Balm. Yes, your lips usually need it, and we’re not knocking the importance of maintaining a proper skin moisture balance. But it’s more important to stop from time to time and apply some Burt’s Bees to your soul. This week, think of us as dermatologists… for your heart.

We find ourselves in the midst of – shall we say – bad times, and with bad times come bad feelings. That’s why we’re taking the time to talk about songs that go back to the heart of why humans listen to music: to make us feel not bad. Our categories are:

(1) Songs that cheer us up

(2) Songs that help us face the day
(3) Songs that make us feel fuzzy
(4) Songs that make us laugh

Links:

• Stevie Wonder "We Can Work It Out" performance at the Paul McCartney birthday tribute
• Kanye West saying "Bizarre Ride" is his favorite album
• The Swell Season's cover of "Two-Headed Boy"