1. “Boul Bayékou,” Youssou N’Dour
Allow me to introduce this famous Senegalese singer to you all. If you want to try to groove to the mbalax music of Senegal, good luck. The first time I heard the complex African drumming of mbalax, my feet didn’t know how to find the beat, and then I realized you just have to let yourself go crazy!2. “Happier,” Guster
Question: Would my iPod be complete without Guster? Answer: NO.
3. “Selah,” Lauryn Hill
After The Fugees and her album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” I kind of lost track of Lauryn’s new music. I finally discovered her new stuff this summer, and I love how this song showcases her beautiful, strong voice and lyrics with only a guitar for accompaniment.
4. “Caribbean Blue,” Enya
I grew up listening to Enya thanks to my Dad who loves new age music. This is my all-time favorite song by her. I really started to appreciate her when I learned that most of her songs are entirely her, meaning she performs all instruments, percussion and even layers her own voice some 50 times to make a virtual choir.
5. “The ocean, it runs into the sea,” Tom Beneke
Ah, yes. The winner of this year’s LU Live and popular soundboard performer cannot be forgotten. If you don’t have this album already, I suggest you go buy a copy from him immediately. Tom, please don’t be freaked out by this pick… I just really like your music.
6. “Drowned Lovers,” Kate Rusby
When I was in 8th grade, I first heard Kate Rusby when my parents were listening to A Prairie Home Companion on Wisconsin Public Radio. This English folk singer was the guest artist, and she immediately won me over with her gentle voice and guitar playing.
7. “I’m Yours,” Jason Mraz
Jason Mraz finally has another song since “The Remedy” that you can listen to on repeat. And that’s exactly what my roommate does.
8. “Parlami D’Amore,” Negramara
This song was popular in Italy when I was there during the summer of ’07. You can’t help but rock out to this awesome Italian pop song! Download this one for sure.
9. “Show Me the Money,” Petey Pablo
What can I say? The Women’s Tennis Team has been obsessed with this song for three years now, and for a good reason!
10. “The Way I Am,” Ingrid Michaelson
I LOVE THIS SONG! I’m not a Grey’s fan, but I’m pretty sure this song has played on that show. I finally discovered Ingrid when I went to the Okobos Music Festival a couple of weeks ago. She was a great performer with a very sarcastic sense of humor. I hope more people catch on to her talent and start listening to her.