Unfortified Castle

Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway's duo is my favorite of the multiple songs with this title.

Depeche Mode's most successful song is an inner monologue, formed in a moment when the outside world is quiet.

You don't sample and rap over Otis Redding and get away with it... right? Unless you're Ye and Jay.

The White Stripes' 2001 single showcases their unmistakable sound in my favorite ways.

I didn't realize that until I looked a little closer for this post, which also led me to appreciating the song even more.

Elderbrook and Bob Moses' lyrically driven house production has been a personal anthem since I first heard it about half a year ago.

What can I say? It's a winter's day.

Olly Alexander finally making a true house track — alongside Galantis — was an excellent decision in the production of his first solo album.

I examine why Kate Bush's work stands out from that of her contemporaries through one of her most successful songs in the mainstream.

Between its sampling dispute, its distinctive vocal elements, and its point of view, the Verve's enduring anthem leaves a unique impression.

I got hooked on Yves Tumor's sound from this track alone and the complex internal war it captures.

Blondie's Moroder-produced movie soundtrack anthem presents the state of pop at a sonic inflection point — a sound people still love today.

Between its beat and its lyrics, Ryan Riback's retouching of Starley's dance-pop number is one of my favorite productions from the late 10s.

The memories will always be there, and Zara Larsson and MNEK's presentation of working through them really resonates with me.

...but the song has more than just that to offer. It ends up lending itself to a discussion on risk taking in pop writing and production.

Labelle's smash hit is so catchy because nearly every individual element is infectiously memorable on its own.

Gorgon City utilize mediated repetition — particularly of a single element — to create and reinforce their track's titular aura.

Sia presents a tale of self-reckoning, but also acceptance and ultimately confidence that she can at least healthfully keep her pain inside.

Nor does 'unique' or another similar adjective. 10cc's masterpiece merits so many more words, given its story, sound, and lasting impact.

With a more restrained, yet emotive break, ODESZA reminded me that nothing is to be gained from wallowing in one's pessimism.