It’s “back to school” time. And for some of us – like me – this comes with mixed emotions.
Our almost-7-year-old son begins second grade next month. After finding a real love of school through his particularly wonderful first-grade teachers, he’s excited to return. And I’m excited for him – for this next step forward in his life, for the opportunities he’ll have to make new friends and reconnect with old ones, for all that my bright kiddo is about to learn.
But it will be hard to say goodbye to this season of days spent in sunshine and warmth, our tan lines deepening with each adventure… the discovery of the joy in long hikes, and confidence in water deeper than a splash pad… summer camp days with friends and evenings of video games… weekends in parks, and playgrounds, and beaches, and sometimes Chuck E. Cheese…
And of course, there are fears to hold alongside the goodbye-to-summer sadness. Fears that he won’t get on with this year’s teachers, or that he’ll struggle with the increased expectations of independence. And in this day and age – in this country – I’m scared about gun violence, and the ever-increasing public health threats that will impact our children both directly and indirectly.
There’s apprehension, too, that I’ll be able to carry all of these feelings and concerns, as well as the busier schedule the school year brings, while still continuing to be everything else that I am.
In moments like this, I turn to music for a pick-me-up – not in pursuit of avoidance, but rather, as a brief and light respite that helps me remember the simple truth that things will be okay. One such song that helps me tap back into inner lightness? “If I’m Honest” by the absolutely delightful musical trio Trousdale. It’s a downright effervescent track, one that’s impossible to play without a smile crossing your face and a wiggle making its way to your hips.
That’s one of the best things about music. How it can strike something inside of you, regardless of what else is on your mind, that gets you moving – be it physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually. Below, you’ll find a brief collection of tracks chosen to get you through back-to-school thrills, blues or jitters – and anything else you might be feeling as you face the fall.
(P.S. If you’re into that sort of thing, here’s my playlist-in-miniature on YouTube Music.)
"Walk Away" by Kelly Clarkson
Blasting this break-up banger by the first-ever American Idol is perhaps my favorite way to get kicked in the teeth. Infectious and driving, this is the sort of song that has one feeling almost invincible after playing. Once it’s on, you’ll be struggling to recall what ailed you – and why you have ever suffered nonsense from others.
"Girl on Fire" by Alicia Keys
Is this even a song? Or is it actually an auditory device designed in a lab to make listeners stand up and scream a musical chorus at the top of their lungs? We may never know. Regardless, listening to this one demands a physical response – and what better way to keep a motivational playlist moving along than with something that literally gets us out of our seats?
"Brave" by Sara Bareilles
No matter how many “playlist” posts I pen for The Story Exchange, and no matter how varied their themes become, there will be a place for a Sara Bareilles tune on every one. But in my defense, this song is an excellent example of why – her voice is rich yet light, her melodies stick and soar, and her lyrics are always exactly what you needed to hear.
"I Am Woman" by Jordin Sparks (apb Musae)
As an a cappella girlie (if a 42-year-old woman can, indeed, still get away with referring to herself as a “girlie”), I’m especially partial to this cover of the women’s power anthem. The voices blend to create something rich, textured and full of strength. Anyone who says a cappella can’t compare to instrumental music should give this a listen.
"Rhythm Nation" by Janet Jackson
Janet Jackson is, simply, one of the best to ever do it. “It” being pop music. A deeply skilled dancer and choreographer who put together the moves in this iconic video, this 1989 song promoting unity was also penned by Jackson herself. Everything about it is an achievement. (And, it comes with a fun challenge: To learn the choreo during work breaks while your kids are at school.)
"Shake It Off" by Taylor Swift
Another dance-centric video underscores this Taylor Swift nouveau-classic, which has a far lighter, but still rather important message to impart upon listeners: Don’t worry so much about any nay-sayers in your life. You have your own light, your own sparkle, and you should revel in it.
“Shake it Off” by Florence + the Machine
And now, more shaking. But any collection of songs designed to motivate must include at least one tune that could earnestly be described as “epic.” Florence Welch’s unmistakable voice, combined with liberal use of the organ – hardly a common instrument among Billboard Hot 100 tunes – make you feel as though you’re living out the climax of your own personal movie on perseverance. And maybe you are.
"Survivor" by Destiny's Child
When discussing this post with a friend, I said that I was seeking, in part, songs that’d make the listener feel as though they could punch a deity afterwards. This was the first song that came to my mind at that description. This 2001 hit is more anthem than song, for a nation of women – of people – who are positively done with those trying to hold us back.
This article, originally published Sept. 6, 2022, has been updated for 2025.