APR Mixtape

As finals week approaches, we know that there will be many APR students planning on spending a lot of time with their headphones trying to complete final projects and study for exams.

With that in mind, we put together a list of songs that are sure to be hits with APR majors during finals week and beyond. Ranging from sweet to serious, these songs are sure to get your through finals, and to keep you inspired and motivated as you work towards your future career.

“Brave” by Sara Bareilles

Picked by: Cassie McAllister

Whenever I need to be inspired, the first thing I do is put on some headphones, and start to drift away to the music in my ears.  When I think of an uplifting and motivational song, Sara Bareilles is the first that pops into my mind right away, particularly her song Brave.  The chorus never fails to make me feel powerful and allows me to believe in myself.

In relation to AD / PR I believe that there are many opportunities to take risks and it is always important to be brave.  AD / PR professionals always need to remember that their voice is powerful and that they can “say what they want to say.”  The song is perfect for an AD PR Mixtape because it has just the right amount of encouragement and motivation to get you through any situation.  

“Leather and Lace” by Stevie Nicks

Picked by: Corinne Laratonda

With finals coming around in just a few weeks, I chose one of the most inspiring female musicians for my playlist. Stevie Nicks is the embodiment of an inspirational, strong, and fiercely independent woman. She has created a successful career for herself in the band Fleetwood Mac, as well as, her solo career.

“Leather and Lace” describes the giving and taking that comes with being in a relationship. The lyric “give to me your leather, take from me, my lace” describes this exchange. As public relations professionals it is important to give and take from each client relationship that we have. Ultimately, creating the best relationships possible with the people around you, that will in turn help benefit your future career in the future.

“Cheers to the Fall” by Andra Day

Picked by: Trevor Bryan

My PR playlist is so juicy; it’s dripping in enthusiastic groove and inspiring beats. The best song, if I was forced to choose, would be “Cheers to the Fall” by Andra Day. This song is sung passionately and comes off as effortless, which has a lot to do with why it’s on the playlist. However, this is not the only reason why it’s my favorite. The lyrics speak of living loud by making big moves. Andra also serenades your ears with comforting consolations for when you fail: if you hadn’t taken that chance or made that mistake, life would be “comatose.”

PR is closely related to thinking outside the box, and taking risks. “Cheers to the Fall” reminds me of both of those things while simultaneously coaching me on my failures. Be fearless. Make big moves. Step out of your comfort zone. If you mess up, then cheers to your fall! There’s so much to learn from it.

Lemonade by Beyoncé

Picked by: Jade Villanueva

My APR mixtape consists of about a thousand songs, but I was able to lower it down to one single album—Lemonade by Beyoncé. This album exceeded everything I thought it would be, and even though it has been out since April of 2016, it is still giving me so much life. I listen to this album when I’m driving, when I’m about to fall asleep, when I’m cooking, and even when I’m working in the office.

I chose Lemonade because I am a huge Beyoncé fan, and this album is extremely versatile. Each song has its way with me, and I can always count on the album to get me through my long days. Being confident in your work is very important, because then you know that you put your best effort into it. Beyoncé empowers everyone to be the best that they can be in whatever they’re doing. Her songs aren’t about being held back, they’re about breaking free, and being strong and independent. She doesn’t want people to feel small or incapable, her songs allow the listeners to feel her strength and inspiration. Some of my favorite songs off the album include, but are not limited to: “Pray You Catch Me," “Don’t Hurt Yourself," “Daddy Lessons," and “Sandcastles.”

“So Good” by Louisa Johnson

Picked by: Karina Ibarra

For students like me, weekends are now known for the time we spend studying or working rather than going out or having fun. Sometimes we make the decision to give in to temptation and set the homework aside for just a little while to spend a couple hours with friends for a night out. This song can be used as a reminder of the broken self-promises and the loud reprimands we play over and over in our heads even as we dance the night away! It serves as a gentle nod to the fact that we all need a break sometime because it feels so good. Just don't forget about all your PR responsibilities!

“One Voice” by The Wailin' Jennys

Picked by: Lauren Ritsema

This is one of my all-time favorite songs. It's a beautiful song that has a deeper meaning. The song begins with one voice, and in the next verse another is added, and by the time there are three voices, the verse goes:

This is the sound of all of us
Singing with love and the will to trust
Leave the rest behind it will turn to dust
This is the sound of all of us

For me, it's a call for unity, which is much needed in our society today. As for PR, staying on message and being consistent with the "voice" of the brand is important. All communications should be "One Voice." Enjoy!