Following the lives of street performers and featuring a cast that plays its own instruments, Once is an excellent story about the beauty of music and the impact it can have on people. We asked the cast of Once to share songs that are meaningful to them, and why they feel that way. Listen to the playlist here and check out why each song means so much to them below.
To Whom It May Concern by The Civil Wars
- “This is one of the sweetest songs I know and it fills me with both longing and joy when I listen.” -Malinda Kathleen Reese, Girl
Pink Eye Lament
- “A traditional folk song (origin unknown) played by many artists... always lifts me up” -Craig Macdonald, Da (This song is not on Spotify but you can listen here).
This Modern Love by Bloc Party
- “Some of my favorite lyrics, incredible layering, and a great build. One of my all time favorites.” -Ian Geers, Swing
Linus and Lucy by Vince Guaraldi
- “I'm completely obsessed with the 'Peanuts' gang. They've gotten me through a lot. This song will always make me smile, no matter how far down I am.” - Dave Stishan, Billy
Human by Jon Bellion
- “It strikes me as honest.” -Brian Reisman, Eamon
House on Fire by GOODING
- “It's invigorating and fills me with the belief that I can jubilantly wrestle even the darkest things into submission - in other words: a good old fashioned rock n roll celebration.” -Nick DePinto, Bank Manager
House on Pooh Corner by Loggins and Messina
- “I'm double posting: this is one of my dad's favorite songs and holds such a special place in my heart for that reason. And it's a song about Winnie the Pooh. Come on!”- Dave Stishan, Billy
Like It’s Going out of Style by Punch Brothers
- “It's a gentle, bolstering reminder to enjoy the moment, and to find love in what you have now.” -Gregory Maheu, Guy
Mythological Beauty by Big Thief
- “The lyrics of this song are surreal but really pack a punch emotionally. Adrianne Lenker channels how our families shape our lives in song and we are along for the ride. The groove is also entrancing.” -John Sygar, Andrej
All Around You by Sturgill Simpson
- “This song is perfect; from the incredible instrumentation to the lyrics about the magic of the universe, love, and God. My husband and I love this song and picked it as our first dance at our wedding.” -Daven Ralston, Réza
I Don’t Know What It Is by Rufus Wainwright
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“A song that’s both cheerful and a little dark. Like me. :)”- Emily Mikesell, Baruška
America by Victoria Vox
- “I performed this seemingly simple song with her all over the world. The song has taught me the power of a song and how to perform with intention. A simple song with a beautiful message and a huge heart.”- Katie Chambers, Ex- Girlfriend
