In the month of loud love, I found comfort in the quiet corner of the local cafe. The scent of burnt coffee and melodies of soft jazz whispering sweet nothings to my weary soul. At times, my gaze would drift to the young couples beyond the glass wall; watching their eyes soften with enchantment, knowing mine harbored in bittersweet nostalgia.
Even so, it’s been a beautiful month, and this hour-long playlist explores the intricacies of all forms of love – the quiet parts, the silent moments, and the depths of passion.
Blue – Nyah Grace
Setting the mood for the hour-long playlist, “Blue” by Nyah Grace explores the theme of introspection. Grace’s gentle vocals, accompanied by soothing jazzy acoustics, create a warm and melancholic atmosphere as she vulnerably shares her journey. She expresses her belief that someday she’ll unravel what she’s been searching for, despite feeling content with what she already possesses. This sentiment, echoing the uncertainties of love, resonates deeply. In matters of the heart, we often find ourselves questioning our emotions, intentions, and the dynamics of our relationships. Sometimes, this introspection can bring clarity, but it can also obscure the beauty of the present moment. “Blue” serves as a reminder of the dance between introspection and embracing the beauty of the here and now.
Blue In Green – Miles Davis
While it might seem a bit bold to include a song without lyrics, this playlist is crafted around the essence of atmosphere. Every lyric, melody, and rhythm is carefully selected to stir a specific mood, and who better to set that tone than jazz legend, Miles Davis? The song begins with simplicity and maintains a laid-back vibe, devoid of any distractions. This minimalist approach allows listeners to fully immerse themselves in the music, allowing it to sweep them away on a journey of introspection and emotion. It carries a subtle darkness in its tone, reminiscent of the ambiance of a quiet lounge or a softly lit jazz club. Each pause in the music feels like a moment of reflection, encouraging listeners to pause and contemplate their own thoughts and feelings.
Love Me Again – V
In the lineup of non-English tracks, “Love Me Again” by Kim Taehyung, also known as V from the global pop sensation BTS, expresses his yearning for a past love to reignite. Despite fading memories, V wonders if his former flame still thinks of him, revealing a deep longing for connection. Within the playlist’s theme, the song embodies a silent longing and introspection.
There’s a quiet desperation in his lyrics; one we can all resonate with, even though its seldom shown outwardly. Silent yearning and introspection are often deeply intimate, born from vulnerability and a fear of judgment. Society’s pressure to maintain composure, especially regarding emotions tied to longing or sadness, often pushes us to conceal their innermost feelings. This song reflects an inner struggle and emotional turmoil as they navigate feelings of longing and regret, beautifully capturing the bittersweet essence of love and its enduring emotional impact.
Nothing Sweeter – Naomi Sharon
Naomi Sharon’s lyricism has always drawn me in with its raw, heartfelt, and introspective nature. In this song, which continues the theme of deep introspection from her debut album, Obsidian, Sharon paints a vivid portrait of profound connection and intimacy. As she explores the boundless depths of love, there’s a palpable sense of quiet surrender and intentional stillness. It brings to mind a quote by James Baldwin, who once wrote, “Love takes off the masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within.” With each line of this song, Sharon captures this sentiment, resonating with the sweetness and anticipation of love, evoking the tender moments of a first kiss.
DO 4 LOVE – Snoh Aelegra
Closing out the playlist is Snoh Aalegra’s 2023 cover of Bobby Caldwell’s “What You Won’t Do for Love.” It’s a stripped-back rendition, yet perhaps the most sensual song in the entire curation, reminding listeners of the subtlety of passion.
daybreak 