Novel Playlist for THE OTHER SIDE OF NOW
“You’ve been stuck, feeling low / You can’t see / How good this life can be”
Many writers create playlists for their stories. It’s two creative gestures coming together to build something new, visceral, and inspirational.
When I create playlists for my stories, I try to find songs that fit the entire scene or chapter I’m writing. And when drafting that scene, I will listen to that song on repeat.
Many writers use this trick. The point is putting yourself in the mood of the moment because the last thing I need is an upbeat song to come on when I’m writing something heartbreaking. So, I will listen to the same song no matter how many days it takes me to draft the scene it connects to.
Today, I am sharing the playlist for my latest novel, The Other Side of Now. Now that I have finished the first draft, I am confident that most of these songs will stay. Some may be deleted or changed during revisions, but for the most part, this list represents the story as I envision it.
And since the first draft is finished, I can share the story’s concept:
After a car accident leaves her in a coma, Clara finds herself trapped between life and death, unseen by the living and tethered only to other lost souls. As time runs out, buried regrets and unexpected connections force her to confront the life she left behind, and the future she still might have. The Other Side of Now is a poignant novel about second chances, self-forgiveness, and the quiet courage it takes to choose life, perfect for fans of The Midnight Library and Gabrielle Zevin.
The Other Side of Now Playlist
“Up from the Bottom” by Linkin Park
“Cruel Summer” by Kari Kimmel
“Empty” by PVRIS
“I Lost Myself” by Munn
“Easy Lover” by Philip Bailey + Phil Collins
“Maybe I Am” by FLETCHER
“Youth” by Daughter
“Bells in Santa Fe” by Halsey
“Heavy” by Birdtalker
“Dust in the Wind” by Corey Taylor + Bad Omens
“Liability (Reprise)” by Lorde
“What Was I Made For?” by Billie Eilish
“We Are Broken” by Paramore
“Burn Burn (Cinematic Remix)” by Hollis
“So Far” by Ólafur Arnald & Arnór Dan
“Battlefield” by SVRCINA
“When It’s All Over” by RAIGN
“No One Hurts Me Like I Hurt Myself” by Markella
“Highly Emotional People” by MARINA
“No Sanctuary” by UNSECRET, Sam Tinnesz, Fleurie
“Salvation” by Gabrielle Aplin
“The Other Side” by Ruelle
“Head Above Water” by Avril Lavigne
“Light” by Sleeping at Last
“Carry You” by Ruelle & Fleurie
“Don’t Tell Me (feat. Ann Wilson)” by Disturbed
“Let Go” by Juliana Madrid
“Healing” by FLETCHER
“Are You With Me” by nilu
“Enjoy Your Life” by MARINA
Additional songs that fit the general theme of the story:
“Say Don’t Go (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift
“Die With a Smile” by Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars
“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten
“Astronaut” by Simple Plan
“Half Light” by BANNERS
“Don’t Give Up On Me” by Andy Grammer
“Don’t Give Up” by Ursine Vulpine & Annaca
“Let It All Go” by RHODES & Birdy
“Can You Hold Me” by NF & Britt Nicole
“Heaven” by Solence
“Astronomical” by SVRCINA
“In My Arms” by ILLENIUM & HAYLA
“Dangerous” by Hailee Steinfeld
“Beautiful Mess” by Kristian Kostov
As I mentioned, some of these songs may be revised, rearranged, or removed during the revision process. However, until then, enjoy this playlist, which represents my novel in the best possible way.
Do you create playlists while writing? Do you have a specific novel playlist or a general writing playlist?
If this post resonated with you in any way, please consider buying me a coffee. A little caffeine goes a long way for a writer, and I will be forever grateful for the fuel. ☕️