Every decade seems to have its own soundtrack that keeps the time period alive. But when you really listen, the lines between eras mesh together. What was once a huge hit in the ‘80s might pop up as a TikTok trend today. So, when it comes to teachers and students, music can tell you a lot about who that person is, no matter their age. 

     While many people may assume students are chatting about the latest top-charters, there’s often an unexpected crossover. A student may be vibing to Fleetwood Mac, while a teacher secretly bumps to SZA on the drive home. To mix up your playlist a bit, here are some of our latest favorites, both teacher and student approved.

Mine:

• Fav of all time: Milky Chance’s “Stolen dance” (2012)
• Current favorite: Jack Johnson’s “Banana pancakes” (2005)
• Fav. artist: Myles Smith
• What I listen for: Usually the lyrics more than the beat
• Why? “They put you in a good mood, they’re happy morning vibe songs”

Rosie Mcgoey:

• Fav of all time: Hozier’s “Francesca” (2023)
• Current Favorite: Lizzie McAlpine’s “Spring to summer” (2024)
• Fav. artist: Florence + The Machine
• What she listens for: I look for both the beat and lyrics
• Why? “These are my favorites because they’re easy to listen to and relate to”

Olivia Rodriguez:

• Fav of all time: One Direction’s “18” (2014)
• Current Favorite: Tucker Wetmore’s “Wind up missin’ you” (2014)
• Fav. artist: Morgan Wallen
• What she listens for: “I listen to the lyrics the most”
• Why? “They always fit the mood”

Ellie Scherer:

• Fav of all time: Tyler Childers’ “All your’n” (2019)
• Current Favorite: The Lumineers’ “Flowers in your hair” (2012)
• Fav. artist: Chris Stapleton
• What she listens for: Both the beat and lyrics
• Why? “I like so many types of music, but listen to country the most because it’s relaxing and fun to sing to”

Sudisha:

• Fav of all time: Tame Impala’s “Let it happen” (2015)
• Current Favorite: Orange Blood’s “Champagne coast” (2011)
• Fav. artist: Blood Orange
• What she listens for: Definitely the beat
• Why? “I love how both songs blend smoothly and have really calm, chill vibes. They’re the kind of songs you’re never not in the mood for”

Mrs. Wechtler:

• Fav of all time: Beyonce’s “Freedom” feat. Kendrick Lamar (2016)
• Current Favorite: Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” (2023)
• Fav. artist: Chappell Roan
• What she listens for: “I’m an English teacher so I pay attention to the lyrics.”
• Why? “I love upbeat songs that are easy to dance to”

Mr. Hughes:

• Fav of all time: Bill Withers’ “Lean on me” (1972)
• Current Favorite: Luke Combs’ “Take you with me” (2023)
• Fav. artist: Luke Holmes
• What he listens for: Everything, the words, rhythm and harmony 
• Why? “Simple, because it’s a lot of family style music. He’s an upcoming dad so they’re pretty relatable.”

Ms. Crowley:

• Fav of all time: The Beatles’ “Here comes the sun” (1969)
• Current Favorite: Beyonce’s “TEXAS HOLD EM” (2024)
• Fav. artist: Billy Joel
• What she listens for: Both the lyrics and beat
• Why? “My grandson loves here comes the sun, so there are lots of memories along with it.”

Mrs. Zimmermann:

• Fav of all time: Eagles’ “Hotel California” (1976)
• Current Favorite: Any song by Teddy Swims
• Fav. artist: Talking Heads
• What she listens for: Both the beat and lyrics, but I love a good rhythm
• Why? “My wedding song was Hotel California so that’ll always be my favorite.”