If you’re like me, then you’re getting tired of hitting the “shuffle” button on your iPod. Next. Next. Next. Next. Ohh I like this song. Next. Next. Next.
I recently just purchased a new iMac (yay!) and I’ve been transferring all 976 songs onto my new computer. I’ve been deleted songs I never listen to anymore, adding album artwork, etc. That’s when it hit me that I need to take the time to finally sort my songs into playlists, so I can finally stay away from the “shuffle” option. Sometimes you just feel like listening to a specific category of songs based on situational events, instead of divided by artist or song title.
Here are the 10 must-have music playlists for your iPod, according to me.
1. The “I Work Out” Playlist
Obviously. Everyone needs some heart-pumping songs to run to. And you definitely don’t want to be hitting the “Next” button every minute of your work out. Create a playlist that will have you in the zone for your next meeting at the gym. I would even suggest a separate “running” and “workout” playlist. Just put this playlist on shuffle, and you’re ready to sweat. See my recent post for great songs to run to here.
2. The “Dance Party” Playlist
Whether you’re having a party at your house, or you’re on your way downtown, you need a playlist that can get everyone dancing, laughing and having fun. And most of the time, these events are impromptu, so you definitely want to be prepared. Songs like “Party Rock Anthem” by LMFAO, “Yeah 3x” by Chris Brown, or any dub step song would be perfect for this kind of playlist.
3. The “Childhood Jams” Playlist
You know you love rocking out to those old songs from your childhood. This is a great playlist for those “I’m Alone In My Car” moments, when you just feel like belting out “Wannabe” by the Spice Girls or “Bootylicious” by Destiny’s Child. Don’t be ashamed, everyone has those songs that make them think of their first concert. I grew up in the 90s, so of course my iPod has some N’Sync, Britney and Christina on it.
4. The “Chill” Playlist
Everyone has those relaxing afternoons where some tranquil music makes the perfect background noise. Maybe you’re studying, working or just cleaning on a rainy day, those Jack Johnson, Citizen Cope and Kings Of Leon songs will fit the part. I always love having songs I can play in the background, but not distract me. Especially when I’m trying to be productive.
5. The “Relationship Status” Playlist
Recently broken up? Hopelessly in love? Create a playlist. Whether you feel like listening to “Bubbly” by Colbie Caillat or “Goodbye” by Jagged Edge, sometimes you need some songs to fit your love life. Get your “broken up” playlist or “I’m in love” playlist ready. Shuffle, and repeat.
6. The “It’s Just One Of Those Days” Playlist
The title should give it away, but just when you’re having one of those days, throw on some angry music to vent. Perfectly titled, “Break Stuff” by Limp Bizkit or “Drop The World” by Lil Wayne ft. Eminem would be great additions to this playlist. Save this mix for those days when nothing seems to go your way, it gives a theraputic touch.
7. The “Oldies But Goodies” Playlist
Oh, you know this category. Pull out all those hits from back in the day and stick them in one playlist, so whenever you want to jam with the ‘rents, you know what to put on. Everyone has some Earth Wind & Fire, Stevie Wonder, and the legendary Michael Jackson.Load them up on here and get ready to jam.
8. The “Guilty Pleasures” Playlist
This is for all those songs you’re ashamed to love. Maybe those teeny bopper hits like, “Baby” by Justin Bieber or “Party In The USA” by Miley Cyrus. This is even perfect for those annoying songs you’d love to hate like, “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion or “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice. Maybe this is the playlist you save when you’re by yourself.
9. The “Singing In The Shower” Playlist
Who doesn’t love to sing a great tune in the shower? Jeremy loves to belt out “Tiny Dancer” by Elton John in the shower. (I know this because I heard every word from the next room. Oh yes, even the high-pitched chorus, “Hold me closer tiny danceeerrr…” haha) And sometimes I can’t help but try to sing like Adele when “Rolling In The Deep” comes on. This playlist is especially useful, because it’s not like you can easily hit the “Next” button in the shower.
10. The “Fun On The Road” Playlist
Everyone must have a playlist for those long road trips. Pick out your favorite tunes you know all the words to, so you have no trouble singing at the top of your lungs on the open road. Driving for a long while, whether it’s for a trip or just stuck in the long commute to work, is just straight out boring. Unless you have Rihanna or Beyonce blasting through the speakers, that is.
