2 Words 2 Birds

This is a bit of a challenge to award this day with tons of anti-Valentine Day propaganda. The fact that I've been "unsingle" for the past 12 years makes me have to stretch a little on what it was like to be single this time of year. However, having a teenage daughter brings it back into perspective.

People have been conditioned to feel the need to relationship up before holidays, especially before the infamous "Love Month". I say heck to the Naw Naw Naw to this notion. Boss up, and wear that single badge proudly. No gift, chocolate, flowers, etc. are worth settling for; even if it is short term.

Each song in this playlist was carefully selected. I could have easily googled the best "Singles" playlist and went from there, but music is a powerful voice to me, and it deserved some thought.

1. Natasha Bedingfield -- "Single" --

She was the iconic female voice during my teens and early 20s. I can listen to this song or any other from her Unwritten album and it takes me right back to the house on Parkway street in my hometown. It is funny how music can take us back in time in our memories, but also in smells. I can remember the Victoria Secret perfume that my aunt wore, and the many nights that she and I loaded up and went to play pool or just have a good time with friends. Riding back roads and jamming out with the besties, and hanging out on the Walmart parking lot. The lyrics to this song are honest and raw. You don't have to have a man or wait around for one. Being single is your "declaration of independence" because that is what you want to be. It is not a depressing song about living a single life. The lyrics empower you to embrace it and not give a damn what others think.

2. Paramore -- "Ain't It Fun" --

Although this song talks about being on your own, I don't interpret this song to be a down in the dumps kind of song. Hayley Williams is a powerhouse. She started this band at such a young age, and is still relevant today. This song (to me) is more about breaking out on your own, and not having to rely on anyone. It is about fighting for what you want. Life is hard, but suck it up buttercup, and "Don't go crying to your mama."

3. Meghan Trainor -- "I Love Me" --

What better song to have than one that gives some self-love? Everyone knows that if you don't love yourself you won't have the capacity to love someone else. Make sure you are giving yourself positive affirmations. We are all our own worst critics, but it is extremely important not to get caught up in the critiques, and forget to speak positive words into your life.

4. Demi Lovato -- "Sorry Not Sorry" --

Getting over a break-up? Getting back out there? This is your mantra. Let them see you laughing. Let them see you living. Don't let them find you pining away under the covers with smeared mascara and empty tubs of Ben & Jerry's. Throw on your best, get your hair done, put on your sexy perfume, and walk with your head high. Crank this jam up, and pump yourself up. There is no need to be sorry. It is their loss, and you have the right to carry on and get busy living!

5. Miley Cyrus -- "Do My Thang" --

Once you are pumped up and aren't sorry, do your thang! This is the perfect song to follow the previous one. Do you boo! It doesn't matter what anyone says, it is important to stay true to you. Grab your girls and get on that dancefloor, or just bust a move in your room, in the kitchen, in the shower, or anywhere you feel the need to let loose.

I am not sure what you might be expecting from the rest of the playlist, but just know that it is not your typical "break-up" songs or songs to make you want to cry and bury your head in the pillow. I wanted this playlist to be uplifting, funny, spontaneous, empowering, and get you out of your own head and thoughts. There is not one particular genre that you could throw this playlist in.

Single because you want to me? Single because life has forced the status upon you? Tired of family and friends asking the infamous question of why you are still single? Think Heart Day is so overrated? It doesn't matter what your status or situation, save this playlist for the days you just need to let go of all things negative!

Enjoy, and happy February 14th in which is just another date on the calendar.

Sorry gentleman, my song choices are geared more for the women, but feel free to enjoy if you want!

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