The Weekend Series: make your long weekend roadtrip better with one of our killer playlists
Folks, we know we don’t need to remind you that there is a long weekend ahead of us. We’re positive you are all ticking off the days as diligently as us, but in your haste to make plans to bail for the Easter holiday you might have forgotten about one crucial detail – your roadtrip playlist. Now, you’ve all got your own diverse musical tastes (we’ve got an exceptionally cool readership), but to make things easier on you we’ve thrown together some great playlists to help pass the time when you’re cruising to your long-weekend hideaway destination. From up-and-coming Australian acts and old-school R’n’B jams to karaoke classics, there’s enough here to cater to nearly every mood. Happy listening!
Playlist One: Live and Local
We’re kicking off our road trip with a swag of all-Australian gold. We’ve chosen to forgo the classic entries from veterans such as Midnight Oil, Cold Chisel and Hunters & Collectors, and have instead dipped into our toes into the pool of amazing young talent making waves right now. You’ve got everything from the feverish abandon of Gang of Youths and the beautiful emotionality of Cub Sport, to the ecstatic vibes of Baker Boy and the show-stopping flow of Miss Blanks. If you aren’t up to speed on what’s seizing the local airwaves, use this playlist to educate yourself.
Playlist Two: Old-school R’n’B
Aww yeah. You know what you’re getting with this delicious selection – only the freshest and most iconic R’n’B jams from the 90s and 2000s. This playlist has all the heat you can handle, including sublime tunes from Usher, TLC, Jagged Edge, Blackstreet, Boyz II Men and Destiny’s Child. If that’s not enough to get your head moving and soul grooving, there’s even a little bit of early Craig David, Sisqo, Mariah Carey, Ja Rule and Ashanti. As far as we’re concerned, the key doesn’t even enter the ignition unless this playlist is cued up.
Playlist Three: Gears and Guitars
Shifting gears somewhat (pun intended), we have a playlist of essential guitar-driven rock. This list is more in the vein of contemporary indie rock, but don’t let that fool you – these tunes are as impactful as anything in the hard rock and metal category. Veterans such as The National, Angel Olsen and Sleater Kinney feature on the playlist, and are joined by rebellious upstarts such as Sheer Mag, Diet Cig, Snail Mail, Car Seat Headrest, and Japandroids. Expect some anthemic rockers and contemplative jams – perfect for passing the time from A to B.
Playlist Four: Karaoke Classics
Warm up the vocal chords – it’s time to take centre stage. This playlist is packed with the kinds of hits that you can’t help but sing along to. These tracks are undeniable bangers – the songs that span generations and remain as popular as ever thanks to their flawless composition and innate ability to liven up the party. We’ve got Madonna, The Killers, The Goo Goo Dolls, Whitney Houston, Queen, Bon Jovi, George Michael, Rihanna, a-ha and more. Round up your mates and pack the car for a memorable roadtrip – singing along is mandatory.
Playlist Five: Fresh Jams
Any good long weekend should have two things – a little bit of party and a little bit of relaxation. This playlist gets you amped for both. We’ve assembled a list of some of the biggest hits in the world right now, with some potent party jams and funky numbers to vibe to. Cardi B, Leon Bridges, Diplo, Dua Lipa, Kali Uchis, Janelle Monae and N.E.R.D. – what a collection! Turn up or chill out – this playlist can help you do either.
