Learning how to groove: Faculty playlist
Longfellow once said, “Music is the universal language of mankind.” If this is true, then what better way to get to know the Groton faculty than through music? If you can take your teachers’ advice on school work, why not do the same for music?
“Everybody Dance Now” by C+C Music Factory
Classic disco song “Everybody Dance Now” is the perfect twist to your playlist this year. The upbeat song and eccentric rhythm provide the only remedy you will need for stress. Mr. Capen mentions that there is nothing like “waking up the Cross Country Team to ‘Everybody Dance Now.’” This popular 90s song brings out the inner ‘Disco Man’ in everybody — and apparently the ‘Running Man’ in the Boys’ Cross-Country team. The combination of upbeat music and enthusiastic vocals will make you want to get up and dance with your friends.
“Me and the Boys” and “RC Cola and a Moon Pie” by NRQB
NRQB is a spontaneous rock band. Their jazzy, rock and blues music was especially popular in the 1900s, but this fall they have captured the Admissions Office with their grooviness. “Me and the Boys” and “RC Cola and a Moon Pie,” both by NRQB, are Mr. Funnell’s and Mr. Gracey’s favorite songs. Nothing says Fall Music better than a perfect combination of jazz and rock. Even though these songs were released seventeen years apart, NRQB’s smooth and exciting style stays consistent in both and will transport you through the the last two decades of the 1900s.
“I Will Wait” by Mumford and Sons
Mumford and Sons’ biggest hit, “I Will Wait,” will give you goosebumps with its iconic tune. The lyrics are a bit repetitive, but the vocals, harmonies and drums will creep their way into your heart, where you will learn to love the song. This folk, indie rock mix is a must-hear – just ask Mr. LeRoy.
“Box of Rain” by Grateful Dead
“Box of Rain” will give you a feeling of nostalgia. The memorable lyrics and music are ideal as background music while you are working late. This 70s classic is Dr. Fritz- Ellis’s favorite song by the Grateful Dead. If you enjoy listening to “Box of Rain,” try these other songs by the same band: “Touch of Grey,” a song about how every optimistic outlook has its downside, and “Truckin,’” a cheerful and catchy song that can turn any frown upside down.
“Play it Again” by Luke Bryan
If you like country music, Mr. Lamont’s favorite, “Play it Again” by Luke Bryan, will be on your top lists this fall. Its catchy lyrics will be in stuck in your head for days, and the Tennessean accent and country vibes will remind you of the old Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus. It’s perfect for a bus ride to a game or race, when all you need are good vibes.
“Visions of Johanna” by Bob Dylan
This buoyant, folk rock 60s song by Bob Dylan is Mr. Duclos’ favorite song. Its unique, upbeat rhythm is perfect for a gloomy Sunday when all you want to do is go outside. The harmonica and piano make this song incredibly fun to dance and sing to.
“She Blinded Me with Science” by Thomas Dolby
Ms. Marks’s personal favorite for doing Biology homework, this one-hit-wonder features Magnus Pyke, who repeatedly shouts “Science!” and other bizarre phrases in a crazy-scientist voice to electronic rock music. “She Blinded Me with Science” was featured in Breaking Bad and the unaired pilot of The Big Bang Theory. The energetic lyrics and music are ideal for getting your juices flowing in the morning.
“Layla” by Eric Clapton
In “Layla,” Dr. Black’s favorite song, the drums and guitar will remind you of the 80s. Eric Clapton’s vivid music and energetic vocals will make anyone belt out in the shower. For a bonus, listen to the acoustic, a more sophisticated and smooth version that works as background music as you study.
“Wild is the Wind” by Nina Simone
“Wild is the Wind” was originally written by Dimitri Tiomkin and Ned Washington for the movie Wild is the Wind. After its original release, the song was recorded again throughout the years by many artists, including Davie Bowie and Nina Simone. Mr. Whiteman highly recommends listening to the Nina Simone version, as the classic piano and vocals will capture your heart and give you tingles, and the jazzy music makes it unforgettable. It goes perfectly with a cup of tea and a rainy afternoon.
“Indian Summer” by Jai Wolf
The upbeat music of “Indian Summer,” released in 2016, is a mix of vocals and electronic music. Its dynamic rhythm will give you just the energy you need to make it through a busy week. Additionally, the song is featured on Netflix’s new film, “XOXO,” starring Sarah Hyland. Mr. L.V.’s favorite will pump you up any day, so start your morning off right with “Indian Summer” as your alarm.