1. “Dope” – BTS

• Although this isn’t my favorite track from their extensive discography, this BTS track from 2016 holds a special place in my heart. While carelessly watching YouTube, I stumbled across a reaction video to K-pop music videos. I had no prior experience or knowledge of K-pop, so I decided to hit play. Needless to say, I didn’t realize how impactful that decision would be for my current day. Back before I even knew a member’s name, BTS’ “Dope” instilled me with a charged energy that made my skin turn electric. Along with choreography that makes you want to get up and dance, the track is one that will resonate with listeners of all genres.2. “Every Rose Has Its Thorn” – Poison

1. Another song that is nostalgic for me is this Poison smash-hit: a track that both comforts the listener and has the power to reignite once-passionate souls. Reminding me of late afternoon car rides in the early 2000s, the instrumentals make you want to sway and stick your head out of the window. It wasn’t until I grew up and understood the lyrics that I realized how disheartening the lyrics are, yet I still sing it now with the same smile I had when I was younger.3. “I Don’t Know” – Seventeen

• This is quite possibly my favorite song of all time. K-pop group Seventeen has shown over the years that their discography is unparalleled. Since this song is from a subgroup, (meaning not all the members are featured) it spotlights the talents of specific members. The backing track is subtle and light yet builds and lulls without warning, causing a chaotic atmosphere. To emphasize this theme, the lyrics repeat the phrase “I don’t know” in relation to how a seemingly perfect relationship ended so poorly. Ultimately, the couple becomes strangers, unsure if they can relive romance or even embark on a platonic relationship with one another. The only things they know is tears and longing stares. “I Don’t Know” surely knows how to drive a narrative home.

4. “ivy” – Taylor Swift

• For the longest time, I never understood the hype nor critical acclaim that “folklore” and “evermore” both received. Having taken a few months to reflect and relisten, I understand the error of my ways, as both albums have successfully won me over. Despite “folklore” being my overall favorite, I’m most grateful for the song “ivy” from the sister album “evermore.” When first coming to UMass, the area was (and still is) huge and a journey to navigate. While walking up and down Orchard Hill’s trail, this song would be playing almost every time. The airy and folk-style band sound create an atmosphere perfect for the long trek up and down. As always, Taylor Swift’s lyrics and storytelling elevate the track a great deal as well. Whenever I hear the song, part of me remembers walking up the hill with far too many books in my backpack, while the other side appreciates the original intent of the song’s lyrics.5. “Carl Poppa (feat. Carl G.)” – Bad Lip Reading, Carl G.

• Probably the most unconventional song on this list, this song holds sentimental value. It is a song made by a parody YouTube channel that my little brother and I used to be obsessed with. Once this song came out, we would play it until we inevitably got tired of it, only to restart in the next hour or so. However embarrassing, I still remember all the words and am certain they will forever be engraved into my brain’s subconscious. The fact is that it still reminds me of those early mornings with my brother, blaring this before we had to get ready for school.6. “Don’t listen in secret” – Seventeen

• Another favorite from Seventeen’s spotless discography, this vocal unit song is one that never fails to entertain me. The concept is refreshing, begging fans to hear how much the group values them. In addition, the song suggests that fans should listen and be proud of all the love and care their idols put into crafting the song. The original is a masterpiece, but if you want to get the full experience, then find the “vampire version” on YouTube.7. “lit(var)” – Kensuke Ushio

• One of my favorite films of all time, “A Silent Voice,” also houses one of my favorite songs from a soundtrack. The film is one that I’ve rewatched more times than I’d care to admit, yet each viewing makes me appreciate it more. Even with no lyrics, the emotion and story behind the song is undeniable. With a slow tempo start, the song closes out the movie in such a beautiful way. Eventually, it crescendos to an orchestra that will send shivers down the spine at first listen. Even without the visual, movie viewers can still enjoy and picture the scene in their head, causing both smiles and tears to form.8. “Easy To Hate” – Waterparks

• The song “Easy To Hate” feels both like an ode and throwback to the early pop-punk phase of the 2000s and early 2010s. Nostalgia packs a punch with the catchy lyrics and even more addicting instrumentals. Waterparks is a band that gains more recognition with each new release, and it’s no surprise to longtime fans. If you were or are a fan of the trifecta of My Chemical Romance, Panic! At The Disco and Fall Out Boy, then Waterparks is a must.9. “For Good” – Wicked on Broadway

• As a former theatre kid and present theatre lover, Wicked holds a special place in my heart. This song occurs between the show’s main leads, Glida and Elphaba thanking each other for their presence in both lives. The duet showcases both characters’ personalities and the show’s themes all in one track, which is incredibly impressive for a musical to pull off.10. “Hi Hello” – Day6

• From the underappreciated K-Pop band, Day6, “Hi Hello” is one of their timeless classics. Light and soothing instrumentals emphasize the hopeful and optimistic outlook this song tries to convey. Just by saying the words “Hi” or “Hello” can your whole life be changed forever, but more specifically, for the better. I guarantee that whenever someone listens to this track a smile will cross their face at least once.

Sierra Thornton can be reached at [email protected].