Tales From The Tarot (Rider-Waite Deck)

Two of Wands

He’s a Pirate – Klaus Badelt

Ariana writes: Of course the first card I’d pull for the start of a curated Tarot Playlist would be the Two of Wands! It feels like I am starting a new exciting adventure, and the song that came to mind for that was He’s a Pirate by Klaus Badelt. 

On a ship’s deck and feeling the thrill of what’s to come, is what I envisioned when pulling the Two of Wands. The song syncs perfectly with the notion of setting sail into the unknown, accepting that, and embracing that with bravery no matter the outcome.

Much of life is unknown, we aren’t always prepared for what lies ahead, but how we go forward into that feeling of uncertainty, how we approach that, can make a world of difference on the outcomes to follow.  A great song to set the stage, boost your confidence and prep you for the action coming ahead.

The Devil (reversed)

Animal Nitrate – Suede

Andrew writes: The Devil card always scared the crap out of me – I stayed away from the tarot for decades as I was frightened of receiving it – but – as with everything in life – a little education goes a long way.  What’s interesting in this manifestation is that the card is reversed.

There’s a load of differing interpretations of the card – typically in its upright form they’re not “great” – indicating entrapment to physical attachments, addictions, etc.  It’s a great card to receive if you need to refocus on things that are not serving you.  In its reversed state it is a lot more positive – typically indicating that you’re now ready to break those bonds of addiction.

Some of the more salacious interpretations put the devil firmly in the lust and temptation camp – hedonism, control (and loss of it) are all tied up in a selfish desire for gratification.  Yet again – in the reversed state it’s indicative of resolving some internal desire, breaking a damaging relationship – but all in the knowledge that it probably won’t come easy.  Yes you’re ready for change but the work still has to be done.

Suede’s Animal Nitrate always struck me as the kind of track that would sit nicely next to the Devil reversed.

The Chariot (reversed)

Katy Perry – Dark Horse

As soon as I saw The Chariot in reverse my mind immediately went to Katy Perry – Dark Horse, then my logic was like, wait what? Then, after pondering for a moment, it made perfect sense.

The Chariot in reverse represents obstacles and a lack of control, and reminds us that we have to work toward regaining our power back. 

The lyrics talk about being careful about falling for someone who may not have the best intentions for us, and we’ve all been there. There’s an air of warning to be hesitant and discerning, a sense of caution. This resonates with the card’s message of facing challenges and gaining back control of a situation. 

With Dark Horse, The Chariot in reverse could be symbolizing challenges and uncertainties in relationships, urging us to be aware as the listeners of potential pitfalls before fully throwing ourselves into a situation. We should take our time and navigate relationships carefully and thoughtfully, and listen to our intuitions closely.

Knight of Cups

Dreamer – Supertramp

After a couple of reversed majors I’m thinking fondly of the card that started this list – Ariana’s draw of the two of wands – the idea of a journey ahead – the excitement that comes at the beginning of an adventure.  While some cards hint at the challenges of the road – this card suggests the opposite.

“If I could see something

You can see anything you want, boy

If I could be someone

You can be anyone, celebrate, boy“

Our Knight is already on the journey – his head filled with possibilities – possibilities that invite and incite action – that encourage one to advance towards a good outcome – an outcome that can literally be conjured from the mind.  And sure – dreams can be ephemeral and can go as quickly as they come but it is dreams that create the future.  

What ideas are being conjured – what opportunities are there for the taking if we only allow ourselves to dream and then on waking – do something about it.

The Emperor

Kanye West – Power

What does an Emperor have? Power. Responsibility comes with great power and sometimes burdens to carry as well. 

The Emperor leads their people on a throne, overseeing all,  offering guidance and knowledge to those who seek it. Everyone looks to the Emperor to stabilize things and manage complicated matters. For this role you have to be confident, but also know what you do well and you must be sure to back up your knowledge with research. 

The lyrics and overall mood of Power by Kanye West tie well with the role of The Emperor in the Tarot. Kanye delivers his lines with confidence that a leader should possess. He touches on themes of ambition and how complex holding power can be. We know this when we observe the life of the rich and famous as outsiders. We must be careful in our power and find a balance to overcome challenges and adversities we face in life.

Temperance

Chip of a Star – Chatham County Line

 Balance.  Temperance is all about balance – about keeping in mind the “whole” of it and yet ensuring that no one piece is too extreme or favored over another.  To temper something means to make it less extreme – to smooth out the rough edges – and in doing so – reducing it – removing that which evokes imbalance – so its divinatory meanings are often associated with economy, moderation and frugality but yet there’s also that other meaning – the meaning associated with tempered steel – steel that – through a process of addition of energy – results in something stronger, harder, more optimal to serve its purpose.

There’s something about the lyrics to Chatham County Line’s “Chip of a Star” that has me thinking of a life in Temperance.  Of how we are made from stardust and yet fashioned over time – how we draw our presentation and shape our journey through the experience of life.  It puts a huge smile on my face and leaves me feeling serene and indeed balanced by the end!

Four of Swords (reversed)

Cage the Elephant – Ain’t No Rest for the Wicked

No Rest for the Wicked by Cage the Elephant perfectly captures that feeling of constant motion and never being able to catch a break, which goes with the vibe of the reversed Four of Swords.

You know that feeling when you just can’t seem to catch a break? The song captures that relentless, gotta keep moving vibe so well. It’s like they’re saying, ‘Hey, no time for stopping and relaxing, gotta stay on the grind, gotta keep going.’

The upbeat tempo and intense vocals really drive home the sense of restlessness and agitation that the reversed Four of Swords carries.

10 of Pentacles

Ten Jesus Pieces – Rick Ross, Stalley

I mean – I don’t think you could get a more appropriate track for a card – if we’re talking about wealth and family – having Rick Ross flex his success and rap about how his wealth not only delivers the highs but the lows – it also gives him the means to provide for his family and crew.

King of Pentacles

Money – Pink Floyd

Money by Pink Floyd really fits with the King of Pentacles card because it talks about how money impacts our lives, much like this card symbolizes financial success and stability. The song’s intense and robust sounds, like the cash register noises and strong bass, reflect the King of Pentacles’ powerful and secure vibe. While the King of Pentacles represents the positive side of having money, Money also highlights some of the tricky parts of wealth, making it a great match for the card’s complex relationship with material success.

Money also is a reminder of the broader impact of wealth. It highlights how money can shape our attitudes and behavior, often bringing out both the best and worst in people. The song’s reflective look at greed and its effects complements the King of Pentacles’ role as someone who must balance the benefits of material success with the responsibilities that come with that.

Eight of Swords

House Carpenter – Nickel Creek

It’s always a scary card to pick – I mean the Tower’s not great but you can interpret it in many ways – the 8 of swords however is taking you for a ride and it isn’t going to be pleasant:  Bad news, violent chagrin, crisis, censure, power in trammels, conflict, calumny; also, sickness.

Yep – bad shit’s coming and you’d better hope it moves through quickly – because yes – while it is indicative of poor fortune, the nature of it is temporary – this too will pass if you let it.

I was originally thinking of bouncing off the previous two tracks and looking for how money can lead to ruin but the deeper I listened I knew it had to be The House Carpenter.  A rather disturbing tale of what happens when youth and desire and love and status all get mixed up with suspicion, jealousy and fear.  And while the card here suggests a temporary inconvenience, our lovers in the track don’t fare as well!

Page of Pentacles

Emmylou – First Aid Kit

Emmylou by First Aid Kit is a great fit for the Page of Pentacles, capturing the energy of a new start and dedication to a passion. This song is all about the happiness that comes with creating music with someone you deeply connect with, reflecting the Page of Pentacles’ spirit of diving into new experiences with optimism and commitment.

It’s a celebration of how shared passions and work can lead to something unique and special. Just as the Page of Pentacles is about embarking on new adventures, Emmylou is all about  the satisfaction found in nurturing connections with others and working towards something meaningful, much like what we do here at musicto. Collaborating on playlists with a common goal to build a thematic connection with others, sometimes it can come with its challenges at times like selecting the songs that we feel fit best, but it always ends up working itself out by the end.

Three of Swords

Leavin’ – Shelby Lynne

I’m not quite sure what’s going on with my energy but I seem to be pulling the darkest cards ;-p  Classically the three of swords is going to speak to heartbreak and mental anguish and yep – I can certainly relate!  I have a few playlists that speak to this card – one is called “Love Is Ridiculous & It Hurts” – where you’ll find this fabulous Shelby Lynne track.

There’s nothing quite like the pain of a relationship that’s come to an end – doesn’t matter whether you’re the one leaving or being left – there’s plenty of hurt and pain to go around.

But of course the natural born optimist in me does like to acknowledge the temporary nature of the card and the track – while the pierced heart makes for an almost literal image – the storm clouds behind do nod the temporary nature of the experience – as Shelby sings:

“You’ll be O.K. in time baby
But it won’t be today“

The Hierophant

Hallelujah – Jeff Buckley

One of my favorite covers ever! Also matching some of that moody energy from the last song. Jeff Buckley’s Hallelujah is a haunting reflection of the Hierophant, capturing themes of faith, love, and the tension between doubt and devotion. The song’s blend of  imagery with raw, personal emotion mirrors the Hierophant’s role in guiding us through life’s spiritual and moral complexities, making it a compelling exploration of belief and meaning.

Like the Hierophant, Hallelujah connects the sacred with the everyday, blending spiritual and worldly elements to invite personal interpretation. It embraces the complexities of faith and love, serving as a modern hymn for those seeking understanding, peace, or a lift among life’s challenges.

The Emperor

Outfit – Drive-By Truckers

Coming out of the beauty of Jeff Buckley’s Hallelujah and the insight of the Hierophant – I was kinda thrown by the draw of The Emperor – such a powerful card and so many interpretations – but the one that resonated with me was that of the Father figure.  There’s a lot to be said about masculinity – toxic and otherwise – but I gotta tell you – I’m a fan – there are things a man can teach his son that a woman can’t – and vice versa.  And while generations change and what becomes acceptable to teach evolves – there are still some good old values that well – only your dad can speak to.  I love the love in this song and that to me is the power of The Emperor – the man ascended to high status – to be King, Husband, Father and Protector – to know that the highest manifestation of such privilege – is love.

Seven of Wands (reversed)

The Prophecy – Taylor Swift

The Prophecy by Taylor Swift connects to the 7 of Wands reversed because it’s all about the exhaustion of fighting for something that was never in your control. The song has this drained, defeated energy, like you gave it everything, only to realize it was never gonna work. The line “It was written in the prophecy, I was never gonna hold on to you” hits hard because it’s that moment of surrender when you stop fighting and accept that some things just aren’t meant to be. The 7 of Wands reversed is the same feeling, burnout, self-doubt, and questioning if the fight was ever worth it in the first place.

Queen of Swords (reversed)

The Queen And The Soldier – Suzanne Vega

If the Seven of Wands reversed is about not having control, not having agency and still trying for it, the Queen of Swords reversed can end up with a similar feeling but this time the Querent has control. This time it’s not about outside forces, external forces, this is internal. Typically the card represents being critical, not communicating terribly well, being cold, emotionally manipulating, clouded judgment.

And I’m looking at all of this and I’m thinking there’s just one song that I’ve loved forever. I don’t even really know why I love it but I do, I know how to sing and play it on the guitar, and it’s Suzanne Vega’s amazing “The Queen and the Soldier.” And I think I’m drawn to it because it’s just so damn brilliantly depressing.

While the Queen has everything, she is literally destroying lives and yet, is given a sliver of hope. This sliver of “it doesn’t have to be this way” and yet she slams it down. The pain and resentment that she feels, how she’s not revealing herself to the soldier and just wrapping herself up in steel and never to be able to experience love and a full life. It’s just so beautifully written and so beautifully dark and yet it feels so incredibly human. And I wish it wasn’t, but it is.

If you find yourself drawing this card and you’re relating to the Queen here, maybe, just maybe, try something different.

The Devil (reversed)

The Devil – BANKS

Look at us go with this streak of reverse pulls! I love BANKS, and so naturally this came to mind as the perfect fit. The Devil by BANKS is an official boss song for The Devil” (reversed). This song has a lot of “I broke free, and now I’m untouchable” vibes. It’s not enough to just get away from harmful people, you have to own who you are, change the story, and take power without apologizing.

The Devil who is turned around is no longer scared. You realize now that you were never really stuck, you were just sure you were. Now it’s a whole different scenario. You walk away with your eyes on fire and your head held high.

Queen of Pentacles

You’ve Got a Friend – Carole King

The Queen of Pentacles is an awesome card – the epitome of nurturing care and security – got financial problems?  The Queen’s got you.  Getting too high and losing track of things? The Queen’s gonna bring you down to earth and help ground you.  Need support and succour at difficult times?  The Queen’s her own entity – she doesn’t need to rely on anybody else so she’s always available to help.  When I was looking at the body of “strong woman” tracks none of them felt like a good fit – they all felt a little brash and out there and, almost too defiant and needy in their triumph, whereas, The Queen – The Queen knows she’s got it – she don’t to shout or make a scene – she’s calmly and quietly in the background taking care of things – always steady, always there, in The Queen – you’ve got a friend.

Four of Pentacles

Take the Money and Run – Steve Miller Band

The Four of Pentacles is screaming to hold on, whether it’s to money, control, or some sense of security, but you have to ask yourself, at what cost? Sometimes the more you hold on, the more trapped you become. 

Take the Money and Run is the perfect song to capture this. It’s about that instinct to grip onto your resources, but there are consequences to that. The song’s characters, Billy Joe and Bobbie Sue, not only save, but they hoard, taking as much as they can, and make their getaway before they can get caught, but they’re always on the run, the money’s secure, but are they ever really free?

Seven of Wands (reversed)

Let It Go – Peter Broderick

I love how this card follows the Four of Pentacles – where Ariana’s card is all about holding on – often to the detriment of yourself – the seven of wands is the natural progression – exhaustion – burn out and eventually knowing that you have to let go.

Peter Broderick’s beautiful track reminds me that oftentimes there are things out of our control that – while we’d like to be able to influence and have power over – we really don’t.  Sometimes it is just better – and healthier – to let it go ;-p

Seven of Swords

I Know – Fiona Apple

 I find this pick very fitting with the previous draws: the Four of Pentacles all about holding on, and the reversed Seven of Wands, which was all about the exhaustion that follows from trying to hold on, when it’s really time to let go. The Seven of Swords is what happens when you realize that direct confrontation isn’t always the answer. Sometimes, the wisest move is subtle, maybe even strategically silent.

With Fiona Apple’s “I Know”, she’s addressing that she sees and notices everything: betrayal, avoidance, but she isn’t lashing out. She’s waiting and watching. Fiona is choosing when and how to respond, if at all. 

When it’s time to walk away, anyone who relates to this draw will walk away with their dignity.

Six of Swords (reversed)

This Too Shall Pass – Jamestown Revival

While the 6 of swords is the perfect card for those wishing to leave – in reverse – it marks the hesitancy that we experience in real life.   Change is hard – the amount of energy you need to overcome the inertia of ritual can feel impossible.  The habits of a relationship, of a lifetime, take more than a fleeting desire to be broken – and even when you start to take steps – your lizard brain will do its best to drag you back to normalcy and the status quo.

Add to this – when you do break through – it’s unlikely to be smooth sailing.  There’s new experiences to have, new mistakes to make and learn from – strangers to meet and places to get lost in.  

So while yeah, life is likely gonna feel a little “upside down” for a bit – you’re going to make it through and it’s gonna be so much better than staying where you were!