By Mairin Hoffman ’25
The cold winter term has just started here at Gunn, and this chunk of time looks different this year. Classes are in full swing, and this trimester began with a beautiful snowfall, quickly followed by the cold rains and darkness that define the season. Music becomes a source of much-needed serotonin for Highlanders, whether it’s the lively beats at the Linen Rink or the soothing melodies in the comfort of their dorms. The Highlander News team decided to delve deep into the tunes that Highlanders have on repeat to create a sense of warmth and encourage new music discoveries. Three students were interviewed to create the ultimate winter playlist, all representing different genres ranging from folk-pop to hip-hop. With the whole term ahead… What are Highlanders listening to?
If one needs a glum or melancholy song on a gray, cold rainy day, The News team recommends “These Days” By Nico. This song reflects all the melancholy feelings that winter brings. Written by 16-year-old Jackson Browne, the heartbreaking song was given to German singer Nico to sing on her debut album, Chelsea Girl. The song reflects regret, remembrance, and the isolating feeling of disappointment and sorrow. The song has a beautiful instrumental, full of surrounding sounds of guitar and strings, and the lyricism can be very relatable to anybody no matter their experience. With her thick German accent, Nico’s delivery of the lyrics stands out the most about this song. Her delivery is hauntingly detached yet captures the deep melancholy of the lyrics. This song is perfect for a dark winter night when reflection is needed, with its reflective lyrics and somber tones, this song perfectly captures the introspection winter often brings.
Following the melancholy theme, another song to consider this winter is “Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want” by British indie rock band The Smiths on their 1984 album, Hatful of Hollow. The Smiths are known for their moody, introspective lyrics; this track is no exception. This song stands out because of its short duration and the lengthy title. The song displays Morrissey, lead singer of the band, pining to get what he wants after facing disappointments repeatedly. The lyrics are painfully relatable. “See, the life I’ve had can make a good man bad.” This simple yet perfectly vulnerable song has an intense instrumental on which anybody can get hooked. Listen and become completely immersed in the beauty of The Smiths on a moody winter day.
On a more upbeat note, James Timmins ’25 recommends “Luther” by Kendrick Lamar and SZA, released just two weeks ago as a part of Lamar’s new album, GNX. This song heavily samples “If This World Were Mine” by Luther Vandross in 1982, hence the song’s title. SZA and Lamar are a consistent collaboration duo whose voices mesh perfectly together. He raps about envisioning a world where pain and conflict are eliminated and replaced by light and empowerment for his lover and how she keeps him grounded, level-headed, and inspired. This song is perfect for a day when you need to hear a vibey song and be inspired by the lyrics.
Sloane Walsh ’25 recommends “Eternal Sunshine” by pop icon Ariana Grande, featured on her 2024 album of the same name, eternal sunshine. The song draws inspiration from the movie Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, reflecting on heartbreak and the desire to erase painful memories. In this song, Grande desires to wipe her mind rather than live through the pain of her divorce. The song’s lyrics pull at the heartstrings and also display her inner struggles with anxiety. While the lyrics are slightly melancholy, the song is upbeat. This track is perfect for a busy school day when a little energy is needed to get by. This track illustrates her pop image while mixed slightly with R&B. Grande’s mix of pop and R&B on this track showcases her ability to convey emotional depth through upbeat melodies.
Having a soundtrack can help Highlanders navigate the darkest months as the winter term unfolds. Consider adding these Highlander-approved tracks to your playlist for a season filled with music, reflection, and warmth. Let’s look forward to an enchanting winter season and a competitive winter sports season, accompanied by music that truly captures the essence of winter at Gunn.
