Turn up the Beat: Our Angry Playlist

January's blog looks at a playlist of music as recommended by survivors on what to listen to when you're angry.

What do you do when you’re angry? Shout? Sing? Breathe deeply?

A group of survivors at ERCC found one of their tried and tested methods to coping with (and often embracing) their rage is listening to music.

From Cyndi Lauper to Green Day, they selected songs they listen to when they’re feeling angry and put together a playlist. Some songs are calming, some uplifting, some are loud… altogether, it’s a resource we’d like to share with anyone – angry or otherwise - who wants to hear it!

Below is the track list alongside some of the group members' thoughts. You can access our Angry Playlist on ERCC's Spotify account and listen for free. Enjoy!

Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre's Angry Playlist

Africa – Toto

This is one of my all-time favourite songs. I have really fond memories associated with it. My friend and I used to blast out this song whenever we were at home working together during university as our power song!

I’m Gonna Be Strong – Cyndi Lauper

This is a brilliant song to belt out. The lyrics are great, all about being strong in defiance of pain.

Reach Out I’ll Be There – The Four Tops

I heard this song on the radio not long after starting group therapy at ERCC and it made me think of everyone in the group and how we were all there to support each other.

Rise Up – Andra Day

This is my go to song whenever things get a bit tough and it reminds me that I can pick myself back up and continue to move forward.

Seven Nation Army – The White Stipes

When i am feeling angry and need a release I turn this up full blast and dance around my living room, it always make me feel better.

One Day I’ll Fly – Randy Crawford

I find this song very uplifting, particularly the opening lyric, "I make it alone". It reminds me that in spite of some challenging experiences, what happens now is up to me.

Little Bird – Annie Lennox

This is quite an upbeat number about differing opinions and finding your feet.

All I Really Want - Alanis Morisette

I thought this was worth adding to the playlist as some of the lyrics summed up my hopes for the support group. "All I really want is some comfort, a way to get my hands untied".

The Nights – Avicii

This song reminds me that life is worth living.

Something Just Like This – The Chainsmokers & Coldplay

This song, because it makes me feel loved and reminds me of dancing with my husband at our wedding.

The Moldau - Smetana

This always has a very calming effect on me.

Comeback – Ella Eyre

This song is about feeling like someone has gotten the better of you, but then eventually realising you’re the one who is better off in the end!

Let Yourself Go – Green Day

When I’m upset or angry this track makes me want to jump around and sing. To me, it’s a feel good anthem.

Bust Ya Windows – Jazmine Sullivan

A happy angry song about getting revenge on someone who wronged you.

Given Up – Linkin Park

This is a song that I blast loud when I feel angry. The anger and screaming in the song as well as the lyrics help me to feel less alone.

Simple Plan – I Refuse

This band have helped me through so much and I truly believe I wouldn’t be here without them. This song makes me feel a bit of power and I tell myself that I refuse to let them win!

Sorry Not Sorry – Demi Lovato

I love the message behind this song and it’s completely unapologetic. It’s also a super catchy song that I can’t help but belt out whenever it comes on the radio!