By Jacob Clavijo | Editor-in-Chief
As a native Texan, I have never seen as much snow in one season as this winter. After nearly three years in Lynchburg, I am happy that the area received proper snowfall, even if it melted away the next day. With the “warmer” weather this weekend, I could leave the house and enjoy spending time around Lynchburg.
I am looking forward to spring, which is just around the corner. Here are some songs that remind me of warmer weather and good memories.
America, “Sister Golden Hair” (1975)
This song was one of the quintessential road trip songs I listened to when I took a two-week solo trip for my 21st birthday. The song oozes a personal sense of freedom and laxity that few others do. And who doesn’t love that killer drum intro that leads into the first verse?
“Now I’ve been one poor correspondent. And I’ve been too, too hard to find. But it doesn’t mean you ain’t been on my mind.”
Peter Frampton, “Show Me The Way” (1976)
One of the few concerts I would love to travel back in time to see is Peter Frampton absolutely killing it with this live album, especially this song. If you have ever heard the original version of this record, you would know that the live version is a million times better, without a doubt. The electric guitar riff, which is most prominent in the guitar solo mid-song, is so iconic and will surely be enjoyed by anyone who is a music fan.
“I’m swimming in a circle. I feel I’m going down. There has to be a fool to play this part.”
Carpenters, “Superstar” (1971)
There was a time when I lived in Texas when I listened to this song on repeat every day for about two months straight. Karen Carpenter, who led the Carpenters as the lead singer and drummer, never received the recognition she deserved for her duality as a musician and vocalist. This song has an elegance to it that I admire, and the fact that it was recorded in one take makes it all the more admirable.
“Loneliness is such a sad affair. And I can hardly wait to be with you again.”
Bill Withers, “Ain’t No Sunshine” (1971)
A good friend of mine from high school and I always sing this song in the hallways. We both admired Withers’ vocal range and his ability to sing “I know” 26 times without losing breath. If you have never heard it, it truly is a spectacular feat of singing.
“Ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone. And this house just ain’t no home; anytime she goes away.
Eagles, “One of These Nights” (1975)
Much like Sister Golden Hair, this Eagles record also makes me feel free and unbound from any responsibilities I may have. Put simply, it’s just a really good rock song, from the instrumentals to the iconic background vocals on the chorus.
I hope you all enjoyed this week’s Hi-Fi Five. To see past selections, check out the Hi-Five Five playlist on Spotify.