Editors’ Picks | Songs of February  

“Mary Jane’s Last Dance” by Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers | Grace Parks

With the weather suddenly getting warmer and the sun finally coming out, “Mary Jane’s Last Dance” is one song that makes me want to open all the windows and take in the fresh air. This classic song will sweep you right into the spring and summer vibes as we watch the sun melt all of our troubles and lasting snow piles away. 

“Busy Doin’ Nothin’” by Zach Top | Toby Hammes

The song has a laid-back, easygoing vibe that makes it perfect for dreaming about warmer weather and taking it easy, especially after our long, cold winter. It’s the ideal soundtrack for those moments when you’re looking forward to soaking up the sun and being outside more. Plus, if you’re a country music fan, especially of ‘90s artists like Alan Jackson, Toby Keith and George Strait, it’s time to hop on the Zach Top bandwagon. 

“Sam” by Sturgill Simpson | Jakob Twigg

It’s always a joy to hear this song play on those long summer nights when you are surrounded by friends and have a cold glass of whiskey in hand. The lyrics are catchy and at one minute and 12 seconds long, the song doesn’t overstay its welcome. It is the perfect addition for any country night playlist. 

“Terrapin” by Clairo | Lilly Crist

Lately Clairo has been my go-to artist. Her newest album “Charm” is a relaxing listen, as her signature dreamy instrumentation is consistent throughout the whole album. My favorite song from it is “Terrapin,” as the bass hums in the foreground, the crisp snare keeps the beat and intricate piano licks are glittered throughout. 

“Forgive You” by Leon Bridges | Libby Zuck

This song just itches that part of my brain, combined with the fact that I have listened to this song religiously for years, this is a classic for me. With spring right around the corner, this song is a perfect mix for an afternoon stroll. The bass and lyricism combined is unforgettable, especially if you’re looking for the ultimate windows down, sunglasses on song to listen to with your friends. 

“Normal” by Sasha Alex Sloan | Emma Lazarczyk 

Coming from my “Spring Fever” playlist that I made in high school, this song feels like the start of spring and brings me back to my younger self every time I play it. The deeper meaning in this song is carried by the smooth melody of the music. This song sets the mood for a drive with the windows down and should be added to your spring or summer playlist.   

“Pretty Girl” by Clairo | Kyra Case

I have been using the same playlist since I was a freshman in college, and “Pretty Girl” is always one song I don’t skip. This song has a soft beat and light instrumentals, along with a simple chorus that one can easily sing along to after just one listen. It definitely has spring and summer vibes and is the perfect song to add to your playlist as the weather warms up.

“Come As You Are” by Nirvana | Cole Bertelsen

This song finds a home in my playlists often, and this time of year feels especially fitting for it — the melancholy of the song pairs well with the stubbornly cold weather that Kansas can’t seem to kick. Grunge and Rock blend perfectly here, and the echoing guitar riff makes me feel like I’m underwater.  

“Sutphin Boulevard” by Blood Orange | Meredith McCalmon

Blood Orange is a master of the groovy electronic sound, and “Sutphin Boulevard” is no exception. Through a smooth blend of R&B funk and modern influence, the song evokes a feeling of nostalgia and yearning that pairs well with a sunroof-open drive and some 60-degree weather.