As the 00s come to a close, I’ve been thinking about the music that helped shape the decade.
So here are some of my favorites from the last ten years. The songs go from 2000 to 2009, though not every year is represented.
Everything Is Different Now (2000) by Don Henley. Henley only had one album in the 00s — one more than he had in the 90s — and it wasn’t especially strong. But it contains this gem of a song, complete with backing choir, ringing guitar, and Henley’s celebration of marital commitment.
Beautiful Day (2001) by U2. The era of Zooropa and Pop thankfully came to a screeching halt with the release of this sonic-boom of a song. Listening to the track makes its title come true.
I’m Not Ready To Make Nice (2006) by the Dixie Chicks. Pain, protest, defiance, and other-worldy vocals make this one powerfully poignant.
Waiting On The World To Change (2006) by John Mayer. More truth in this song than Mayer himself realizes.
Radio Nowhere (2007) by Bruce Springsteen. Goodness, this one sounds like “867-5309″ on steroids. The one bright light on an album that otherwise gave me headaches.
What I’ve Done (20007) by Linkin Park. Probably my favorite song from all the 00s. While Linkin Park hardly classify themselves as followers of Christ, here they bring together an unforgettable groove and lyrics which speak openly of our need for repentance and redemption. Who among us doesn’t need to have mercy wash away what we’ve done?
Viva La Vida (2008) by Coldplay. I’d never been a fan of the band until this one. The album from which this title track comes still sounds good from first to last. And Chris Martin gets to be married to Gwyneth Paltrow.
Use Somebody (2009) by Kings of Leon. The guys are all PKs! But they sure can sing and play. This is the strongest song from a strong album.
Magnificent (2009) by U2. The Joshua Tree, 21st Century style. When Bono cries out, “I was born to sing for you,” you figure he’s probably right.