The weather is beginning to change, the days are getting longer, and everything feels like it’s slowing down and starting over. With that, the right music can help you reset, reflect, and embrace the new season and all the bright memories it will bring. Whether you’re driving with the windows down, taking a walk in the nice breezy weather, or enjoying the extra sunlight that winter deprived us of, these songs are the perfect soundtrack for spring.

“Don’t Know Why”– Norah Jones

“Don’t Know Why” has a soft, calming sound that eases you into the warmer weather, perfect for a slow spring morning. Norah Jones’s smooth vocals and gentle piano create a peaceful song that is easy to get lost in. It’s a song that makes everything feel quieter in a good way.

“Try and Love Again” – Eagles

Another hit from the Eagles, this song has a hopeful message about giving things another chance, fitting perfectly with spring being a time of change. The sound is relaxed and easygoing with some beautiful guitar, and it makes everything feel at ease. It is great for a warm afternoon when you want good music on.

“American Girls” – Harry Styles

This song, which recently came out in Harry Styles’s new album Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally., was released as a single when the album dropped in March! It feels like pure freedom, with an upbeat and fun rhythm. It has a really bright energy and is perfect for driving with the windows down or just being outside with your friends. It instantly lifts the mood and makes you want to dance… or disco, occasionally.

“Flake” – Jack Johnson

“Flake” has that relaxed, beachy vibe you can expect from Jack Johnson (one of my favorite artists). It is another laid-back acoustic song that feels effortless. The lyrics touch on frustration with someone unreliable, but the sound stays relaxed and calm. It is perfect for another spring day when you’re just trying to slow down and enjoy your surroundings. Another reason why this song is so good is the outro (at around 3:40), which picks up slightly and makes the song more high energy before it fades out.

“Highway Queen”– Mt. Joy

This song tells a story of a free-spirited love. One of my favorite lines captures the truest expression of love: “And I want you to know nobody’s leaving. No, I ain’t scared of your demons, that’s just what makes you a real thing.” Besides the beautifully captivating lyrics, the song also has an amazing rhythm and sound, with guitars that build to the chorus each time. The high energy sound makes it perfect for a spring day outdoors with your friends, waiting to see what highway to adventure awaits.

“Teardrops On My Guitar”– Taylor Swift

This song tells an interesting story, capturing heartbreak where you keep your emotions to yourself and pretend everything is fine. Despite this sad storyline, the song is so good. It is a calm track and is perfect for a rainy spring day. It features baby Taylor’s vocals, as it was released in 2006 along with the rest of Taylor Swift’s Debut album. The soft instrumental and rhythm makes it easy to listen to while taking in the emotional tone of the lyrics and beautiful vocals.

“Easy Love”– West 22nd

“Easy Love” is about a relationship that isn’t as simple as it seems, where things have grown tense over time. The song has a smooth, relaxed sound, reflecting on the past when things used to be easy. The instrumental is soft and steady, with a mellow rhythm that makes the song feel calm, perfect for a spring day. The vocals are gentle, creating an “easy” atmosphere matching with what the lyrics are longing for.

“Brandy (You’re A Fine Girl)” –  Looking Glass

This song tells an intricate story with a catchy, upbeat sound that is sure to get stuck in your head. It focuses on Brandy, a girl who falls in love with a sailor who cannot stay with her because of his life with and love for the sea. This is a classic yacht rock song, preparing listeners for summer as a late spring listen.

“Ventura Highway” –  America, George Martin

To start, the intro to this song is a masterpiece. It focuses on capturing a feeling of freedom, travel, and being on the road without a clear destination. The instrumental has a bright, sunny sound, with a catchy guitar. This makes the song feel like a perfect fit for a spring day, and another good transition song from spring to summer.

“Call Me When You Get This”–  Corinne Bailey Rae

This song has another smooth sound, about uncertainty in communication. Someone is waiting to hear back from another person and isn’t sure where they stand. It has a calm tone that matches the feeling of waiting and hoping for clarity, along with the soft days of spring. Corinne Bailey Rae, who is also known for songs like “Put Your Records On,” is known for her relaxed, soulful style, which is clearly in this track as well. The sound makes it a quiet but meaningful way to end this playlist!