Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student manager Griffin (class of 2027) and features some recent Grammy award winners.
Grammy Winners
In honor of the recent Grammy Awards, listen to a playlist of some of the songs and albums of the winners and experience some of the best music released this past year!
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.
Released almost 10 years ago on March 15, 2015, To Pimp A Butterfly is American rapper Kendrick Lamar’s third studio album. To Pimp A Butterfly blends numerous genres rooted in African American music styles, including hip-hop, jazz, funk, and soul.
The album centers political commentary surrounding racial violence and institutional discrimination, gaining widespread recognition for the artistry and social impact of the lyricism. Lamar drew inspiration from his travels to South Africa where he was able to draw connections between their racial and social landscape and Black communities of the U.S.
To Pimp A Butterfly centers Black memory and tradition while still focusing on contemporary social issues. Lamar’s song “Alright,” for example, came to be used in the Black Lives Matter movement as a call to action. Lamar received eleven total nominations at the 2016 Grammy Awards, seven just for To Pimp A Butterfly, and won Best Rap Album of the Year.
At a time of growing Black activism throughout the country, To Pimp A Butterfly had a tremendous impact on the hip-hop and rap industry. Many artists and fans alike cite Lamar’s album as a moment of empowerment to create pieces that express their cultural experiences and speak out against critical social inequalities.
Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student assistant Rocio (class of 2027). It features a multi-decade selection of songs.
Through the Decades: A Journey Through Time
This playlist spans across many different styles, from rock to soul, from grunge to pop, each representing the distinct culture of its time (1960s – 2020s).
1960s
The Beatles – “Here Comes the Sun” Genre: Rock/Pop
A perfect track to represent the cultural shift of the ’60s, full of optimism and innovation.
As many of you might already know, Kendrick Lamar graced this year’s Super Bowl Halftime Show with an unforgettable performance. For those who may not be familiar with him, Kendrick Lamar is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer, renowned for blending hip-hop with elements of jazz, funk, soul, and spoken word. His music often delves into themes such as race, social justice, and personal introspection. Lamar’s work is celebrated for its thought-provoking storytelling and intricate, layered lyricism.
Beyond his music, he is a powerful voice for activism, using his platform to address important issues impacting the African-American community. Following his recent Super Bowl performance, which many have described as a powerful statement filled with symbolism, discussions about his message regarding the current political climate in the U.S. have been buzzing across social media. With that in mind, I wanted to share some of my favorite songs by Kendrick Lamar.
Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library Associate Melanie and features some music with an Afrofuturism aesthetic.
Afrofuturism
Afrofuturism is a genre that centers Black history and culture and incorporates science-fiction, technology, and futuristic elements into literature, music, and the visual arts. Often using current social movements or popular culture as a backdrop, Afrofuturism focuses on works that examine the past, question the present, or imagine an (often) optimistic future, and are meant to inspire a sense of pride in their audience.
From Sun Ra‘s cosmic jazz to Beyoncé‘s homage to her roots in “Black Parade” to Janelle Monáe‘s sci fi themes of identity and liberation and beyond, afrofuturistic music highlights Black imagination, storytelling, and resilience. So enjoy some out of this world grooves by Black artists!
Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student manager Laeticia (class of 2026) and features some songs that have used samples of other songs in interesting ways.
Sampled Gems!!!
Nothing ignites my passion for music quite like a masterpiece, but there’s something truly exhilarating about a great song that breathes new life into another. This playlist is a celebration of the art of sampling, showcasing some of the most innovative and impactful uses of sampled songs in music history. Each track is infused with nostalgia and authenticity as artists transform tunes we all love into fresh and exciting experiences. Here are some songs that best use sampled music to elevate the original tunes to new heights!
Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student manager Nikoloz (class of 2026) and features songs to accompany a game of Monopoly.
Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student manager Eliana (class of 2024) featuring some songs about stars.
Songs About Stars
Here’s a few songs about stars to play the next time you’re taking a nighttime stroll. Don’t forget to appreciate the beauty in nature!
Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student assistant Susanne (class of 2026) and features a playlist in honor of Black History Month.
Black History Month Celebration
In honor of Black History Month, this playlist features songs by some amazing, influential Black artists. There’s a variety of genres and styles on this playlist and no shortage of hits – so enjoy and continue to support Black musicians this February and every month!
Welcome back to Parsons Playlists! Today’s playlist is curated by Music Library student assistant Nikoloz (class of 2026) and features some hip hop selections.
