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    The Baylor Lariat
    Home»Arts and Life»Arts and Entertainment

    Top 5 songs for your first week of class playlist

    Kalena ReynoldsBy Kalena ReynoldsAugust 24, 2026Updated:August 24, 2026 Arts and Entertainment No Comments3 Mins Read
    Baylor freshman Austin Tran sitting outside of Moody Library. Layla Bazan | Photographer
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    By Kalena Reynolds | Editor-in-Chief

    An unspoken mark in everyone’s transition from adolescence to adulthood is the first week of college. Drowning in surreal emotion and overwhelm, the first week of school brings on an odd combination of feelings.

    Whether you’re a freshman, grad student or somewhere in between, a good playlist can make the first week of school less stressful.

    Here is a list of tunes perfect for your first week of school. Featuring an array of genres from R&B to country, there is something for everyone on this list.

    “The Feeling” by Steve Lacy

    A true anthem for the yearners, lovers and hopeless romantics alike, “The Feeling” is a perfect addition to your first week of class playlist. Similar to the feelings that arise during the first week of college, Lacy’s song perfectly encapsulates uncertainty and the unknown in his lyrics and vocals.

    Adjusting to college can provoke an array of confusing emotions, largely due to the tumultuous nature of growing up and leaving home. His siren song of somber can double as a warm companion to those experiencing homesickness during their adjustment period of the fall semester.

    If you’re feeling out of place, throw on “The Feeling,” lay in your bed and soak in the ever-confusing phenomenon of growing up.

    “Good Time” by The Dare

    Moving on to a lighter note, the first week of college also means watching your reflection stumble over a puddle in the parking lot of 1226 Speight Ave. That’s all I’ll say on that.

    Make sure you have a proper playlist of high-energy hits lined up for your first week of classes. Anything by The Dare is a great choice for those who love electric hits and indie sleaze sounds.


    “What You Know” by Two Door Cinema Club

    A multigenerational hit, “What You Know” intertwines the 2010s indie sound with catchy hooks and upbeat percussion. The song’s upbeat guitar riffs are bound to give you a boost of energy and lift your spirits during the first week of college.

    Interweave this tune into your sonic rotation for an instant mood boost. Whether you’re looking for a song to accompany your morning routine or an evening hand with your friends, Two Door Cinema Club is the perfect choice.

    “There is a Light That Never Goes Out” by The Smiths

    This song is a universally enjoyed hit that is a safe bet for any friend group. “There is a Light That Never Goes Out” is not only nostalgic and dreamy but also a deliciously vintage song. Morrissey’s nonchalant vocal tone mixed with his heart-piercing lyrics creates an intriguing juxtaposition, leaving listeners both engulfed in emotion and intrigued.

    Whether you’re walking to class or going on a late night Andy’s run with your friends, you can never go wrong with a nostalgic tune.

    “Phone, Keys, Wallet” by Lainey Wilson & John Mayer

    Country definitely isn’t for everyone. However, if you’re going to go to Baylor, you better get used to it. “Phone, Keys, Wallet” is a perfect tune for country lovers and those that are country curious.

    John Mayer emphasizes his soulful, jazz sound over Lainey Wilson’s twangy vocals, resulting in a unique sound with two fantastic artists. If you’re looking for good Texas country artists, then you will definitely want to deep dive into Ty Myers, Laci Kaye Booth or Hudson Westbrook.

    country first week of class john mayer Lainey Wilson R&B steve lacy The Dare the smiths Two Door Cinema Club
    Kalena Reynolds
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    Kalena Reynolds is a senior Journalism major from Phoenix, AZ with minors in art history and media management. In her third year at the Lariat, she is excited to continue her love of writing and story telling. Aside from writing, Kalena is also on the equestrian team at Baylor and has a deep love for music and songwriting. After graduation, she plans to go into the music industry.

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