This week’s Music Monday is very personal to me, not because it’s spring break, but because it’s my birthday! And what better way to celebrate than through music. Every year brings new memories, new challenges, and of course, new songs that define those moments.
So in honor of my 17th, here are a few songs that capture the vibe of growing up, finding yourself, and making the most of every moment:
“Unwritten” – Natasha Bedingfield
The first time I ever heard this song I was 15 watching “Anyone but You”. After watching I kept humming, I just couldn’t get it out of my head. I went on TikTok and realized the song had gone viral.
“Release your Inhibitions , Feel the rain on your skin”
The lyrics focus on taking risks and embracing opportunities, which is something a lot of us are starting to understand as we think about life beyond high school. At 17, everything feels possible, but it’s hard to keep believing in ourselves. This song serves as a reminder that our stories are still being written.
“Sycamore Tree” – Khamari
The song uses the idea of a tree as a symbol. Something that’s constantly growing, changing, and shaped by its environment. That metaphor hits differently . At 17, you’re still becoming who you are. The song feels introspective, like taking a quiet moment to think about everything that’s led you to where you are now. What makes it stand out is how real it is. That’s what growing up can feel like. Scary and hard to understand. Like a Sycamore Tree, growth doesn’t happen all at once, it’s slow and steady.
“It started just a seed, and everyday it grew a little more, growing stronger and stronger.”
“Dancing Queen”- ABBA
“Dancing Queen” is one of those timeless songs that instantly lifts your mood. It’s all about being young, carefree, and fully living in the moment, something that perfectly matches the energy of being 17. Even though it was released decades ago, it still connects to everyone whether you’re turning 17 or 40. I’ve loved this song since the moment I heard it. I love dancing to it or yelling it as I drive on a hot summer day.
“You are the dancing queen , Young and Sweet, only seventeen”
“Ribs” – Lorde
This song captures a side of being 17 that isn’t always talked about, The fear that comes with growing up. The song reflects how anxious people feel when growing up and that feeling of nostalgia. It’s about those moments when you’re scared everything is changing too fast and you’re not ready to move forward. At 17, I’m sick between wanting to grow up and wanting to stay where you are. “Ribs perfectly exemplifies my feelings and reminds me that it’s okay to feel uncertain , and that those emotions are just as important as the exciting moments.
“This dream isn’t feeling sweet, We’re reeling through the midnight streets, And I’ve never felt more alone, It feels so scary getting old”
Turning 17 is about balancing and holding onto your childhood while stepping into who you’re becoming. So whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just getting through the week, take a moment to press play and enjoy where you are right now.
