Even with the frigid winters and never-ending isolation, Upstate New York is beautiful. One of the reasons I chose Cornell was because of how peaceful the upstate environment feels, especially when the sun decides to shine. As someone who loves a good road trip, there’s nothing greater than driving and seeing all the mountains and farms while listening to music. Part of moving away from home for college is becoming accustomed to a different part of the world. In a country as large as the U.S., no region is exactly alike. Upstate New York is truly one of the most unique and gorgeous places in this country, always managing to impress me. I’ve become obsessed with curating the perfect playlist for my drives from Massachusetts back and forth to Ithaca, one of my favorite parts about attending Cornell.
- Bonnie Raitt: “Angel From Montgomery”
A slow country song, filled with soul. My favorite part of starting a drive is easing the playlist in, and Raitt’s beautiful southern drawl is perfect for it. The last chorus is my favorite, and I always force my family and friends to sing along.
2. Tyler Childers: “Way of Triune God – Jubilee Version”
No playlist of mine is ever complete without a Tyler Childers song. What I’m particularly obsessed with in this song is his use of horns and guitar to create a boot-stomping sound. Listening to this song, I can’t help but feel joy, perfect for a jubilee.
3. John Prine: “Your Flag Decal Won’t Get You Into Heaven Anymore – Live at the Fifth Peg Chicago”
A song we need now more than ever in a political climate that continuously rewards war hawks in Congress. I absolutely adore the way Prine gets the crowd to sing along with him, along with the classic lyrics and guitar. Some of the best American music is found in satirical folk songs, and no playlist celebrating driving upstate is complete without one.
4. John Denver: “Rocky Mountain High”
Ah, John Denver. One of the best artists from the ’70s with classics that you and your grandmother can enjoy. This song instantly makes me happy, from the melodic guitar to Denver’s soaring vocals. Whenever it plays, my drive is instantly brightened.
5. Johnny Cash: “Folsom Prison Blues – Live at Folsom State Prison”
A classic song from a classic artist. Cash is one of the most iconic country stars and songwriters, and his song about prisoners’ plights is one of my favorites. His performance of this live at Folsom State Prison creates an amazing track, with cheers of real incarcerated persons along with the echo of the jail itself.
6. They Might Be Giants: “Birdhouse in Your Soul”
With booming drums and infused energy, this song is perfect for keeping the vibe high. The mantra of “I’m your only friend” always gets stuck in my head, but I’m not complaining. Plus, They Might Be Giants is always a fun pick, fusing talent and eccentricity in their every track.
7. Jefferson Airplane: “Embryonic Journey”
Just under two minutes, I love how this song serves as a perfect bridge and transition. Entirely guitar and composed by psychedelic ’60s legend Jorma Kaukonen, the song truly makes you feel a part of a journey, especially with the sun glistening in the distance.
8. The Hollies: “The Air That I Breathe”
The first time I heard this song was in the phenomenal movie Heretic, and I’ve loved it ever since. A true ’70s love song, the harmonies are Beatles-esque with an acoustic guitar strumming along. By the chorus, the guitar gives a full retro electric riff, perfect for a drive.
9. Willie Nelson: “Whiskey River”
The layered vocals with Nelson’s own iconic voice creates an iconic old country sound, especially when driving by little towns and small rivers. My dad asked me to play this the first time we drove to Ithaca and, as always, I instantly loved the recommendation.
10. Fleetwood Mac: “Never Going Back Again”
One of my favorite Fleetwood Mac songs and an underrated banger. Lindsey Buckingham’s guitar is perfect, the consistent new strings instilling a feeling of renewal. Going home for a break or coming back again reinforces the opportunity to try again.
11. Grateful Dead: “I Know You Rider – Live in Paris, 1972”
I wouldn’t say I’m explicitly a Deadhead by any means, but I do truly enjoy their music. A rendition of a classic folk song, their cover live in ’70s Paris is one of my favorite songs ever. The way they sound live is amazing, the mix of guitars is almost harmonic, while the drums carry the rhythm, encouraging the audience to sing along.
You can find the playlist here.
‘Solar Flare’ is a weekly playlist column where Sun contributors spotlight a slice of musical taste with the campus community. It runs every Monday.
Kate LaGatta is a member of the Class of 2029 in the College of Arts and Sciences. She is a columnist for the Arts & Culture department and can be reached at klagatta@cornellsun.com.
