Hannah Smith

10 Best New Artists of 2014

Posted on by Hannah Smith

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This year has proved to be a milestone for many new artists in the music industry. Some of the most innovative songs have topped the charts across all genres. From Sam Smith to Sam Hunt, new artists have been bursting onto the scene since the beginning of the year and show no sign of slowing down any time soon.

10. Mary Lambert

Mary Lambert gained recognition with her part in Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’s “Same Love.” Her debut album, Heart on My Sleeve, is full of her unique style, and it’s clear her personality shines through.

9. Benjamin Booker

Rock and blues artist Benjamin Booker’s debut album was released in August and instantly earned a spot among the Top 10 Billboard Alternative Albums. He received high praise from major music reviewers such as Rolling Stone, Paste, and SPIN. He also had the privilege of touring with the infamous Jack White and playing major festivals across the country.

8. Vance Joy

Australian artist Vance Joy released his much-anticipated debut album. For the past two years, he’s been booked for multiple festivals without an album, something few artists are able to do. His contagious ukulele-playing and simple lyrics landed him an opening slot on Taylor Swift’s 1989 tour this year.

7. Frankie Ballard

Frankie Ballard attracted listeners of all genres this year. His combination of country, blues, and rock offered a welcome change among the country superstars perpetually claiming the No. 1 spots. His first No. 1 single “Helluva Life” was the country song of the summer and later certified gold.

6. Iggy Azalea

Iggy Azalea became one of the biggest artists of the year after her and Charli XCX’s “Fancy” was released. Her much-anticipated debut album The New Classic sold over 50,000 copies in its first week, after the cancellation of many release dates prior. Azalea’s addictive rapping favored well on the radio and earned her a performance on Saturday Night Live.

5. The Cadillac Three

Country rock band The Cadillac Three has embraced the sound of Lynyrd Skynyrd and added their own unique modern twist. Because the lead vocalist wrote hits for country superstars like Keith Urban and Tim McGraw, the band’s songwriting is spot on. With the addition of some talented musicians, the trio recreated an old sound in their own image and is steadily gaining popularity.

4. Hozier

Hozier became popular after his stellar performance on Saturday Night Live a few weeks ago. His debut album achieved the No. 2 position atop the Billboard 200 and the lead single “Take Me To Church” has steadily climbed as well. Because the single doesn’t sound like the conventional radio single, it’s impressive to see the artist’s growing popularity.

3. Meghan Trainor

Meghan Trainor released her instant hit “All About that Bass” this year. While she self-released two albums in 2011, she just recently signed to a record label from which the single was released, along with an EP. The single has captured the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been reluctant to let go for the past 8 weeks. Her studio album is expected to be released in mid-January of next year.

2. Sam Smith

Sam Smith is one of the biggest artists of the year with an internationally successful single and sold-out shows across the globe. The single “Stay With Me” propelled Smith to stardom and solidified his promising potential.

1. Bleachers

Bleachers released their debut album in July. Seasoned band member Jack Antonoff doubles as lead vocalist for the band and lead guitarist for the band Fun. Antonoff truly put everything into the songwriting on the band’s album Strange Desire, clear through the powerful lead single “I Wanna Get Better.”

5 Best Christmas Albums

Posted on by Hannah Smith

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Since it’s now the time for holiday music to be socially acceptable (after Thanksgiving), it only makes sense to comprise a list of the best albums to bring about that joyful holiday spirit. There have been hundreds of Christmas albums made over the years, so it’s pertinent to weed out the less than satisfactory ones. When listening to these albums, don’t forget the wise words of Will Ferrell “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” Not everyone has to have the voice of an angel, just make sure you have good taste in music.

5.  A Very She & Him Christmas

A more recent Christmas album is by up-and-coming duo She & Him. They released A Very She & Him Christmas in 2011 and was one of the best-selling albums during the holiday season of that year. Anyone binge-watching New Girl knows Zooey Deschanel has a unique voice, which makes for an interesting take on the usual hits heard during the holiday rush. Combined with a guitar, piano, and even a ukulele at times, the duo recreates the classics with a more simplistic feel, rather than the over-the-top orchestra-fueled powerhouse listeners are more accustomed to.

4. White Christmas

Bing Crosby is the source for many holiday hits. The biggest song of his career was his recording of “White Christmas,” which was originally written by Irving Berlin, and is still the best-selling single of all time. Though it was released in 1945, the songs still filter through the holiday radio stations today. Following Elvis’ album, White Christmas is the second best-selling Christmas album of all time.

3. A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra

The fifties were the prime of music, especially for the holidays. While many have obsessed over Michael Buble’s Christmas album in 2011, some forget where his style originated. Frank Sinatra released his first holiday album A Jolly Christmas from Frank Sinatra in 1957, the same year as Elvis Presley’s album. It serves as a more conservative album for those opposed to the idea of a hip-shaking sex symbol singing about Jesus. The album combines Sinatra’s smooth, confident voice with an orchestra that only amplifies it and tugs at heart strings across the country.

2. Christmas With Johnny Cash

While Johnny Cash recorded the collection of songs between 1962 and 1980, Christmas With Johnny Cash wasn’t released until after his death in 2003, making it all the more powerful. All but one song on the album are covers of traditional Christmas songs. The last song on the album is an original called “Life as We Knew It,” a song about gratitude and growing up poor in rural Arkansas. Be sure to play it around those spoiled brats we all have in our families. You know the ones.

1. Elvis’ Christmas Album

The best-selling Christmas album of all time belongs to none other than Elvis Presley. It goes without saying his career was huge in the ‘50s and still continues to hold influence in music today. The iconic “Blue Christmas” topped the Billboard charts and made it possible for holiday singles to be ranked in the pop charts. Elvis’ Christmas Album reached the No. 1 spot on the U.S. charts and is considered an essential album for the holidays today.

AC/DC: ‘Rock or Bust’

Posted on by Hannah Smith

After what proved a difficult year for the band, AC/DC released has their first album since 2008 and sixteenth studio album of their career today.

During September of this year, founding member Malcolm Young departed from the band. Just less than a month ago, drummer Phil Rudd was faced with multiple charges including attempt to procure a murder, which was withdrawn the next day. While the other charges remained, the Australian band confirmed nothing would interfere with their world tour to promote the new album. AC/DC has never been one to go down without a fight. The death of their lead vocalist in 1980 is even further proof that they can’t be held down. If a band can persevere through that, it’s clear passion for the music is their first priority. They formed in 1973 and are still reluctant to retire, despite the ever-changing members. Earlier this year, Rudd said the band would have to be dead before they stop making music.

Rock or Bust is the first album without Young, who left due to health concerns. It was later announced his leave was due to a diagnosis of dementia. Replacing him is his nephew, Stevie Young. It will be interesting to see how the band incorporates him in live settings and how he contributes to the future of the band.

Overall, the album has been generally well-received. While it’s not the next Back in Black (sadly), it establishes a solid return for the band. Rock or Bust doesn’t delve much outside the realm of the traditional AC/DC we’ve been hearing since they formed, which is good or bad depending on what kind of fan you are. Monumental guitar riffs filter through the album in true AC/DC fashion. The band’s career was made by these creative instrumental takes, so why wouldn’t they include them?

The album contains 11 songs, but is the band’s shortest album of their career, clocking in at just less than 35 minutes. The album flies by in a blur of timeless rock fury. Even though the lead vocalist is pushing 70 years old, Brian Johnson’s voice is persistent and pushes the limits created by his age. The album dives straight into the title song, drawing in the listener with Johnson’s wail of “In rock n’ roll we trust, it’s rock or bust.” Two more notable tracks are “Hard Times,” not to be mistaken for a sad song about the band’s difficult situations, and “Emission Control.” Rock or Bust is not a depressing album filled with the woes that come with being a band that has been around for the last 40 years. They brought none of that to the studio, just passion for music and the need to express it.

While four of the 11 songs have “rock” in the title, each is distinctive and reestablishes the band’s prominence in the genre. By listening to the album, it’s apparent that age plays no part in the band’s enthusiasm. Throughout all the hardship, the album emanates a band reluctant to give up having a good time making their music. Because they’re still making music in 2014, this album has the ability to capture a younger generation of fans. While sticking to their traditional hard rock style, Rock or Bust rejuvenates an older generation’s need for the classics while introducing a new generation to truly good rock music, as opposed to whatever garbage the kids are listening to these days.

4/5

10 Best Soundtracks of All Time

Posted on by Hannah Smith

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The perfect soundtrack can elevate any movie from average to spectacular. The task of choosing songs is not easy, but it has to be done correctly in order to match the plot and setting of a film. With the recent success of Frozen, it’s apparent that soundtracks aren’t a thing of the past. The success of soundtracks thrived in earlier decades, but they still hold a portion of music sales today.  Here are our top 10 favorite soundtracks of all time:

10. 8 Mile

Of all the musician-turned-actors that have appeared over the last couple of decades, Eminem was one of the last expected to participate. In the pseudo-biography 8 Mile, he made his empowering song “Lose Yourself” one of the most popular rap songs of all time. The album sold over 4 million copies in the U.S. alone.

9. Juno

Juno brought one of the best indie soundtracks in more recent years. The soundtrack contains multiple songs by Kimya Dawson of The Moldy Peaches and many others. One of the most notable songs on the album is a cover of “Anyone Else But You” by The Moldy Peaches that features the two main characters of the film, played by Ellen Page and Michael Cera.

8. Dirty Dancing

The soundtrack for Dirty Dancing achieved so much success with its original release that two subsequent albums were released from it in 1988 and 2003. From the iconic “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes to “She’s Like the Wind” by Patrick Swayze, the album appealed to everyone who had a liking for everything from rock to R&B.

7. The Bodyguard

One of the best-selling albums of all time is the soundtrack to the early ‘90s film The Bodyguard. The first half contains songs by Whitney Houston, who assumed the role of executive producer on the album. With this title, she had full reign over the song selections and led the album to worldwide success.

6. Footloose

The original version of Footloose collected some of the best music of the ‘80s. What good is a dance movie without good music? Of the nine songs on the album, six reached the Top 40 the year of its release. The soundtrack was also certified platinum nine times in the U.S.

5. Pretty In Pink

The ‘80s were notorious for great music that still holds influence today, as were movies produced during the decade. Pretty In Pink has been noted by Rolling Stone and The Huffington Post for its stellar soundtrack. Like many other John Hughes films, the soundtrack contains songs from the more pop/new wave aspect of the ‘80s. Every film by the director has placed heavy emphasis on incorporating music into the plot.

4. Garden State

Zach Braff, popular for his acting on the TV show Scrubs and other films, wrote and directed the 2004 groundbreaking film Garden State. Another role of his was choosing the soundtrack. Because the film directly related to his life, selecting the songs was more personal to him. As a result, the album won a Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for Motion Pictures, Television, or Other Visual Media.

3. Pulp Fiction

What iconic ‘90s movie would be complete without capturing the changing rock genre at the time? Pulp Fiction managed to encapsulate the emerging and returning rock sounds during the early ‘90s, emphasizing the surf rock genre. The soundtrack has sold over two million copies since its release in 1994.

2. Saturday Night Fever

While John Travolta showed off his vocal abilities in Grease, his performance in Saturday Night Fever was purely acting. The true stars of this soundtrack were the Bee Gees, who lifted the album to critical acclaim. The soundtrack is the only disco album to earn a Grammy for Album of the Year.

1. O, Brother, Where Art Thou

The soundtrack to O, Brother, Where Art Thou proved the importance of music’s role in appropriating the setting. The film is set in Mississippi during the Great Depression, and the soundtrack effectively captures the time through the use of folk, country, and bluegrass music. There was so much emphasis placed on the music that the album was compiled before filming even began.

The Veronicas: ‘The Veronicas’

Posted on by Hannah Smith

Popular twin duo The Veronicas released their first album since 2007 today.

After forming in 2004, their first two albums peaked at No. 2 on the Australian charts and both were certified platinum in their home country. They are the first Australian artists to have a single certified platinum in the U.S., which they did with “Untouched” three years later. So what halted their progress and prevented a new release for seven years? They began writing for the third album in 2009, but progress was slow as the two had outside projects to work on. The album was due to be released in 2012, but due to conflicts with their label, the release date was postponed even longer. The Veronicas then decided to completely change the theme of their already completed album, which resulted in an even later release date. After leaving Warner Bros. Records, they signed with Sony and announced the release date would be late 2014. With the new album, the duo will also launch their first tour since 2009 next year.

In order to continue gaining popularity after their hiatus, their self-titled third album must be a homerun. Because they’ve been irrelevant as a duo in the music scene for so long, there is no guarantee of reclaiming their previous success. Their first single off the album “You Ruin Me” already debuted at No. 1 on the Australian charts. It goes without saying they will remain popular in their home country, despite the hiatus. But achieving international success for the second time will prove more difficult for the duo.

To say the least, this album is interesting. They definitely attempt to stay relevant with “Did You Miss Me,” an anthem proclaiming their return. The song contains EDM-style music and even rapping on occasion, which we’ve heard much of over the past few months with Iggy Azaelea and Nicki Minaj. There are definite hits and misses, present on most any album heard today. Much of The Veronicas’ tired style, which made them famous in earlier years, shows through on a fair portion of the album. This is either positive or negative, depending on the listener. If you’re nostalgic for a return to 2007, then you’ll be satisfied with these songs and disregard the rest. If you’re looking for more experimentation, you’ll be happy with about half of the album. Regardless of your musical preference, chances are you’ll only listen to select songs off the album. With such differing styles throughout the album, it’s unclear what the duo was attempting with their return. Some of the most notable songs are “You and Me,” their current single and power ballad “You Ruin Me” and “Line of Fire,” which fans are already raving over.

Dedicated fans will more than likely fawn over this album simply because the duo has been out of the industry for several years. The album doesn’t scream comeback, but it is interesting, nonetheless. There are songs for more traditional fans and for fans who are looking for something new. Overall, the album is an odd collection of songs that lack a definite theme. Listeners are most likely to pick and choose specific songs for purchase, rather than the entire album. I can’t help but wonder what the original version of their third album sounded like prior to their revamp and how it compares to the version in our possession today.

3.5/5

We The Kings: ‘Stripped’

Posted on by Hannah Smith

In anticipation of their low-key tour through Florida next month, pop rock band We The Kings released an acoustic album today, just less than a year after their previous album.

The band struck platinum in Australia with their instant hit “Check Yes Juliet” in 2007 and sold over 250,000 copies of their debut album. Since then, the band’s albums have progressively debuted higher with each installment. Their fourth, most recent album Somewhere Somehow debuted at 44 on the Billboard 200 and has been their highest charting album to date. The band has found more success in other countries like Australia and the United Kingdom. With their pop style, the band is more suited for the likes of younger listeners and has been reluctant to acquire a solid, reliable fan base. We The Kings has invested much of their career into touring, including multiple sets on the Van’s Warped Tour, since their career first began. While the band has yet to earn a No. 1 single in the U.S., their past four albums have all charted within the Billboard 200. They just haven’t charted nearly as high as the band would probably have liked them to. With the release of their latest album, the pop band offers a lesser known side in hopes of gaining more fans.

Stripped, the band’s fifth and latest album, is entirely acoustic. It contains an acoustic version of eight songs from their previous album and two new songs. This is something the band has never done before and the success of it could launch them into a higher chart position, along with the success of their six-city tour through their home state of Florida. The album has proved moderately successful as it debuted in the top 30 albums on iTunes the day of its release. Because the album only features two new songs, fans will more than likely wait for the next full length album entirely comprised of new material.

The lead vocalist, Travis Clark, has a great voice that is only enhanced by the acoustic feel of the album. It’s no surprise they place heavy emphasis on touring, as they have an incredibly seasoned lead singer who can fluctuate between the heavy guitar sound and a much quieter, mellow sound. His voice carries the weight of each song, echoing the sound of one who has loved and lost on “Queen of Hearts” and a struggling teen on “Just Keep Breathing.” Years of trying to break the top charts have resulted in more mature songwriting. Fans have already begun to express their joy over the two new songs. “Stone Walls,” which shows off the band’s inspirational side, has gained the most attention so far. While most bands would’ve opted for a complete change in genre or quitting music altogether, We The Kings have been putting everything they’ve got into each task they attempt. From performing hundreds of shows every year to stepping out of their comfort zone with an acoustic album, they are truly a band of consistency and perseverance. While they may not be raking in the platinum or gold singles, the band is grateful for every opportunity they get and it shows throughout each album and set.

3/5

Walk the Moon: “Different Colors”

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While the band itself has been around since 2008, Walk the Moon‘s Dec. 2 release will only be their second studio album. One of their first releases, titled “Anna Sun,” launched the band’s musical career. The single was named Song of the Summer by Esquire, MTV and Seventeen. They achieved monumental success with the song without even being signed to a label. After signing, they released their self-titled debut album in 2012 and are preparing for their second album release next month. With “Shut Up and Dance” soaring up the alternative charts, the band both released a new single and announced the launch of their Spring tour.

“Different Colors” is a beautifully exciting single that only increases listeners’ anticipation of a new album from the indie band. The song is sure to induce some form of dancing from everyone, even if you happen to be from the town in Footloose. In this way, the song follows the same style of their previous single, but incorporates more electronic and techno sounds. The lyrics revert back to the feel of teenage innocence with the lyrics, “’Cause when the people get to dancin’/They forget about taking sides.” The music and lyrics work together to provide a biting sense of nostalgia for those longing to return to their teenage years.

4/5

TV On The Radio: ‘Seeds’

Posted on by Hannah Smith

Indie band TV On The Radio released their fifth album Seeds on Nov. 17.

After undergoing a year-long hiatus in 2009 and even dealing with the death of a band member, TV On The Radio has had their fair share of hard times. Given that they’re a good ways into their musical career that began in 2001, now is the make-or-break phase. It’s difficult for an indie band to break onto the top charts, but their past three albums have charted in the top 50, with the last two peaking at 12. While they are included in the indie genre, the band has noted their influences include everything from classic artists like Earth, Wind & Fire to the Pixies. These influences are apparent through the creation of their own unique style, complete with an array of different instruments used as they see fit. The use of strings, horns, and an organ at times filter through much of their two most recent albums that also charted the highest.

Seeds is a surprise that wasn’t even expected by its creators. The lead vocalist has said the band wasn’t even sure about making an album after the death of their bassist in 2011. Although it was unexpected, the album proves to be a period of awakening for the band as it differs from anything that’s been released before. Long-time fans will appreciate TV On The Radio’s loyalty to the genre and opting for a more clean, tightened album.

While their previous albums have incorporated maybe too much into each song, Seeds is slightly more simplified version while still keeping with the style the band has built up over the years. It’s reluctant to venture far from the much-acclaimed spot they’ve achieved in indie rock. The songs are intentional and full of purpose to get the concept across.

The album begins with a whimsical song called “Quartz,” complete with an array of different sounds ranging from synthesizer to handclaps. While it may not be exactly what the band’s fans are used to, the song definitely incorporates their style. The band’s first single from the album, “Happy Idiot,” is a catchy song that hasn’t quite peaked on the top charts yet. The band placed heavy emphasis on this song to announce their album with Paul Reubens and Karen Gillan taking part in the music video.

While the radio hasn’t yet picked up on the potential of the single, it has received many positive reviews. Other notable songs are the heartbreaking “Careful You” and “Ride.” Each song segues into a new one about love and loss, complete with an effective array of guitar rhythms. They’ve done a rare thing to incorporate so many influences throughout each song while still keeping with their unique style.

TV On The Radio has come a long way since their debut. This first album since the death of a member is a new start. While many bands would be reluctant to continue after such a tragedy, this one refuses to quit. Seeds is a turning point for the band and holds much potential for future albums to come. This album is a proclamation of acceptance and propels the band forward.

3.5/5

Cole Swindell: ‘Down Home Sessions’ EP

Posted on by Hannah Smith

Due to the success of his self-titled debut album, Cole Swindell released a follow-up EP Down Home Sessions on Nov. 17.

Little did Swindell know his role as Luke Bryan’s merch seller would be interrupted by the start of his own musical career. Born in Bronwood, Georgia, Swindell attended Georgia Southern University, where he met and became fraternity brothers with Bryan. The singer proved to be a successful songwriter after writing a large portion of Bryan’s most recent songs, “Outta My Head” by Craig Campbell, and rising star Thomas Rhett’s biggest hit “Get Me Some of That.” In 2013, he released his biggest hit to date, “Chillin’ It” independently and later signed with a label after the single showed some headway up the charts.

His first single simultaneously became his first No. 1 song, certified platinum by RIAA. His debut album, Cole Swindell, rose to No. 3 on the US chart and No. 2 on the US Country chart. He was invited to open on Luke Bryan’s That’s My Kind of Night Tour and promoted his album there, while selling over 200,000 copies. He also claimed the title of New Artist of the Year at the 2013 CMA Awards. Swindell has achieved a monumental amount of success just in the 11 months since his career kicked off.

In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, Swindell said:

“The fans are always wanting new music, and with as much as I love to write I might as well give them the music while I’ve got it. I just don’t want any songs to go unheard.”

Swindell has achieved a high honor in such a short time, headlining his own Down Home Tour this year and heading on tour with superstar Jason Aldean next year. What better way to prepare for a tour than release some new music? The EP will consist of songs that wouldn’t fit on his debut album. With so much success in songwriting, it’s no surprise the singer had an excess of material.

Unfortunately, Swindell’s songwriting abilities come up short on this album. “Ready” kicks off the EP with the typical country song about a beautiful girl and her dance moves. Groundbreaking, right?  If anything, this song is an unoriginal attempt at every top hit in the country genre. It seems the headliners he’s opening for have a heavy influence on his own music.

“The Way You’re Lovin’ Me Now” sounds similar if not exactly the same, echoing the style of Jason Aldean and Florida Georgia Line. The next song, “Kiss,” is, you guessed it, exactly the same. Over half the EP sounds like the same song, and listeners will be bored after the first minute. If you’re looking for some mediocre country love songs, this is a must-have.

The Down Home Sessions EP contains five songs that sound exactly the same. Swindell makes a feeble attempt at being “one of the guys” sitting atop the charts with the same material continuously heard on country radio. If he would stop trying to imitate the artists he opens for on tour, he would stand a decent chance of releasing some unique music.

2/5

15 Songs Essential to Your Workout Playlist

Posted on by Hannah Smith

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The perfect song can elevate your mood to a whole new level. There is a reason Zumba and other dance aerobics classes are successful. Music has the effect of reducing how much you think about exercising and the ability to increase your endurance. For those who don’t exactly enjoy making a trip to the gym, music can offer some assistance. While there are different genres better suited for specific exercise methods, this playlist offers a collection suited for anyone.  Listen below!

15. Fall Out Boy – “Centuries”

Fall Out Boy’s latest release, “Centuries,” has to be included in any workout. The beat is driving, and the lyrics are inspiring.

14. Bleachers – “I Wanna Get Better”

Newcomers to the alternative scene, Bleachers released one of the best songs of the year called “I Wanna Get Better.” It’s incredibly motivating without being slow or boring.

13. New Politics – “Harlem”

“Harlem” is one of New Politics biggest hits. It must have been made specifically for gym-goers (probably not).

12. The Beastie Boys – “Sabotage”

The Beastie Boys created some of the best rap music of all time. “Sabotage” is one of their most iconic and definite to increase your motivation.

11. M.I.A. – “Paper Planes”

“Paper Planes” by M.I.A. is one of the best hip-hop songs of all time and definitely fun to exercise to. Just be careful not to make the hand signals while working out, as to avoid falling off a machine.

10. The White Stripes – “Icky Thump” and “Seven Nation Army”

The White Stripes are famous for their rocking guitar riffs and thumping drum kicks, so it’s no secret their music is perfect for exercise. I would recommend their entire discography, but ultimately, their hit singles like “Seven Nation Army” and “Icky Thump” are ideal.

9. The Ting Tings – “Shut Up and Let Me Go”

A forgotten gem from years past is “Shut Up and Let Me Go” by The Ting Tings. If listened to one too many times, it can be extremely obnoxious. But just the right amount and you’ll fall in love.

8. Macklemore & Ryan Lewis – “Can’t Hold Us”

“Can’t Hold Us” is one of the many hits by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis. I would recommend the entire Heist album to exercise to, but if you don’t have the patience, this is the best.

7. Eminem – “Till I Collapse”

Eminem is notorious for his powerful and mostly inspirational lyrics. “’Till I Collapse” is one of many that can be used for motivation.

6. Drake – “0-100”

Although Drake’s latest single “0-100/The Catch-Up” was released in July, it’s now beginning to climb up the charts. The single contains the classic elements of a rap song and offers a less emotional feel, as opposed to many of the artist’s songs.

5. OneRepublic – “Love Runs Out”

OneRepublic is making a comeback with their pop-infused alternative. Their latest release “Love Runs Out” is catchy and fun, providing a nice break from their breakthrough slower hits.

4. Queen – “Don’t Stop Me Now”

Another classic that can’t be forgotten is “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen. Really any song by Queen is motivation to exercise, but this hit is perfect for a workout playlist.

3. Bruce Springsteen – “Born to Run”

“Born to Run” is a classic, guaranteed to induce nostalgia and distract from the effort put into your workout. With the heavy instrumentals, the song is incredibly powerful and inspiring.

2. Imagine Dragons – “Radioactive – Grouplove and Captain Cuts Remix”

The remix for Imagine Dragon’s most popular song “Radioactive” offers a change of pace for those tired of the original. The remix features an enthusiastic verse by Kendrick Lamar, which is sure to transform your most likely unenthusiastic attitude.

1. Taylor Swift – “Shake It Off”

“Shake It Off” is essential to a good workout. One of the biggest songs of the year, it contains a sick. beat. that can make anyone get up off the couch and onto the treadmill.