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My Favorites from the Year in Music

My Favorites from the Year in Music

Every now and then at the end of the year, I like to do a "Best Of My Blog" post. I also wanted to do a Best of 2009 in Music, but ran out of time. It's very unscientific, of course, and the list isn't very long. It's simply what I loved the most in 2009. Ready? Let's begin:

Scattered Trees Songs for my Grandfather

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This little not-too well-known album (released in 2007) was my favorite discovery of the year. I'd never heard of Scattered Trees until I watched The Beckoning of Lovely clip from Amy Krouse Rosenthal and what happens at 1:38 into the video. The song I heard, Sparrow, is not actually on Songs for my Grandfather, but there was something in the singer's voice that just got me in the gut. It's the kind of voice I imagine that if I was still in my early 20s, and single, my boyfriend would sound like this, and he'd sing to me every day. Off I went to iTunes and bought this collection of songs. It's the perfect disk for a Minnesota winter day. Maybe it's because the lead singer and songwriter is from here. He has Minnesota ingrained. Download this:Silence is Musical

Green Day 21st Century Breakdown

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This would fall into the Who Doesn't Know About This Record? category. There's nothing small or indy about Green Day anymore—hasn't been for eons—but I've got to be honest with you: I love this album. Maybe it doesn't quite match the musical statement that was American Idiot, but I think that's only because American Idiot is one of those iconic records that will likely never be matched. Period. Still, 21st Century Breakdown was a grower. The fact that going to see them was the Zielske Family Cultural Outing of 2009 only made me love the songs more. Download this:Murder City

Owl City Ocean Eyes

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This goes against most of what I believe to be true about myself and my musical tastes, but I adore Owl City. Ocean Eyes is the happiest collection of songs on the planet. Maybe it's that Minnesota thing again, as the dude behind it all hails from Southern Minnesota. Maybe it's just because it's melodic, catch, techno pop, laden with sugary sweet and clever little turns of phrase at every…well, turn. It was my guilty pleasure of 2009, and it's the cleanest, most wholesome album, lyrically speaking, that I own. Download this:The Bird and the Worm

And those are the three albums I loved above all. This is strange, because there were definitely songs and other records I liked an awful lot.

Lady GaGa's The Fame

Ray LaMontagne's Gossip in the Grain (which came out in '08 but I only found last year)

Stars In Our Bedroom After the War (which came out in '07, but I only found last year)

I rediscovered my love of Rush, and I think my favorite pop single of the year was Kelly Clarkson's Already Gone (seriously, how can you not want to belt this song out. She is still Idol Number One in my book.)

Of course, 2009 didn't see any new releases from Crowded House or Peter Gabriel, but still… a good year for music. And Peter, if you're reading this, it's been 7 years since your last release. Hint hint.

 

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. kate says

    Ooh mine was definitely MGMT – Time to pretend. It has such a positive vibe and really picked me up when times were bad. The lyrics make me laugh about being young too!

  2. Joanne Allwood says

    You mightn’t have heard this one – it’s by an Australian artist, Vanessa Amorosi – “This is who I am”, an upbeat song about being ok just being yourself! Definately one to turn up load and dance around the kitchen!

  5. Sharyn Carlson says

    This year I discovered Brett Dennen and have been really inspired by his albums, especially “Hope for the Hopeless.” Thanks for the giveaway, Cathy!

  6. Adriana M.Q. Weingart says

    Several musics inspired me in 2009… I’m going to mention only 2:
    1. Our last summer – ABBA (not so new)
    2. New Moon (The Meadow) – Alexandre Desplat (2009 – instrumental – New Moon movie soundtrack)
    []s

  13. Jett says

    You mentioned the song that most recently caught me – Kelly Clarkson’s Already Gone. Love it, love her.

  18. Theresa says

    I guess I would say I Gotta Feeling by the Black Eyed Peas though I do not think it was released in 2009, but that is when I first heard it. Inspired me to work out hard!

  19. Sarah says

    What an excellent class. Wish I could pull something cooler out of the bag, but it has to be “Twinkle twinkle little star”. Sung by my darling daughter, aged 2. Nothing filled my heart more this year.

  20. Kelly Rodgers says

    I loved the album ‘final conversation of kings’ by the butterfly effect. I love his voice & vocal range. I don’t think this would be your kind of music Cathy – but I truly loved it

  22. Magdalena says

    It is an oldie, but goldie – Dancing Queen by ABBA (after finally seeing Mamma Mia! movie). Especially the verses “You can dance You can shine Having the time of your life”. :o)

  23. Megan LaBelle says

    I have to agree with you on Owl City – Fireflies was my very favorite song of the year. 🙂

  24. Becky M says

    Diana Krall, Quiet Nights. I’m a huge DianaKrall fan. Mellows me out at the end of the day. And the baby loves it too!

  26. Tracy says

    I recently became addicted to the artist Snatum Kaur. Her voice is beautiful and her album Grace plays over and over on my ipod. Her lyrics are so meditative. Happy New Year, Cathy and thanks for the chance to win!

  27. Traci Severson says

    Oh goodness…having to pick one song that inspired me in 2009 is so hard because there were so many. Let’s see….I would have to say at the top of my list is Black Eyed Peas “I’ve Got a Feeling” for obvious reasons!

  28. coffeemomma says

    Two artists: Ben Soulee, a blues cellist from Kentucky (AMAZING) and Iron and Wine, who I just discovered. I so love Iron and Wine. It’s good mellow winter music.

  29. Korey Lindberg says

    The album that I have loved the most this year is The Swell Season’s Strict Joy. It came out not that long ago, is 3 disks (the album, a live concert recording and a DVD) and FANTASTIC! I find myself listening to it all the time. Fav songs from the album = Low Rising In These Arms and High Horses.

  30. Mary Claire says

    I really loved Rosanne Cash’s new album of classic country covers (like so classic most people have never heard of them)called The List. She does a duet with Bruce (hard to even tell it’s Bruce) and one with Jeff Tweedy of Wilco (from my hometown by the way).

  32. Kathy says

    The Fray -You Found Me. Love his voice. Great question.
    Happy New Year, Cathy, and thanks for the blog (I’m here everyday).

  33. Kelly Jo says

    It’s so fun to read everybody’s music.

    well, there is so much music that I feel has defined me but in complete honesty, the Thriller album tops the list. I still can picture every move MJ would make when I listen to that music.

    Thanks for a chance!

  34. Shanon Gibson says

    I loved Brad Paisley’s song “Then”. It is a very true song about how much love grows over the years and I find it rings true in regards to my husband and daughters.

  36. Jodi Bagnato says

    It’s so hard to just pick one so I will have to chose two, Hanna Montanna “The Climb” and the Mama Mia soundtrack. Although they weren’t both released last year, we found them this year due to my daughter’s competitive dancing. Thanks for the chance to win such a cool class.

  37. Erica K says

    Ready for this? ‘Hello it’s me’ by Todd Rundgren. I know…not new at all. For some reason it possessed me for a good part of this year. Or should I say, last year? I listened to it every time I got into the car…my kids are singing it now too. My husband laughs at me because I’m such a sappy 70’s love song fanatic, and now I’ve tainted the kids…

  38. Lowly says

    I rediscovered Muse this year and now my whole family is listening to them. I had heard them back in 2005 but they just didn’t move me back then. Thanks to the Twilight Soundtrack, I was reminded of how interesting their music is, and downloaded everything I could find. My daughter and I play it LOUD while driving down the road together…download this: ‘Sing for Absolution’.

  39. Anne says

    I discovered Brad Paisley fairly late in 2009 but it was a huge discovery for me: nothing new on your side of the ocean, but unknow here in Paris!
    I’ve been listening to his songs on Deezer ever since…

  41. Lee Currie says

    I agree, Peter has to get on it! Owl City has been a regular in this house since Cole discovered it a few months ago. Claire is into scream-o (help me!). My favourite this year? Imogen Heap: Ellipse. LOVE her stuff. This is a wonderful list, thanks for the opportunity for everyone to share their favourites! Have a wonderful 2010 🙂

  42. Monika Wright says

    I grew up listening to rock and pop (graduated in 1982), so I like a little rock and roll in the country music I listen to now, not to say I don’t like it “country,” too! But as for the song…You’re Gonna Miss This by Trace Adkins, and then also Stupid Boy by Keith Urban (reminds me of my stupid ex-husband and how incredibly wonderful my husband is for our family of 5!).

  43. Melissa in SC says

    Oddly, I was inspired to create a mini scrapbook by Lunch Money’s song, Everybody’s going to the Zoo from the Dizzy album. Yes, it’s a kid’s song but it was written about our local zoo, Riverbank’s Zoo, by the local band. Incidentally, Molly still works here at the library in the Children’s room and we have been the happy hosts to many Lunch Money concerts in the past few years. Love me some kid rock.

  44. Wendy says

    It has to be Guy Sebastian’s interpretation of ‘Little Drummer Boy’. Very season specific, I know, but I’ve always loved that song, + not many people do a ‘mod’ version of it successfully, but Guy did a brilliant job!
    ;]

  45. Tiffany N says

    I haven’t heard of some of the songs that you mentioned Cathy but I am off to itunes to check them out. I have enjoyed reading the comments, there are some of my favorites listed. My song for 2009 was “I run for life” by Melissa Ethridge. For so many reasons.

  51. Kirsten says

    I was totally inspired by music from Stephenie Meyer’s twilight playlists (first of all I loved the idea of an author’s favorite writing music). Two favorites for me are Muse (especially the album Absolution, even though it’s older) and Blue October. Two other songs stand out, “Wolf like me” by TV on the Radio (just fun), and “No cars go” from Arcade Fire (gives me goose bumps).

  52. Amy Wolff says

    I discovered Eric Hutchinson “Sounds Like This” this year. The album cover is inspiring and the tracks are catchy and just make me happy.

  56. Carol W says

    I love Nickelback’s “If everyone cared” song. Just wondering how much better the world would be.

  57. Michelle Marsh says

    I keep re-watching Jason Mraz’s Beautiful Mess on Palladia while I exercise, and I love almost anything at the Isle of Wight Festival on Palladia too. Discovered Razorlight there. Good stuff.

  58. Bobbi-Jo says

    Anything and Everything from the Glee soundtracks. LOVE them. It’s about the only thing that could get me up and dancing as I cleaned!

  61. Candy says

    Wow – hard to choose just one. I guess it would be Michael Bublé’s “Just Haven’t Met You Yet.” Thanks for the chance to win!

  64. Jodee says

    I have really enjoyed Lady Gaga and dancing around my house to her music! LOL! I can’t sit still when that stuff is on!

  65. Sara says

    I don’t know if I discovered anything new this year, sadly, but I have been listening to Pandora a lot more when I work. Best way to get music into my life as I’m an NPR junkie in the car.

  67. Ashley says

    Hands down, the new album by The Avett Brothers: I and Love and You. If you haven’t heard this band, you are missing out on some of the best music I’ve heard in years. Their lyrics are so moving and sincere and often heartbreaking. And who can resist a banjo with a skull on it? Yes, I’m a 43 year old woman who is obsessed with a band…and totally ok with it!

  68. Nancy says

    Actually it was quite recent… Sufjan Stevens Christmas collection… a friend burned me a copy and I am still playing it and loving it!!

  69. Melanie says

    Well, I am pretty sure I read before on this blog how you feel about Matchbox Twenty. But have always loved their music and Rob Thomas released a really great album last year that I LOVE loved 🙂

  73. Kelli says

    It didn’t exactly inspire me all year, I only got it in Nov. but the Glee soundtrack quickly became my go to music while scrapbooking.

  74. Leslie says

    Well, I don’t really have one song. This year I started to incorporate more inspirational music into my playlists. That in it’s self has been very inspirational to me.

  76. Jill says

    I really do like The Climb by Miley Cyrus…can you tell I have a 7 year old daughter who monopolizes most of my music listening!? 🙂

  78. Leslie says

    My musical inspiration wasn’t really a song but a TV show. I came across Elvis Costello’s Spectacle on the Sundance Channel and it was a great surprise. I am a loyal viewer and he’s really brought in some talent that I never would have heard otherwise. My latest favorites are Jesse Winchester and Neko Case.

  79. Michele says

    Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – only because my three year old daughter and I have made it our theme song. She even got a b-day card that plays this song when you open it (granted, there are drawings of martinis on the front of the card, but we take it in a slightly different spirit.)

  80. Petra from NL says

    With our stereo broken for a big part of the year, and a husband who prefers to listen to news radio, we went without music for a looooooong time. Just after Christmas he bought a new stereo, and the first song we played on it was just such a nice experience: Dido, White Flag.

  81. Nancy says

    My go to song in 2009 was definitely by Kandi…Can’t remember her last name! Sorry! And the song was “Fly Above”. It talks about flying above drama and “haters” and negativity. Its probably my song for 2010 also. As a woman, I think its important to stay out of the drama…theres too much of it out there! 🙂

  82. Trista Hertz says

    OK, it’s a kids album, but it’s still one of my favorite albums this year. Pop Fly by Justin Roberts. This guy writes songs that capture the essence of childhood like no other. My favorite song is the title track which describes a little leaguer waiting for a pop fly and all the things that distract him/her from the game. It is so perfect. He inspires me to capture the true story as well as he does on my scrapbook pages.

  84. Shayla says

    I love hearing about people’s favorite music. So many different tastes… I had a few favorites this year. One Republic’s new album, Waking Up is always on my iPod’s playlist lately. I also loved Jem’s new album Down to Earth (which was released in 08). Lenka’s self-titled album was a new find for me this year and one played frequently.

  85. Tina says

    Natasha Bedingfield’s unwritten. Great lyrics especially for my daughters, you are the one writing your own book

  88. Denise says

    we have such a wide variety of music around our house… metallica with my 14 year old…popular stuff for my 18 year old daughter, country for my husband…and me??? I love everything from ballet to musicals…to popular and country. BUT I really spent a lot of time listening to OLD stuff…anything by Simon and Garfunkle…Mandy by Barry M. Singing at the top of my lungs!
    Dancingly, Denise,
    watch me as I declutter, scrapbook and crockpot cook my way through 2010 at

    http://www.dancinglydenise.typepad.com

  89. Peg says

    Michael Buble’s Crazy Love Album. Makes me smile every time and is my latest go to disk when the radio stations let me down. Thanks for the opportunity!

  90. Pam Spradlin says

    Susan Boyle inspired me. She proves that anyone can do anything they set their mind to.

  91. lynda p says

    hmm, i love music, new, old and everything.

    i {heart} Depeche Mode, so i’m gonna go with ‘Peace’

  92. Peilynn says

    Definitely Susan Boyle. She’s a living proof of “you’re never too old to live out your dream”. What an inspiration she is to me.

  93. Susan says

    I have to admit it…for me it’s Michael Buble. Listening to him always puts me in a good, peaceful mood.

  95. Tracy (aka jazzmatazz) says

    Steven Curtis Chapman’s “Cinderella” album, all the more poignant in light of the loss of his daughter …

  96. Becca says

    I’m almost embarrassed to admit this, but Bon Jovi’s latest album The Circle. I find it inspiring that they are still putting out music (and seem to be having fun doing so) 25+ years after I bought their first album (and I do mean album!) in 1984.

    And I agree with lots of other posters…the Glee soundtrack is also pretty inspirational!

  98. Kropster says

    this wasn’t a 2009 song, but it stuck with me in 2009: Happy Ending by Sugarland. I am not a big country fan, but discovered this song when I was putting together a memorial slideshow when my grandmother died. It always makes me feel better when I hear this song and it is a reminder to appreciate all the details in life.

  99. Betty says

    I’m all about Seth Lakeman. Not sure if he’s known at all in the US? He’s does folk/indie/rock and comes from Dartmoor in the UK, near where I grew up. His music just reminds me of home. Highly recommend a listen, he rocks my little world 🙂

  100. Margie says

    I was inspired by American Idol this year. I know that sounds cheesy but I had never watched it before and my 8-year-old son fell in love with it and it was so cute to see him be so enthralled with the contestants, as well as fall in love with music. He’s now on iTunes all the time begging to purchase more and more music of all types. And of course his new career path — singer!

  101. Betsey says

    This old lady loved Momma Mia as I remember when all those songs were new for the first time.

    Betsey

  103. Heather W says

    it’s not an original song from 2009 but the kids on Glee singing ‘don’t stop believing’ inspired me.

  105. Britiney says

    I was inspired by Matthew West’s song The Motions.

    I don’t want to go through the motions. I don’t want to live one more day without your all consuming passion inside of me. I don’t want to spend my whole life asking, “What if I had given everything, instead of going through the motions?”

  106. nic says

    Great Big Sea – bought a concert dvd that my kids love dancing too – love exposing them to real music (id not hannah montana)!

  107. MelissaL88 says

    While not a 2009 song, I was so inspired by The Who’s Fragments…”The parts of me belong to you…” Fabulous song!

  108. Sarah L. says

    I’m debating whether or not to use my real name or an alias here because of my age and the song – LOL!!!

    This year, it’s been that silly Miley Cyrus, “Party in the USA,” song. Not because I’m a Miley fan or wish I was 12 again (HAHA), but because every single time it comes on the radio, my sweet little 15 month old daughter starts taping her feet on the car seat and throws her hands up the arm and jams. And my sweet little 15 month old son? He looks at her like she’s crazy (and wishes he could verbalize to Mommy – TURN AC/DC back on!!!)

    And yes, I DO sing along because it’s so gosh darn catchy (GRRR)

  111. Ria says

    I want to say… for the record… I am not entering but just commenting to say CATHY… What about those Kings of Leon??? They are amazing… amazing… and my favorite family quote of my year went something like this…”Mom did Elvis know the Kings of Leon? I mean since he was a king???” No… no my boy he did not… How funny is that from a 7 year old! KOL i’m just sayin!

  112. Susan Cokley says

    Perhaps its not exactly inspiring and upbeat but I listened to this album *a lot* this year but for me it would have to be Tim Finn’s (yes Neil’s brother)The Conversation in particularly “Out of this world”. It seemed to match my mood in the later part of the year when I was dealing with a lot of sadness and grief.

    BTW Neil Finn did release new music in 09 – its just the it was a collaborated album as part of the 7 Worlds Collide project. Name of the album is The Sun Came Out.

  113. ConniB says

    Easy! “Make It Real” by Mark Lowry. It’s been the theme song for my personal journey this year.

  114. carol in seattle :) says

    I’m going with Rodney Adkins “If You’re Going Through Hell”. It’s been a good reminder to just keep going no matter what – no giving up! Thanks Cathy (and Elizabeth and BPS!)

  115. Lynn Herrick says

    I can’t stop listening to “Gold Digger” on the GLEE soundtrack. Really, I keep playing it and dancing around the house. My three kids dance with me too and my husband looks at us like we are crazy. I miss GLEE already!

  117. Nicole says

    “The Boy Who Knew Too Much” by Mika. Great happy, dancy, unashamed pop music. A little Freddie Mercury and a little Elton John. Just fabulous.

  118. Sue says

    I was inspired to move and exercise by the latest Weezer album – such a fun bunch of songs. Thanks for the chance at this class!

  119. Avital says

    I was inspired by “Leonard Cohen, Live”. I actually saw it. Live. Last April, here in the Bay Area and I had to get the album on iTunes too 🙂

  122. Vicki A says

    Definitely Bon Jovi’s album,’Full Circle’. I have loved Bon Jovi for 25 years and now my son thinks he’s cool too. Just got tickets to see him in Omaha with my son, for his first concert at age 8.

  124. Melissa C. says

    George Strait’s ‘I saw God Today’ i didn’t really understand until i had my baby girl this year!

    🙂 sorry to be sappy but it is true!

  125. Moira says

    Fave song of O9? I think when I rediscovered Johnny Cash’s Hurt. And then heard the NIN original. It’s love on both counts…

  127. Mary Ann says

    This is mine – it’s an original composition:

    I love my Honey
    And my Honey loves me
    He’s got a cute bucket
    Like a little honey-bee

    Thank you for your applause – I’ll go now.

  129. bucke@baddnet.net says

    the album the whole world knows by Casting Crowns

    favorite song: if we’ve ever needed you.

  130. ~ alli ~ says

    Music is definitely an inspiration for me. I like to add song lyrics as titles or journaling.

  131. Michell says

    I don’t get to listen to music very often, not like when I was a kid with the radio on. But this year I was really inspired by the movie This Is It, the tribute to Micheal Jackson’s almost tour. My mom and daughter are huge Micheal Jackson fans and really wanted to go. I am so glad I went too. The artistic intensity and attention to detail was so inspiring. Here were the best dancers, singers and musicians in the world striving to reach reach his vision. Anyone who ever loved Thriller has got to see the version in this movie.

    If he hadn’t died I wouldn’t in a million years gone to one his concerts. Because he died they made this film. Because they made this film I watched this amazing artist in an entirely different light. So for me “This Is It”.

  132. Sara says

    My favourite song of the year was Human by Snow Patrol, because it asks that important philisophical question of ‘are we human, or are we dancers?’. 🙂

  133. Kim Hacking says

    My favorite musical find for 2009 was the soundtrack from the movie Notting Hill. I know that I’m way behind the times, but I really fell in love with it after seeing the movie again and realizing that the reason I loved the movie so much was because of the music. I’m slow like that!!!

  134. gina says

    I have been inspired for the last month by The Avett Brothers, I and Love and You. Basically, I was listening to way too much On Broadway (on Sirius) and was completely out of the loop, so one night forced myself to turn the station in the car back to its old home, The Current. Loved the song, went home and realized my husband had already downloaded it weeks ago!! Don’t you just love serendipity?

  135. JillS says

    Big hits in our house this year were the song “Sway” by pretty much anyone who has ever recorded it (it’s my 4 year old son’s favorite) and {I can’t believe you didn’t mention it} the Glee soundtracks

  136. Julee says

    I love the song “Toes” by Zac Brown Band. I love the beat, the story that goes with it (so much that I created a layout). It also inspired a funny layout because one of my sons confused the lyrics.

    Thanks for the give -away. I wanted to take her class, but my wallet was not coorporating with me.

  139. Tracy says

    I rediscovered Queen this year – some songs that I knew, and some that I really hadn’t ever listened to. I can always find a song to suit or uplift my mood – and inspire me!

  140. Mechiel says

    So cheese but I loved Party in the USA by M Cyrus. I know, I know-pop blech but when a work week can be so tough, sometimes cheesy teen pop can get a girl in a good mood.

  142. Tasia M says

    It’s not a new song, and I didn’t discover it this year, but my one of my favorite songs is Rainbow sung by G. Love and Jack Johnson (the version on the Thicker than Water soundtrack).

  143. Ramie says

    Toes, by the Zak Brown Band for sure. I love the country twang with a little blues and pop mixed in!

  144. Patty Schmidt says

    We bought at cabin at Bass Lake, CA in May so I spent most of the summer at the beach soaking up the sun… So my 2009 inspirational song had to be “Toes” by Zac Brown Band. Cathy, it’s country… you might not understand.

  145. Char says

    The song that really got me inspired is by someone that I would normally not even listen too! It’s called “It’s My Time” by Fabulous ft. Jeremiah. Awesome beat too!

  147. TracyBzz says

    Keith Urban’s Defying Gravity album. I got to see him in concert for my birthday in September! Canada’s Michael Buble had a new album, Crazy Love was great also.

  148. Deonne Beron says

    Steven Curtis Chapman’s Beauty Will Rise. Finding your way through losing a daughter and coming out with authentic faith that questions but does not lose hope is something that inspires me.

  151. Ashleigh says

    Lady Gaga’s The Fame is my musical inspiration of 2009. I love her quirkiness and how it all comes together in her music. It inspires me to embrace my quirks and to use them in new ways during the creative process–even if I am the only one who understands it.

  152. Leah Moynihan says

    I definitely agree on Ray Lamontagne and Owl City. My pick for 2009 would be Sugarland’s “It Happens”. If only I could be so carefree…

  153. Debbie Wearn says

    My happy songs for 2009 were Bubbly from Colbie Caillat and Build Me Up Buttercup from The Foundations. Oh, and Love Song from Sara Bareilles. I could go on but those are definitely at the top of my list! Happy 2010!

    Debbie W. from So Cal (where it’s in the 70’s)

  157. Joan says

    If today Was Your Last Day by Nickelback has been an awesome reminder to focus on what is important and not beat yourself up for past mistakes.

  158. Michaela says

    We listen to a lot of kids’ music and princess music in our house to appease the little ones… But my husband and I love Weezer, Wilco, and Pearl Jam when we get the chance. And I’d have to say, it’s pretty fun to get the kids dancing to some old Reel Big Fish or Presidents of the United States of America. Now I’ll have to go check out some of your picks- they seem good!

  160. JaneS says

    I think I’ll have to listen to more music in 2010 because I can’t think of an inspiring song.

  161. Lara Jane says

    Brite Revolution is the best idea in music since the ipod. It’s $5/month and you get around 40 DRM-free songs for that. They host an abundance of amazing talent. New favorites are Lorien, Andy Davis, Katie Herzig, Drew Holcomb, The Silver Seas, Butterfly Boucher… Go there now!

    Favorites of this year are The Avett Brothers. Found via Paste, which is sort of hit-or-miss for us but overall the most awesome magazine in print for music & movie lovers.

  163. Lisa says

    The album I listened to the most in 2009 was the Twilight soundtrack. I have to get the new one! Thanks for the giveaway!

  166. Sara-Jane says

    I was inspired by the Buena Vista Social Clug – Ry Cooder and some Cuban musicians – perfect music to chill out with.

  168. Karen O says

    I noticed the Amy Krouse Rosenthal tie-in too…. just spent quite a bit finding out about her books from the link to her Becoming Lovely project 😛

    I had just added Owl City to my wishlist (last week- after Christmas of course :P) because Fireflies won’t leave my head. Love Kelly Clarkson. Taylor Swift is a guilty pleasure-> I esp love a mash-up I found of Love Story with Cold Play’s La Viva La Vida. I also discovered Adele this year- love Chasing Pavement.

  171. Christine says

    I’ve been on the fence re: ED’s class. I sooo want to ttake it, but January is very hectic for our family. My inspirational song lately has been I Gotta Feeling by the Black Eyed Peas. Gets me up and moving every time!!

  172. Chris says

    Some great downloads ideas for itunes on this list! I like Jason Mraz “I’m Yours.” It’s just a happy little ditty!

  173. Kathy says

    Pocket Full of Sunshine by Natasha Bedingfield….it was my theme song for our 35th anniversary trip to Kauai last year

  174. Staci Miserlian says

    Let’s see…yes, American Idol – this was the first year we watched it, my daughters and I, and we got into it and went & saw them in concert late summer. Other than that, I think the Beatles. With inspiration from one of my 11-year-old’s friends, we started listening to a lot of their music around the house (& Beatles Rock Band doesn’t hurt, either), and they have some really good tunes.

  175. Wendy A says

    Cathy – in 2009 I was really inspired by Christian music for the first time in my life. The band Casting Crowns really touched me this past year. Thanks for a great giveaway to start the new year!

  179. Marlies says

    Two albums stole my heart last year. Ledisi’s “Lost & Found”. I’ve been crying my eyes out when I listened to the titletrack. I was totally lost in 2009 and am finding myzelf bit by bit again. Another fabulous album I LOVE is by a dutch performer called Trijntje Oosterhuis singing fabulous songs by Michael Jackson, but so small and beautiful. Love her!

  180. lynne moore says

    Hmmm, good question. My daughter and I luv Adam Lambert’s version of “Ring of Fire” From American Idol. And my son and I bonded over Godsmack this year. Voodoo, Whatever and the new one, Whiskey Hangover. My go-to stuff is Bonnie Raitt and Eric Clapton for when i need the mindless sing-along time.

  181. Jenny McGee says

    With the death of Michael Jackson this past year I have rediscovered my love of his music. I listened to a lot of his songs. Thanks for a chance to win.

  182. Cami says

    I am also a big fan of Green Day. This year we took my 13 year old son to his first concert and yep, it was Green Day. AWESOME. However, the 3 of us ended up on stage with none other than Bono at the U2 concert in Phoenix, while we were volunteering with the ONE campaign. I have to tell you…. that was just too freakin’ cool and very inspiring. Bono has been a champion of human rights, education, HIV treatment and prevention for years and I have always admired him for that.

    Great post, by the way. You totally made me smile and appreciate the music in my life.

  183. Lisa says

    Roseann Cash – The List I have always been a Johnny Cash fan and well, the nut did not fall far from the tree.

  184. Rachel Smith says

    I was totally inspired by John Mayer and downloaded a ton of his music on iTunes! I just adore him!

  185. Heidi says

    Well, I hate to admit it, but Miley Cyrus (or Hannah Montana I guess…not sure) The Climb. I always cry.

  186. Natalee says

    For me it has to be a tie between Katy Perry (not sure if that is 2009 but I have been listening to it all year!) and Lady Ga Ga. Also love Owl City! It is hard to choose just one. Thanks for the chance to win…looks like a fun class.

  187. jess says

    What a great giveaway! This year I was totally inspired by Neko Case’s Middle Cyclone album. A singer-song writer, Neko has an unmistakable sound and heartbreaking lyrics. This album was recorded in a barn in Vermont. If you could only download 1 song to hear Neko’s great voice I would recommend “The Pharaohs”.

  188. Brooke says

    Row, Row, Row, Your Boat was my fave for 2009. My 18 month old would rock back and forth and say “row, row” and when you sing “if you see a crocodile, don’t forget to scream”, he always screamed in the right spot!

  190. Iara says

    I discovered Beyonce this year LOL I know she is around for a long time but I never have played attention to her until few months ago and now I am addicted. thanks for the wonderful giveway

  191. Pat Passamonte says

    I finally decided this year that I LOVE Bob Seeger music. I wish I had discovered that earlier, when both he and I were younger! There’s a really pretty duet he did, I think for a movie, that just touches me.

  192. Rani says

    Love OWl City!!!!!! My dh does too! But the song that says it for me for the year 2009 is by Alanis Morrisette…called Incomplete (of which now I feel complete!) There is a great challenge in January happening at the All About Me Challenge Blog called Soundtrack of My Life. Helped me put just a snippet of important songs in my life on a layout! The challenge is due out later this month! Thanks for the chance…sorry about his long post!

  193. Kelly B says

    Thanks for sharing Scattered Trees. Definitely going to go find it although I’m a little scared. I believe I have you to thank for an obsession that I have with anything Pete Yorn has ever produced.

    Hmm… impossible to pick one song. Too much good music out there. I do know that there were two CDs that I played so much this year that I would have worn the grooves out of if they had grooves. They are Bruce Cocoburn’s Charity of Night and Mark Knopfler’s Sailing to Philadelphia. Definitely my favorite CDs of the year.

    Thanks for doing the giveaway. The class sounds great!

  196. MissKim says

    OK, mine is silly, but it’s Celebrate You by Corbin Bleu. They played it over and over during our Disneyland trip, and it’s come to symbolize that trip for us.

  197. JG says

    Put me on the Susan Boyle train. I don’t buy CDs very often, but I picked hers up. I was more than pleasantly surprised. I thought she sounded so young. I loved the entire CD. You go girl!

  198. Anita says

    I was inspired by Jim Stoltz this year. He has a passion for wilderness and loving our planet. His photography is amazing and he is a gentle soul.

  199. Jennifer says

    I loved anything by Katie Perry this year. Not so much for content, but for energy. After seeing her perform and seeing her vintage but modern and colorful style I couldn’t help but have that visual in my head everytime I listen to her songs. It always makes me want to shake a little glitter on things and keep it bright.

  201. Karen says

    Most inspirational: Susan Doyle for sure. My fave is the 5th anniversary edition of Wicked which I got for Christmas. We FINALLY have tickets for the end of April. I’ll know all of it by heart by then.

  202. ruth IN NZ says

    Yes have had a few in 2009 Cinderella by Steven Curtis Chapman about taking time out as children grow so quickly and of course due to his family’s struggle with the death of their daughter in 2008.
    Darius Rucker : It Won’t Be Like This for Long because sometimes when we are in the moment we can’t see the wood for the trees!
    I have a feeling by the Black eyed peas.

    I have to agree about crowed house and there was a series of one off concerts in NZ but none close to me
    🙁 I would love a chance to win as I have lost my job and I need some focus!
    Hugs

  203. Jana says

    Prem Joshua was a new discovery this year (actually in Dec. with friends on our way home from the coast.) Interesting take on world music. Love it! Happy New Year Cathy!

  204. Kimberly L.C. says

    Last year was kinda crappy for me, so one of the songs that really kept me going was “Hip Hip, Chin Chin” by Club des Belugas. It’s just a catchy, upbeat song and some days it was the only thing that made me tell myself, “OK, I can do this today.”

  205. alyssa says

    Allison Krauss’ version of Can’t Find My Way Home. My now-husband and I came across this while planning our wedding reception. My wonderful brother put together a huge playlist for my ipod – there were many gems that I’d never heard of or had forgotten about, but this is the one I keep coming back to. Thanks for the happy giveaway & happy new year!

  206. hannahk says

    In 2009 I was inspired by Duffy’s vocals when she covered ‘Stay with me Baby’ (the boat that rocked soundtrack).

  208. Jesa says

    I am all over the place when it comes to songs because an album has to be very special for me to like ALL the songs. This year I would have to say Sam Cooke’s A Change is Gonna Come. It was a BIG year full of good and bad things.The song’s theme is universal. It gives me chills everytime I listen to it!

  209. Kelly says

    I’m a Michael Buble fan, but I have to admit there is quite a variety on my ipod. Thanks for the chance to win this class Cathy.

  210. RobynS says

    Well my answer will be complicated of course….. My new band for this year is Company of Thieves. They are young and from the Chicago area. I heard them first on Live from Daryl’s House. This is a fabulous show put on by Daryl Hall every month. So that is my second inspiration and I actually like some of COT’s songs better with Daryl – Like … Pressure and Around the Block. But most of all I like the fact that Daryl had on Todd Rundgren in September. I must say I have all thing TR and Utopia and have seen him in concert umpteen times. Maybe one day will be Peter Gabriel. So see, yes it is complicated but DH inspires every month!!
    http://www.livefromdarylshouse.com

  211. Theresa Grdina says

    Michael Buble’s “The Best is Yet to Come”….at my age, I can only hope so!!! HA HA HA HA!!!!

  212. Kim R says

    Gotta go with the Glee soundtrack. My husband and I have really bonded over the show and love to sing along on car rides with the kids (which they hate, of course)!

  213. Jennifer Serrano says

    2009 for me was all about Taylor Swift’s Fearless album, I don’t even like country music, but my daughter got the CD from her grandpa and I listened to it with her, then I became hooked, obssessed! I LOVE Taylor Swift!

  215. Debbi says

    The song that touched me the most was Owl City’s “Fireflies”. My brother died in October and I heard this song right after he passed. It made me hope that dancing with fireflies is exactly what happens when you die…..brought me a lot of peace.

  217. kelly in NB says

    i would say New Kids on the Block…..it was a comeback year for them. i had the opportunity to visit them in Toronto with my hubby and we had a really awesome time connecting again and reminiscing our teen age years! LOL

  218. Joy M. says

    I’m old (at least I feel that way when it comes to music!). LOL My 12yo son has introduced me to a lot of good music, but I must say that I were to choose only one song/album that inspired me in 2009, it would have to be Jimmy Buffet’s License to Chill album, and in particular the song Trip Around the Sun with Martina McBride. Love it, love it.

  219. Jen Keith says

    To pick one song is so hard for me. So many different songs inspired me this year. But one of the big ones this year was KINGS OF LEON.

    Jen Keith Pa

  221. Heather says

    I don’t know what year it is from but the song that I found and loved this last year is 1 2 3 4 by Plain White T. Awesomeness.

  222. Liz Brown says

    I always love to hear a little Lenka, and really enjoying Lucy Schwartz and Meiko right now too.

  225. Cindy says

    This may sound a bit strange, but I don’t care … I LOVE the soundtrack for Mamma Mia. Looking on my iPod, it is the most played album on there! So excited about the new American Idol season starting. I have to agree with you on Kelly Clarkson’s Already Gone … love to turn that one up in the car!

  228. Sherry Amorocho says

    So much inspiration comes from music for me… This year I have to say I listened to the Avett Brothers’ I and Love and You while scrapbooking, and as I walked and listened to this wonderful collection of songs, I was inspired to do some layouts as well.

  229. julieanddennis@paradise.net.nz says

    having a toddler meant a LOT Of toddler music being played! and a lot of it’s not too bad ( like your amercian jim gill) but as for inspiring i love bird york’s ‘in the deep’ from that crash movie – always start my itunes sess with it, :>

  230. Kathleen Difato says

    Now, don’t make fun of me, but I loved that song on Britain’s You’ve Got Talent, by the singer Susan Boyle. That was such an amazing video. I loved seeing Simon but in his place.

  231. cooperlk@umich.edu says

    I am still listening to Mamma Mia! So far behind in the times…pathetic, I know! I do listen to whatever the kids are listening to – just don’t know titles, artists, etc…

  232. Stephanie B. says

    The new album “No Line on the Horizon” by U2 totally reaffirmed my undying love for them. It was amazing to see them live in concert back in October. I also always love Kelly Clarkson’s songs – she rocks!

  234. Sara Padgett says

    I also found Ray LaMontagne this year and love his song, “You Are the Best Thing”.

  236. stampinwithbeth says

    I don’t have any one album that inspires me, but I am totally inspired by the music on KTIS (our local Christian station). It helps to bring my life into perspective!

  239. peg risley says

    oh darn it! What time is it???? I loved that group you had on your web page….can’t think of name right now -the main singer was walking through a supermarket…can never remember his name!

  242. Birute P says

    Wow…a lot of good music up there that I will have to google!! I was most inspired by the soundtracks from the TV show Glee. I’m hoping that this show and its music will open the ears and eyes of young folks everywhere…spark the initiative to start up singing clubs in schools etc…

  244. JoLynn says

    David Cook — Life on the Moon
    “Here are my terms
    Have some faith in me
    And I’ll let you be
    Who you need to be.”

    It’s a scrapbook page for my boys waiting to happen. I already made it in my mind.

  246. Melissa says

    I love classical music and have been listening to a lot of that lately. Rhapsody in Blue is one of my all-time favorites. That and Aaron Copeland.

  248. Sheryl says

    “How Great is Our God” is the song that inspired me most in 2009. Need I say more? He is Great!

  249. Grammy says

    Oh I hope I’m not too late. Just got in and logged on the ol’ puter.

    Anything by Nickleback right now. Sorry, I’m so tired I can’t even remember a song title, however.

  250. Jill Sibbald says

    Hi Cathey – not sure if I’m too late, being Pacific time and all, but i would say my favorite song(s) of the year were a collection of songs repeadedly played on the radio by Michael Jackson. Being a HS Graduate of the fine year of ’83 as well, every song he sang in those early years holds a memory. A date, a pep club rally, a dance team cheer – you get the idea.
    Thanks for always inspiring us with your wonderful taste in life and of course, music.
    Happy New Year !

  251. Rachel M says

    Missy Higgins…Where I stood, but also several other songs on that album really spoke to me this year. Something about her voice and the emotion in that song just makes me think about all the choices I’ve made and how they have led me to where I am.

  252. Georgina Martin says

    Well, you won’t be familiar with this one, but it is a soundtrack from a series that we have here in Australia “Packed to the Rafter’s” all about an ordinary family with every day dilemma’s just like us normal folk. The soundtrack is a great collection of songs that had I not watched the show, may never have heard. It is now my regular scrapbooking soundtrack!

  253. Kate says

    My husband and I joined two Hawaiian music bands this year, mostly playing for hula dancers. Our favorite has to be songs by Dennis Kamakahi. He is a very prolific writer and has written over 400+ songs. Our current faves are Wahine ‘Ilikea and Koke’e.
    Aloha, Kate