The Ultimate Playlists for Every Occasion

So if you’re a music lover like me, you know people like us have to listen to music at ALL TIMES. Music moves and inspires the soul. It helps you get on and get along, with nearly all aspects of your life.

I personally listen to music with nearly everything that I do. My iPod and earbuds are at it when I’m walking on campus (watch out for traffic, though!), at the gym, and/or meditating. So I thought I’d share some of my favorites with you!

The following tracks are the soundtrack to a good life and good time. Enjoy.

WAKING UP
When you rise in the morning, you need to start off your day right. Waking up on the “wrong side” of the bed can make for a bad rest of the day. Listen to these tracks to get it going!

“It’s In The Morning” by Robin Thicke
“Hyperballad” by Bjork
“1st of tha Month” by Bone Thugs N Harmony
“Dancing In The Street” by Van Halen
“The Morning” The Weeknd

WORKING OUT
You gotta get after it at the gym. Whether you’re running on the treadmill or under the squat rack, music is an absolute must to take your mind off that last 10 minutes/pounds you just can’t seem to muster. Whatever your needs are, I got your motivation right here.

Cardio (Treadmill, Elliptical, Stair-Stepper, etc.)

“Start It Up” by Lloyd Banks, Feat. Swizz Beats, Kanye West, Ryan Leslie, and Fabolous
“Personal Halloway (Fabio Paras/Soundclash Remix)” by Bush
“Hot Toddy” by Usher Feat. Jay-Z
“Shake That Thing” by Sean Paul

Weight Training (Lifting, Resistance Training, Circuit Training, etc.)

“Forever (Travis Barker Remix)” by Drake, Kanye West, Lil Wayne, & Eminem
“Indestructible” by Disturbed
“So Whatcha Want?” by the Beastie Boys
“I Stand Alone” by Godsmack

THE BEACH
Beach bums unite under these feel good rhythms. Nearly any reggae is ideal for the beach, but just in case you’re struggling, pick up anything by the Godfather of reggae for a smooth day under the sun and by the shore.

Anything by Bob Marley
“California Love” by Tupac & Dr. Dre
“Summer Time” by Will Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff
“Somewhere Over The Rainbow” by Israel “IZ” Kamakawiwo’ole
“I Get Around (Live Beach Boys Cover)” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers

DRIVING

When I’m driving on the highway, I’ve got to listen to the right music. I love driving, so it only makes sense that I need to have the right music on to set the proper vibe. Depending on what your taste is, find music where you can lose yourself (but make sure you find your way to where ever you’re going, lol) in the lyrics, beats, or the long play editions with extended instrumentals.

Anything by the Doors
“Ave Adore” by the Smashing Pumpkins
“Paid In Full” by Eric B. & Rakim
“Alive” by Pearl Jam

GETTING READY TO GO OUT
Whether you’re in the shower, shaving, ironing your clothes, or having an adult beverage in preparation for the night, you know you gotta listen to the right music. I like to listen to something that will get you in the mood–in this case–for a good time. Usually something upbeat, depending on where you’re going. These tunes will get you in the mood to dance, laugh, and socialize with a smile.

Anything by Girl Talk
“Down” by Chris Brown Feat. Kanye West
“Come on get it” by Lenny Kravitz
“Armada Latina” by Cypress Hill Feat. Marc Anthony
“Letting Go (Dutty Love)” by Sean Kingston Feat. Nikki Minaj

VIBIN’
What I love to do best: vibe. Inhibition-less, letting go… becoming one with the music can help with so many negative aspects of life. Relieve stress, avoid anxiety, and forget sorrow with positive and uplifting music.

Anything by Ludovico Einaudi
“I’m On One” by DJ Khalid, Drake, Rick Ross, & Lil Wayne
“What is Life? (Live Version)” by Black Uhuru
“Hey Baby” by Stephan Marley Feat. Mos Def
“Human Nature” by Michael Jackson

GETTING OVER YOUR EX
Hey, you gotta get over your ex somehow. Music helps! Don’t forget–you’re not alone! These tunes will let you know that if you’re brought to it; you can get through it! Music is my drug of choice. What’s yours?

Kanye West’s “808s and Heartbreaks” album on repeat
“Marvin’s Room” by Drake
“Sail” by AWOLNATION
“Dueces” by Chris Brown, Drake, Kanye West, & Fabolous

SEX
These guys usually get you in the mood. But everyone is different.

Anything by R. Kelly
Anything by the Isley Brothers
Anything by The Dream
Anything by Robin Thicke

SLEEPING
Zone out and fall deep into REM with these soft tones and sleek voices.

Anything by Portishead
“Until The End Of Time (Live)” by Justin Timberlake
“Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton
“No Woman, No Cry” by Blues Traveler

There you have it, the right music for the right life soundtrack.  Now, what gets you going?  Let us know what’s on your MP3 player of choice in the comment section.

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