Nothing sets my mental wheels in motion like Beethoven’s piano sonatas. All of them. It’s my desert island music and certainly a background music I love when I’m writing. Still, a romp through genres has the benefit of stimulating different memories and thoughts. As long as it’s not too disruptive, and familiar is good, I can handle a variety of music styles when I’m writing. Sometimes I want to pause the writing and just stare out the window, let my mind wander the musical waves, and then return when inspiration strikes. This playlist takes me there and back. Maybe it will for you too.
1. "Beethoven Piano Sonata No. 21 in C, Op. 53 'Waldstein'" by Daniel Barenboim
It sets my mind on a creative path. I love its soothing yet dramatic beauty.
2. "Pickin’ On Led Zeppelin, Vol. 2" by Gallows Pole
A bluegrass tribute to Zeppelin, who had a lot of banjo in their early albums. It works, and it’s a nice transition from the piano sonata.
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3. "Ramble On" by Led Zeppelin
Follow an acoustic Zeppelin with the real deal. It gets me rocking in my chair and moves my mind forward.
4. "I'm So Free" by Lou Reed
'Cause I like Lou Reed.
5. "Fair Weather" by Chet Baker
Chet’s moody, just like Lou Reed.
6. "Use Me" by Bill Withers
Keep me rocking, up the mood.
7. "Cherokee" by Clifford Brown
Time to go back to instrumental jazz, keep my focus on the writing. The beat on "Cherokee" is a nice segue from a few rock songs.
8. "Let’s Get Lost" by Chet Baker
Jazz with Chet’s soothing vocals pining.
9. "For Miles and Miles" by Chet Baker and Art Pepper
Chet goes upbeat, and this group is so freaking tight.
10. "Summertime" by Eddie Jefferson
Eddie’s such a badass. Takes me places and keeps my blood flowing.
11. "Changes" by David Bowie
Who says you can’t change genres? A classic set ender.