Unless I am sleeping or watching television, I am more than likely listening to music. Every year, as we make our way through the calendar, I patiently wait for Friday and the release of new albums. As soon as I can, I add new records to my collection and spend hours lost in a world of discovery.

When the dust settles and we draw near the end of another year, I look back at the 10 songs I listened to most. Are these the best 10 songs of the year? Probably not. I am no music critic. I will leave that judgment call for someone else, but these songs perfectly encapsulate the year for me.

To listen to the “Musical Thesis: My 10 Favorite Songs of 2021” playlist, click here.

 Willie Nelson “Learnin’ the Blues”

It all started with The Highwaymen. It soon morphed into a deep appreciation for Johnny Cash. Now, it is morphing into a deep dive into Willie Nelson’s catalog. While “Learnin’ the Blues” is a cover, I will always appreciate Willie’s interpretation of any song he chooses.

Lord Huron “(Deep Down Inside Ya)”

I don’t know if Long Lost by Lord Huron classifies as a concept album, but the story they have created around it is enthralling. “(Deep Down Inside Ya)” isn’t technically a song, but it does give you a sense of the concept behind the album.

The Besnard Lakes “The Father of Time Wakes Up”

I’ve been listening to The Besnard Lakes for a while now. They make big, ethereal, and engrossing music. “The Father of Time Wakes Up” is all this and more. From the opening note, this song hooks me and doesn’t let go.

The Besnard Lakes “The Last of the Great Thunderstorm Warnings”

I will always make room in my music-loving heart for songs pushing the boundaries of 5+ minutes. Coming in at 17:54, “The Last of the Great Thunderstorm Warnings” is big and ambitious. It forces the listener to pay attention. Digging through the lyrics when paired with the composition of the song, checks so many boxes for me. Without a doubt, this is a song I would love to hear performed live.  

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah “Where They Perform Miracles”

I am late to the Clap Your Hands Say Yeah party. Some might say I am ten years too late. Nevertheless, I find this song profoundly moving, hopeful, and lovely. It feels so simple, but the story it tells demands your attention.

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah “If I Were More Like Jesus”

“If I Were More Like Jesus” is so introspective. As a simple piano performance moves the song forward, I find myself invited in to explore the space, make sense of what I can, and meditate on what I don’t yet understand.

Foo Fighters “Cloudspotter”

On their album, “Medicine at Midnight,” Foo Fighters attempt to make a rock album that forces you to dance. Not every song on this album works for me, but “Cloudspotter” makes me want to move.

Kings of Leon “The Bandit”

I am from Oklahoma, and so are the Kings of Leon. I am always happy to support quality music created by my fellow Okies. While I haven’t spent a tremendous amount of time with When You See Yourself, I love everything about “The Bandit.” It makes me want to dig deeper and spend some serious quality time with the album.

Lord Huron “Mine Forever”

Of all the bands I have discovered in the last 10 years, Lord Huron may be my favorite. They blend alt-country, folk, and rock together perfectly. Each album offers something new to consider and Long Lost is no different.

Lukas Nelson and the Promise of the Real “A Few Stars Apart”

Bookending my annual list with Willie Nelson’s son, Lukas Nelson seems right. I am only beginning to dig through his work. So far, I am deeply impressed and cannot wait to hear more. 

Be good to each other,

Nathan

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