Marathon Playlist

Do you ever wonder what runners are listening to? I do.

My first marathon, the Kentucky Derby Festival race, is in less than two weeks, so I’m now finalizing my playlist for the big day. I’m estimating it could take me up to five hours, which means I’ll need plenty of songs on my list.

Here’s what I’ve been listening to on my training runs lately:

• “See You Again,” Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth. It’s known as the song from the most recent “Fast and Furious” movie that also honors Paul Walker. It’s so touching, and I included it because I like a mix of slow and fast songs on my playlist.
• “Dear Future Husband,” Meghan Trainor. It’s a fun song that gets me in the mood to move and sing along.
• “Want to Want Me,” Jason Derulo. This is another song that I like for its upbeat tempo. 
• “All Day,” Kanye West, Theophilus London, Allan Kingdom, Paul McCartney. This song just feels perfect for running in Chicago. Or running in general.
• “G.D.F.R.,” Flo Rida. I don’t have an explanation really; I like the beat, but not so much all of the lyrics besides “It’s going down for real.” Because it really is going down, on April 25.
• “Budapest,” George Erza. This song makes me so happy, especially when I’m running in nice weather.
• “Beach in Hawaii,” Ziggy Marley. Hearing this song makes me remember our wedding trip to Maui and the good times associated with it. I like to pretend I am running in Hawaii rather than wherever I am.
• “Sunshine,” Matisyahu. This tune is inspiring because it both reminds me of our first trip to Maui and because it’s about reaching for the sky and keeping your eye on the prize. That’s what I need to hear during the marathon.
• “Roar,” Katy Perry. I remember being inspired by this song during yoga teacher training, and when it comes on, I remember that I can do anything I try to do.