Summer Series Part 3 : Tommy's Weekly Playlist
By Tommy Rodriguez
For the third part of the Heart Eye Magazine Summer Series, we wanted to turn our attention to summer jams that promote societal change, inner positivity, and community in times as trying as today. These six songs come from Black artists that have not only hugely impacted our lives, but have the potential to inspire you to make a change this summer!
Jimi Hendrix – “All Along the Watchtower”
One of the most important rock songs of all time, recorded by one of the most important musicians of all time, Jimi Hendrix’s “All Along the Watchtower” is the epitome of complexity and swagger. Hendrix’s signature guitar plucking is perfect for a midnight moment of introspection, while the lyrics point directly at the issues still faced by America today. It’s a legendary song that exudes importance and coolness in every second of its performance. Safe to say, it’s damn near essential for anyone looking to throw on a smooth rock tune that can help them understand and address the problems that need to be fixed in 2020.
Black Eyed Peas – Where Is the Love?
The 2003 version of Black Eyed Peas’ “Where Is The Love” is one of the group’s most iconic hits, and there’s good reason for that. The message the track pushes—for love and peace—may be very cheesy and simplified, but when it combines with a great groove and some wonderful vocal harmonies from Justin Timberlake, heartfelt performances from Fergie, will.i.am, Taboo, and apl.de.ap, the song is undeniably enjoyable. For anyone looking for a song to motivate positive change in a terrible climate, this one should be on queue.
Big K.R.I.T – K.R.I.T. Here
Big K.R.I.T is one of the few artists operating today that can bring the passion of a pastor and the cool of a Southern hip-hop player all at once. “K.R.I.T. Here” is downright beautiful at times, with its soaring vocal harmonies, horns, and soul-samples getting the ground to shake. What truly makes “K.R.I.T. Here” so powerful is K.R.I.T.’s story: he has overcome the odds and found peace within himself. If you want a song to motivate you to do better for the world, to contribute positivity and love to society, or to simply help you feel good, let this Southern beauty play.
Curtis Mayfield – Move On Up
Curtis Mayfield makes what I call “sky driving music.” Every element of his voice and instrumentals has a certain energy; an energy that can propel a car to drive off the street and into the clouds. “Move On Up” is a song that does just that: the horns are dazzling, the percussion is groovy, and Mayfield’s kind voice is hypnotic as he masters the groove. “Just move on up to your destination,” Mayfield urges on this song. He oozes hope for a brighter tomorrow...and that’s something we must hold onto!
Rapsody (feat. Elle Varner) – Michelle
Rapsody is more than just a charismatic lyricist: she makes music that is more relevant with every passing year. A song that celebrates the beauty of Black women, “Michelle” is incredibly relevant for a time where the importance of Black stories and voices cannot be ignored any longer. The song brings the bounce of a club banger with its jazzy percussion and sampling, while Rapsody brings the charisma of an MC at a crowded house party. If you’re looking for a song that reflects on the power of the Black community while still acting as a fun anthem, “Michelle” is the one!
CHIKA – CROWN
CHIKA is one to watch, plain and simple. The closing song of her excellent album, Industry Games, “CROWN” is a Gospel-rap fusion for the ages. CHIKA’s amazing performance promotes self-sufficiency, overcoming the obstacles we face every day, and moving forward for your own success. It’s a song that is catchier than any Church-hymn, more human than anything that has released this year, and yet, still has a pop-sensibility that can make anyone enjoy putting it on. It’s a musical crown that anyone should put on their head this summer, especially as we fight for an end to racial inequality across the world.