ZFTO

2020 has taken us on a wild roller coaster ride, filled with constant devastation and grief. From Kobe Bryant’s passing to the COVID-19 outbreak; to the tragic death of George Floyd and the verdict of officer Brett Hankison who killed Breonna Taylor, we all need moments of motivation to cling to.

Music, being the universal language, allows us to cope with these tragedies. And in the darkness we find light. I was able to curate a Power Playlist of songs that have helped me and the people closest to me find hope. We hope this list can help motivate and uplift you and your loved ones through this time.

Here is the 2020 Power Playlist.

Good Morning – Alex Aiono

With Aiono singing the lyrics, “Cause the sun ain’t gonna stop. If you’re ready, if you’re not. Just get up. Today is all we got. Tomorrow might not come. So get up. So get up. Good morning,” this song is the perfect start. The song is leading to remember that regardless of what happens, we need to “see the beauty in the simple things” and have a good morning.

2. ZTFO – Big Sean

3. One Way – Ameràs

This power anthem is all about speaking power over your dreams and aspiration despite what others may say. The Maryland songstress vows that she is “gonna make it. One way or the other. And if you don’t want me, I’ll just simply find another.

4. MY POWER – Beyoncé, Tierra Whack, Moonchild Sanelly, Yemi Alade, Busiswa & Nija

5. EMPIRE Presents: Voice For Change, Vol. 1

Artists for EMPIRE come together for a compilation album that raises awareness on the world’s current issues, such as racism. According to Complex, “the goal of this project is to shine a light on the troubles people of color face around the world and to inspire listeners to positively impact their own communities.”

Proceeds from this album will be donated to the American Civil Liberties Union, which is non-profit organization that helps to advance criminal justice reform, racial justice, voting and immigrants’ rights.

6. Survivor – Destiny’s Child feat. Da Brat

7. Rise Up – Andra Day

8. ‘Touch The Sky’ – Kanye West Feat. Lupe Fiasco

9. The Bigger Picture – Lil Baby“Stick together we can get it up out of ‘em / I can’t lie like I don’t rap about killing and dope / But I’m telling my youngins’ to vote

‘The Bigger Picture” is the raw story and experience of the rapper as a black man living in America. With his powerful message, the song and video voices the need for change and justice for the Black community. “Stick together we can get it up out of ’em. I can’t lie like I don’t rap about killing and dope. But I’m telling my youngins’ to vote.”

10. Greater is Coming – Jekalyn Carr

Jekalyn Carr utilizes her voice to people that the Lord “preparing me for greater”. The powerful gospel song aims to remind the world that there is better to come.

Alisha Brown | Instagram & Twitter: @lishablive