Bob Marley

One of the most iconic artists ever, Bob Marley. His music only radiates good vibes, happiness, and relaxation. Whenever I am overwhelmed, anxious, or in a mental fog of chaos, I close my eyes and listen to "Jamming", "No Woman, No Cry", "Is This Love", and "Buffalo Soldier". 

Jack Johnson

Although Jack Johnson is in a more recent decade of music, I still feel he embodies the passion and emotion in his music like decades ago. He is one of my favorite artists that are still alive today. His voice cradles those who listen, smooth as velvet. My favorite songs of his are "Better Together", "Banana Pancakes", and "Sitting, Waiting, Wishing". I first discovered his music while living in New York years ago. Whenever I hear his music, it takes me back to that time of my life. I can close my eyes and remember the senses and emotions I was feeling when I first heard it out in the Hamptons. His music will forever be in my heart. 

Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley, one of the most iconic musicians to ever exist. My family and I were talking recently, and my mother asked who the modern day "Elvis" was. Without hesitation, I said there is absolutely no one who ever compares to his influence on the world. Of course there are great artists today, but no one has ever affected the world of music from the same perspective as Elvis Presley. My favorite songs of his are "Jailhouse Rock", "Can't Help Falling in Love", and "Hound Dog". 

Frank Sinatra

Words cannot express how much Frank Sinatra's music resinates with me. His voice is as creamy as butter, his voice so calming yet filled with so much emotion. There is so much passion in his songs... they can literally change your mental state, drifting you away from reality to a state of happiness. This form of distraction is one of the most euphoric escapes. My favorite songs are "You Make Me Feel So Young", "Fly Me To The Moon", "Come Fly With Me", "Theme from 'New York, New York'"', and "My Way". He is a legend to the world and always will be. His voice lives on, forever and always. 

Dean Martin

Dean Martin, one of the most legendary singers to ever exist. My grandmother's favorite song was "That's Amore", making it a personal favorite. His Italian touch on music combined with his passionate voice makes his songs forever filled with emotion and memories. 

The Beach Boys

Another iconic band of the 20th century. The Beach Boys music has positive vibes that radiate towards all who listen. Since the beginning of the 1960s, this band is a name almost everyone knows. My personal favorites are "Surfin' USA" and "Wouldn't It Be Nice". These songs remind me of the joy of summer. These songs are very warm to the soul, and carry a lot of fun personal memories for me. Swimming in the pool, driving during sunset, and playing on the beach are common memories that are linked to these songs. I love how practically all of "The Beach Boys" music is very lighthearted and happy, just a carefree time. 

Etta James

Etta James has one of the most mesmerizing and passionate voices I have ever experienced. Each song is filled with such emotion; I get lost in her words and drift off into a mental state of peace. Recently, my grandmother unexpectedly passed. It has been a hard few weeks, but music has been there to comfort me in ways people can't. Etta James's song "At Last" warms my heart and brings me memories of my grandma. I know my grandma lives on in my heart and will always and forever be with me; this song is part of us. 

Red Hot Chilli Peppers

The Red Hot Chilli Peppers have remained an iconic band of the twentieth century. My favorite song remains to be “Otherside”. I love this song because the message is open-ended to interpretation by those who listen. Not only do I love the message, but I love the emotions linked to the song by its changes in pace and energy. 

Johnny Cash

Not as popular as the Beatles, but of course a personal favorite. I love the music of Johnny Cash, which is surprising to many since I typically don’t prefer country. There is something beautiful about his music, something that draws me in. I cannot imagine how hard his life must’ve been. Just from research on his brother’s death at a young age, to his father’s continuous disapproval, to his drug addictions. Through it all, music was his one escape that made him feel free. I can hear his euphoria in his songs, my favorites including “Get Rhythm”, “Ring of Fire”, and “Jackson”. 

Paul McCarntey

Although I talked about the Beatles, I wanted to specifically talk about Paul McCarntey. It is really hard to be a successful musician in a band, and later come back and be successful on your own. Paul was able to do this through his incredible works after the Beatles split up, such as “Uncle Albert / Admiral Halsey”. He was also able to create a successful modern song with Rihanna and Kanye West called “FourFiveSeconds”. I am touched by Paul’s work and know that his legacy will last for generations. 

Ray Charles

Ray Charles has one of the most spectacular and special voices I’ve ever heard from a human. He seemed so happy and radiated such positivity, which was rare for someone who was blind. This did not stop him from becoming one of the most well known singers of his time. His spirit lives on today to be one of the most inspiring artists ever. My favorite song of his is a duet with Billy Joel, “Baby Grand”. The emotion and power in this song touches its audience, which is exactly what Ray Charles did.