Three folk singer songwriters to help bring chill vibes to your summer

Cole Swensen – “Viva La Vida” (Coldplay cover)
-If you’ve been around my writing for any length of time, you know I’ve been supporting Cole Swensen’s music for a few years. He’s one of the most talented singer songwriters I’ve heard in years and I even got to do a full interview with him. When I recently found out he was on America’s Got Talent, I had to find the clip of his audition (which is absolutely lovely). This is the studio version of the song that he performed there. Of course, the cello work from his mother is a big selling point on the track (and his story). I’m happy to support Cole’s wonderful, unique vocal that brings new life to this Coldplay song. It feels weird to call it a “classic” song, but it kind of is at this point. Nevertheless, Swensen’s characteristic unique phrasing really makes the song feel wholly reimagined by this wonderful cover. Add it to your playlist and smile every time you hear it this summer.

LOVELOVELOVE – “War Made the Cigarette, Love Made Me”
-Sometimes I run across a song that’s so artful that I don’t even know what category to put it into. This track feels like that. It’s light, buoyant even, floating in a liminal space between the ground and the sky. The light acoustic work gives a bouncy energy, but it’s the electronic synth work that creates a floating feeling. The understated vocal demands that the listener lean in and listen a bit closer. The combination makes for a chill energy that feels like equal parts folk and indie pop, resulting in a sound that feels like it worms into the comfortable parts of your soul. I get major John Mayer Gravity vibes on this one and I’m absolutely here for it.

John Wheeler – “When you let her go”
-If you’re a fan of chill acoustic singer songwriters, definitely check out this track from John Wheeler. It’s a calm, relaxing guitar track that’s sure to win over a lot of hearts. It’s a song about the end of a quality relationship and what it’s like letting someone go. There’s a visceral, almost punctuated style to the fingerpicking that makes it feel genuine. In a world with some much synthetic processed everything, it’s great to feel and connect with a truly original sound.

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