Tag Archives: popular music

Arachnophonia: Billy Joel “The Stranger”

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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 Julie (class of 2028) and features Billy Joel’s classic 1977 album The Stranger. Thanks, Julie!

Billy Joel
The Stranger

Billy Joel - The Stranger (1977) album cover

The Stranger is easily my favorite album by American pianist and singer-songwriter, Billy Joel. I grew up hearing his music blasting from the radio and my dad’s speaker, and while this album contains several of his popular, more up-beat hits such as “Movin’ Out (Anthony’s Song)” and “Only The Good Die Young,” I have to admit that “Vienna” and “She’s Always A Woman” have my heart.

Easily recognizable by its iconic piano introduction, “Vienna” leaves the listener with a gentle reminder to stop and smell the roses as a young adult; life doesn’t end with old age!

“She’s Always A Woman” is, I think, one of the most beautiful love songs out there. While it’s certainly mellow, the complexity of Joel’s melody and instrumentation make it stand out in a crowd without losing its approachability.

I’ll always jump at the chance to use my CD player, and for me, I found The Stranger to be the perfect soundtrack for a rainy day study session. With a stellar group of songs perfectly representing a wide variety of emotions, this album truly has something for everyone.

Arachnophonia: “There’s Nothing Like This: The Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift” by Kevin Evers

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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 Elina (class of 2029) and features a book about the intersection of Taylor Swift, pop culture, and business. Thanks, Elina!

There’s Nothing Like This: The Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift by Kevin Evers

There's Nothing Like This: The Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift by Kevin Evers

Finance bros and Swifties (Taylor Swift’s fans) usually don’t mix. One’s busy crying to heartbreak songs, the other’s checking the stock market a bit too much. But the book titled There’s Nothing Like This: The Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift by Kevin Evers might just bring them together. It’s the rare book that proves that Taylor Swift is not just on top of the charts, but she is also running a billion-dollar brand.

The author Kevin Evers is an editor at Harvard Business Review and this book has been featured in Rolling Stone, People Magazine, US Weekly, USA Today, The Financial Times, and more. The book was named to the Financial Times “What to Read in 2025” list and was also named one of the “Thirty books we’re excited to read in the first half of 2025” by The Sydney Morning Herald.

There’s Nothing Like This unpacks the calculated plan behind Swift’s every move, from re-recording her albums to forming a direct relationship with her fans that beats any thriving company’s customer loyalty strategy. Her fans will love seeing how her methods fit into the business world and anyone interested in marketing or entrepreneurship will be surprised by her strategy.

This book connects two worlds: pop culture and business. It’s written in a way that is fun, easy to follow and you don’t have to have any prior knowledge of marketing to get it. Whether you are a Swiftie who wants to learn more about the behind the scenes of what she does or a finance bro who admires good and successful business strategies, this book shows that Taylor Swift’s success isn’t just luck, it’s a combination of smart moves and understanding of marketing. She truly is a mastermind.

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: Billie Eilish “Hit Me Hard and Soft”

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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 Susanne (class of 2026) and features Billie Eilish’s 2024 studio album Hit Me Hard and Soft. Thanks, Susanne!

Billie Eilish
Hit Me Hard and Soft

Billie Eilish - Hit Me Hard and Soft

Great news, music library people! Our vinyl collection is expanding and we have some exciting new(er) records to share with you all. One addition that’s been super exciting to me is Billie Eilish’s Hit Me Hard and Soft.

Eilish’s third studio album was released just last year on May 17, 2024 and was co-authored by her brother, Finneas O’Connell. The album features 10 tracks, most of which you’ve probably heard on the radio, on social media, or out in public. Hit Me Hard and Soft was widely praised and received two Grammy nominations for Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Album. It explores themes of love, heartbreak, insecurity, and queer identity and relationships.

When I first listened to the album I jumped between songs a bit, not realizing the musical and narrative elements that flowed between each track when played in order. Each song blends into the next, creating a really cool, cohesive listening experience which, in my opinion, is even better when using physical music like a record instead of a streaming platform. My favorite songs have shifted a lot since the album was released, but as of right now I would recommend “Chihiro,” “The Greatest,” and “Bittersuite.”

Hit Me Hard and Soft is at times humorous and snarky, occasionally heartbreaking, and always vocally and musically superb. Definitely check it out (literally, at the library!) and enjoy this album that has so much to offer.

Arachnophonia: The Steve Miller Band “Anthology”

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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 the vinyl set Anthology by the Steve Miller Band. Thanks, Rocio!

From Space Cowboys to Study Breaks: My Ride with the Steve Miller Band

The Steve Miller Band Anthology

Steve Miller Band - Anthology

We all have those songs. The ones that come on the radio and give you a pure hit of nostalgia. You might not know the name of the album, or even all the words, but you know the feeling. For me, a lot of those songs are by the Steve Miller Band. They bring me back to car rides with my dad, blasting music and trying to sing along to songs that are now forever engraved in my memory.

On my latest trip to the Music Library’s vinyl section, I wasn’t looking for anything in particular. That’s when I saw it: a compilation that looked like a greatest hits list from classic rock heaven, Steve Miller Band – Anthology. It was a two-record treasure chest and transported me back to those car rides with my dad. That feeling is something really special, especially since I don’t see a lot of college students thinking about their parents that often. But the truth is, as an international student, I’m always thinking of mine, and this album made me feel a couple of miles closer to home.

Moving past my personal anecdote, the great thing about these vinyls — whether it’s Miller or anything else in the Music Library — is that you can tap into that vibe without digging through your parents’ attic for a turntable. The library has that covered. I ended up taking a full-on study break to listen to the album, one hit after another. It’s a masterclass in 70s rock. There’s a reason these tracks have survived decades — they’re just pure, uncomplicated fun.
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So, if you need a break that actually feels like a break, I have a suggestion. Go to the Music Library. Find that call number or just wander the vinyl section until a familiar face (or album cover) winks at you.
Plug in your headphones, drop the needle, and take a 45-minute vacation. Or, if your dorm room needs a soundtrack, you can simply check it out.

Parsons Playlists: Prince’s Legacy

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Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student manager Amy (class of 2025) and features the music of Prince.

Prince’s Legacy

Prince wearing a pink feather boa while playing guitar

While reading The New York Times article about Ezra Edelman’s upcoming Netflix documentary on Prince, I found myself diving back into the legendary artist’s discography, rediscovering just how revolutionary his music truly is.

The documentary promises to go beyond Prince’s enigmatic persona, exploring his artistry, activism, and control over his own music. That deep dive into his legacy made me want to create a playlist that captures his signature blend of rock, soul, and pop, which has become synonymous with his name.

I compiled a playlist of my favorite Prince songs that reflect his talent, including the 2003 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame performance of “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” in tribute to George Harrison with an incredible guitar solo that amazes me every time I hear it.

You can also listen to Prince’s albums like Parade, Prince, 3121, Sign “o” the Times, and HITNRUN Phase One at the Music Library.

Prince – “Kiss”

Prince – “Purple Rain”

Prince – “Raspberry Beret”

Prince – “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World”

Prince – “When Doves Cry”

Prince – “1999”

Prince – “Little Red Corvette”

Prince – “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”

Prince – “Baby I’m A Star”

Prince – “Let’s Go Crazy”

Prince – “I Would Die 4 U”

Here is a link to the whole playlist on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLU94rco57Zew7B53G8i6r_pd53gJ3L71H&si=isECQul5rPmvq38D

And here it is on Spotify:

Parsons Playlists: “Some of my Favorite Korean Songs”

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Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student manager Isaac (class of 2025). It features some songs he discovered while studying abroad in South Korea.

Some of my Favorite Korean Songs

Namsan Tower And Pavilion During The Autumn Leaves In Seoul

Namsan Tower and pavilion during the autumn leaves in Seoul, South Korea.

Songs I listened to/heard while abroad in South Korea!

Hyukoh – “Antenna”

Lee Hi – “Breathe”

Crush – “Ego”

Crush (ft. Zico) – “Cereal”

Lee Hi (ft. Wonstein) – “H.S.K.T.”

ASH ISLAND – “Melody”

GroovyRoom (ft. HUH YUNJIN and Crush) – “Yes or No”

Jooyoung (ft. pH-1) – “Planet Girl”

Here is a link to the whole playlist on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLU94rco57ZexAotY1qDmwTQlE_qwxA27f&si=6KtFGoiQviE4qZne

Parsons Playlists: Still Woozy

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Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student manager Torsten (class of 2025) and features music by Still Woozy and other indie pop artists.

Still Woozy

Still Woozy

Still Woozy is one of my favorite artists, so this playlist features a mix of my favorite songs by him along with other similar music that matches his vibe. Enjoy!

Still Woozy – “Anyone But You”

Kid Bloom – “Electric U”

Wallows – “Pleaser”

Still Woozy – “Run It Back”

Your Neighbors – “Beta”

Still Woozy – “Wolfcat”

Still Woozy – “Shotput”

Still Woozy – “Again”

Remi Wolf – “Sexy Villian”

Still Woozy – “Habit”

Still Woozy – “Goodie Bag”

Kid Bloom – “LEMONHEAD”

Still Woozy – “Lucy”

Still Woozy – “Woopie”

Ax and the Hatchetmen – “Peach Trees”

Still Woozy – “Window”

Still Woozy – “Get Down”

Still Woozy – “Cooks”

Glass Animals – “Gooey”

PawPaw Rod – “Lemonhaze”

Last Dinosaurs – “Italo Disco”

Here is a link to the whole playlist on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLU94rco57ZezkEGwmyJKWC-6L1J2sp5Xf&si=MCvBsuKVwcWhbUMW

And here it is on Spotify:

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.