“Goodbye My Friend” by Linda Ronstadt is a deeply emotional ballad that tenderly explores themes of loss, farewell, and acceptance. Written by Karla Bonoff, the song is featured on Ronstadt’s 1989 album Cry Like a Rainstorm, Howl Like the Wind. With its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics, it reflects on the fragility of life and the sorrow of parting, while also offering a sense of peace through cherished memories. Ronstadt’s poignant vocals capture the ache of saying goodbye, making the song a comforting tribute to those we've lost—a timeless reminder of the enduring bond between friends, even in the face of goodbye.

Lola Young’s “Messy” comes at you like a late‑night text you shouldn’t read but you do anyway—one minute she’s spilling frustration, the next she’s begging for grace, smoking like a chimney, pulling a Britney, texting back too late, hating how she “should die lucky at thirty‑three,” and you feel both ashamed and relieved she said it first. It’s soul‑pop meets 90s edge meets ADHD chaos—embracing being too messy, too clean, too perfect till she opens her mouth and a thousand versions of herself and none are enough. She’s calling out someone who told her to “get a job,” then moaned where she’d been, crying only on schedule, drinking wine at strange hours, and still feeling absurd for just being real. Every contradiction in the chorus hits like a kitchen drawer that won’t close—imperfectly authentic. TikTok exploded, Sofia Richie danced, charts fell—UK, Australia, Ireland, Germany, number 14 in the US—and it’s not that the song was made for virality, it just is viral, because imperfect truth resonates. And Lola—BRIT School grad, niece of Julia Donaldson?—spoke for every scattered, raw, unfiltered feeling you’ve ever had but couldn’t say. Now nominated for Ivor Novello, topping charts, dominating streaming—because being messy is how she won. 🌪️

Pink’s song "What About Us" is from her album "Beautiful Trauma," which was released in 2017. The album features a mix of pop and rock sounds and addresses various themes, including personal struggles and broader societal issues. It is an impactful song that resonates with many listeners; highlighting themes of disillusionment and the search for connection in a time of social and political unrest. The powerful lyrics call for attention to the struggles people face and emphasize the importance of community and understanding.

"Glory Box" is one of the most iconic tracks by the British electronic band Portishead, released in 1994 as part of their debut album, "Dummy." The song showcases the band's signature blend of trip-hop, combining haunting melodies, soulful vocals from lead singer Beth Gibbons, and a moody, atmospheric instrumental backdrop.

Lyrically, "Glory Box" explores themes of desire, vulnerability, and longing. The title itself is a reference to a "glory box," which is an old term for a hope chest—traditionally used by young women to store items they would need when starting a new life, often related to marriage. In the context of the song, it signifies a yearning for love and emotional connection.

Musically, the track features a mix of hip-hop beats, jazz influences, and bold string arrangements, contributing to the overall dark and melancholic vibe that Portishead is known for. The song gained critical acclaim and has been influential in the development of the trip-hop genre, impacting many artists that followed.

"Glory Box" remains a staple in Portishead's discography and continues to resonate with listeners, embodying the band's unique sound and lyrical depth. Its artistic significance has led to it being featured in various films, television shows, and cover versions by other artists.

"Didn't It Rain (Children)" is one of Sister Rosetta Tharpe's most celebrated songs, deeply rooted in the gospel tradition. A concert, in the rain, was recorded by Granada Television at the disused railway station at Wilbraham Road, Manchester, in May 1964. They had dressed the disused station up to resemble what they imagined the "deep South" would look like. Then the typical Mancunian weather drenched it. Sister Rosetta made the call to change the set list at the last minute and perform this as the opening number. The band performed on one platform while the audience was seated on the opposite platform. The song captures a sense of spirituality, reflecting on the themes of divine intervention and the feeling of being uplifted through faith during challenging times. Tharpe's energetic performance style combined with her remarkable guitar skills helped to bridge the gap between gospel and popular music, paving the way for future artists across various genres. Originally popularized in the 1930s, the song features a lively tempo and infectious rhythm, showcasing Tharpe's unique ability to infuse gospel music with the energy of blues and rock. Her influence can be seen in many artists who followed, and she is often credited with helping to lay the groundwork for rock and roll. Tharpe's contribution to music history extends beyond just "Didn't It Rain;" she was a trailblazer for female musicians, particularly in a time when the music industry was dominated by men. Her legacy continues to inspire musicians today, and her work is celebrated for its emotional depth and cultural significance.

"Hazy Shade of Winter" is a song originally by Simon & Garfunkel, released in 1966. It was later famously covered by The Bangles in 1987, which brought the track a new wave of popularity.

The Bangles' version of "Hazy Shade of Winter" was featured in the soundtrack of the 1987 film Less Than Zero and became a big hit. Their rendition added a punchier, more energetic sound with jangly guitars and vibrant vocals, distinct from the original folk-style of Simon & Garfunkel.

The song's lyrics explore themes of changing seasons, the passage of time, and a sense of melancholy, making it a reflection on life's fleeting nature. The chorus, "Look around, leaves are brown," invokes the feeling of winter's arrival and the metaphorical coldness of life during difficult times.