Anyone who works out with their headphones knows how awesome it is when you get a big lift from your favorite song. Or hearing a cool tune you would have never picked shuffle through on your picturesque jog… With 1000s of songs on my iPod I almost always shuffle.
I’ve always thought it would be cool, interesting, perhaps even motivating to write about each playlist and the music’s effect on myself and the workout. Then I thought that might be kind of boring. Then I thought, “Yeah,” I was right…on both counts. 
Really just another chance to talk about music!
January 26, 2014
5 Mile Run
“China Girl,” David Bowie
“I’ll Be Waiting,” -Adele
“Angel of Avalon,” -Michael Schenker
“Harp Partita, BWV 1006A Preludium,” -JS Bach, perf. Julian Bream
“Somebody Stole My Guitar,” -Deep Purple
“Heathens From the North,” -Yngwie J. Malmsteen
“Night of the Long Knives,” -AC/DC
“Early Morning Rain,” Gordon Lightfoot
“Harp Partita, BWV 1006A Gavotte En Rondeau,” -JS Bach, perf. Julian Bream
“Say What You Will,” -Fastway
“Carnies,” -Rush
“Prelude,” – Judas Priest
“Espiritu,” Pace De Lucia, John McLaughlin, Al Di Meola
“Humans Being,” -Van Halen
“Still in Love,” -Boston
The highlight of this run playlist without doubt was, “Humans Being,” by Van Halen. It came on right at the end of the 5 miles and I still had energy to burn and this song fanned the flames! It is one of the bands heavier songs, certainly, from the Hagar era and one of Eddie’s great solos.
The tune was written for the soundtrack from the movie, “Twister.” In the solo I’ve read, Eddie wanted to emulate a ‘twister’. He uses an extended ascending line coupled with a driving rhythm to bring it home. It is also one of the first truly soulful solos Eddie put to tape, before the ‘tornado’ the calm before the storm. Adding another element to his already legendary guitar style.
The two Bach guitar works also provide a great soundscape for running. Maybe too mellow for most during a workout, but, perfect for me. I’ve worked on these pieces and understand the Herculean task and effort it takes to perfect them. Much like the efforts of a long distance runner…very motivating! If you’re wondering why the ‘harp’ pieces are performed by a guitarist…the guitar didn’t become a legit instrument until the 19th century. So guitarist have had to transcribe the great works of Bach and others…essentially stealing them for the guitar from harp, lute, cello harpsichord, etc.
Other highlights; John Lord’s keyboards on the DP tune, AC/DC from “For Those About to Rock”(an underrated album in my opinion,) “Carnies,” from the latest Rush release , Fastway and “Espiritu,” from the guitar trio.
Gordon Lightfoot…I have to say I grew up not knowing much about his music. It is mellow and would have punched a hole in my Heavy Metal adolescent teenage musical psyche(is that really even English?) Have to say though Lightfoot has “IT”. Whatever, “IT,” is in music…the guy has it. AMAZING musicianship, its been cool to familiarize myself with his music recently. Also proud to say listening has not damaged my aforementioned psyche.
Check out previous Run Playlist Posts.
Mike Slayen ~ Guitarist 