The Pinoy Bundokero Playlist: 18 Songs Perfect for Mountaineering
Friday, November 13, 2015
There are times when all we really need is a little push. This couldn't be anymore true when it comes to climbing mountains. In this popular outdoor activity, there are instances when you're almost there at the summit and, all of a sudden, you grow very tired and no longer want to continue. Moments like this, we dig deep and look to something within us to push ourselves forward.
Or we could just listen to music to motivate us... without forgetting to wear earphones or headphones, whichever you prefer. (Remember the LNT Policy.)
With the latter in mind and putting aside the obvious picks ("The Climb" and "Ain't No Mountain High Enough"), I asked members of the group CLIMBER (Climbers League for Ideal Mountaineering and Balanced Environmental Responsiveness) to share their hiking theme songs, their summit soundtrack if you will. Here are 18 of them:
(Disclaimer: This compilation is far from complete and I would appreciate if you add to this list. High-five!)
The Pinoy Bundokero Playlist: 18 Songs Perfect for Mountaineering
1. "Under Pressure" by Queen
This song is perfect when you're feeling under pressure from getting left behind. Reminds you to find your own pace.
2. "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor
3. "Easy" by Lionel Richie
When you want to take things slow, this tune will help you (or your hiking buddy/ies) chill a little bit.
4. "On Top of the World" by Imagine Dragons
The title says it all because, come on, when you're on the summit, it seems like you're on top of the world. And when you take on certain mountains, the phrase "top of the world" becomes literal! How awesome is that?
5. "Fantastic Baby" by Bigbang
A Korean song made popular by the global sensation "AlDub." You can have your personal dance party once you're on the summit, regardless if you don't speak Korean.
6. "Cheerleader" by OMI (Felix Jaehn Remix)
Everybody needs a cheerleader, especially when you're climbing a mountain.
She's always right there when I need her"
7. "Flower Duet" by Lakme
Bring a "Choco Mucho" and you're all set!
8. "Mmm Sarap" by Kamikazee
The first OPM on the list. Of course it's mmm sarap when you're with Mother Nature.
"Kay sarap isipin na naryan ka
At nananaginip."
9. "Better Days" by Franco
Another OPM, and by one of the best local bands of today no less. This has the characteristic "feel-good vibes" of reggae, and the lyrics are spot on!
"The world is gonna see some better days
If healing starts within yourself today
Such a simple way a price to pay
For better days"
10. "Change the World" by Eric Clapton
A classic! Let us be the sunlight in each others' universes.
"If I can reach the stars,
Pull one down for you,
Shine it on my heart
So you could see the truth:
That this love I have inside
Is everything it seems."
11. "Rather Be" by Clean Bandit feat. Jesse Glynne
This is one of my favorites. It's a song made for adventure, plus the strings are elegant!
"If you gave me a chance I would take it
It's a shot in the dark but I'll make it
Know with all of your heart, you can't shake me
When I am with you, there's no place I'd rather be"
12. "Ikaw at Ako" by Johnoy Danao
Another nice and slow OPM. With poetic and hugot lyrics too!
"Walang iwanan, tag-init o tag-ulan
Haharapin bawat unos na mag-daan.
Sana’y di magmaliw ang pagtingin"
13. "The Nights" by Avicii
Allow me to share a little secret: Avicii is always a good idea.
"Carve their name into those shinning stars
He said, "Go adventure far beyond these shores.
Don't forsake this life of yours.
I'll guide you home no matter where you are.""
14. "One Day" by Matisyahu
So much love and good vibes on this one.
"Sometimes in my tears I drown (I drown)
But I never let it get me down (get me down)So when negativity surrounds (surrounds)
I know some day it'll all turn around because..."
15. "Wherever I May Roam" by Metallica
Metallica and mountains? Sounds hardcore.
"But I'll take my time anywhere
Free to speak my mind anywhere
And I'll redefine anywhere"
16. "Tungo sa Liwanag" by Joey Ayala
The first time I heard this song, I closed my eyes and I could see the mountains. Joey Ayala's enchanting voice will put you into a trance. A great soundtrip when you're doing "socials" or just, you know, chilling.
17. "Ulan" by Rivermaya
Did you really think we can go through a playlist for Pinoys without including one of the greatest OPM bands of all time? This is a personal recommendation as it is one of my favorite OPM songs. The imagery is so vivid and done in a positive light.
"Hiwaga ng panahon,
Akbay ng ambon
Sa piyesta ng dahon,
Ako'y sumilong"
18. "Baba Nam Kevalam" by Kadangyan
"Baba Nam Kevalam" is a traditional yogic chant paying reverence and praise to God. Baba = Divine, God, Love, Beloved. Nam = Name of. Kevalam = All, Everything.
I just heard this recently when I was doing research on Filipino ethnic music. I love the use of tribal instruments as well as modern ones. It's a very successful hybrid of contemporary and traditional music. And nothing says "mountains" than the songs of the tribes.
I just heard this recently when I was doing research on Filipino ethnic music. I love the use of tribal instruments as well as modern ones. It's a very successful hybrid of contemporary and traditional music. And nothing says "mountains" than the songs of the tribes.
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What do you think of this list? Comment below!
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