Every few days in Nashville, we have been getting glimpses of glorious sunshine. While there are many days where the Nashville humidity gives the inside of Great Wolf Lodge a run for its money, we have been blessed with some absolutely fine spring afternoons. It is on these sunny afternoons that the interns at Lightning 100 have taken time to listen to the birds chirp, sit under a tree, and think about some of their favorite music. The theme for this week of intern picks is… birds.
Alex’s Pick- “Groovin’” – The Young Rascals
This song does not have lyrics that explicitly reference birds, BUT… the intro and outro of the song has audio of birds tweeting. The song was released in 1967, only exists in mono, and has a runtime of 2 minutes 31 seconds. It’s a perfect 1960s pop song, with each section only lasting 11-18 seconds. It’s got a perfect contrast between the A section and B section that keeps the song feeling fresh. Also, the lyrics are about spending a sunny afternoon with someone you love. It’s a simple, yet beautiful message that honestly you don’t see too much of these days.
Listen to “Groovin’” by The Young Rascals at the link below!
Abby’s Pick – “When Doves Cry” – Prince
This Earth Day, I decided to chooase a throwback song, something that I grew up listening to. My mom is a big Prince fan, and she introduced me to his hit album Purple Rain. Released in 1984, “When Doves Cry” was the lead single from this album. The song was Prince’s first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 single, and would grow to become an international sensation. The song has no bassline, something strange for an 80s dance pop song, and Prince provided all the vocals and instrumentals in the song. The ethereal lyrics and electronic feel, “When Doves Cry,” is an automatic hit no matter what.
Listen to “When Doves Cry” by Prince using the link below!
Chloe’s Pick: “Clay Pigeons” by Micheal Cera
This is one of my favorite covers! Originally by Blaze Foley, “Clay Pigeons” is a wholesome folk song about wanting to escape an unfulfilling life and start over. Foley’s version is personal and intentionally lofi, while Cera’s subtle production elements heighten the sadness and nostalgia that the song tackles. Twinkly piano parts and strategically layered vocals make this version stand out from the original. The most memorable lyrics from this song has to be “find a big fat lady with two or three kids and sit down by her side.” I admire that this song isn’t afraid to be honest and straightforward. “Clay Pigeons” is a perfect song for when you’re feeling lost and wishing you had the freedom to fly away. Foley created the perfect narrative and Cera made it sonically beautiful.
Check out Micheal Cera’s version of “Clay Pigeons” using the link below!