I often find the first couple weeks of second semester to be
quite difficult. With the stress of trying to finalize a schedule, trying to
determine future housing, and on top of it all, the dreary, cold weather, I
have little motivation for my daily activities. To break up my monotonous daily
schedule, I work-out and allow some endorphins to flow through my body. To
accomplish this, I need to have great music to get me pumped up. For your
entertainment, here is my ideal workout playlist.

“City of Blinding Lights” – U2 

This is a great song to get that warm-up started. Bono and the
rest of the gang have a nice beat with drums that maintain a steady during the
slow verses and upbeat chorus. It stands as a longer song, but as a fun song,
that’s not too bad.

“Learnalilgivinanlovin” – Gotye

This short, but upbeat song really helps to get the heart
pumping. Horns make a statement for themselves, creating excitement in the
song. The songs gets you pumped but won’t have you out of breath with
excitement by the end.

“Sexy Silk” – Jessica Cornish

Like its title, the song is very sexy, Cornish seducing you with
her raspy, yet high-pitched voice. The horns “get under your skin,” and by the
end of the song leaves you wanting more, actually in her case, screaming for
more.

“Show Me How You Burlesque” – Christina Aguilera

Premiering as the final song in the recent musical “Burlesque,”
Aguilera creates a jazzy performance with a definite touch of musical theatre.
Aguilera lets her iron lungs loose, capturing her listener in this fast-paced
musical number.

“Stop! In the Name of Love/Free Your Mind” – Glee Cast

I won’t deny that I’m an insane Gleek and the show is not for
everyone, but certain numbers here and there are enjoyable for everyone. This
song combines “The Supremes” and “En Vogue” is the cheery performance, and
creates something not quite ever heard before. 

“Telephone” – Lady Gaga and Beyonce

If there were ever two diva pop stars that had a lot of energy in
their voice, it was these two ladies, who collaborate together to create hip
hop musical fusion. As the power in their voices rise, the drums begin to
pound, causing your heart to pound.

“Makes Me Wonder” – Maroon 5

This is a popular, upbeat dance song for the pop group. Although
a bit older, the electric guitar and bits of piano add a bit of flair still
popular today. The steady beat follows a continuous pattern, even in the fun
chorus.

“Hollywood” – Michael Buble

The latest single from the Canadian, pop singer has a great
drumbeat. The song stands different from most of his soft jazz work and is more
upbeat and peppy. Although he still sounds like acclaimed jazz singer, Frank
Sinatra, Buble is starting to make a name for himself with this song.

“Canned Heat” – Jamiroquai

Although the song has a slow start, images of Napoleon Dynamite
dancing create a fun and motivating song. A blend of many instruments including
guitar, horns, and strings form a great song leaving you “nothing left to do
but dance!”

“Pretty Wings” – Maxwell

After an intense workout, this is the perfect song for the cool
down. Maxwell’s serene voice in conjunction with the guitar and the soft
drumming relax the body and mind. A soft-spoken chorus also adds a positive affect
to the song.