Exclusive: Stream Kristin Carter’s New “Sonic Soup for the Soul” Curated Spotify Playlist

By: Staff –

To celebrate the release of Kristin Carter’s new single, “I’m Still Here”, the notable adult contemporary-leaning pop artist curated a brand new “Sonic Soup for the Soul” Spotify playlist featuring a collection of heartwrenching and reflective pieces that move us and remind us of the beauty of life. 

“When We Were Young” by Adele

Few singers can emote like Adele. She is a master at it. I remember hearing this song for the first time on my commute from work and it stopped me in my tracks. She so perfectly embodied the pain and joy of nostalgia. The comfort of seeing someone you knew in another life. It’s simple, beautiful, and reflective.

“Sand and Water” by Beth Nielsen Chapman

This song feels like a drink of water. It’s so nourishing. It tells the story of Beth’s own journey after the passing of her husband and living in the grief of having to raise their son alone. “Flesh and bone he’s just bursting towards tomorrow” is one of my favourite lyrics of all time. This song influenced the way I approach heavy topics in my writing. Tissues ready – this one hurts.

“I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt

What is more painful than loving someone who you know doesn’t love you back? Bonnie’s lyrics perfectly define the painful inequity of love and how she promises to continue to lay down her vulnerability time after time. It’s a beautiful piece, and I love playing this on piano (poorly… but I try!).

“Both Sides Now (Live)” by Joni Mitchell

There’s just something about Joni’s voice that hits me deep in the soul. She was way ahead of her time in so many ways, and this song is no exception. “Both Sides Now” examines love from all angles, and concludes that it is undefinable, and uncontainable. A window looking out at a sleepy little garden is required for optimal listening for this one; at least it is for me!

“Candle in the Wind 1997” by Elton John

A tribute to a legend turned into a tribute to a friend. This song feels more relevant than ever in the age of examining how we treat women, especially women in the spotlight. It celebrates the legacy we leave and the temporality of life. This moving piano ballad by Elton John gets me every time.

“What was I made for?” by Billie Eilish

When I heard this song for the first time while watching the “Barbie” movie, I wanted to leave the theatre and call my mom. Billie Eilish captures the pain and questioning of womanhood so effortlessly. Accompanied by a creaky piano reminiscent of a child just learning to play – this song smashes the theme out of the park. One of the best songs I’ve heard in a long time.

“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

One of the best songs of all time. Whitney’s performance takes this song to the stratosphere and had younger me training everyday to reach that belted top note over the bridge. I’m a huge fan of excessive passion in music and this one takes the cake. Why not be extra? It’s LOVE we’re talking about here! It’s powerful, undeniable, and moves through you like a rocket.

“Soon You’ll Get Better” by Taylor Swift feat. The Chicks

I don’t think I need to convince anyone that Taylor Swift is one of the best lyricists of this lifetime, perhaps all lifetimes, but if you still needed any convincing, this song would do it. A powerful and descriptive ode to her mother, this song deals with the realities of a sick loved one that you need and can’t imagine living without. Have some tissues ready, this one is heavy.   

“Fast Car” by Tracey Chapman

I’m so happy that this song shot up the charts again this year so more people can discover the genius of Tracey Chapman. The breezy guitar and Tracey’s rich deep vocals feel like a blanket on the heart. The lyricism in this song really impacted me when I first heard it, because, in my opinion, it tells you everything you need to know about the emotion of the story without directly saying it. It’s masterful, poignant, and best of all, super catchy. 

“Worthy of Love” by Luca Fogale

This song is such a tribute to the human experience. Luca’s haunting vocals soar over the timeless questions he poses in his lyrics. A journey to finding worthiness and comfort. The soft piano and swelling pads are a soft and powerful listen. Like a warm cup of tea for the mind.

“Je Suis Malade” by Lara Fabian

This one’s for the belters. Lara Fabian gives the performance of a lifetime in this epic ballad that screams “I am sick!” without you. It’s hard not to get worked up as Lara floats seamlessly between her ranges matching the intensity of the orchestral arrangement. Finish it off with a completely a capella bridge, a stunning option up and a sustained note held for so many bars I lost count – this song is a showstopper and I sing it every time I have a soundproof room available.  

“When She Loved Me” by Sarah McLachlan

What would a sad song list be without something from a Pixar movie? Sarah’s haunting vocals absolutely nail this coming of age masterpiece centered around the wrenching realization that you might be fading from importance for someone you love. It’s invisible, yet incredibly painful. I love singing Disney tunes every chance I get, and this is one of the best songs to come from the “Toy Story” franchise. If you’ve heard that discography, that’s saying a lot!