By: Charlie Freyn
#1. Nujabes – “Feather”
Jun Seba (Nujabes) was born in Tokyo, Japan, on Februrary 7th, 2010. Nujabes mixes hip hop, rap and jazz samples. Unfortunately, Nujabes passed away on February 26, 2010 in a traffic accident. His music lives on and brings joy to countless listeners around the world.
#2. Electric Light Orchestra – “Mr. Blue Sky”
Electric Light Orchestra are an English rock band from Birmingham that formed in 1970. Their music falls into the following genres: progressive pop, symphonic rock, art rock, and progressive rock. “Mr. Blue Sky” is featured on Electric Light Orchestras 1977 double-LP Out of the Blue. “Mr. Blue Sky” is a great song to add to your playlist as the warmer weather is approaching.
#3. Lettuce – “Move on Up”
In 1992, the Lettuce band formed in Boston, Massachusetts. Lettuce brings the sounds of funk and jazz to their vibrant live shows. In 2008, Lettuce released the Rage! Album that pays a tribute to Curtis Mayfield’s “Move on Up.” If you’re ever looking to attend an extremely funky show, I recommend you check out the Lettuce band.
#4. Nappy Roots – “Good Day”
In 1995, Nappy Roots formed their rap group in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Nappy Roots adds an energetic twist to the hip hop and alternative hip hop genres. During the month of July, 2007, Nappy Roots released the Innerstate Music album which included the single “Good Day.” Give this song a listen if you are on the search for feel good music.
#5. Earth, Wind & Fire – “September”
Earth, Wind & Fire is an original Chicago band that was founded in 1971. Their music focuses on a number of genres: R&B, soul, funk, jazz, disco, pop, and psychedelic soul. “September” was released as a single by Earth, Wind & Fire in 1978. If you haven’t heard of Earth, Wind & Fire, I highly recommend you go listen to several of their albums.