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Playlist: Aqualung

Matt Hales (aka Aqualung) gave us his top ten list of songs that make touring bearable, as he works his way around the country in support of his new album, Memory Man.

1. Simon & Garfunkel - "Only Living Boy in New York" [clip]
Possibly the most wistful song ever recorded. Perfect for when you fear you are the only living boy in New York. Or Newcastle.

2. The Beach Boys - "Don't Talk (Put Your Head on My Shoulder)" [clip]
When I listen to this I can feel her head on my shoulder. Almost too beautiful to bear.

3. The Meters - "Cissy Strut" [clip]
You can't be sad and listen to the Meters.

4. Beck - "Nobody's Fault But My Own" [clip]
Terribly sad and regrettful. For when you've had too much backstage scotch and barged onto the headliner's bus making them play Earth, Wind & Fire on the stereo whilst asking if they know where you can find "sam kant".

5. Radiohead - "2+2=5" [clip]
Makes me remember why being a musician and on tour is the best thing ever, and you can always try harder to be better.

6. Wilco - "Hummingbird" [clip]
See above but even more so.

7. ABBA - "My Love My Life" [clip]
Not sleepy? You will be. This is like drowning in music—what a way to go...

8. Nickel Creek - "Helena" [clip]
Being a musician is a gift and a joy. Nickel Creek are so full of joy and talent it just overflows and then the drums come in at the end and it's really good.

9. The Beatles - "She Said, She Said" (Revolver)
For when you need to get up to do an in-store 40 miles away to 10 people, and you didn't get to sleep until an hour ago.

10. Duke Special - "Wake Up Scarlett"
Peter has such a kindly voice and lovely soul. Makes me remember past adventures with old friends and reminds me that music is sort of a home, too.

Tune into Aqualung's Led Zeppelin Playlist.

Read our interview with Aqualung.