I’m not the only one who can put a playlist together. Minneapolis-based Luke LeBlanc is known for his uncompromising songwriting style. Here, he curates a playlist of songs that comfort and express the feelings that being stuck in 2020 might bring.
1. The Weight (from the Last Waltz) – The Band
A classic that follows a traveler on a mission – to take some of the weight off his old friend Fannie’s shoulders.
2. Starting Over – Chris Stapleton
“Well the road rolls out like a welcome mat to a better place than the one we’re at.”
Need I say more?
3. And It’s Still Alright – Nathaniel Rateliff
One of those songs that haunt you the entire way through – so much so that once it’s finished your soul starts feeling better as a natural stress response. But in such a good way.
4. To Hell & Back – Maren Morris
It’s really good to get your ass kicked in the form of a song once in a while. Especially when some bone chilling lyrics are sprinkled on afterwards.
5. Gone – Luke LeBlanc
Is it legal to throw one of my own in here? Recorded this one at the home studio – with my dear friend John Richardson pitching in on the keys. The song delves into that long fight between holding on and letting go.
6. If She Ever Leaves Me – The Highwomen
A beautiful song musically rooted in tradition while lyrically telling the kind of love story we need represented more.
7. I Got You (To Get Me Through) – Erik Koskinen
My friend and fellow Minnesota musician gifts us with a rocking number devoted to the ones we lean on most during tough times.
8. Hurt, Live from Werchter – Mumford & Sons
Nine Inch Nails… covered by Johnny Cash… covered by Mumford & Sons. The song version of a spectacular nesting doll. Such an honest and poetic expression of loss.
9. Loving Her – Katie Pruitt
The guitar, the percussion, the lyrics… they’re all working together here to make the listener really damn happy.
10. Three Marlenas – The Wallflowers
Jakob Dylan’s lyrics make you sink into the perspective of someone on the “outskirts” of society. The song is like a movie you can watch a thousand times and never get sick of – you find something new on every listen.
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