Phoenix writes:
Since I was a kid, I have always been fascinated with the UK. I know one day I will get to visit, and I might not ever come back lol. The songs I chose make me think of the beauty of Scotland. The highlands with the grassy moors, Edinburgh with castles and the military tattoo and the Fringe festival, looks awesome. Loch Ness with Nessie and of course the house that Jimmy Page once owned that is in disrepair. A beautiful place that has most definitely produced some wonderful music!!
Ariana writes:
This playlist captures my deep connection to Scotland, blending personal memories and musical influences. From The Lumineers – Scotland to Runrig’s Loch Lomond, each song reflects the essence of the country and moments that have stayed with me, like my visit to Scotland 15 years ago, specifically visiting Palace of Holyroodhouse, or missing my friend Rachel, who now resides in Glasgow. (Shout Out!) For me, the songs selected were inspired by my travels and musical connections. Oh, and did I mention I love Outlander? This collection is a heartfelt tribute to the beauty and culture of Scotland.
Andrew writes:
It’s funny when you’re an expatriate. There’s a saying on another playlist I made with an expat: “There’s nae sae Scots as Scots abroad,” which basically means that no one is more Scottish than the Scots living outside of Scotland. I guess that’s true. One of our most popular songs, Caledonia by Dougie McLean, is beloved by Scots and tells the story of how we travel the world, settle everywhere, but always long for our homeland.
Even in this second half of my life, after 25 years in Los Angeles, I’ve bought a property in Scotland and will be spending more time back there. For many expatriates, home is often more of an idea—an ideal that doesn’t always match reality. But over the last few years, as I’ve spent more time there, I’ve found that Scotland is that ideal. The countryside, the mountains, the rivers—it’s all just bloody stunning. Sure, the cities and high streets face the same challenges as everywhere else, with changing technology and shopping habits, but on the whole, the people are welcoming and the landscape is breathtaking.
With such a beautiful countryside and a relatively small population compared to England, there’s something undeniably special about it. I’m sure everyone feels that way about their homeland, but for me, these songs immediately evoke the essence of Scotland. They put a huge grin on my face every time I play them.
I’ll be going back there soon, and I can’t wait.
Track Listing
- Where to Start – Hugh Kelly
- Walking Away from Love – Steve Mason
- Scotland – The Lumineers
- Outlander – The Skye Boat Song (Extended) [feat. Raya Yarbrough] – Bear McCreary
- Skyfall – Adele
- It’s Thunder and It’s Lightning – We Were Promised Jetpacks
- Red Travellin’ Socks – Malcolm Middleton
- Ballad of Fuck All – Malcolm Middleton
- Flowers & Football Tops – Glasvegas
- Floating in the Forth – Frightened Rabbit
- The Dark Of The Matinée – Franz Ferdinand
- In Demand – Texas
- Only Happy When It Rains – Garbage
- Movin’ on Up – Primal Scream
- I’m on My Way – The Proclaimers
- Who Wants To Live Forever – Remastered 2011 – Queen
- Heart of Lothian – 2017 Remaster – Marillion
- Don’t You (Forget About Me) – Simple Minds
- In A Big Country – Big Country
- Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) – Remastered – Eurythmics
- Rip It Up – Orange Juice
- Loch Lomond – Runrig
- I Only Wanna Be with You – Bay City Rollers
- The Faith Healer – Remastered 2002 – The Sensational Alex Harvey Band
Playlist image by Andrew
About the Curators
Ariana Pizzuto
Ariana | Playlist Curator | Storyteller | Music Explorer
I love a good theme. I put my heart, soul, and emotions into every playlist, building stories through music. To me, a playlist isn’t just a collection of songs, it’s a feeling, a world, an experience. I want listeners to not only hear the music; but feel it, whether it’s the deepest of emotions or the story I’m trying to tell.
My taste? Eclectic as can be. No genre is off limits, and my process varies with each playlist. Some come together naturally, others are inspired by visuals, a topic I am really into, or a single moment in time. Nostalgia plays a huge role in my selections, along with deep storytelling and meaning.
If you’re looking for playlists that go beyond the algorithm, that take you somewhere, this is the place. Hit play and go on a musical adventure.
Phoenix
Hi, I’m Phoenix and I love to share my passion for music with others. I have been creating playlists since I was a kid, when I used to make mix tapes for my friends and family. Now, I use my skills and experience to craft playlists for various occasions, moods, and themes. Whether you need some upbeat tunes to get you through the day, some relaxing melodies to unwind at night, or some eclectic sounds to spice up your life, I have a playlist for you. I also enjoy discovering new music. I listen to all kinds of music, from pop to rock, from jazz to hip hop, from classical to electronic. I believe that music is a universal language that can connect people across cultures and backgrounds. That’s why I always try to include songs from different countries and regions in my playlists. My goal is to create playlists that are diverse, engaging, and enjoyable for everyone. I hope you enjoy my playlists as much as I enjoy making them. Thank you for your support!
