Arguably, the most important part of the atmosphere of Homecoming is the music. 

Every year a healthy mix of 2010’s and late 2000’s pop and new radio hits get played at volumes that are (probably) too loud. 

Nevertheless, Homecoming typically has a pretty good soundtrack, and the staff of The McHenry Messenger has put together a playlist of songs we would like to hear at the annual dance. 

Plenty of genres and time periods get their due representation on this playlist, assuring that Homecoming’s score will never get stale. 

Some pop throwbacks like “Oops!…I Did It Again” by Britney Spears, club songs like “The Way I Are” by Timbaland, eighth grade dance staples like “YMCA,” hip-hop like “Poetic Justice” by Kendrick Lamar, and various rock tracks from numerous time periods like “Buddy Holly” by Weezer and “Paranoid” by Black Sabbath. 

“I submitted TiKToK by Kesha because it is upbeat and nostalgic, and the lyrics are about a fast-paced celebrity lifestyle so it kind of fits the theme,” said Artistic Director, Leylah Moreno. 

As well, the theme this year, “Lights, Camera, Action!” is not lost on this playlist, with fitting songs like “Paparazzi” by Lady Gaga, and “Suit and Tie” by Justin Timberlake representing it. Other highlights include Kid Cudi hit “Pursuit Of Happiness,” “Yeah!” By Usher, “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers, “Starships” by Nicki Minaj, “Blame It” by Jamie Foxx, “Fight For Your Right” by Beastie Boys, “Party In The USA” by Miley Cyrus, “Virtual Insanity” by Jamiroquai and the fitting “Homecoming” by Kanye West. 

“I chose “On the Floor By J Lo and Pitbull,” said Marketing Director, Paulina Borowski. “It is a very hype song and I never really hear it at bigger parties or events anymore and I want to bring it back.”

We hope that whether you are getting ready in the mirror and singing into your hairbrush or taking a limo to the Homecoming dance, each of these tracks will get you in the mood to party and celebrate the beginning of a new school year.