MIXTAPE: THOSE DARLINS
BY LISA MISCHIANTI

Known for their rambunctious country rock tinged with unabashed attitude, Southern quartet Those Darlins release their third album, Blur the Line, this month. The record was announced with a controversial, unidentified banner displaying its nude cover art in the middle of Nashville—and such a bold gesture was fitting. “The whole album is about honesty, being true to who you are,” explains vocalist and guitarist Jessi Zazu. Here, Zazu shares an alone-in-your-room-themed playlist, comprising relatable songs with the broader message to just be yourself.

“DUKE OF EARL” BY GENE CHANDLER  
This song always makes me feel powerful. The lyrics affirm who he is and that he’s confident in himself. I love the idea that nothing can stop you because you are you.

“ALL TOMORROW’S PARTIES” BY THE VELVET UNDERGROUND
I like this song because I grew up without much, and the message here is to be grateful for what you have and all of the experiences that have contributed to your uniqueness.

“FREE AGAIN (ORIGINAL MONO MIX)” BY ALEX CHILTON
This song is about freedom, and knowing what you truly believe is the best way to be liberated.

“STORMS” BY FLEETWOOD MAC
I have to give Bethany Cosentino from Best Coast credit for turning me on to this one. I love the lyric “I have always been a storm.” It takes honesty and strength to admit weakness.

“MOONLIGHT MILE” BY THE ROLLING STONES
This song feels like he misses someone, but is also content to be where he is. Sometimes you’re lonely, and sometimes you’re alone—they’re not always synonymous.

“PUT IT ON” BY BOB MARLEY AND THE WAILERS
My favorite line in this song is “I’m not boasting, I’m just toasting.” There are always going to be people who look down on your successes, but it’s OK to be triumphant in your victories.

“ONE ROAD MORE” BY THE FLATLANDERS
This song is a declaration of individuality. If you know you’ve got the goods, nobody can keep you from moving forward.

“I’VE ALWAYS BEEN CRAZY” BY WAYLON JENNINGS
The lyric “I’ve always been crazy, but it’s kept me from going insane” is one of the most genius lines ever. I remember when I first heard this song as a teenager. I was like, “Yup, that’s me.”

“LOOKIN’ FOR A LOVE” BY NEIL YOUNG
I like the idea that he’s a unique person in search of that other unique person to match him, hoping that someone will understand his dark side.

“AFTER THE GOLDRUSH” BY PATTI SMITH
Patti Smith covers this Neil Young song on her latest record, Banga. She makes it not only her own, but our own—a reminder for our generation to cherish and respectthe cycle of life.