10. “Cursive” by Billie Marten (2015)

While I have never had the patience to listen to slow songs, “Cursive”

is one of the few exceptions, as Marten’s soft voice blends with the mellow 

guitar in the background, making it perfect for when you need 

peaceful music for studying.

9. “Someone Like You” by Adele (2011)

I’ve been an avid fan of Adele ever since I was young, and this 

beautifully composed masterpiece was a family favorite, as my sister and I 

spent a majority of our road trips belting the lyrics out the window.

8. “Sleepwalk” by Natori (2023)

The energetic and fast-paced beat gives the song a futuristic, video 

game-like vibe, and it is nearly impossible to sit through the whole two 

minutes and 28 seconds without bopping your head to the beat.

7. “I Got 5 On It” by Luniz (1995)

While I have never been one to listen to 90’s hip hop, I was thoroughly 

convinced to investigate the genre after hearing this song in the 2019 

movie Us. The catchy beat remixed with the movie’s original soundtrack 

enhances the film’s horror elements and makes it all the more sinister. 

6. “Places We Won’t Walk” by Bruno Major (2017)

I stumbled across this song a few years ago thinking it was a Bruno 

Mars song. What captivated me immediately wasn’t its peaceful tune, but 

rather its meaningful and sorrowful lyrics. 

5. “Way Back Home” by Shaun (2018)

There are many love songs in the musical world, but this underrated 

gem takes the cake. Although I do like the English version, the original will 

always hold a special place in my heart, as the lively song rhythm 

compliments Shaun’s smooth voice perfectly.

4. “Tears of Gold” by Faouzia (2019)

I first heard this song on an America’s Got Talent, and I fell in love

with the rich melody and lyrics, soon making it my No. 1 shower karaoke 

song.

3. “Nuvole Bianche” by Ludovico Einaudi (2003)

I usually zone out at my piano recitals, but hearing this classical 

composition one fateful day awoke me from my slumber and had me 

rushing home to learn it on my own.

2. “Without You” by Lana Del Rey (2012)

Although most of her songs are top-tier, this one is my absolute

favorite. Her incredible vocal range and alluring melody never fails to put 

me in a sentimental mood during my 3 a.m. study sessions.

1. “Grenade” by Bruno Mars (2010)

Arguably Mars’ best work, the song’s lyrics speak poignantly about 

heartbreak and betrayal. The song really hit 10-year-old me in her feels, 

contemplating her nonexistent love life during recess and geography exams.