Virtually every Black Friday shopping experience involves long waits, petulant conversations, and general fatigue. It is not an easy day to shop. But you ain’t getting that TV deal any other time, so embrace the capitalistic onslaught of terror that is Black Friday.
To do that, music might help. Most stores play either staid, diluted top 40 records or dull, bloated ambiance. These will serve you little to keep your call and spirits high throughout the day. That’s why we’ve provided these 10 records sure to provide a needed soundtrack boost on your Black Friday 2016.
Childish Gambino—“Sober”
The recent and exciting turn Childish Gambino made into funk and soul had its inception here. This tropical pop hit and the rest of his Kauai EP will sprinkle some much-needed sunniness into your day.
Brian Eno—Ambient 1: Music for Airports
Perhaps the best ambient album ever produced, Brian Eno’s classic will lift you above all the pettiness and sweatiness and ugliness surrounding you on Black Friday.
Isaiah Rashad—“Free Lunch”
TDE rapper Isaiah Rashad creates vibes raps. His tracks either playfully bounce, like this one, or slow roll, allowing their word clouds to loll. Cilvia Demo and The Sun’s Tirade will package clever and refreshing wordplay with those textures.
Beyoncé—“Sorry”
Because it’s Beyoncé but also because you’ll encounter at least three to four experiences while out where phrases like “Middle fingers up” and “Boy, bye” will prove absolutely vital.
Francis and the Lights feat. Bon Iver—“Friends”
When you inevitably receive your third or fourth stink eye of the day from a cashier or irate shopper, smile and sing along with Francis: “We could be friends.” Yes you’re allowed to add some sarcasm if you want.
A Tribe Called Quest—“Electric Relaxation”
Classic Tribe is a no-brainer. Those guitar licks alone will mellow you out. Also can’t wrong by just spinning the new album, We Got It From Here… Thank You 4 Your Service. “Movin Backwards” is a personal favorite.
Motion City Soundtrack—“Everything Is Alright”
Don’t overthink this one. We all could use some commiseration on a day like Black Friday. This is for between shops when you’re feeling run down and worn out. You’ll appreciate this one.
SZA feat. Chance the Rapper—“Child’s Play”
Much of SZA’s debut album Z wraps you and your anxious thoughts into a warm quilt. SZA fluctuates from soothing whispers to emotional croons, not so much to say everything’s okay, but that you’re allowed to feel this way. Listening will save you an emotional breakdown or two during the day.
Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole—“Black Friday”
Kendrick and Cole lit the internet on fire by dropping this on Black Friday last year, fueling long-circulating rumors the two would release a collaborative album. I remember rewinding these tracks multiple times as I laid on the beach, oblivious to the sun setting and families roaming the sands. Let’s hope another surprise waits this year.
The most essential daily news, entertainment, pop culture, and culture coverage. Want more? Check out “Man Nearly Pulls Off The Boldest Gold Heist Ever” “Should ‘Doctor Strange’ Give Us Hope Comic Book Movies Are Still Fun?” and “Election 2016 Opt-Ed: A Clear Victory For Cannabis”
