2016 is almost over. And while we didn’t feel like making a generic “Best Of” playlist, we picked songs that are all about fresh beginnings instead. See you soon 2017!
- Restart (2012) – Sam Smith
It may not seem very original to have this song pop up on our list but Sam Smith’s upbeat disco-pop track perfectly captures the joy of new beginnings.
- (Just Like) Starting Over (1980) – John Lennon
“Just Like (Starting Over)” became John Lennon’s final single while he was still alive. He produced this iconic track in cooperation with Yoko Ono and Jack Douglas.
- Feeling Good (1965) – Nina Simone
“It’s a new dawn / It’s a new day / It’s a new life” – Nina Simone declares every day as a new chance to succeed. Her unique voice shines on this classic.
- I Will Always Love You (1974) – Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton wrote the original Country version as a good bye to Porter Wagoner when she decided to end their professional partnership. It marked the start of her thriving solo career.
- Dog Days Are Over (2008) – Florence + The Machine
Florence + The Machine enthusiastically declare that the “Dog Days Are Over”, meaning the tough times are over. Lead singer Florence Welch’s energy is infectious.
- I Can See Clearly Now (1972) – Johnny Nash
Johnny Nash’s “I Can See Clearly Now” still epitomises a feeling of relentless optimism and courage to face life.
- Unwritten (2004) – Natasha Bedingfield
Natasha Bedingfield sings in an upbeat mood about starting over and not letting your story be determined by anyone but yourself.
- New Shoes (2006) – Paolo Nutini
Paolo Nutini casually puts on some new kicks and “and suddenly everything’s right“. The song emphasises how small changes can shift your entire mood.
- Now & Forever (2015) – Drake
On “Now & Forever” Drake addresses big changes in his professional life and the uncertainty of the future.
- Anthem (1992) – Leonard Cohen
“The birds they sang / At the break of day / Start again / I heard them say” – Leonard Cohen’s lyrics blur the line between poetry and song writing.
- What You Waiting For? (2004) – Gwen Stefani
When Gwen Stefani worked on her first solo album, she was struggling with writer’s block. On “What You Waiting For?” she processes the feeling of being stuck.
- Since U Been Gone (2004) – Kelly Clarkson
Sometimes things fall apart so that better things can fall together. This is the spirit Kelly Clarkson’s energetic break-up anthem embodies.
- Landslide (1975) – Fleetwood Mac
Stevie Nicks wrote “Landslide” when she was at a crossroads in her career and personal life. The song captures how change is often brought on by making difficult decisions.
- Try Again (2000) – Aaliyah
“If at first you don’t succeed / Dust yourself off and try again“ – Aaliyah encouragingly sings about not succumbing to failure.
- The Power Of Good-Bye (1998)– Madonna
Ending this list with a literal good-bye from “the queen of reinvention”. Madonna learns to find peace in letting go and moving on.
Image by VICHAILAO/iStock
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