YOUR A/W PLAYLIST
Written by: Marina Townsend
Your autumn winter playlist will undoubtedly reflect your unique taste in music, and it might not deviate much from your usual go-to playlist. However, for those who love curating playlists for different moods and seasons in life, I'd like to share mine. What you will find is that around 90% of my playlist consists of songs from an era when music, fashion, and lifestyle reached their pinnacle. It was a time when musicians skillfully played instruments, singers poured their hearts into meaningful lyrics, rappers delivered poetic performances, and fashion and beauty exuded a relaxed, authentic, and natural charm. Social media was barely present, and instead, we connected through house phones, cherishing personal meet-ups and living in the moment, creating unforgettable memories, the 90's/00's.
As I began curating this playlist, memories flooded back as I scrolled through my library. Each song triggered a specific time and feeling, instantly transporting me to past autumn and winter moments. The criteria for selection were simple: a track had to evoke emotions, instantly transport me back to those seasons, and set the scene within the first three seconds of playing it. I won't go through every song on the list just but here's a few of my favourites.
Starting with a motivational song by the iconic Notorious B.I.G., with his powerful anthem "Sky's the Limit." With each song I explore, I find myself immersed in a vivid real-life music video. Picture this: a clear sky stretching above as autumn gracefully sets in, painting the ground with shades of auburn. Though leaves fall, our spirits soar, embracing the transitional phase of elevation that lies ahead. The dreams we've been chasing under the warm sun and amidst cocktails have converged into this moment of electric hibernation.
This song serves as a timeless reminder that anything and everything is within reach, no matter the circumstances—even in the face of torrential rain. Just like the changing seasons, we too can adapt and rise above challenges. The track's resonating message ignites a fire within, urging us to embrace the boundless possibilities that lie before us. So, let's draw inspiration from the Notorious B.I.G. and let the empowering melody of "Sky's the Limit" be our anthem, propelling us forward on our journey to success
Next on the playlist is Mario's classic, "Chick with the Braids." This song takes me back to my first Mario concert at the age of 16. It was during my college days, back in September 2004, that this track became my absolute favourite.
I remember embracing the song's essence and style by braiding my hair, adorning it with hoop earrings, and wearing shades that made me feel like I embodied the very essence of the "chocolate skin girl" he was singing about. The nostalgia this album brings is unparalleled, and even 20 years later, when winter arrives and I opt for that protective hairstyle, the connection remains strong.
Now, let's take a complete left turn and add some Kano to the playlist. "Mic check 1,2" is one of those tracks that resonates throughout every season, but there's an undeniable charm to walking in the dark while blasting "Mike Check 12." It's a song that serves as a powerful reminder of your true self, reaffirming that nothing and no one can hinder your pursuit of your ultimate goals and God's purpose for you.
Being somewhat of a "traitor" when it comes to UK music, Kano's artistry is undeniably magnificent and has earned a special place in my library. The impact of his music has been profound, and "Mic check 1,2" is no exception—it's a track that speaks to the core of our being and condemns any twat that says otherwise.
Next up is Usher's "Seduction," a track that paints a picture of pure allure and passion. As the song envelops me, I find myself transported into a world of romance and achievement. It's the perfect soundtrack to a day filled with triumphs, surrounded by like-minded individuals, all of us creating magic in our respective realms of work.
After a long and fulfilling day, I can envision being picked up and whisked away to prepare for the evening ahead. Dressed in a stunning, sexy gown, adorned with a faux fur coat to keep warm against the chill, I head to a secluded restaurant. There, I'm treated to the finest red wine, delectable cuisine, and the company of my love, making the night even more enchanting.
As Usher's captivating voice fills the air, I excuse myself for a moment to freshen up in the powder room. It's in these brief moments alone that anticipation builds, knowing that upon my return, the real magic between my partner and me will spark like fireworks.
The scene unfolds in my mind, with the two of us returning to our tenth-floor condo, surrounded by the city lights piercing through the windows, rain tapping against the glass creating an atmosphere of intimacy and wonder. Usher's "Seduction" sets the mood for a night of passion, love, and connection—an unforgettable experience that brings us even closer together
"Save the Last Dance" holds a special place in my heart. I still vividly recall watching it at the Streatham Hill cinema, surrounded by a lively group of 15 to 18-year-olds, whose excitement echoed through the theater when Sarah and Derek shared their heartfelt kiss outside her door. And when "True Colors" interwove its way into the scene, the magic became even more palpable.
Yet, among all the incredible tracks in the film's playlist, there was one that stood out as my ultimate favorite—Mase and Total's "Want You to Know Me." Its captivating beats and soul-stirring lyrics made it the pinnacle of the soundtrack for me. This song elevated that particular scene to new heights, making it one of the most cherished moments in the entire film. The power of music to enhance emotions and bring scenes to life never ceases to amaze me.
"Save the Last Dance" is a timeless film that continues to have the same effect on me, even after 22 years. It takes me back to my raving days, waiting eagerly in line outside the club, shivering with anticipation, my toes peeking out, longing for warmth. But once inside, as the coat came off and the music started playing, the atmosphere ignited, and we all danced and reveled in the energy, reenacting the iconic scenes from the movie.
There we have it, a few of the favourites that stimulates a number of different emotions and will forever live on multiple playlists.