100 Favorite Songs: 81-85

The one with the surprise ending.

81. “Don’t Go Breakin’ My Heart” by Elton John and Kiki Dee (1976)

I can't resist a fabulous duet.

Best or worst promotional video ever?

82. “Sweet Baby James” by James Taylor (1970)

Written for James Taylor's nephew James, this song is a perfect lullaby.


Incredibly weird to see him so young.

83. “Cocaine Blues” by Johnny Cash (1968) (written by T.J. "Red" Arnall in 1947)

I think this would be the perfect campfire song.


It's just so fun to sing along to, really.

84. “Baby I Love Your Way” by Peter Frampton (1975)

Yes. Peter Frampton. It's a good song, okay?

And at least I didn't choose this version.


Also, wikipedia tells me it was written by Bob Marley so...face.

85. “Fast Cars and Freedom” by Rascal Flatts (2005)

Once again outing myself as a lover of cheesy cheesy songs. I cannot resist a good pop song, even if it's got a splash or 12 of country.

You have to admit these fellas sound good live.

Medley of the Day: It's sunny edition

I hope by making this playlist, the weather gods won't curse me with another round of snowstorms, but I really just want to celebrate the sun and spring and being excited that school's almost out for summer.



1. "Someday Someway" by Marshall Crenshaw. Possibly one of the best pop songwriters ever, Mr. Crenshaw wrote one of the catchiest, most upbeat songs ever. Love.

2. "Mykonos" by Fleet Foxes. I love a good melody and sweet vocal harmonies--especially when they take a turn for the Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young.

3. "When the Day Met the Night" by Panic at the Disco. One year later, still in love with this album.

4. "Always Be My Baby" by Mariah Carey. Possibly one of the cheesiest songs ever produced, it sounds like a middle school crush.

5. "Copperline" by James Taylor. I can't resist. It reminds me of jumping on the trampoline and smelling freshly cut grass.

Medley of the Day: songs of my childhood

My taste in music isn't very divorced from the music I was raised on. Mellow pop-rock with a good dose of the blues/folk influence. It's the kind of music that makes me feel like I'm driving to a soccer game on a Saturday morning with my dad. Anyway, I'm feeling a little reminiscent.

1. First, the awesome Bonnie Raitt "Nick of Time". You've got to love a woman with an alto range and guitar chops.

2. Then, you have to love the awesomely sloppy vocals of Van Morrison with "Russian Roulett". My favorite is his use of the horn section and a wicked good backup singer. And somehow, you still focus on his voice.

3. Last, the always great James Taylor and his backup singers with "Shed a Little Light." Anything that has fantastic harmonizing vocals always makes me glad.