Spring Song Recommendations for Women’s History Month

Maddie Bogan

Rap/Hip-hop Journalist

With a new season comes new opportunities to discover more music. Because it is still Women’s History Month, I will be recommending songs by female artists from the spring playlist I created this year. Each one I selected is perfect for when you want to enjoy the approaching warm weather. This also serves as a reminder that women have played a vital role in the music scene for a long time, and it is important to acknowledge that.

The first track I’m suggesting is “Taking Responsibility” by the alternative R&B artist known as Kilo Kish. Featured on her 2016 album Reflections in Real Time, “Taking Responsibility” is just one of 20 songs on this synth pop album. You may recognize the work since it was used in the first season of the television series Euphoria. Rapper Rejjie Snow is additionally featured at the end. What I love about it is the curiosity in her lyricism. Kish sings about the miscommunication she had with a possible relationship, and that may resonate with some listeners. The production was also distinct as well, due to the utilization of electronic instruments. 

Another song worth listening to is by the Grammy-winning pop artist PinkPantheress. “Stars” is, in my personal opinion, an underrated track on her newest studio album, Fancy That. This project was released in the spring of last year, but it has yet to get old. The reason why I chose “Stars” specifically is that it is probably my most-played song on the album. PinkPantheress is partly known for her creative sampling, and this is evident due to “Starz in Their Eyes” by Just Jack being borrowed for backing vocals. I believe that whoever gives this song a listen will enjoy it since her production is always highly catchy and upbeat.

“They-Say Vision” by Res is my third recommendation. This song came up on my Discover Weekly Spotify playlist, and I was instantly obsessed with it. Res is another alternative R&B artist who has rightfully earned her spot in the industry. How I Do is the name of the project on which “They-Say Vision” is seen on. It was put out in 2001, so it has been around for a while. I appreciate how moody the instrumental sounds, and I find her singing voice to be pleasing to listen to. 

Solange, in her entirety, is the perfect artist to play during the springtime, but one work that I don’t hear enough people talking about is “Beltway,” which is one of her shorter songs that should absolutely be longer. It is included in her 2019 album entitled When I Get Home. “Beltway” feels like a peaceful lullaby. The melody is calming and is guaranteed to help you stay grounded if needed, like the rest of her musical library. I would play it during any moment where I need relaxation, which is why it’s on my playlist. 

Finally, I will be suggesting “Ight” by rap artist Lexa Gates. This piece was a part of her latest project called I Am. Gates typically produces music that contrasts with what she’s rapping about, which makes for a unique discography. The instrumental in “Ight” primarily consists of an acoustic guitar, which gives it a more whimsical feel. It sounds like frolicking in a field of grass and flowers. If you enjoy listening to this song, then I highly recommend you listen to the rest of her catalog.

As noted above, women are an important cog in the music machine. They provide emotional and distinct aspects to their work that mean a lot to their female listeners. With Women’s History Month coming to an end, I hope that my song suggestions help you to remember this even when March concludes, and spring officially settles in. Without the contributions that women have made, music and life as a whole would be incredibly different.