Summer’s drawing to a close, and with fall comes the inevitable deep clean. It’s time to refresh your space and yourself, stepping into a new season and a renewed you. Remember those days cleaning the house, music cranked up, setting the perfect vibe to get those chores done? Who said cleaning can’t be fun?! No matter your age, we all have memories of doing chores with family, and music was more than likely a key part of it.
Music was and is a guaranteed way to make time fly and ensure work didn’t really feel like work. But what’s the best soundtrack for cleaning up? We’ll let you decide as The Root‘s cleaning playlist includes some of the many songs to tap into the next time you pick up a mop
Suggested Reading
Kirk Franklin – Stomp
Gospel is one of those genres that can be played no matter what the circumstance is. And who doesn’t love a Sunday deep clean right before church service? Kirk Franklin’s “Stomp” will get your blood pumping and spirit lifted! Consider this your church warmup!
Bob Marley – Could You Be Loved
Reggae drums mixed with a funky guitar is sure to lighten up any laundry day. Bob Marley is one of the many reggae artists still holding it down! “Could You Be Loved” is
Erykah Badu – Other Side of The Game
For those who want a chiller vibe, turn on Jill Scott, Sade or Erykah Badu. Neo Soul is a genre that is bound to help you recenter yourself and prepare for a day’s work. Songs like “Other Side of the Game” are reminders of how special life is. All you have to do is fire up a candle– maybe some incense– and get to work.
Burna Boy – Last Last
Speaking of dance party…. Burna Boy is another artist bound to get your hips moving to the beat of those drums– or even the sweep of your broom!
Brandy and Monica – The Boy Is Mine
If you’re the type to sing both parts of a song during karaoke, then this musical duet might just be the perfect cleaning music for you! “The Boy Is Mine” is a generational hit! So next time you’re scrubbing that toilet, see if you can keep up with both Brandy and Monica’s parts!
Stevie Wonder – As
Do we need to say more? “As” by Stevie Wonder is one of the greatest songs of all time. So of course, it would be a great addition to any cleaning playlist.
Don Toliver – No Pole
There’s something about new school rap music that will always bring life to the party! Many of us like to zone out while cleaning around the house, but for others who love turning up, Don Toliver’s “No Pole” will definitely get the cleaning party started.
A Tribe Called Quest – Scenario
If new hip-hop isn’t your thing, maybe old school rap could fulfill your cleaning needs. While listening to the classics, you’re bound to turn kitchen chores into a sing-a-long battle. If you’re up to the challenge, cut on A Tribe Called Quest next time you whip out the bleach.
Snoh Aalegra – Find Someone Like You
Whether you have a boo or not, love songs are timeless and classic. “Find Someone Like You” by Snoh Aalegra is one of many love songs that create the perfect environment to clean without stress. There’s nothing like a good love song to put your mind at ease.
Gladys Knight & The Pips – Neither One Of Us
Remember those days when you would wake up during the weekend to the smell of Fabuloso and Gladys Knight playing in the background? That’s how you knew it was time to get some gloves and join your folks with the household chores. Now that we’re all adults, some of that same music still makes the perfect soundtrack for any cleaning day.
Lizzo – Truth Hurts
Like others on this list, there’s never the wrong time for pop music. The upbeat tempo “Truth Hurts” by Lizzo is not only catchy, but it also makes the time you spend cleaning go by much faster!
Adele – Send My Love
Sometime you just need to sing your heart out. That’s why you play Adele! In fact, just cut on Adele’s entire “25” album, and you’ll be done cleaning in no time at all!
Maxwell – Pretty Wings
Just like love songs can evoke emotions, heart break songs do the same– if not better. “Pretty Wings” by Maxwell is arguably one of the best breakup songs of all time. So the next time you need to cry, just hit play and start scrubbing.
Beyyonce – Virgo’s Groove
As the name suggests, “Virgo’s Groove” by Beyyonce is groovy beyond comprehension. The six-minute track is perfect for a long day full of chores.
Miles Davis – Blue In Green
For folks who need to focus on their cleaning without the distraction of lyrics or super catchy production, jazz just might be the perfect genre for your Sunday reset.
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