Mackenzie Saleh Contributor

Music has always been super interconnected with my life. I have a background as a pianist, having played for 10 years. During high school, I took music, playing the trombone for 4 years, and I was in a drumline where I played the bass drum. My experience with music is so profound that I often use it as an escape and as a way to destress. With the incredible ability to change my day, from terrible to amazing, and turning my frown upside down, listening to music is time well spent. Bearing this in mind, especially during the most formative years of my life, I am reflecting on songs that have taken over my year. My own GRAMMYs if you will, unrelated to the current nominations. For the “Shiggles”.

It was very difficult to come up with a list of songs because there are so many that I love and cherish. Not only do they have a special place in my heart, shaped by memories and events, but they also help me remember parts of my life when I re-listen to them. My memories become linked to the songs I frequent the most. I looked at the two CDs from this past Summer that my twin had burned for me. Going the analog route, the purpose was to abuse my car’s speakers in the best way and to have a means of holding onto the memories I had made through the music I was listening to. Hence, I created my GRAMMY nominations from these CDs.

Here are the nominations for Mack’s Best Summer tunes in 2025:

• We Will Rock You VonLichten by Queen and VonLichten

EPIC rendition of the classic rock song.

• Freedom! ‘90 x Cups by Pitch Perfect

My favourite movie series, having memorized all the songs from all three movies. This remix hits close to my heart and soul as it is the perfect merge of the beginning and end of such an iconic series.

• Come Alive by Hugh Jackman & co. from the Greatest Showman

This song gives me literal chills and is fantastic for karaoke.

• Songs I Can’t Listen To by Neon Trees

Had a song that you loved but got associated with a person who is no longer in your life and now can’t listen to it without being reminded? This song understands.

• Dreamteam by Galantis and Neon trees

The build on this song, especially with car speakers, is INSANE and very cathartic. Must play loud.

• Glorious by Macklemore feat. Skylar Grey

Upbeat and wildly catchy, I can’t help grinning and jamming.

• Just Imagine It by MKTO

I felt seen by this song.

• Celebrity Status by Marianas Trench

My favourite band. This song’s energy can’t not put me in a great mood when I hear it. I also can’t help but sing every word.