For most of the years I have worked with Arlington Public Library, I have created a seasonal playlist known as “Don’t Touch that Dial,” or recently, “Too Cool for Yule.”
This tradition is personal. Every year, it brings memories of the thousands of hours I’ve spent over the years making playlists for friends, siblings, and work colleagues. Now, I mostly create playlists for myself. And with the addition of Spotify and iTunes, it’s easy. No more waiting on my favorite radio station to play my favorite song and record it on a cassette tape. Remember those days?
Just like a great book or film, a great playlist captures the spirit of a person. My favorite playlists are ones that feature bits of edginess, elegance, humor, and hope. I enjoyed curating this list. Happy listening!
A few liner notes about the selections:
My top pick is “My Favorite Things” by the late Tony Bennett. Always one of my favorite songs made more so by Bennett’s silky-smooth baritone.
Musicians who have left us, The Band’s Robbie Robertson (represented by the Staple Singers' glorious rendering of “The Weight”), Sinéad O’Connor and Bennett may be gone, but will never be forgotten.
Taylor Swift and Britney Spears are having huge cultural moments.
It’s the 50th anniversary of the birth of Hip Hop.
And if you make it all the way to the end, here’s a bonus track.
As 2023 winds down, we hope you will take a moment to relax, gather with family or friends, grab your favorite beverage and give a listen to this edition of “Too Cool for Yule 2023.” Be inspired to sing along or dance. And please share some of your seasonal favorites with us. They just might end up on next year’s list.
From all of us at Arlington Public Library, we wish you and yours a joyful season’s end and a peaceful new year.
Always Free. Always Open. Always Listening.
Diane Kresh
Director
Arlington Public Library
