A Spring Symphony
We all know that oldies artists loved the summertime, but what does the discriminating listener do when winter's over and a new beginning is just, well, beginning? This playlist offers some idea... it moves through the mid-Sixties and Seventies to find happy, nature-loving songs that capture Spring's unique mood of rebirth and renewal. (Click the song title to hear a sample clip; download the songs here at About.com or through your own provider, and make yourself a nice iPod playlist or legally burned CD.)
- The Beatles, "Here Comes The Sun"
Perhaps the ultimate rock song about the cycle of winter-into-spring, done as only The Deep One (that is, George) can.
- The Rascals, "A Beautiful Morning"
Save the slow and sexy "Groovin'" for the summer... this is the sound of waking up refreshed and ready.
- The Lovin' Spoonful, "Daydream"
What would spring be without the happy-go-lucky folkie attitude of John Sebastian?
- The Toys, "A Lover's Concerto"
Beloved by many, this Motown-styled take on Bach's "Minuet in G" ties new love in with the new weather.
- Gary Lewis and the Playboys, "Green Grass"
Celebrates the arrival of spring and the preparation for summer. Surprisingly uptempo for a song with a harpsichord.
- The Beach Boys, "Their Hearts Were Full Of Spring"
A neglected acapella classic from this group best known for summer tunes, this Four Freshmen tribute offers a deeper, more serious look at the metaphorical seasons.
- The Cowsills, "The Rain, The Park, And Other Things"
Self-explanatory, but our narrator is obviously eyeing his new love through a spring, not winter, rain.
- Spanky and Our Gang, "Lazy Day"
Goes all out, including not just blue skies and sunshine but rowboats, balloons, and squirrels (!)
- Harper's Bizarre, "59th Street Bridge Song (Feelin' Groovy)"
Some prefer the original Simon and Garfunkel version, but either way, few songs make goofing off sound so necessary.
- Hugh Masekela, "Grazing In The Grass"
A classic jazzy instrumental that really captures the mood. Perfect for those of you who need more cowbell.
- 5th Dimension, "Up Up and Away"
Lush and inviting, this Jimmy Webb tune practically takes you into the clouds all on its own. How about a balloon ride?
- Van Morrison, "Sweet Thing"
The master's seasonal impressionism reached a peak here, with love as a walk through "gardens all misty wet with rain."
- B. J. Thomas, "Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head"
Still can't shake that sad mood? Take a cue from Burt Bacharach and smile at the spring rain.
- Cat Stevens, "Morning Has Broken"
A traditional look at the wonders of the seasonal cycle that reaches new heights in Cat's spiritual hands.
- Johnny Nash, "I Can See Clearly Now"
One of rock's great anthems of renewal, more a metaphor than anything, but still very powerful.
- The Doobie Brothers, "Another Park, Another Sunday"
Yes, the lyrics are dour, but the mood is pure Doobies, which makes it perfect for the season.
- Chicago, "Saturday In The Park"
He may think it was the 4th of July, but this ultimate "park" song fits spring just as well.
- Neil Sedaka, "Laughter In The Rain"
Was there ever a more perfect recreation of fresh love in a spring shower?
- Bob Marley, "Three Little Birds"
A true classic that even children can get into from reggae's leading light.
- Bill Withers, "Lovely Day"
We close with an impressive testament to how love can make any day feel like springtime. It's impossible not to be transported by Withers' voice here.
