Summer Drives: What I've Been Listening to While Commuting 150+ Miles Each Week
I spend a lot of time in the car, whether it be for work, visiting family down state, or for an adventure. Most days I love it. Despite crazy drivers, there can be something peaceful about the time to myself. I can think through writing projects or catch up with family and friends on the phone, but most of the time I find myself queuing up something to listen to. Like everyone else, I go through waves of what I’m in the mood for and often times cozy up to old favorites. This summer, I’ve been more intentional about what goes in and expanding my scope. These five things have inspired me and kept me great company on my long drives.
Okay Sister Podcast
A few months ago, I happened upon this hilarious duo and have been hooked ever since. Though they could not be any more different from me (they are west coast girlies through and through), they make me laugh and touch on topics that resonate with me. They’ve been on the air for six years, so it’s also been fun to wade through their backlog and see how they’ve changed. I can’t get enough.
2. The Fraud by Zadie Smith
This is typically the type of book I would read in hand. But I caved when I heard a sample of this book read by the author. In addition to her ever-elegant writing, Smith’s narration was incredibly compelling. She brings the characters to life in every way, through the tone in the words written and in her discinct delivery of them. It wasn’t until after I finished it that I realized this was based on true events. Simply amazing.
3. The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess by Chappell Roan
Yes, I am behind the Coachella times. But this album is on repeat for me this summer. It is fun, emotional, creative, and feels fresh and nostalgic at the same time. My Kink is Karma makes me laugh, Kaleidoscope makes me cry, and Pink Pony Club, well, it has me dancing in my car. I love that this album takes me on a journey every time.
4. Something That May Shock and Discredit You by Daniel M. Lavery
The newest addition to my Libro.fm library, this memoir read by the author immediately hooked me. How could an opening paragraph about the rapture not pull me in? Originally published in 2020, I am surprised this one slipped under my radar. The essays are all over the place, in the best way, and his tone (writing and speaking) brought light to topics that many shy away from.
5. James Baldwin’s Home Records
Based on the writer’s record collection in his home in France, this playlist keeps the tunes coming for over 33 hours. In general, I am a fan of an album, an intentional journey from the first track to the last. In addition to hitting all the greats from Baldwin’s time, I love that this list is true to the heart of a collection and features the entire albums. I’m also reading Giovanni’s Room by Baldwin right now, so I love imagining these songs might have been spinning in the other room while he wrote it.
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