Music is a powerful but dangerous tool. It can shift our mood and set the tone for our day. A sad playlist can leave you depressed, starting the day dwelling on the intrinsic existentialism of humanity and the limitations of love (Think Adam’s Ribs by Jensen McRae). Oppositely, starting your day with a song like OKLOSER by Doja Cat builds you up for whatever may come your way, whether it be delayed trains or people who should stop talking. Whether you need a morning pick-me-up, a stress reliever after work, or just some background tunes to keep you in high spirits, the perfect feel-good playlist is a necessity.
‘Feel-good’ can mean a lot of things. Some songs get us through 30 minutes of full-body pilates, while others bring a sense of calmness and relaxation, like the Bridgerton instrumental covers. Curating a personalized playlist tailored to your unique taste and emotional needs is key. Whether you’re into upbeat pop anthems, throwbacks, or soothing instrumentals, the goal is to build a collection of songs that lift you up no matter what state you’re in. Conceited by SZA can pretty much fall into every kind of feel-good playlist, so I recommend starting there. After that, the notes below can help you make a personalized feel-good playlist that comes in handy any time of day. Good luck and happy curating!
1. Define Your Feel-Good Tone
Before you start adding songs, think about the kind of energy you want your playlist to bring. Do you want upbeat and danceable tracks, or something more mellow and comforting? Maybe you’re looking for nostalgia-inducing classics or modern pop hits. Think Bless the Telephone by Labi Siffre, So American by Olivia Rodrigo, or both?
2. Start with Your Bangers
It’s important to start with absolute bangers in case of emergency. Have to go to work but feel like you’re going to cry? SOS, need a banger to clear up the emotions. Look for songs that make you excited and energized. Think about tracks that instantly boost your mood, primarily because they remind you of nothing and no one (We don’t want to happy cry either). These personal favorites will serve as the foundation of your playlist. I immediately go to Elian’s Revenge by Leikeli47. You’re drivingggg down Martin Lutherrrrr, it’s half past midnightttt, and you dial my numberrrrr…
3. Mix Up the Genres
Variety is chef’s kiss. Make sure to blend genres—pop, rock, rap, indie, R&B, etc. Mixing things up keeps the energy dynamic and engaging. Maybe Material Girl by Madonna followed by Buy U a Drank by T-Pain. Oye by La Sonora Dinamita followed by Play the Greatest Hits by Wolf Alice. The combinations are endless.
4. Choose Songs with Positive Lyrics(?)
Mmm, debatable. I say choose songs with lyrics that are strictly not sad to you personally. Yes, feel-good playlists should have uplifting, encouraging, and humorous lyrics that make you feel empowered and happy, but not all the time is that the case. The main point is to avoid songs with sad or overly dramatic themes. For example, Ordinary Girl by Hannah Montana is a very positive lyrical song, but it’s an absolute tear-jerker for me now that I’m not 10 anymore.
5. Incorporate Some Nostalgia
Speaking of Hannah Montana, sometimes nothing brings instant joy quite like a song that transports you back to an exciting time in your life. Throw in some childhood favorites, classic hits from past decades, or even guilty pleasures you secretly love. Nostalgic songs create an emotional connection and add a personal touch to your playlist. Try Knock Out by Lil Wayne and Nicki Minaj.
Here’s my current feel-good playlist on repeat:
Brenna Sheets is a graduate student in Emerson College’s Writing and Publishing M.A. program. Her hobbies include going on long walks, watching bad television, reading, and writing.
