9 Songs That Feel Like Healing
Music is healing. That’s something I’ve learned to be true over the last few years. It can make you feel emotions you haven’t even experienced and bring you to places beyond imagination. More than that, music can be the soundtrack to your life, and it has the power to make you feel at ease. These are some of my go-to songs for comfort when I’m feeling down.
“come out and play” by Billie Eilish
This is one of my favorite Billie Eilish songs mostly because it sounds like a soft and sweet lullaby. I love the calming melody and the tone of her voice, but the lyrics are beautiful too. They remind me of a quiet winter night.
Favorite lyrics (I love them all, but this is one of the best lines):
And I know it makes you nervous / But I promise you, it's worth it /To show 'em everything you kept inside.
“00:00 (Zero O’Clock) by BTS
Despite the song being in a language I don’t understand, BTS has connected with fans all over the world, proving that music and emotions can transcend language. Not only is the song soothing, but the lyrics are relatable and comforting. They describe how the days might blur and feel unproductive or exhausting, but life goes on no matter what, and once the clock strikes midnight, tomorrow is another day.
Favorite lyrics: When this song ends / May a new song begin.
“Primavera” by Ludovico Einaudi, Robert Ziegler, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
This instrumental song is beautiful. It’s a classical song and so I’ll often listen to it while multitasking or studying. The piano is stunning and emotional, which makes this song a unique listening experience. Would it be too dramatic to say it feels like being in a movie? I think this is a song everyone should give a try.
“Should Have Known Better” by Sufjan Stevens
Sufjan Stevens is fairly popular, but this song, in particular, puts me at ease. This song is perfect for a late-night drive or to listen to just before bed. It starts out soft, but then it picks up in the middle, adding an electric keyboard to the mix.
Favorite lyrics: I should have known better / Nothing can be changed / The past is still the past / The bridge to nowhere / I should have wrote a letter / Explaining what I feel, that empty feeling
“Heavenly” by Cigarettes After Sex
If you have never listened to Cigarettes After Sex, you’re missing out. Every song by this artist is emotional and alluring, but this one always tugs on my heartstrings. Just hearing it feels “heavenly.”
Favorite lyrics: ‘Cause this is where / I wanna be / Where it’s so sweet / and heavenly
“Ever Since New York” by Harry Styles
This used to be my number one song to play no matter what mood I was in because it is the kind of track that is perfect in every situation. It feels like the lyrics are speaking directly to you as you listen. It’s a great song to play whether you want to cheer up or cry along. And even though Harry Styles tickets are hard to come by, his songs are so much better in person at a concert. I highly recommend going to a Harry Styles concert if you’re able to!
Favorite lyrics: And I've been praying, I never did before / Understand I'm talking to the walls / I've been praying ever since New York
“Space Song” by Beach House
Beach House has a lot of breathtaking music. This song, specifically, feels quiet enough to sound like silence, in the best way possible. It’s the perfect song to listen to on calming evenings, both with friends or by yourself, or to listen to while being creative, which is when I often listen to it.
Favorite lyrics: Tender is the night / For a broken heart / Who will dry your eyes / When it falls apart?
“Bags” by Clairo
This song definitely got me through exam season. I would play it non-stop when studying or taking a break. Apart from the fact that it’s really pretty, it’s also the perfect song to sing along to.
Favorite lyrics: Pardon my emotions / I should probably keep it all to myself / Know you'd make fun of me
“4 o’clock” by V and RM
Last but certainly not least, this is one of my favorite songs of all time. It’s by V and RM of BTS. It captures the feeling of being in the park very early in the morning when it’s still dark and all is quiet. This song helps me fall asleep and eases my mind.
Favorite lyrics: Why are you crying / You and I are the only ones here.
These are the songs in my playlist that truly bring me comfort. I think that’s what’s beautiful about music: it can make us feel so much better and bring us together. Next time you’re not feeling you’re best and are unsure what to do, I recommend putting on your favorite song. It just might be exactly what you need.
Avani is a Rutgers University student who is passionate about television and bands. In her free time, she can be found reading fantasy books or snacking.
