Tag Archives: pop

Arachnophonia: Michael Jackson “Thriller”

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Editor’s note: Arachnophonia (“Arachno” = spider / “-phonia” = sound) is a regular feature on our blog where members of the UR community can share their thoughts about resources from the Parsons Music Library‘s collection.

All links included in these posts will take you to either the library catalog record for the item in question or to additional relevant information from around the web.

Today’s installment of Arachnophonia is by student manager Eliana (class of 2026) and features MIchael Jackson’s 1982 album Thriller. Thanks, Eliana!

Michael Jackson

Thriller

Michael Jackson - Thriller album cover

Michael Jackson is one of those timeless artists that crosses generations of listeners. There are few people that I have met that say they have not listened to him, and if they say they are unaware what songs he has made, it is likely they just had no idea who wrote the song. Winning 13 Grammy Awards over his lifetime, Michael was widely recognized as the “King of Pop.” 8 of those Grammy Awards went to his album Thriller in 1984, and to this day he remains one of the record holders for most Grammy Awards won in a single night.

Thriller is Michael’s 6th studio album, and it remains the best-selling album of all time to this day. One of its tracks, “Beat It,” won Record of the Year in 1982 alongside his other awards. This album contains many fan favorites, including the well-known “Thriller” and “Billie Jean.” One of my favorites is “The Girl is Mine” featuring Paul McCartney. This soft pop ballad reminds me of Michael’s early Motown era, serenading the world with songs of love. Michael’s passing in 2009 shook the world, but his influence continues to live on through his music. The Thriller album is sure to get you bobbing your head without you even noticing, so be sure to take a listen to the vinyl (or on CD) at the Parsons Music Library!

Parsons Playlists: Winter Pop

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Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student assistant Joyce (class of 2027) and features some wintry pop songs.

Winter Pop Playlist

This winter pop playlist is expressive and gives energy to listeners in the winter months. It captures the ambiance of winter: light, airy, cold, but cheerful. This playlist contains upbeat and shimmery tones that resemble the winter landscape: snow and warm lighting.

Ariana Grande – “Twilight Zone”

Ariana Grande – “December”

Madison Beer – “Bittersweet”

The Marias – “Run Your Mouth”

Olivia Dean – “A Couple Minutes”

Victoria Monet – “We Might Even Be Falling in Love”

Kaye-Marie – “Lives in You”

Here is a link to the whole playlist on YouTube:

Arachnophonia: Laufey “A Matter of Time”

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Editor’s note: Arachnophonia (“Arachno” = spider / “-phonia” = sound) is a regular feature on our blog where members of the UR community can share their thoughts about resources from the Parsons Music Library‘s collection.

All links included in these posts will take you to either the library catalog record for the item in question or to additional relevant information from around the web.

Today’s installment of Arachnophonia is by student assistant Joyce (class of 2027) and features Laufey’s 2025 album A Matter of Time. Thanks, Joyce!

Laufey

A Matter of Time

Laufey - A Matter of Time

I chose A Matter of Time by Laufey because her music is a combination of genres that I have always been drawn to. I like jazz, and Laufey’s sound blends that style with pop in a way that feels both modern and timeless. I think her music is especially compelling to me because of its classical influence. She often sings with an operatic tone, and her background in classical music as a cellist shapes the structure and emotional depth of her songs. That classical foundation gives her music a richness that sets it apart from typical pop albums.

This album is important to me because it feels versatile and comforting. My favorite song, “Lover Girl,” is especially catchy and lively, and I think it is good to listen to in everyday moments. It is the kind of song I enjoy playing while going on a walk or cleaning my room. Overall, I think this studio album captures why I appreciate Laufey as an artist. She creates music that is approachable and fun, yet grounded in a strong classical background.

Arachnophonia: Ariana Grande “Eternal Sunshine”

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Editor’s note: Arachnophonia (“Arachno” = spider / “-phonia” = sound) is a regular feature on our blog where members of the UR community can share their thoughts about resources from the Parsons Music Library‘s collection.

All links included in these posts will take you to either the library catalog record for the item in question or to additional relevant information from around the web.

Today’s installment of Arachnophonia is by student assistant Mia (class of 2026) and features Ariana Grande’s 2024 album Eternal Sunshine on vinyl. Thanks, Mia!

Ariana Grande
Eternal Sunshine

Ariana Grande - Eternal Sunshine

Ariana Grande’s 7th studio album titled Eternal Sunshine was released in 2024. This album has a wide range of music with upbeat pop anthems as well as meaningful ballads. The inspiration behind this album came from the movie Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind released in 2004. This film looks at two people who go to extreme lengths to forget each other after a rough breakup, and analyzes memories and love. These are themes Grande has experienced through her own relationships with the loss of her ex-boyfriend Mac Miller, and the divorce of her ex-husband Dalton Gomez. The movie features themes of love, breakups, healing, and growth much like the themes in Ariana Grande’s album.

The diversity of songs across the entire album reach a wide range of audiences, and is played frequently on the University of Richmond’s campus. And unlike her past albums, Grande uses less of her impressive vocal abilities such as her vocal range and runs. Instead, she focuses on the themes of the movie and her lyrics, allowing for a more vulnerable and emotional sound. Critics believe this is her most mature sounding album of her career and shows experimentation and vulnerability.

Parsons Music Library carries a copy of Eternal Sunshine on vinyl. The vinyl record allows for a more rich and deep sound of the R&B songs featured in this collection. Additionally, the sides follow more closely with the themes of the album with the A side focusing on more of the heartbreak and the B side allowing for healing. I personally recommend giving it a listen on vinyl at Parsons!

Arachnophonia: Ariana Grande: “Eternal Sunshine”

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Editor’s note: Arachnophonia (“Arachno” = spider / “-phonia” = sound) is a regular feature on our blog where members of the UR community can share their thoughts about resources from the Parsons Music Library‘s collection.

All links included in these posts will take you to either the library catalog record for the item in question or to additional relevant information from around the web.

Today’s installment of Arachnophonia is by student assistant Claire (class of 2028) and features Ariana Grande’s 2024 studio album Eternal Sunshine on vinyl. Thanks, Claire!

Ariana Grande

Eternal Sunshine

Ariana Grande - Eternal Sunshine

Ariana Grande’s latest studio album, Eternal Sunshine, was released in 2024. This album showcases Ariana’s growth as an artist, blending smooth R&B, electronic pop, and introspective lyrics. It contains some of her most talked-about songs, including “yes, and?” and “we can’t be friends.” Eternal Sunshine explores themes of self-reflection, love, and personal growth, making it a favorite among fans.

What makes Eternal Sunshine unique is its cohesive sound and thoughtful songwriting. The song “We can’t be friends” highlights Ariana’s emotional vulnerability, while other tracks provide a balance of energy and melody. Whether you’ve followed Ariana’s career from the beginning or are a newer listener, this album is enjoyable and engaging to experience.

For students interested in studying contemporary pop, themes of self-reflection in music, or the intersection of electronic production with emotional lyricism, Eternal Sunshine is a great resource. But beyond analysis, it’s also simply an enjoyable listen — a vinyl record that captures both the challenges and beauty of growth.

Arachnophonia: Frank Sinatra “Strangers in the Night”

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Editor’s note: Arachnophonia (“Arachno” = spider / “-phonia” = sound) is a regular feature on our blog where members of the UR community can share their thoughts about resources from the Parsons Music Library‘s collection.

All links included in these posts will take you to either the library catalog record for the item in question or to additional relevant information from around the web.

Today’s installment of Arachnophonia is by student manager Rocio (class of 2027) and features a vinyl record by Frank Sinatra. Thanks, Rocio!

Finding an Old Soul in the Stacks: My Afternoon with Frank Sinatra

Frank Sinatra - Strangers in the Night (1966 album cover)

We all have our study traps: 8:15, tea, coffee, or the intense silence of the top floor of the main library. My go-to lately has been the Music Library, not just for the quiet, but for the escape.

I found myself in front of the vinyl section, and my eyes went directly to the Frank Sinatra – Strangers in the Night record. It felt like finding a classic novel you’ve only ever heard quoted. I pulled out the vinyl: the cover was cool but simple. It was just Sinatra, looking effortlessly detached. It felt like an invitation.

The best part is that I didn’t even need to own a record player to listen to it. And yes, I know I can find Sinatra on Spotify (hot take: I really don’t like Apple Music); but I sometimes like going to the source. There’s something about vinyl that makes the music feel more authentic —- but that’s just my opinion.

Anyways, back to the amazing players we have in the library (one in study room 1, one in the main reading room and a portable record player you can check out). I took the record over, plugged my AirPods into the player, and lowered the needle. An unmistakable trumpet began, and Sinatra’s voice cut through—smooth, clear, and completely transporting. I listened to the whole album. There’s an intentionality to vinyl that an algorithm can’t replicate.

This is the secret no one tells you about the Music Library: it’s not just a resource; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to connect with music the way it was originally meant to be heard — with intention. You’re not just clicking ‘shuffle’; you’re handling art, carefully placing the needle, and committing to an entire album’s journey.

So, whether you’re a vinyl veteran or just vibe-curious, I challenge you. Go to the Music Library. Find
that call number (in this case, RM 1630.18.S47), just browse the vinyl section until an icon calls out to you, or ask one of our friendly library staff to help you find something!

Plug in your headphones at the turntable station and have a private listening party. Or, if you’re like me and the experience was too good to leave behind, you can simply check it
out. Yes, you can take Frank Sinatra back to your dorm, just remember to bring him back to the Music Library too.

Parsons Playlists: Lo-Fi Music

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Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student assistant Sophia (class of 2028) and features some lo-fi tunes.

Lo-Fi Music

Lo-Fi Music

Lofi Fruit Music – “Stan”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Lucid Dreams (Shape of My Heart)”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Night Trouble”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Sweater Weather”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Another Love”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Beggin’”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Jocelyn Flores”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Glimpse of Us”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Leaves From The Vine”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Can We Kiss Forever?”

Lofi Fruit Music – “7 Years”

Lofi Fruit Music – “A Thousand Years”

Lofi Fruit Music – “I’m Yours”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Steven Universe”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Riptide”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Fantasy (Talking To The Moon)”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Do I Wanna Know?”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Dancing in the Moonlight”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Everything I Wanted”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Una Mattina”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Gangsta’s Paradise”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Take Me To Church”

Lofi Fruit Music – “As It Was”

Lofi Fruit Music – “See You Again”

Lofi Fruit Music – “First Class”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Redbone”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Easy On Me”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Let Her Go”

Lofi Fruit Music – “I See Fire”

Lofi Fruit Music – “STAY”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Cradles”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Get You The Moon”

Lofi Fruit Music – “SAD!”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Arcade”

Lofi Fruit Music – “The Less I Know The Better”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Fireflies”

Lofi Fruit Music – “City Of Stars”

Lofi Fruit Music – “The Cave”

Lofi Fruit Music – “L’s Theme”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Better Together”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Toxic”

Lofi Fruit Music – “All We Do”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Still D.R.E.”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Industry Baby”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Frozen”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Congratulations”

Lofi Fruit Music – “ABCDEFU”

Lofi Fruit Music – “Sunset Lover”

Lofi Fruit Music – “The Remedy For A Broken Heart”

Here is a link to the whole playlist on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLp8XNR9pwF9znUdjeEpADRzEY_tujL03d&si=_cqfum8qi124xq_K

And here it is on Spotify:

Arachnophonia: Coldplay “X & Y”

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Editor’s note: Arachnophonia (“Arachno” = spider / “-phonia” = sound) is a regular feature on our blog where members of the UR community can share their thoughts about resources from the Parsons Music Library‘s collection.

All links included in these posts will take you to either the library catalog record for the item in question or to additional relevant information from around the web.

Today’s installment of Arachnophonia is by student assistant Ibrahim (class of 2028) and features Coldplay’s 2005 album X & Y. Thanks, Ibrahim!

Coldplay

X & Y

Coldplay - X & Y album cover

Coldplay’s third studio album is titled X & Y and was released in 2005. It revealed an immense change in their musical style. This album contains some of their most popular songs, including “Speed of Sound,” “Fix You,” and “Talk.” X & Y has various genres of music in it and discusses uncertainty, hope, and love among individuals, thus making this album a favorite among fans.

What makes X & Y unique is its terrific songwriting and expansive sound. Songs such as “Talk” borrow things from other bands—its melody is borrowed from an electronic band named Kraftwerk. “Fix You” is among the top songs by Coldplay because it consoles individuals who have been through tough times and provides them with hope. Whether you have known this band forever or just recently came to hear about it, this album is fun to listen to.

The Music Library has X & Y on CD, so you can experience its rich feelings yourself. If you prefer to think about the songs, listen to pleasant music, or simply have it playing in the background, most fans just love X & Y.

Arachnophonia: Justin Timberlake – “The 20/20 Experience”

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Editor’s note: Arachnophonia (“Arachno” = spider / “-phonia” = sound) is a regular feature on our blog where members of the UR community can share their thoughts about resources from the Parsons Music Library‘s collection.

All links included in these posts will take you to either the library catalog record for the item in question or to additional relevant information from around the web.

Today’s installment of Arachnophonia is by student manager Marissa (class of 2025) and features Justin Timberlake’s third studio album The 20/20 Experience. Thanks, Marissa!

Justin Timberlake

The 20/20 Experience

Justin Timberlake - The 20/20 Experience

One of the “Greatest Artists of the 21st Century”, Justin Timberlake is an American pop singer, songwriter, producer, actor and dancer. He started off his career in the music industry as a featured member of the popular boy band *NSYNC in the late 90s. He can also be seen in the 2010 movie The Social Network as Napster founder Sean Parker.

His third studio album titled The 20/20 Experience dropped in 2013, debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 and it eventually became Billboard’s best selling album of 2013. The singles on the album include “Suit and Tie” featuring Jay-Z, “Tunnel Vision,” and, my personal favorite, “Mirrors.” These songs and more can be found in the Parson’s Music Library today on The 20/20 Experience CD.

Arachnophonia: Adele – “21”

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Editor’s note: Arachnophonia (“Arachno” = spider / “-phonia” = sound) is a regular feature on our blog where members of the UR community can share their thoughts about resources from the Parsons Music Library‘s collection.

All links included in these posts will take you to either the library catalog record for the item in question or to additional relevant information from around the web.

Today’s installment of Arachnophonia is by student assistant Jillian (class of 2027) and features Adele’s 2011 studio album 21. Thanks, Jillian!

Adele

21

I came across this album while shelf reading and instantly was washed over by nostalgia. At the time this album was released I was 10 years old, but my mom loved Adele’s staples such as “Rumor Has It,” and “Rolling in the Deep,” so I heard these songs quite often. I remember listening to them on long car rides to my sister’s ballet classes, never really understanding the lyrics, but I liked the beat.

Adele’s 21 album was created while she was 21, therefore all of the events and feelings she went through during this time of her life are expressed in these songs. As I’m turning 21 this year, I found it comforting to listen to the music again, because now I could actually understand what she was going through and relate. I think this goes to show you that while new music is exciting, it’s always fun to revisit the music you listened to when you were young, especially when you’re feeling down.

As a college student, it’s important to ground yourself once in a while. Revisiting your old music taste can bring back memories, comfort you, and remind you of who you used to be. With pressures of due dates, presentations, and exams, it’s always good to reflect on how far you’ve come. Music is a means of transporting you to that old self so you can appreciate where you are now. So, I suggest you go back and listen to that old playlist, album or song. Because who knows, after listening maybe you’ll discover a new meaning to it.