My list of New Year’s Resolutions for 2024 sits in a box under my bed. Promises to dedicate myself to a rigorous workout schedule and to read more literature go unfulfilled, but I did manage to keep one: maintaining a monthly archive of my core memories from 2024. From detailed journal reflections to soon-to-be nostalgic playlists, I’ve documented my best and worst moments from each month of the year. These songs have allowed me to detach from the upcoming hysterics of the holiday season, and are the soundtrack of my November.
“Thanksgiving in Sacramento” by John Brion
Although I didn’t love Greta Gerwig’s 2017 film “Lady Bird,” I’m a sucker for a good score. I added this song to my main playlist last fall, and recently rediscovered the song when shuffling through my library. Although Thanksgiving is only a few days away, this song has marked my November not only for its title. The serene sound reminds me of the peacefulness of fall and the joys of both reuniting with family and expressing gratitude for those around me.
“Lifetime” by Justin Bieber
In “Lifetime,” Bieber explores his relationship with his wife, explaining that others who came before her in his life were merely a lesson or a stepping stone to get to the love of his life. This song can be a heartwarming listen as you think about a loved one, but also sends a powerful message about the importance of remaining patient and learning from your mistakes in order to grow. With every last thing I am experiencing in my senior year, I’ve found myself reflecting on the failures that I have experienced in every first — each one contributing to the person I am today.
“emails i can’t send” by Sabrina Carpenter
This song found me on auto-shuffle while I kept my New Year’s promise — journaling my gratitude and reflections from the month of November. The powerful build-up and Carpenter’s soft vocals caught my attention, but it was her raw emotions and vulnerability that prompted me to stop writing and add the song to my playlist. Carpenter expresses her disdain for a loved one who let her down, offering no real solution or happy ending. The harsh reality Carpenter sings of offers a quiet break on a long drive or an opportunity for me to get lost in thought amidst a tedious editing session.
“Hello Miss Johnson” by Jack Harlow
Harlow’s newest release evolves from the newer sound of his “Jackman” album — a creative decision I am obsessed with. The calmness conveyed in the song’s instrumentals blend well with the familiarity of Harlow’s voice. Although I shamelessly support any new release of the Louisville native, this song was an automatic addition to my playlist and has been on repeat since my first listen.
“successful” by Ariana Grande
The “Sweetener” album has been a favorite of mine since its release, and this song has been featured on several of my playlists over the years. Its most recent addition was prompted by the stresses of sending our latest issue of On The Record to print. Grande’s affirmations and joyful celebration of making it in the music industry motivates me to keep working to be successful in the newsroom by finishing this year’s Fall/Winter magazine.
