For a few years (gosh, I can’t believe it’s been that long), I’ve been journaling. I usually do it as one of my first things in the morning.
For a while, I was just journaling in silence, and then I started playing acoustic music or jazz. But recently, I have really been craving something specific.
So, I created my Praise playlist!
“Praise” is probably an incorrect way of describing the playlist, but it does include some Christian singer-songwriters on it. I don’t consider myself a religious person, but I am spiritual.
Saying the playlist is soulful and inspirational is probably more on point, but alas, it’s the Praise playlist 🙂
Here are some of the artists on the playlist:
Dave Barnes
I’ve been listening to Dave Barnes since my early college days, and his music is one of the reasons I wanted to make this playlist. His music is what I call “religious-lite.” There are songs that mention God and prayer, but it’s in such an approachable way that comforts me. Dave’s voice is a gift and I’ve been listening to his music so much when I need peace.
Jon Batiste
If you haven’t heard of Jon Batiste, you’ve been living under a rock! He was all over the Grammy Awards this year, and has a standing gig on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” Batiste is a jazz musician from New Orleans — period. But, his soulful music is also so full of love and joy. If you ever have the chance to see him live, do it. His energy and style are fantastic!
Marc Broussard
Oh my, my, Marc Broussard! I had the honor of interviewing him years ago and it was the first time I felt star-struck. A blues singer from Carencro, Louisiana, Marc has that raspy voice that sounds like it has years and years and years of life behind it. He is a treasure and his music will get into your bones!
Surfaces
I was a casual fan of Surfaces last summer, and then had the absolute joy of seeing them live at ACL in the fall. Seriously, one of the most amazing live concert experiences I’ve had (and I’m seeing them again in August)! All of their songs are lite, beachy, joyful, and they never fail to bring a smile to my face.
James Taylor
James Taylor was someone my dad listened to a lot. In the last few years, I’ve been hearing his music more when I go places, and I’m taking it as a sign from the other side ❤ I recently got some of his records on vinyl, and I love putting some of his songs in playlists — his voice is so pure!
At the time of this writing, there are 50+ songs on the Praise playlist, but I’m always adding more!
I also just want to take a second and acknowledge that things are difficult right now, just in general, in the world. I know for me, I kind of thought once the pandemic faded, things would return to some sort of “normal” place.
But what would that even look like? I know the world hasn’t been great for many people for years and years, pandemic or not. In one way or another, we’re all feeling it, and I hope even something small, such as a playlist can help make things a little brighter.
What kind of music are you listening to lately?
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