In celebration of the summer solstice, I have curated a Spotify playlist—a special collection of music created especially for Asians and Asian Americans. Each artist is Asian-identified, honoring the beautiful diversity within our community. This isn't your typical meditation playlist; it's a journey through sounds that capture joy, desire, and vitality, all deeply rooted in the landscapes of contemporary Asian culture.
For those who have borne the weight of complex trauma, safety and peace can feel foreign, intimidating, and even triggering. Amidst the shadows of pain and the resilience of survival that many Asian and Asian American communities know too well, it is vital to reclaim our laughter and smiles as well as the moments of inspiration and aspiration. It is important to remember the warmth of a gaze or the sunlight.
It is also important to remember that Asian history is rich with traditions that celebrate vigor and vitality. Literature, art, and poetry from various Asian cultures exude a profound appreciation for the beauty of nature, interpersonal connections, and different emotions. These historical expressions whisper to us that yearning for pleasure is a fundamental part of our heritage, ever-present and waiting to be woven back into the fabric of our modern lives.
As the sunshine reaches its peak, let us ride on the spirit of the sun. Through this music, I invite you to reflect on the essence of being Asian in the here and now.
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6HkjF7gRft6P9HjDq3Nmgz?si=46e7a78338744b71
Summer Solace - Paella
Summer - Joe Hisaishi with London Symphony Orchestra
Indian Summer - Anoushka Shankar
Summer Solstice - Sophia Thakur, Latir
Asturias - Youn Sun Nah
Hala lala laya - Aleen Masoud, Apo & the Apostles
Late Summer Storm - Lullatone
On the Summer Solstice - aspidistrafly
Summer - Sanoli Chowdhury
Summer - Joe Hisaishi (This is a different version of Joe Hisaishi's "Summer." This one concludes the journey of the playlist better.)
Read more:
https://www.instagram.com/p/Ct9kr2fP5M_/?igsh=MWQ1ZGUxMzBkMA==