“The Call” by Regina Spektor
The triumphant melody line of this song, combined with Regina’s own soft and distinctly humanistic voice, captures perfectly the voyeuristic spirit of American youth–a pleasingly disparate contrast of economic woes and unshakable dreams.
“You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates
If you’ve seen the movie 500 Days of Summer, you know they play this song as Tom Hansen struts down the street, awash with the elation of spending the night with his new love, Summer. There’s a reason they picked it for that scene–the rhythmic rock chords convey just the right amount of coolness and jubilation that defines young love.
“Snow (Hey Oh)” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers
You know that feeling when a song reaches a climax and turns all your nerve endings inside out? Every moment of this song brings that same melodic nirvana. Every drumbeat, guitar note and vocal reaches resonates to your core. This song will move you.
“Christmas Eve in Sarajevo” by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Attempting to turn a Christmas carol into an Apocalyptica-type rock epic sounds like a recipe for disaster, but these guys did it well–incredibly well. This song will blow your mind and make you want to decorate something.
“Bitches Ain’t Shit” by Ben Folds
Talented, derisive piano man does Dr. Dre? You have to hear this song to believe it. Most scratch their heads, some get angry, some give up. It’s the lucky ones that get it and laugh.
“I Will Follow You Into The Dark” by Death Cab For Cutie
Death Cab has put out some really good material for the drifty, acoustic music lovers. It will serenade you, seduce you, and calm you down (that is, if you can ignore the dark undertones of suicide).
“What’s Left of the Flag” by Flogging Molly
These guys are all about electric guitars, kilts, and time-tested band chemistry. Any song that can make a bagpipe sound kickass deserves a spot on this list, so crack open a Guinness and enjoy.
“Run” by Collective Soul
No band is better than Collective Soul at being able to thrash hardcore, then spin around to reveal a gentle and caring inner side. This emotional, driving piano song represents both halves of their persona.
“Your Song” by Elton John
This is the best love song of all time. I just try and ignore the fact that it was probably written by a dude, about another dude.
“Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga
Yes, she’s weird. Yes, she’s scary. But one listen to this song and you’ll know the real reason Lady Gaga made it big: the girl got pipes.
