with Monika Gerow
“The songs I’ve chosen speak to different times shared with those still close to me and those no longer here,” says Monika, a Saskatoon singer-songwriter. “My musical taste has changed and shifted like I have over the years, and I’m excited to share them with you. Thanks for reading.” /Gregory Beatty
“Dance” | Tim Baker | Forever Overhead (2019)
Tim is the former lead singer of Hey Rosetta! This song off his debut solo album feels melancholy, yet is danceable and comforting. The lyrics speak about relationships and wanting to go back to a time when things were simple, but knowing you still want this person around despite the hardships of growing up.
“You Dear” | Eloise | This Thing Called Living (2019)
I found Eloise on Instagram, and quickly realized she was an RnB singer on the rise. “You Dear” is about meeting someone, thinking you don’t enjoy their company, but finding yourself drawn to them nonetheless. The jazzy chords, paired with her soft and sassy voice, make for a magical combo. Try it.
“Better” | Regina Spektor | Begin to Hope (2006)
Regina has always been a storyteller and this song in particular is incredibly vulnerable. It tells the story of wanting to help someone feel better but being unsure how to navigate their feelings. As humans, it’s one of the most valuable gifts we can offer one another.
“Don’t Know How to Keep Loving You” | Julia Jacklin | Crushing (2019)
If you haven’t figured it out yet, I enjoy sad music and Julia Jacklin’s sombre, beautiful songs have captured my heart. This song speaks to the mourning that comes with the end of a relationship. I suggest listening to it alone, in a bubble bath, maybe with a glass of wine or three.
“I Remember”| Bully | Feels Like (2015)
Bully is a great band from Tennessee with a badass frontwoman, Alicia Bognanno. This tune is ALSO a break-up song, but with more screaming. It’s a quick recap of all the memories of a relationship: the good, the bad and the ugly.
“Pool” | Paramore | After Laughter (2017)
This album was released after lead singer Hayley Williams went through a divorce and a legal battle with the band’s old bass player, and the lyrics are RAW. “Pool” sounds a lot like what drowning would feel like, and what many people have felt in untrusting, hurtful relationships. Despite the heavy lyrics, the song is still upbeat and toe-tap worthy thanks to guitarist Taylor York.