A few weeks ago, Elaine Economou found an inspiring playlist shared by the staff of the University Musical Society they called “Quarantunes”. Each UMS staff member contributed a track to the list that was helping them through this period of social distancing. At a time when we’ve lost simple daily contact with each other, this seemed like a lovely way to connect and share something of ourselves.
Music can be incredibly therapeutic. Certain songs evoke memories of significant times in our lives. Music has the power to motivate and energize us or calm us down. Music can shift our mood or mold our focus. It can even complement how we are feeling and provide escape or comfort as needed. What a powerful tool to share how we’re all feeling right now and connect as a group. So, we give to you this list of what we’re listening to during this challenging time. We hope you find inspiration and connection of your own in our picks. While we cannot be together, this playlist is a way to deepen our connection.
Tell us here, what music is giving YOU inspiration right now?
MOVE Wellness Staff Inspiration Picks
“Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest
Submitted by Marybeth Housner, Trainer
This song reminds me of simpler more carefree times, like summer vacations up North on Lake Michigan.
“Eyes” by Rogue Wave
Submitted by Rachel Cook, Studio Manager
Reminds me of sunny days and simple happiness, like wandering through my childhood neighborhood.
“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
Submitted by Tony Brutz, Trainer
It is my favorite song. It reminds me of all the simple things in this world that we tend to overlook. The song is a complete positive. Nothing negative.
“Dream a Little Dream of Me” by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong
Submitted by Lauren Miller, Senior Trainer
This song makes me smile, then cry with some kind of nostalgic joy, then start dancing. The best adjective I can think of to describe it is ”delicious.”
“Piano Trio No. 1 in B-Flat” by Franz Schubert
Submitted by Sarah Cohen, Trainer
What I am appreciating about this piece right now is how beautifully the three instruments compliment each other. Each has their own important piece of the melody but then the other instruments come in for support. It is analogous to how I would like the members of my family to work together in this time of so much togetherness.
“Little Red Corvette” by Prince
Submitted by Nancy Kelly, Marketing Team
It’s fun and makes me want to dance.
“Ocean and A Rock” by Lisa Hannigan
Submitted by Aimee McDonald, Master Trainer
Since we can’t travel to see them, but those far away are still with us in our hearts and minds.
“Stand Up (From Harriet)” by Cynthia Erivo
Submitted by Tricia Wise, Trainer
She was an inspiring leader in freedom for slaves. She endured personal heartache for the sake of others. Great movie. Even greater woman!
“Can You Get to That” by Funkadelic
Submitted by Sammy Hart, Yoga Instructor & Trainer
Honestly just loving this song.
“Take Five” by Dave Brubeck
Submitted by Robin Krienke, MOVE Co-Founder
It’s chill but funky. Just what I need.
“Remedy” by Zac Brown Band
Submitted by Kacey Beach, Marketing Team
It’s mellow but still has enough of a beat to move you through whatever you’re doing. There’s so much unknown right now but we can’t go wrong putting more love into the world.
“The Sound of Sunshine” by Michael Franti & Spearhead
Submitted by Suzanne Willets Brooks, Senior Trainer
This song was playing a lot on the radio during a very difficult time in my life… it really spoke to me. That this was just a storm and it would pass me by. The idea that sunshine has sound and sound heals. That this song was part of the sunshine coming down and keeping me going and at the end of my very long day I would be with my loved ones. Keeping my family in my heart knowing at the end of the day everything I did helped them.
“Concierto de Aranjuez” by Miles Davis
Submitted by Laura Mason, Desk Team
Relaxing and gorgeous but also has the quality of yearning and nostalgia.
“Flame Turns Blue” by David Gray
Submitted by Laura Tyson, Trainer
I chose the David Gray song simply because I love the song and it came out during a time in my life I was particularly content and happy!
“Shower the People” by James Taylor
Submitted by Elaine Economou, MOVE Co-Founder
Memories of carefree times at JT concerts and later, warm weekend mornings, making breakfast for my boys with his classics in the background seem so far away now but the songs still resonate more than ever. Hard to choose one but love wins.
“Rainbow” by Kacey Musgraves
Submitted by Angela Sutcliffe, Senior Trainer
Kacey Musgraves is one of my favorite female artists and the theme of this song is about looking on the brighter side of things and that no matter what the circumstances we all have our own rainbows.
“Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman
Submitted by Davy Darnton, Trainer
Because it is about hope and making your world better.
“River Jordan” by Rochelle Clark
Submitted by Elaine Economou, MOVE Co-Founder
I am so glad to include one of Rochelle’s songs. She was invaluable as we created MOVE and is missed!