There’s only one way to describe waking up early―dreadful. Nothing ruins a morning quite like a blaring 7 a.m. alarm clock reminding you of all the responsibilities that come along with adult life. Unlike those exceptional morning people who anticipate the sound of early birds chirping, the smell of coffee brewing and the sight of the sun rising, the rest of us common-folk find it quite difficult to roll out of bed willingly. Luckily, there are certain habits many of us follow that help us start our day with a little motivation, including music. Here is a list of The Current’s top five go-to songs that help us start our day on the right foot.
Li Cohen, co-editor-in-chief, recommends:
- “Jackie and Wilson” by Hozier
- “Stolen Dance” by Milky Chance
- “Maggie May” by Rod Stewart
- “Hold Me Down” by Halsey
- “No Faith in Brooklyn” by Hoodie Allen ft. Jhameel
These songs are not for those who get embarrassed easily. As soon as those sweet tunes make their way through the speakers, you can’t help but to dance along. Whether you’re a novice or a professional dancer, any one will master the art of dance skills. These are perfect to wake up to, and they encourage you to embrace the day. This playlist is for anyone who enjoys the alternative/indie mixes and the serenades of Ed Sheeran, Imagine Dragons, Elton John and Echosmith.
Nicole Cocuy, co-editor-in-chief recommends:
- “Electric Love” by Borns
- “Sister of Pearl” by Baio
- “Cayucos” by Cayucas
- “All Time Low” by Jon Bellion
- “Class Historian” by Broncho
Sometimes, what you really need to start your day off right are motivating, upbeat tempos and optimistic little melodies. I need a little musical pick-me-up for morning commutes and long, rushed walks to the Parker Building before actively participating with the outside world. This playlist, a perfect blend of fast-paced indie-folk and high-energy electronic-alternative, is catchy enough to put a smile on my face and a kick in my step, even when you haven’t had my coffee yet.
Jazmyn Brown, copy editor, recommends:
- “Another Love” by Tom Odell
- “Scars” by James Bay
- “My Favourite Faded Fantasy” by Damien Rice
- “Eye of the Needle” by Sia
- “You Should Know Where I’m Coming From” by BANKS
If you’re a night owl like me, odds are that mornings are an absolute drag. I’m pessimistic, moody and cranky in the mornings, and these songs take those feelings and transmute them into gloomy yet captivating sound. This playlist is a combination of unique vocals, relatable lyrics and potent emotion that creates a symphony of feelings in which to immerse yourself. These are perfect songs to play over and over as you shower and get ready for the day, belting out each track with enough passion to rival the original vocalists. The greatest thing about singer-songwriters is their absolute rawness and often underrated talent. Crank up the volume to get the full effect of these crooners’ ballads.
Destinee A. Hughes, arts & entertainment editor, recommends:
- “Diva” by Beyoncé
- “Independent Women” by Destiny’s Child
- “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes
- “Smooth Criminal” by Michael Jackson
- “St. Tropez” by J. Cole
Waking up early isn’t the easiest thing for me to do. If it weren’t for select songs on my playlist, then I’d stay in bed in forever. I need instant motivation, and this is exactly what these few songs do for me. Once I’m completely awake, mascara applied, hair done and perfume spritzed, then I’m officially ready to start my day, like the total boss I’ve convinced myself I am. This playlist is for anyone who’s ready to take on the world in a smooth, confident, ladylike demeanor.
Faren Rajkumar, opinions editor, recommends:
- “Hopeless Wanderer” by Mumford & Sons
- “Babel” by Mumford & Sons
- “I Will Wait” by Mumford & Sons
- “Little Lion Man” by Mumford & Sons
- “Broken Crown” by Mumford & Sons
Mumford & Sons convey the perfect balance of severity of mind and a joyful spirit that I need to prepare myself for the day. I have never been a fan of distinctly happy music because it also feels false to me. But it does no good for the soul to listen to mournful tunes by Lana Del Rey or Adele in the morning. So I get my solemnity fix with Mumford & Sons’ lyrics about despair, waiting endlessly and losing faith, but the beating drums and undeniably peppy banjo still put a smile on my face and a bounce in my step. Even though they hail from London, I feel so American and alive when I’m singing along about “painting my spirit gold.”
Alyssa DiMaria, news editor, recommends:
- “Summer Girls” by Timeflies
- “I Choose U” by Timeflies
- “Dazed and Confused” by Jake Miller
- “Drops of Jupiter” by Train
- “Crooked Smile” by J. Cole
Music should be about having a good time. Whenever I listen to a song, I need the incredible lyrics and beats to boost my mood and leave me feeling inspired. Certain music, for me, is the strongest form of magic. Just one song can transform your entire day, or even your life.
Randa Djabri, sports editor, recommends:
- Brahms flute solo
- Schumann violin solo
- Shopin piano solo
- Ravel clarinet solo
5. Wagner saxophone solo
I usually start out the day working in the office before my coworkers arrive, and during that time, I usually put on soft background music as I dive into work. Listening to music with lyrics serves as a distraction to me because I’ll pay attention to the lyrics rather than doing what I need to do. The one hour or so long piece is a combination of piano, violin, cello, flute, clarinet and saxophone. In addition to the exquisitely calming and nourishing nature of the piece, it helps me focus and brings my attention to the tasks I need to be doing.
Amanda Kaplan, multimedia manager, recommends:
- “Fire N Gold” by Bea Miller
- “Cool for the Summer” by Demi Lovato
- “House Party” by Sam Hunt
- “Cheerleader” by Omi
- “21” by Hunter Hayes
Mornings and Amanda do not mix well. No matter what side of the bed I wake up on, I’m cranky. To help me wake up, I need music I can dance and sing to. These songs are my favorite to listen to in the mornings right now because I can scream every word into my hairbrush while I’m getting ready. If you see me dancing across campus with my headphones in, I’m probably listening to one of these five songs because I can’t get enough. Give these a try in the morning, and they’ll put you in a good—at least better—mood.
Roger Atangana, assistant visual designer, recommends:
- Dragon rider by Two Steps from Hell
- Norwegian Pirate by Two Steps from Hell
- Archangel by Two Steps from Hell
- Strength of a Thousand Men by Two Steps from Hell
- Fade by Alan Walker
These tracks really help boost my morale, especially when I work out, which makes them perfect for waking up. Hopefully, it would do the same for some work-out fanatics out there, as well those who need an additional power-boost in their mornings.
