Songs for the End of Summer
By Maggie Mancini
With fall rapidly approaching, there’s a sort of vague collection of ideas in the back of everyone’s minds about how the future will look.
As confusion over statewide reopening efforts and an intense debate over how to handle the upcoming school year occupies every bit of mental energy we can muster, it’s tough to see the light at the end of the tunnel (if there is one at all.)
It’s easy to forget that the world is still turning even in the still and sticky heat of August. The end of what feels like simultaneously the longest and the shortest summer on record is right around the corner.
August has always been the Sunday of the year. It brings a tinge of anxiety and anticipation that arrives in full force when we realize the college grind is looming upon us.
In an attempt to get through all of that, REFINE’s staff has compiled a list of our current favorite jams, and how we’ve been able to get through this tough and often exhausting time.
The Last Great American Dynasty by Taylor Swift - Rebekah Harding, Editor-in-Chief
Best paired with a glass of white wine with ice (in pure Taylor Swift fashion) and a good fall-scented candle, Swift’s isolation album is a perfect fit for this transitional time.
Baby Girl by Chloe x Halle - Hafeezat Bishi, Culture Writer
A stellar girl-power anthem from two of the most incredible artists of our time. It’s also a reminder to the listener: “It’s your world.”
20 Something by SZA - Malorie Lazer, Love Writer
In a time where the world is completely overwhelmed and confusing, “20 Something” reminds us that we’re not alone.
Slip by AMA - Sarah Waddington, Digital Editor
During a time that’s often clouded in silence and quiet, AMA provides a much-needed pick-me-up. It helps best when you need a reminder to choose yourself: your happiness, your health, your life.
Winona by Topaz Jones - Sydnee Ellison, Assistant Magazine Design Editor
More fun, less worries. This jam is best for dancing in your room and pretending you’re somewhere else.
Paper Thin by Lianne La Havas - Maggie Mancini, Love Editor
August is the quiet before the storm, and “Paper Thin” is a reminder that even the delicate can be powerful too.
Little Things by Louis the Child, Quinn XCII, Chelsea Cutler - Magdalena Becker, Web Copy Editor
This collaboration’s timely release during early quarantine reminds us all to appreciate what we have and find pleasure in life’s little things.
ICU by Phoebe Bridgers - Lindsay Bowen, Managing Editor
If there’s a soundtrack for the end of the world as we know it, it’s probably Punisher.
You can check out all of these (and more) songs on our Spotify playlist. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/48C4hk6cfU2VRchovYZX1q?si=WnRqb66dSM2nIPKjVE60dw
Cover Photo: From Liannelahavas.com