Nostalgia’s Soundtrack

Shoutout to every parent who played music for their little ones since the womb. Little ears learning how to be ears on Mozart and the Rolling Stones. Cheers to the caretakers who danced with their toddlers in the kitchen, Elton John and Whitney Houston to show them what artistry is and how to sing along. The music we hear as children shapes us, introduces us to figures who may help us heal through hardships and bring out our most joyous. Something special is passed down in music, discovered on an ‘05 radio station after school or from an older sibling’s hand-me-down CDs. It represents connection and open mindedness, and many songs beloved in the early 2000s ended up sticking in the grown music taste of many.

“Banana Pancakes,” by Jack Johnson, stands out because of Jack Johnson’s connection to the beloved children’s cartoon Curious George. “Upside Down,” the show’s theme, written by Johnson, brings a deep childlike wonder to the surface, beloved for its soothing melody on top of the nostalgic tie. His entire discography is warm and inviting, so it is no surprise that “Banana Pancakes” came into many lives as a comfort and stuck that way.

Listening to Avril Lavigne’s timeless hit, “Sk8er Boi,” has to have been one of the highlights of pre-2010. The storyline burned into our brains, there wasn’t a kid who couldn’t belt all the words, acting out the parts of the ballerina and the punk. It’s the kind of track that has such a rich element of plot, it can’t help but come alive. Each time you listen to it, the pair in the song go through their journey all over again. Imaginative and witty, “Sk8er Boi” is the perfect anthem to holler along to.

“Pretty Hurts,” by Beyoncé, along with its iconic music video, was one of the first songs many kids heard that addressed society’s pressure to perform, to be perfect. Watching her, the powerful Queen of our generation’s music, face pageants and nerves on screen, listeners never feel judged themselves. Instead, obviously siding with Beyoncé, it put into early minds that being just how you are is all you need to be. Still, when this song comes on, eyes close and hands go to the heart. These songs, as kids, are not just for fun, but often teach us important lessons for our growing up. As impressionable as kids come, it is vital that artists continue to put out music, intended for kids or not, that has the potential to do something good for someone’s perspective.

“Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield stole the hearts of every sensitive oughts baby. Similar to songs like Colbie Caillat’s “Bubbly,” “Unwritten” has that indie-girl heartbreak vibe that seemed so enticing in grade school. Bedingfield appeared simultaneously effortless and relatable, and her lyrics scribed themselves into the minds of kids in the 2000s and grew into a more realized understanding over time.

Kelly Clarkson accidentally raised an entire generation of sassiness with “Miss Independent.” Wagging fingers to her cheeky lyrics, an eight year old is able to safely feel an unbridled confidence that is often challenged in childhood. It’s the kind of song you daydream about growing up, marching through your school, peers fainting in awe of your coolness as you pass. As time goes on, it remains a banger, held closely as a permanent testament to your inner spark. Whenever you may forget you’re all that, Clarkson is able to evoke that childlike swagger, unphased by the haters and self-assured.

“Disturbia,” by Rihanna, is another staple kid-runway song that has remained a core R&B tune, well written with a forward, sauntering rhythm. Rihanna is a golden example of an artist that was then and still is a huge star in our lives, so her discography is one that grew up with us. She coined a perfect balance of attitude and thoughtfulness, a style that is easily admired. “Disturbia” was the ultimate cool song, and especially after her graceful, pregnant half-time show this past superbowl, the hype for Rihanna is stronger than ever. The singer, songwriter, mother, and founder of Fenty Beauty, she has been one of the most consistent influences and inspirations over the past few decades.

Every one of these blasts from the past has been able to retain relevance and devoted listeners, no matter how much time has passed. These songs helped to define a generation of pop and singer-songwriters among other musical titans Britney Spears, Norah Jones, Adele and more. Stream some of these nostalgic favs below, and never forget to honor where your taste stems from.