Songs That Defined My Year - 2023 Edition
Happy Holidays everybody! It's that time of the year already. 2023 flew by so fast and it was such a whirlwind of emotions and experiences for me, always accompanied by great music! Like last year, I wanted to do a little recap of some of the songs that I listened a lot and that bring me fond memories of good times passed with friends and reflective moments home alone as well. This time I struggled to narrow it down as I did last year but each of these songs have a special place in my heart and I think you will like most of them (hopefully all). So I will start with the more upbeat songs and make my way to the calm, somewhat sad/melancholic gems that I need to have in my life.
Soulful-pop artist Madison Watkins's Find You is a delicate and heartfelt ballad about looking ahead and trusting that you will eventually meet 'the one.' An anthem for hopeless romantics, Find You features emotive piano chords seamlessly paired with lush strings, dreamy harmonies, warm rhythms and a reverberating, touching chorus. This is one of those songs that will give you the feels in no time, pairing stunning, soulful vocals with a dreamy, cinematic pop production.
Kyle Lucas's ‘I Wish You Would Call’
American singer and songwriter Kyle Lucas's I Wish You Would Call is a heartfelt, indie-pop ballad that pairs his smooth, expressive vocals (which are packed with raw, honest emotion) with a captivating production that features lush acoustic guitar riffs seamlessly paired with delicate electronics. that effortlessly make us feel each and every single word he is singing. The overall atmosphere of the song is quite emotional and intimate, guaranteed to give you the feels in no time.
Jonah Kagen's ‘18’
Georgia-based singer and songwriter Jonah Kagen's 18 is an acoustic guitar-driven gem that finds the talented artist pairing his heartfelt lyrics with his signature acoustic-driven sound and the result is a memorable and enthralling listening experience that tugs at the heartstrings. 18 is a song that explores the trials and tribulations of young love, a relatable message beautifully delivered through his stunning, passionate vocals packed with raw, honest emotion and soul.
Etham's ‘I Won't’
Reading-based singer-songwriter Etham's I Won't is an emotional powerhouse that weaves together the threads of love, loyalty, and sacrifice. Telling the story of a bond tested, yet still, two lovers stand tall, refusing to let go. As soon as I heard those lush, emotive piano keys and his smooth, emotional vocals I knew I was going to love this song and I think most of you will too. If you're into heartfelt, emotional piano-based ballads then you will love I Won't.
Sekou's ‘Better Man’
Another example of how it is worth having a blog is that I discover new acts and Sekou's debut single Better Man was quite a memorable discovery. The raw emotion in this song is quite unforgettable and is guaranteed to give you the feels in no time. Better Man is a bold contemporary R&B emotionally-charged ballad that showcases Sekou's powerful vocals and poignant lyricism. Words cannot describe how much I love his voice which exudes so much soul and raw emotion, instantly making me feel each and every single word he is singing.
Rosie H Sullivan's ‘Timeless’
Nashville-based pop singer and songwriter Thomas Day's Stranger, is an emotionally-charged gem that showcases his heartfelt, gut-wrenching vocal delivery that soars effortlessly over emotive piano chords which are slowly paired with a catchy beat, building up in pace and energy to match the raw emotion pouring from his voice.
Pieternel's ‘Standing On The Edge’
Dutch singer and songwriter Pieternel's acoustic version of her latest single Standing On The Edge, is a warm, emotional piece of Americana/Acoustic Folk music about trying to help someone but not knowing how, making you feel quite powerless. It's a song about making sure the other person knows you're there for them when they need you. This acoustic version has subtle changes that enhance the emotion pouring from Pieternel's rich, lush vocals, making it sound even more emotional and comforting. I am loving the intricate guitar riffs seamlessly intertwined with lush strings that create such a heartwarming, intimate atmosphere perfect for a cold, rainy day home alone.
Tamaraebi 's ‘Sweet Summers Day’
Nigerian-born, London-based singer and songwriter Tamaraebi's Sweet Summers Day is a soulful, gospel-tinged piece of Contemporary R&B that finds the talented artist channelling Prince's allure and Frank Ocean's introspective style. I am loving the soul and emotion pouring from Tamaraebi's stunning vocals and how dynamic his delivery is, flawlessly weaving a heartfelt narrative of yearning, guiding us on a poignant journey to a place where life once flowed effortlessly; or an imagined future where such serenity exists. His voice is definitely the star of the song, instantly transporting me into another dimension.
Zach Day's ‘New York’
American singer and songwriter Zach Day's New York is a a heartfelt indie-folk song about being patient for a love that you see potential in. It finds the talented artist beautifully showcasing his gorgeous, emotive vocals and storytelling abilities over lush, intricate acoustic guitar-based melodies. I am loving how warm and soothing the song sounds, packed with raw, honest emotion, making it perfect for a reflective day home alone.
On The Phone's ‘Words’
Danish/Portuguese duo
On The Phone, consisting of Portuguese musician and photographer João de Botelho and
Danish musician, clairvoyant healer and former film director Lasse
Martinussen, shared their hauntingly beautiful new single Words last month and I was instantly addicted to it after the very first listen.