Music

Joe Biden And Kamala Harris’s Sprawling Inauguration Playlist Was Curated By Issa Rae’s Record Label

Getty Image From Sounds of Blackness to Steely Dan, the list has something for everyone. …

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris’s inauguration will be one of the most hopeful days many of us have had in a long time. To acknowledge the optimistic outlook of their first term, the president and vice president-elect have commissioned a sprawling inauguration day playlist full of hopeful songs from across seemingly every genre imaginable. To help curate the list, the duo’s team brought on DJ D-Nice, whose Home School quarantine streams offered a warm distraction from the stress of the early pandemic, and Issa Rae, whose record label Raedio presents the playlist.

There are 46 songs on the list, nodding to the 46th President of the United States, ranging from underground rap like Kota The Friend’s “Lupita Interlude” to all-American rock legends like Bruce Springsteen. There are also some not so subtle messages to the American people in the titles of the song choices, as in the aforementioned Springsteen selection “We Take Care Of Our Own.” The incoming President wants to “Give The People What They Want,” courtesy of the O’Jays and promises to “Pick Up The Pieces” via Average White Band.

And while the feel-good vibes extend throughout the playlist, it’s probably also going to be fun to imagine Joe bopping along to the late MF Doom‘s “Coffin Nails” or SZA’s “Good Days.” Fortunately, there are plenty of well-tread classics for the older set, including Bill Withers’ “Lovely Day,” Curtis Mayfield’s “Move On Up,” Jackie Wilson’s “Higher And Higher,” and Sounds Of Blackness’s “Optimistic.” To put it bluntly, it’s a way better list than anything we could have expected from the other guy, and a smart move on the inauguration committee’s part to nab a purveyor of tastemaking cool like Issa Rae to select a collection of songs that speaks to the needed tone of the Biden-Harris presidency: One of unity, diversity, and hope.

Check out the list above.

Some of the artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.

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Artist Spotlight

The Skinny Limbs Unveil Galactic Soundscape with ‘Mozart for Martians’ EP Premiere

The Skinny Limbs have unveiled their latest EP, “Mozart for Martians,” which consists of five stellar tracks that revolve around the complex universe of emotions accompanying a long-term relationship’s end. This EP’s celestial soundtrack for heartbreak, rejuvenation, and reflection seamlessly blends indie-pop with lo-fi vibes and Japanese pop influences, transcending musical genres.

This eclectic mix creates a vibrant tapestry of sound, drawing listeners into a realm that is both familiar and otherworldly. The raw vulnerability in each track reflects band member Max Knoth’s personal journey through love, loss, and life’s unpredictable twists.

Lead single “Too Little Too Late” is a gut-punching anthem that blends poignant lyrics with a sonic fusion of Japanese pop and indie elements, capturing the EP’s emotional core. Meanwhile, “To The Limit” offers a celestial blend of melodies and evocative lyrics, portraying the feelings of confusion and frustration that accompany life’s hurdles.

The EP’s sonic journey is completed by the unreleased gems, “Monday,” a jammy reflection of Max Knoth’s tumultuous breakup week, “I Know You Care,” an older track reborn, and “For So Long!,” a groovy exploration of confusion, patience, and the search for clarity.

Produced by Connor Robertson, Jake Rye, and The Skinny Limbs, and mastered by Mike Cervantes (known for his work with Dolly Parton and MisterWives), this EP is a masterful blend of heartfelt storytelling and musical innovation. The production quality is top-notch, and the EP’s 18-minute runtime provides a concise yet powerful journey that will leave listeners craving more.

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Artist Spotlight

ISSARA unveils a soulful sonic masterpiece with her debut album, “222”

ISSARA is an enchanting singer-songwriter with a multicultural heritage encompassing Thailand, France, and the USA. Born in Bangkok, Thailand, and raised in Seattle, Washington, by her Thai father and French mother, Issara delivers her latest debut album, “222,” embodied within this 11-track masterpiece, is a fusion of soul, pop, and rock that captivates global audiences, echoing her diverse sonic experiences and eclectic musical style.

“222” offers an auditory 11-track album manifesto that transcends genres and defies expectations, inviting listeners into a world of shimmering melodies and hazy whispers. ISSARA, named after the Thai word for “freedom,” is a testimony to her emancipating musical odyssey and pledge to authenticity.

Drawing from personal experiences and paying tribute to influential women in her life, each song resonates with raw emotion and unwavering honesty. The album’s “222” holds special significance, symbolizing Issara’s artistic evolution and the universal quest for freedom. With each soul-stirring note at a time, Issara invites listeners to join her on her exhilarating musical exploration of love, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of womanhood.

Recorded and produced by the acclaimed Jack Bowman, “222” exudes a vintage charm reminiscent of the 70s era, embracing imperfections to convey the genuine sincerity of Issara’s vision. The album starts with a captivating rhythm in the first track, “Ride,” and progresses to an empowering anthem in the second track, “Rise Up.” The third track, “Phoenix,” is hauntingly beautiful, while the fourth track, “I See You,” showcases the artist’s signature style. These album’s tracks provide a glimpse into Issara’s soul, inviting listeners to explore a more profound journey of self-discovery and female camaraderie.

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Issara showcases the resilience and unwavering determination with the support of her family and producer, maintaining a balance between the complexities of motherhood and fueled by her passion for artistic aspirations. As a bonus track, the album’s grand finale concludes with the enchanting “Missed You,” a captivating ode to love and longing that leaves listeners yearning for more.

Issara’s debut album, “222,” is a valuable addition to numerous playlists, a must-listen for enthusiasts craving introspective charm and authentic storytelling innovation. Prepare to embark on a transformative sonic voyage through the depths of the human experience as “222” takes the world by storm, setting the stage for a new era in soulful pop music.

For more information about ISSARA, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM ISSARA’s “222“ on Spotify.
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