Sometimes, all it takes is a hearty playlist to brighten up your day. Headphones in, frustration out.
Well, it makes sense: music has been shown to reduce stress, boost memory and improve mood.
And we'd argue that soul songs in particular really lift us up. You know, the ones that clear the negativity out of your head -- if only for three minutes -- and connect you with the otherwise intangible: the heart in an emotional vibrato, or the vibrant, purposeful note of a saxophone.
We all have our own soul song -- the one that makes us nod our head in agreement, squeeze our eyes shut in alliance. What tune really does it for you?
Below is a playlist of a few of our favorites -- if you haven't pinpointed yours yet, maybe you'll connect with some of ours.
What song make you feel light? Let us know in the comments section below and we'll add it to our playlist!
"The Dock Of The Bay," Sara Bareilles
"A Change Is Gonna Come," Ben Sollee
"After Tonight," Justin Nozuka
"Be OK," Ingrid Michaelson
"There's Hope," Ameritz Tribute Club
"It's Great To Be Here," The Jackson 5
"Midnight Train To Georgia," Gladys Knight & The Pips
"Tupelo Honey," Wayne Toups, Zydecajun
"Warwick Avenue," Duffy
"My Journey To The Sky," Sister Rosetta Tharpe
"Feeling Good," Nina Simone
"Afro Blue," Robert Glasper feat. Erykah Badu
"Orange Sky," Alexi Murdoch
"Stronger Than Me," Amy Winehouse, Ian Barter
For more music for the soul, click here.