By Jacob Clavijo | Editor-in-Chief
Now that spring has arrived, I am excited to enjoy great weather and hiking along the Blue Ridge Mountains. Unfortunately, we still have half a semester to go, but I was lucky enough to spend some time away from work and school responsibilities during spring break. My busy schedule does take a toll on me mentally and physically, but I am glad I was able to reset. Here are five songs that helped me relax over the break and enjoy the beginning of spring.
Thee Sinseers, “For You” (2023)
I was fortunate enough to see Thee Sinseers perform in Washington over spring break. It was my second time seeing them live, and they were even better this time around. Hailing from East Los Angeles, the group is keeping soul music alive.
“I keep on searching for ways to make you mine. And I’m leaving all my wicked ways behind. For you girl.”
Rodriguez never received the recognition that he deserved for his music. After releasing two studio albums in the early 1970s that were essentially failures, Rodriguez returned to working blue-collar jobs in his hometown of Detroit. His music only garnered commercial success within the last decade after he was the subject of the Academy Award-winning film Searching for Sugar Man (2012). This record, which is driven by a catchy bass line, has always been a personal favorite of mine. As spring takes form, I enjoy driving across the Blue Ridge Parkway, listening to this song.
“I wonder about the tears in children’s eyes, and I wonder about the soldier that dies. I wonder, will this hatred ever end? I wonder and worry, my friend.”
William DeVaughn, “Be Thankful for What You’ve Got” (1974)
After enjoying a much-needed spring break away from both work and school, I feel very rejuvenated and grounded. This semester has been rough and full of more responsibilities than I originally planned for, but perspective is everything in life. We’re officially halfway through the semester, and even though there is more work to be done, just be thankful for what you’ve got.
“You may not have a car at all. But remember, brothers and sisters, you can still stand tall. Just be thankful for what you’ve got.”
Marty Robbins, “El Paso” (1959)
Marty Robbins’ music has always made me want to drop everything and become a true cowboy. In another life, or maybe even down the line in this one, I move to West Texas or New Mexico to settle down and live a peaceful life. Perhaps that exact life is what I’m chasing now; I always feel like I am waiting for life to get easier or for responsibilities to settle down so I can feel like I am truly living. This might be no way to carry yourself, but this song makes me feel at ease.
“Back in El Paso, my life would be worthless. Everything’s gone in life; nothing is left. It’s been so long since I’ve seen the young maiden. My love is stronger than my fear of death.”
Bee Gees, “Spirits (Having Flown)” (1979)
The Bee Gees have always been my favorite band, and they have a special place in my heart thanks to their music. Some years ago, I took a solo trip across the Western United States to celebrate my 21st birthday. With no school or work responsibilities and no one else anchoring me down on this trip, I was the most free I had ever felt. This song was one of many I listened to during that trip that helped me detach from the real world.
“I’d like to take you where my spirit flies. Through the empty skies, we go alone. Never before having flown.”
I hope you all enjoyed the songs on this week’s Hi-Fi Five. To see past selections, check out the Hi-Five Five playlist on Spotify.