Parsons Playlists: Through the Decades

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.

Aretha Franklin – “Respect”
Genre: Soul/R&B
An iconic anthem for empowerment and the civil rights movement.

1970s

David Bowie – “Space Oddity”
Genre: Glam Rock
This track encapsulates the futuristic and experimental vibes of the ’70s.

Fleetwood Mac – “Landslide”
Genre: Folk Rock
A soft, introspective classic that showcases the band’s emotional depth.

1980s

Michael Jackson – “Billie Jean”
Genre: Pop/Funk
One of the defining tracks of the ’80s, with its infectious groove and pioneering production.

The Smiths – “There Is A Light That Never Goes Out”
Genre: Indie Rock
A melancholic yet beautiful anthem from the ’80s alternative scene.

1990s

Nirvana – “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
Genre: Grunge/Rock
A cultural shift to grunge, encapsulating the rebellious spirit of the ’90s.

Lauryn Hill – “Doo Wop (That Thing)”
Genre: R&B/Hip-Hop
A blend of soulful R&B and sharp rap lyrics that defined ’90s hip-hop culture.

2000s

OutKast – “Hey Ya!”
Genre: Funk/Pop
A genre-defying hit that blends funk, pop, and dance.

Amy Winehouse – “Rehab”
Genre: Soul/Pop
A modern classic, blending jazz, soul, and pop with sharp lyrics.

2010s

Kendrick Lamar – “Alright”
Genre: Hip-Hop
An anthem for social change, it captures the political and cultural landscape of the 2010s.

Lorde – “Royals”
Genre: Indie Pop
This minimalist anthem became a defining song of the ’10s indie scene.

2020s

Taylor Swift – “All Too Well”
Genre: Pop/country
A track that redefined mainstream pop with its unique production and style.

Olivia Rodrigo – “drivers license”
Genre: Pop
One of the biggest songs of the 2020s, full of emotional vulnerability and teenage angst.

Here is a link to the whole playlist on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLU94rco57ZezxvxmvyKbScOGaCAawroKq&si=6FIbD3s07_Bu9S3M

Parsons Playlists: Black History Month Celebration

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

Black History Month

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!

Whitney Houston – “How Will I Know”

Rihanna – “Love on the Brain”

Childish Gambino – “Redbone”

Ms. Lauryn Hill – “Doo Wop (That Thing)”

Aretha Franklin – “Respect”

Kendrick Lamar – “Alright”

Beyoncé feat. Kendrick Lamar – “Freedom”

Leon Bridges – “River”

Janelle Monáe – “Make Me Feel”

Jon Batiste – “I Need You”

SZA – “Good Days”

Victoria Monét & JAGUAR II – “On My Mama”

Here is a link to the whole playlist on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLU94rco57ZezF78M_SQxgWVnVqrfP6uvF&si=pSPJzGUHFEQs3E5Q