Mandaris"What's Up?" by 4 Non Blondes
What song makes you feel like you're in a different country?
Seriously.
I was briefly thinking about using something from Rage Against the Machine, but this is the song that called to me.
Crucial Track for February 20, 2026
"More Bounce to the Ounce" by Zapp & Roger
Share a song you feel was ahead of its time.
This song predates all the autotune that you hear nowadays. But honestly, I didn't know what was being said at the time until someone told me what the title of the song was.
Crucial Track for February 19, 2026
"Move Your Feet" by Junior Senior
What’s the last song you discovered and loved instantly?
I've already mentioned a couple during other prompts, but this one needs a moment to shine. This song was originally on the groups demo track and was strong enough that they got a record deal. I know they have at least two albums but I only remember this song.
There's a really good remake of it in the first Trolls movie that I prefer a little more because they add other songs in the mix.
Crucial Track for February 18, 2026
"Candy Rain" by Soul for Real
What’s a lyric that resonates deeply with you and why?
The song starts off incredibly strong and I find myself singing it every once in a while.
My love, do you ever dream of Candy-coated raindrops? You're the same, my candy rain
My family tends to tease me about the fact that it's a love song that heavily features a 15 year old boy. Hey! We should be so lucky as to find love!
Crucial Track for February 17, 2026
"It's the Hard-Knock Life" by Andrea McArdle & The Orphans from the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack of "Annie"
If your life were a movie, what would its theme song be?
Based on current events.
Part of me knows I should be grateful that it's not worse. It's just hard to have so many obstacles in life.
Crucial Track for February 16, 2026
"My Little Pony Theme Song (Extended Version)" by Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Rarity, Applejack & My Little Pony
A song from a genre you didn’t think you’d like—what changed?
I didn't think that I would like the music that my children listened to when they were small. Now, I like to sprinkle the soundtrack in a playlist when I know that the girls are going to be listening.
I was in a car collision. The whole family is banged up and it just sucks all around.
I’m just thankful to be alive.
Crucial Track for February 15, 2026
"Bounce" by Emotional Oranges
How do you discover new music, and what’s the latest gem you’ve found?
I usually find music from tv and movies. Sometimes, I even find it on the radio. The best recommendations are from family and I found this one to be very soothing.
Crucial Track for December 31, 2025
"Human Nature" by Michael Jackson
What song makes you feel connected to nature?
If they say why? (Why?) Why? (Why?) Tell 'em that it's human nature
There's something about the way that Michael just does the various runs during the song. I feel that it just lulls me into a peaceful mood.
Crucial Track for December 19, 2025
"Waiting for a Girl Like You" by Foreigner
Share a song that perfectly captures anticipation.
Right now, I'm waiting for my family to get ready so that I can take them somewhere. We were supposed to leave an hour ago.
