In the editor’s rotation: Time for holiday music

Hello! Welcome back to my column, “In the editor’s rotation.” My streaming has been all over the place recently; however, as soon as it hit Nov. 1, I had to tune into a bit of holiday music.

Look, I know a lot of people think you should wait until after Thanksgiving to listen to any Christmas music, but some of it is just so good, so why wait? Holiday tunes haven’t fully infiltrated my streams yet – thankfully – but they’re definitely starting to make an appearance. Don’t worry, I’m still listening to plenty of showtunes.

‘What’s Inside’ — Jessie Mueller, ‘Waitress’

As a child, “Waitress” was one of my favorite musicals, and I still love it to this day. It’s perfect in every way — Sara Bareilles wrote the most beautiful music to accompany such a powerful story. I’m obsessed. “What’s Inside” is a strong number from the show and a favorite of mine. It does an excellent job of representing Bareilles’ talent for creating a musical masterpiece.

‘House Tour’ — Sabrina Carpenter

Carpenter’s music continues to bring me so much joy and whimsy throughout my day. Look, I know it’s not for everyone, but I consider it to be pop perfection. I love a fun, silly and goofy tune, and “House Tour” is just that.

‘Santa Baby’ — Megan Hilty

It wouldn’t be my playlist without mentioning Megan Hilty. Hilty released a Christmas album in 2016, so as soon as Halloween was over, I had to tune in. All of her covers are magical, but her “Santa Baby” is especially fun, and a great way to kick off the holiday season.

‘Change It’ —Megan Hilty, Allison Janney and Stephanie J. Block, ‘9 to 5’

Who doesn’t love a good Dolly Parton song? Plus, it’s musical theater and Hilty — what more could you ask for? “9 to 5” remains such a fun musical with such a strong message, and “Change It” does an excellent job of showing the heart of the show.

‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas’ — Frank Sinatra

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” has always been my favorite Christmas song. It’s so beautiful and magical and immediately gets me in the holiday spirit. This song manages to convey every emotion I associate with the holiday season.

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‘Dancing Through Life’ — Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Cynthia Erivo, Marissa Bode and Jonathan Bailey, ‘Wicked’

One thing about me is I love “Wicked.” So much. And it’s finally “Wicked: For Good” month, so I felt obligated to stream the soundtrack from the first film to celebrate. I don’t typically think of this song as one of my favorites, but it’s such a fun, upbeat tune and serves as such a monumental moment in the movie. Please go see “Wicked: For Good” in theaters on Nov. 21.

‘Brownstone’ — Brian Gallagher

I initially listened to Brian Gallagher’s album because he’s married to Hilty, who happens to be featured on some songs. However, I quickly became a fan of his work as well. He has such a unique musical style, and his albums tell a story with characters and a plot. I love it.

‘World Burn’ — Reneé Rapp, ‘Mean Girls’

I know the “Mean Girls” musical movie is controversial, but I love it. It’s peak Tina Fey comedy mixed with Rapp’s insane vocals. What more could you ask for?

powers40@miamioh.edu