Today, the Local Spins series exploring the recordings that have impacted musicians and other music lovers spotlights the Michigan governor’s picks — and Great Lakes State artists play a starring role.
The Guv’s Picks: Whitmer has a soft spot for a wide array of artists and songs.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Of course, all musicians can trace their inspiration to key recordings that influenced their careers. But Local Spins loves seeing — and hearing — what albums have influenced celebrities and government leaders, too. So writer Ross Boissoneau today showcases music that changed the world for Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Scroll down for a Spotify playlist of her picks.
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Music paves the way for people in all walks of life. That includes politics, where those running for office frequently use anthemic songs for their rallies (often without permission, but that’s another story).
Like the rest of us, politicians also listen to music in their private lives, for inspiration, relaxation or other reasons.
In a recent interview with Gander Newsroom, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, 52, mentioned several Michigan-based artists she was listening to, citing Bob Seger, Madonna, Stevie Wonder and other Motown artists as among her favorites.
She graciously provided the following when asked by Local Spins to reveal the top recordings that she was inspired by, along with one that she was currently listening to.
1. Eminem, “Lose Yourself” (2002) – Whitmer had previously listed the Detroit rapper among her favorites, so this was no surprise. “I listened to ‘Lose Yourself’ by Eminem while training for a marathon. It is a great song for when you’re going through a tough time and need a little extra motivation.” (FYI: Eminem once again proved his devotion to Detroit and Michigan fans on Sunday, attending the Detroit Lions playoff game at Ford Field where he was cheered enthusiatically by fans.)
Listen: “Lose Yourself”
2. Happy Baby, “Beatles for Babies” (1996) – Not the original recordings, but versions pertinent to special family time with little ones. ” ‘Beatles for Babies’ are instrumental classics that I listened to while pregnant with both of my girls, and kept listening to while they were little. It inspires feelings of joy and calm, which is much needed with small children, and reminds me of the joy that’s special to having little ones.”
Listen: “Michelle”
3. Tina Turner, “Proud Mary” (1970) and Pink, “So What” (2008) – Strong women provide inspiration when need. “‘Proud Mary’ by Tina Turner and ‘So What’ by Pink are what I turn to when I need strength and laughter.”
Listen: “Proud Mary” and “So What”
Currently Loving: The White Stripes – More Michigan music keeps things in a Great Lakes State mood. “Right now, I’m listening to The White Stripes. I just love them.” (Of course, the omnipresent “Seven Nation Army” was played loudly and cheered robustly at Sunday night’s Detroit Lions playoff victory over the Los Angeles Rams at Detroit’s Ford Field. The track has racked up more than 1.5 billion plays on Spotify.)
Listen: “Seven Nation Army”
MUSIC THAT CHANGED THE WORLD: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Playlist on Spotify
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