Another hot Monday with people griping at each other online, and endless doomscrolling over world events. As one does, these days.
Anyway, before we fry our brains with depressing things, we need to take breaks and just enjoy some music videos spreading joy for the sake of joy.
“amazinggrace” by Go!Go!Vanillas
Japanese pop punk band Go!Go!Vanillas has been around more than a decade, but their inclusion in the upcoming new season of the anime Sakamoto Days will gain them some new fans. Good thing, too, since these guys are happy personified. The drummer, Jet Seiya, has an especially contagious spirit.This song is mostly in Japanese, but the lyrics pretty much tell us to put anger behind us, live for the happiness of today and “I wish you Amazing Grace.”
“San Francisco” by The Mowglis
Back in the late 80s I went to San Francisco, and it was a nifty place. That was when the vibe of the city was still quirky and free-spirited. This hit song by the Mowglis is just a bunch of happy hippies sharing the wealth.
“Bonfire Heart” by James Blunt
When British singer/songwriter James Blunt made the video for this feel good hit, he actually did drive through the American highways and filmed real folks he met along the way. He even got to take place in a wedding. The message is even when it seems people are getting more distant, get out and make some contacts, you might fall in love with the world again.
“I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5
I don’t care who you are, or what you think of Michael Jackson as a solo artist, it is hard not to get happy watching the sheer joy emitted in this 1975 Ed Sullivan Show performance of one of the catchiest songs of the 70s’ by the The Jackson 5.
“Bidi Bidi Bom Bom” by Selena
I think we can all agree Selena was a national treasure, or at least a Texas treasure. She was always smiles and good feelings, and gone way too soon. Yet this song remains forever cheerful.
“I’ll Be There” by Jin
I had to mention something from BTS, since all seven members of the group are officially military veterans home from service as of this month. Jin, the first one out, immediately got going with a couple of albums, including one appropriately called Happy. The album is simply about spreading joy, and this first single is nothing but happy feelings. Keep in mind this guy was a drill sergeant just a couple of months prior.
“It’s a Great Day to Be Alive” by Travis Tritt
Finally, there is no greater feeling than being thankful for the small things. This Travis Tritt hit forever reminds us to do just that. Remember, it is always a great day to be alive. Tritt is one of the coolest dudes on the planet, and he wouldn’t steer you wrong.
This tiny list is very incomplete, and that’s a good thing. It means there’s space for everyone to remember and share with friends their own favorite happy videos of any genre.
Yes, stay informed and grounded in reality, but also find ways to stay happy. Joy is God-given and should never be taken for granted.