One thing that unites people during uncertain times is music. We all remember the song that was popular the last time we took a trip. We heard it in cafes on the radio, and played it repeatedly when we were back home, dreaming of our favorite moments.
While we aren’t traveling right now we can still build our playlists for bucket list destinations! We’ve gathered the best songs to transport you to eight different places. All you have to do is press play.
Africa Playlist
1. Magic in the Air, by Magic System
Magic System is a music group from Ivory Coast. Founded in 1996, the group has become one of the most popular modern African artists in France. The theme surrounding their song 'Magic in the Air' is African football.
2. Rain, Rain, Beautiful Rain, by Ladysmith Black Mambazo
Ladysmith Black Mambazo is a male choir group from South Africa. The group has won multiple awards including five Grammys. They sing in the styles of traditional South African Zulu and a form of South African a capella called mbube.
3. Love You Die, by Patoranking
Patoranking is a Nigerian reggaeton-dancehall singer-songwriter. He started as an underground artist in Nigeria and made a name for himself with collaborations with established underground artists.
4. Pata Pata, by Miriam Makeba
Miriam Makeba, often referred to as Mama Africa, was a South African singer-songwriter in the 50’s. Her music career took off in the United States and her most popular song is ‘Pata Pata,’ which was released in 1967.
Cuba Playlist
1. Chan Chan, by Compay Segundo
Máximo Francisco Repilado Muñoz Telles, professionally known as Compay Segundo was a Cuban trova guitarist, singer, and composer. He produced music from 1942 until he died in 2001. His most famous song is 'Chan Chan,' which he wrote in 1987.
2. Guantanamera, by Celia Cruz
‘Guantanamera’ is one of the best and well known Cuban songs, and for many Cubans it’s very patriotic. The lyrics for one of the most performed versions of this song were written by the poet and national hero of Cuba, Jose Martí.
3. PI 3.14, by Buena Fe
Buena Fe is a Cuban pop band, formed in 1999. Their songs contain trova influences and often fit into many genres of music.
4. La Fortuna, by Diana Fuentes
Singer-songwriter Diana Fuentes is leading a new generation of folk-pop performers in Cuba. In 2002, she was nominated for a Latin Grammy for Best Contemporary Tropical Album, and she continues to make a name for herself in the music industry.
France Playlist
1. Little French Song, by Carla Bruni
Aside from being the former first-lady of France, Carla Bruni is a French-Italian singer-songwriter who started her career in music in 1997, and released her debut album in 2002.
2. La Vie En Rose, by Edith Piaf
This has to be the number 1 song that comes to mind when you think of Paris. La Vie En Rose is truly a celebration of the city of Paris. Edith Piaf was a cabaret performer and french actress through 1940 to 1960.
3. Michelle, by The Beatles
There isn’t a person on earth who doesn’t know the Beatles. Their song 'Michelle' won a Grammy in 1966 for Song of the Year. The song is not based on a particular woman, but based on the French party culture of the 60’s. The title 'Michelle' was apparently chosen, because it rhymes with ma belle.
4. Pays Imaginaire, by Polo & Pan
This duo met in Paris and began creating music to celebrate their French heritage. Their songs evoke a fantasy of French nightlife. They produce a dreamy, funky and fun sound, and 'Pays Imaginaire' is no exception.
Japan Playlist
1. Linda Linda, by The Blue Hearts
The Blue Hearts were a Japanese pop-punk band active from 1985 to 1995. 'Linda Linda' is one of their most popular singles. During their career they were very controversial in Japan - even getting themselves banned from TV for a year.
2. Zenzenzense, by Radwimps
Japanese rock band, Radwimps is one of Japan’s most beloved bands. Their song ‘Zenzenzense’ translates to ‘past, past, past, present.’ The song was also featured in a major anime movie called ‘Your Name.’
3. Sukiyaki, by Kyu Sakomoto
Released in 1961, ‘Sukiyaki’ is probably Japan’s biggest national and international hit. The song tells the story of a man who has to watch the sky while he walks to prevent his tears from falling.
4. Sunshower, by Nami Shimada
This song sounds like it is straight out of the 80’s, even though it was produced in 2004. It is a popular song for Japanese house DJ sets, and it has been remixed by producers all over the world.
Norway Playlist
1. Take on Me, by A-ha
A-ha is a synth-pop band who formed in Oslo in the 80’s. ‘Take on Me,’ which was released in 1984, was their biggest hit in the United States. The song won six awards at the MTV Video Music Awards in 1986. The band continues to tour today.
2. Firestone, by Kygo
Kyrre Gørvell-Dahll, professionally known as Kygo, is a Norwegian DJ and songwriter. In 2015 Kygo became the fastest artist to reach 1 billion streams on Spotify. 'Firestone' features vocals from singer Conrad Sewell.
3. Running With the Wolves, by Aurora
Aurora has been compared to Björk and Florence Welch, but she has managed to put her own stamp on her music. Her music videos are whimsical and vulnerable, and her voice is ethereal. Her Norwegian accent really adds to her song ‘Running With the Wolves.’
4. White Foxes, by Susanne Sundfør
Susanne Sunfør is a Norwegian singer-songwriter whose music style varies. She is a mix of pop, electronica, folk, and jazz. ‘White Foxes’, released in 2012, is a love song about wanting to be peaceful.
Puerto Rico Playlist
1. Obsesionado, by Farruko
Carlos Efrén Reyes Rosado, professionally known as Farruko, is a Puerto Rican reggaeton and Latin pop singer-songwriter. He rose to fame by collaborating with established artists such as Daddy Yankee.
2. Embriágame, by Zion & Lennox
Zion & Lennox are a reggaeton duo from Carolina, Puerto Rico. The duo have been in the music industry for a long time and worked with many well known artists throughout their careers.
3. Livin' La Vida Loca, by Ricky Martin
One of the most influential Latin artists of all time is Puerto Rican singer, and King of Latin Pop, Ricky Martin. ‘Livin’ La Vida Loca’, released in 1999, is seen as the song that made it possible for other Spanish-speaking artists to crossover into the English-speaking market.
4. El Cantante, by Hector Lavoe
Hector Lavoe was a Puerto Rican salsa singer in the 60’s, 70’s, and 80’s. He is considered to be one of the best and most important singers in salsa, as he helped establish the popularity of the genre.
Spain Playlist
1. Que Bonito, by Rosario
Rosario Flores, known simply as Rosario, is a two time Latin Grammy Award winner. She started her music career in 1992 and continues today.
2. La Vida te da, by Amparanoia
Amparanoia is a Latin band from Spain that has been active since 1996. Their music can be described as bright and energizing. The album 'La Vida te da' was released in 2006 as the bands final album. The album featured a song of the same name.
3. Mediterraneo, by Joan Manuel Serrat
Joan Manuel Serrat, a Spanish singer-songwriter and musician, is considered one of the most important influences of modern Spanish pop music. He started his career in 1965 and is still working.
4. Bailando, by Enrique Iglesias
Enrique Iglesias is known as the most influential singer-songwriters of our time with the biggest success in Spanish/English crossover. He is undoubtedly the biggest Latin artist of all time.
United Kingdom Playlist
1. Girlfriend in a Coma, by The Smiths
The Smiths were an English rock band formed in 1982 in Manchester. Critics have named them the most influential bands to emerge from the British independent music scene in the 80’s.
2. Waterloo Sunset, by The Kinks
The Kinks were an English rock band formed in 1964 in North London. They are regarded as the most influential rock band of the 60’s.
3. Winter Winds, by Mumford & Sons
Mumford & Sons are a British folk rock band formed in 2007 in London. The band has been nominated for six Grammy Awards in their career. Their music consists of acoustic guitar, drums, keyboard, bass guitar, and various folk instruments.
4. LDN, by Lily Allen
'LDN' is off of Lily Allen's debut album. The song is about her hometown London and that things aren't always as they seem. Her early music has ska and reggaeton influences while her leter releases have more of an elctro pop feel.
These songs are sure to inspire your wanderlust and put a smile on your face while you dream about your next adventure.
Listen to the full Travel Playlist
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