In this final edition of Music Mood Board [1], I'm spotlighting tracks that are perfect for ushering in new beginnings. Embarking on a different or evolved path can be scary [2], but it's true what they say: there's a season for everything. If you're preparing for some exciting new adventures in your personal or professional life [3], crank up these tunes as you turn the chapter.
"Goodbye" by Cage the Elephant
You can't have new beginnings without saying goodbye to the past. This song perfectly describes the downside of moving on from a beloved something or someone. You can be excited for the future while also reflecting on former times. Take a moment to reminisce!
"Slow Up" by Jacob Banks
This is another pensive tune to play as you look back on where you were vs. where you're headed. It's important to keep moving forward, but sometimes, you have to slow down a bit and take in the present moment.
"The Show Must Go On" by Queen
OK, now we're getting into the forward-looking tunes. No matter what you've been through or what you will go through, the show must go on, as the great Freddie Mercury said. So if you're feeling nervous or anxious about starting on a new path, just keep pushing.
"Brand New" by Cameron Bethany
So you've finished one chapter of your life, and you're about to write another one? You must be feelin' kinda brand new. If that's the case, you might want to play this track at full volume.
"New Attitude" by Patti LaBelle
This song is literally the "new beginnings" anthem. How could I not include it?
"Feeling Good" by Nina Simone
If your new beginning involves a big change or stepping out of your comfort zone, congrats! That's what we call . . . *growth*. Go ahead and blast this soulful celebratory track by the iconic Nina Simone.
"All the Stars" by Kendrick Lamar feat. SZA
"All the Stars" beautifully captures the magical feeling of hope when things fall into place. "This may be the night that my dreams might let me know / All the stars are closer," SZA gracefully croons.
"Moment 4 Life" by Nicki Minaj
Now, I know you didn't think I'd leave out this classic.
"Anything Could Happen" by Ellie Goulding
"Anything Could Happen" is full of optimistic anticipation, making it a must listen for anyone who's about to set out on a new journey.
"God's Plan" by Drake
As you begin to explore opportunities in life, it's important to believe that things will work out in your favour because you were meant to succeed — after all, it's [*Drake voice*] God's plan.
"Dolla$" by Daisha McBride
I need you to play this song and scream, "You know it's big drip season / Flex for no reason," at the top of your lungs. Please and thank you!
"Hall of Fame" by Swoope
Have you been grinding all day and all night with "Hall of Fame" on your mind? Trying to be the greatest of all time? Then this needs to be added to your playlist ASAP. Nothing welcomes a new beginning like a song about being on your A game.
"Up" by Earthgang
This is the quintessential song for when you're feeling on top of the world. So if that's your vibe amid a big life change, go ahead and ride that high!
"Momma I Hit a Lick" by 2 Chainz feat. Kendrick Lamar
I love a success song, and this hard-hitting jam by 2 Chainz and Kendrick Lamar is exactly that — a celebration of realising your dreams and reveling in your accomplishments.
"God Save Our Young Blood" by BØRNS feat. Lana Del Rey
The blissful line "Hey, baby, we made it" is a suitable proverb for entering an exciting phase of life.
"Elevate" by DJ Khalil feat. Trevor Rich, SwaVay, Denzel Curry, and Cordae
This doesn't even need an explanation. I'm just going to leave Rich's opening bars here: "Stepped out of my zone / I had to get out all alone / And figure it out on my own / And I know what I really want now."
"Angels" by Chance the Rapper
As you look ahead to the future, I advise you to turn on this track, do a little dance, and rest in the knowledge that everything is going to work out.