k.d. lang’s pandemic playlist

Maclean’s is asking some of Canada’s most beloved singers for songs that are getting them through isolation. First up: six suggestions from the inimitable k.d. lang.

Bloodless, by Andrew Bird
I like this song because it hints at the politics of the dark side of humanity, but is also optimistic in terms of resolve.

Don’t miss it, by James Blake
It’s a deeply emotional song and speaks to me about being present in the moment and appreciating what we have.

Rêverie, by Debussy 
One of my quarantine-mates is practicing it for his piano lessons, and it’s just incredibly beautiful to me right now. It gives me a sense of calm.

Taking A Walk, by John Prine
I think it’s  a pretty obvious and deeply sad song.

Calling All Angels, by Jane Siberry
Another pretty obvious song, about the desire to call on our spirituality to help us sort out the kind of emotional issues that the pandemic brings out.

Lonely, by Yael Naïm
Trying to understand the unfathomable amount of suffering at this time. And yet, the entire world is going through this simultaneously.

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