A new chapter begins as we students stumble into our 8:30 AM lectures, and conjure up impossible to-do lists for the upcoming semester its hard to find time to relax and unwind. I’ve always found that the best way for me to take a break and focus on myself is through music. I’ve compiled some of my favourite songs that help me get through the stressful moments of school, and also the tunes that capture the beauty of our teen years.
1. Perfect Places by Lorde
Lorde has undeniably become synonymous with the angst of teenagedom; however, “Perfect Places” to me perfectly sums up the confusion and excitement of high school. This song is perfect for late-night ponders and nostalgic drives around town with friends.
2. Funny How the Universe Works by The Runarounds
The Runarounds are an incredible real band from an equally incredible fictional TV show. Their 2025 self-titled album encapsulates the high school experience start to finish, from unrequited romance to the impending decisions of life after school. “Funny How The Universe Works” is an upbeat indie rock-pop love song that is bound to get you dancing around your room!
3. 17 by The Greeting Committee
As the title suggests, “17” is about navigating the uncharted waves of transitioning from childhood to adulthood. The Greeting Committe are an Alternative Pop band with indie and rock influences, and “17” is an especially upbeat song with relatable lyrics about defying authority and changes in relationships as we grow up.
4. Get A Job (Live from The Porch) by Porch Light
Don’t feel attacked by the title; this song by Porch Light is the anthem of not knowing what to do with your life. This song single-handedly got me through the life-altering decisions of university applications, and I hope it can also resonate with you.
5. here we go again by Juliet Ivy
I first discovered Juliet Ivy on my Explore Page on Instgram and she has not disappointed since. Specifically, I really enjoy Ivy’s songwriting; it feels like reading a page out of her diary, raw and truthful. Paired with her bedroom pop style of music, “here we go again” is a song that balances whimsy and poignant lyricism.
6. My Life by LAUNDRY DAY ft. Matilda Marigolds
When I was in Grade 10, this song was on repeat and was my top song on Spotify, with nearly 300 streams. Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoy this song and the themes explored within. LAUNDRY DAY is one of my favourite bands, flawlessly bending between genres like Electronic, Pop Rock and Alternative Indie. However, “My Life” is a more chill song, great for listening to with your headphones at full volume as you stare out the window on the bus ride home.
7. Sick Dogs by hey, nothing
A complete 180 from the previous song, “Sick Dogs,” is a raw, fast-paced, and energetic song. Lyrically, hey, nothing never dissapoints, and this song is no exception. As a proud fan since 2021, this is by far one of my favourites from them. The lyrics in this song remind me of the ramblings of an emotion-fuelled journal entry while still being perfectly coherent and relatable. Despite featuring unexpected references to the beloved Adam Sandler movie “Grown Ups” and M and M’s, the song still manages to evoke the feelings of growing pains.
Fun fact! The duo’s stage name, hey, nothing, is a reference to the film “Perks of Being a Wallflower.”
8. Friday I’m in Love by The Cure
A classic love song, this song embodies the joy of discovering a new crush and the second wind that comes with it, which seems to carry you throughout the week. Undoubtedly, this is THE song to play over and over again when you have a new hallway crush and feel like dancing through fields after class.
9. Don’t Dream It’s Over by Crowded House
At the risk of sounding cliché, even with more tests and harder classes, the second semester always has me feeling nostalgic and sentimental for the good ol’ days. “Don’t Dream It’s Over” is a beautiful ballad that reminds us that the bad times will never outlast the good. While it was written in 1987, the meaning holds true even in 2026. Even though you barely passed that calc test, there’s nothing that playing Crowded House and a sweet treat can’t fix.
10. Telescope by Cage the Elephant
And finally, to end the list, “Telescope” is a melancholic song that beautifully captures the feeling of disembodiment from life. Sometimes, there are times when it seems like life is passing you by at 150 km/h; this song is for that moment. Cage the Elephant uses the metaphor of looking through a telescope at yourself to represent that feeling.
Final Notes (pun intended)
Give these songs a listen, during the good times and the bad, I promise they won’t disappoint. Hopefully the bring some joy and comfort to your lives as we enter a new era of our lives.