The start of the semester is a jam-packed time, with new classes, campus events and book-buying. The university’s beautiful views are ideal for every student, new or graduating, to enjoy the student experience.
The only thing that could possibly improve the feeling of walking down the main pathway is a magical playlist of main character music.
Here are some picks that will make you feel like the star of the next blockbuster independent student film.
1. “Campus” by Vampire Weekend
This song goes through a resurgence every August, and rightfully so. With a bouncy, defined beat and a unique pizzicato presence, “Campus” compels the listener to tap their foot along with the verses.
Though some of the song’s popularity is due to its use on TikTok in the last few years, there is no doubt that the cymbals and quick guitar in the bridge have merit of their own.
Make sure to give this song a listen the next time you see that someone walk across the campus.
2. “Holy Ground (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
Many people look back at their college days fondly, even going so far as to say they were the best years of their lives.
Especially with a picturesque campus environment, it’s easy to romanticize the places where memories were formed.
Swift captures a longing and wistfulness in this country-pop rerecord, simultaneously dreaming about going back while appreciating the growth through past events.
Who knows! Someday, you might look back at the university’s sidewalks and see it as “holy ground.”
3. “Quarterback” by Wallows
Thanks to the university’s football team winning last year’s homecoming game, the quarterback hype infused in this song is more understandable.
In contrast with the upbeat sound, the theme of this song is more aligned with a sporty summer situationship that falters when the semester starts.
Hopefully for you this is more of a “stare-out-the-window” song than a “silently-fume-in-Global-Systems” deal.
4. “Leah” by Seeing Double
Though the New York-based group has since disbanded, “Leah” (and the rest of their discography) by Seeing Double is a vibey jam that emulates bands like Fleetwood Mac and captures a 70s-inspired sound.
With tight harmonies and deliberate imagery, the beautiful instrumentals and vocals blanket the bruise of heartbreak in the lyrics.
Walking across campus will never be boring with this sonically excellent work of art.
5. “Lost the Breakup” by Maisie Peters
“I’m the best thing that almost happened to you,” sings Peters in this sardonically empowering pop track. Off her 2023 album “The Good Witch” is a feel-good song that can distract even the most down-bad student from their dismal Hinge situation or the ex they constantly avoid in the Main Dining Room.
With her unique voice, bubbly production and quippy lyrics, this track makes for a fun listening experience. Play this song on a day you need a personal win.
6. “Dog Days Are Over” by Florence + the Machine
From their acclaimed debut album, “Dog Days Are Over” smashed the charts and has become a mainstay in popular indie music playlists.
The lyrics and the exuberant sound emulate the feeling of getting onto campus and feeling refreshed; this song is sitting at the Fountains, studying in the Blackmore Library, chatting in One Main Cafe.
Hopefully this semester, singer Florence Welch’s happiness will hit you too.
7. “Cognitive Dissonance” by Sophia Holohan
The repetitive nature of Holohan’s 2022 single is anything but boring.
Reminiscent of the cyclical nature of Taylor Swift’s 2019 release “The Archer,” “Cognitive Dissonance” tows the line between blissful ignorance and personal destruction.
The simple poetic quality of the verses paired with the assonance of the chorus makes for an immersive “what-if” daydream stroll.
8. “The Kids Aren’t Alright” by Fall Out Boy
If a song with the lyrics “In the end, I’d do it all again, / I think you’re my best friend” doesn’t encapsulate the bittersweet ache of inching closer and closer to graduation, I don’t know what does.
Producer Jake Sinclair is known for music that hits just right; he has the formula down for commercial success. This 2015 track is no exception.
This post-hiatus hit features lead singer Patrick Stump’s impressive vocal gymnastics routine, while the rest of the band hits it out of the park with their staple writing and progressive pop-rock instrumentals.
9. “Anna Sun” by Walk the Moon
This Ohio college-based band is an essential addition to a Bexley student’s soundtrack.
Though the band members hail from Cincinnati, they began making music together at Kenyon College, an hour northeast of Columbus.
Named after one of their professors, “Anna Sun” is a 5-minute long song featuring dreamy instrumentals and made waves upon the release of their self-titled 2012 debut album. The build-up mirrors the excitement of the collegiate experience.
10. “End of Beginning” by Djo
The “Stranger Things” star Joe Keery is a multi-talented man. Not only is he in one of the most well-loved shows of the century, but his fame this past summer is connected to the explosion of one of his songs.
Though not a single, the track hit the Billboard charts two years after its release. The synth-pop is addictive with a gratifying bridge, reminiscing on his college days at DePaul University in Chicago.
Additional main (campus) character songs: “HOT TO GO!” by Chappell Roan, “Supercut” by Lorde, “Oh No Darling!” by Sarah Kinsley, “Silk Chiffon – Recorded At Electric Lady Studios” by MUNA.
A Spotify playlist can be accessed here.
