In a world where everything is overproduced and consumerism is at its highest, the ability to take a step back and enjoy a raw, unfiltered playlist of music is a privilege in and of itself. Enjoy this 36 minute playlist of acoustic songs.
“If You Love Her” by Forest Blakk
Released in 2020, “If You Love Her” by Canadian singer-songwriter Forest Blakk feels like a quiet conversation late at night. With gentle vocals and heartfelt lyrics, the song encourages listeners to slow down and cherish the smallest details of the people they love, wrapping sincerity and warmth in every note.
“Eastward of Eden – Acoustic” by Amelia Day
“Eastward of Eden” is already a powerful song in its natural state, but strip down the elements to leave only the voice and guitar and suddenly the message is unavoidable. While the commentary is on the current state of U.S. politics, the song also serves as an excellent edition to Dungeons and Dragons playlists thanks to the brand of metaphor.
“Northern Attitude” by Noah Kahan
Noah Kahan uses his background growing up in Vermont as the backdrop for this song from his 2022 album, “Stick Season.” Supported by the driving thrum of a mandolin, the singer asks for patience as he learns to soften and warm his heart as he tries to overcome emotional guardedness shaped by an upbringing in a cold, isolating environment.
“Soft (Voice Memo)” by Molly Grace
Written and recorded in the safety of her own bedroom, “Soft (Voice Memo)” is just that; soft. Molly Grace chose to release the song in its purest form, and it feels like a warm hug on a breezy summer morning.
“This Town” by Niall Horan
The lead single off his 2017 debut album “Flicker,” “This Town” marks Niall Horan’s transition from One Direction member to solo artist. This gentle, guitar forward ballad reflects on lingering feelings and all the words left unsaid after a former lover has moved on with someone new.
“Constellations” by The Oh Hellos
As the name suggests, the song paints the picture of stargazing around an everchanging campfire. Parts of the instrumentalization even sound as though they would be played by the same fire with close friends beside to sing along. The course of one’s life is impossible to plot exactly and the Oh Hellos describe the phenomenal perfectly.
“Photograph” by Ed Sheeran
Written in a hotel room while on tour, “Photograph” was inspired by Ed Sheeran’s long-distance relationship with his then-girlfriend. The stripped-down production and emotional honesty make it feel deeply personal as the ballad discusses preserving love like a cherished photograph that can be carried around.
“thumbelina” by Lizzy Hillard
Lizzy Hillard’s “thumbelina” beautifully reflects the childhood nostalgia that is stirred up by the beloved story. The song puts the singer in the shoes of the titular Thumbelina, a very small girl with very big dreams. The soft melody sounds like a bedtime story and lullaby wrapped into one lovely package with a pretty little bow on top.
“Love Her” by Jonas Brothers
With their post-hiatus comeback album “Happiness Begins,” the Jonas Brothers reflect a more mature perspective on love. “Love Her” is a love letter to the trio’s respective wives, acknowledging the compromise, growth and dedication required to build a lasting relationship.
“Hey, Runner!” by Arcadian Wild
The quickest song to grace this playlist, “Hey, Runner!” uses two string instruments in a complicated and intriguing introduction that prepares the listener for what they’re about to hear. The dynamics are vast and exciting throughout the entire song with interesting lyrics to match.
