music also gives me a sense of isolation — a good kind. Because when I’m listening to music things don’t always have to be logical. They can be mysterious and magical. There’s no fear about tomorrow and no urgency about the next moment. It’s one of my safe spaces, one of my most personal self-care rituals. So, to all my dear readers who enjoy music — what’s on your Spotify playlist?