Astronauts aboard Artemis II wake up every day on their mission with songs picked out by NASA. Throughout the mission, they heard songs like “Pink Pony Club” by Chappel Roan and “Under Pressure” by Queen and David Bowie. One needs a positive start to their morning, and these songs are just the right thing to get them into the groove of the day. These are the songs that we would choose to wake up the Astronauts on Artemis II.
“I Feel the Earth Move” – Carole King
Compelling piano is followed by echoing guitar. Carole King’s first song on the album, “I Feel the Earth Move” produced in 1971, pays homage to feminism and independence through this creative and intimate song. Without any exaggerated sound effects, her natural voice stands out with uplifting lyrics, “Oh, Darling, when you’re near me.” This song would bring astronauts on the Artemis II to a warm spring morning in their childhood bedroom.
“Lovely Day” – Bill Withers
“Lovely Day” begins with funky keyboard and eclectic percussion, a well-known morning classic. Bill Wither’s song sheds light on how the touch and presence of a loved one can make your day. For an astronaut miles away from home, this song will surely bring a smile to their face and a warm groove to the air. Wither’s creative production choice to layer his voice on top of the prolonged lyrics “lovely day” make the song feel as though it will never end, drawing parallel to the delightful tone of the song.
“Soul Kitchen” – The Doors
“Well, the clock says it’s time to close now,” are the first lyrics to the song, creating an ominous aura around the storyline of the song. Fortunately it is not time to close the kitchen, it’s time to wake up the astronauts on Artemis II with a classic blues-rock song. Morrison writes about finding a safe space in the “Soul Kitchen” and the most memorable part of the song is the build up of the chorus. Mellow guitar sharply contrasts the fast drums with chaotic lyrics and singing.
“Mercy Mercy Me” – Marvin Gaye
Light bongo and orchestral chimes introduce the song “Mercy Mercy Me” by Marvin Gaye. Produced in the 1970’s, the song transports you to the environmental movements of the time, symbolically paralleling the great achievements coming from Artemis II. The song amplifies a sense of shared community wanting to take care of the Earth around them, through touching lyrics like “How much more abuse from man can she stand?”
“Praise You” – Fatboy Slim
Optimistic piano meets a funky soul-inspired piano bridge in the song “Praise You” by Fatboy Slim. The hipster-esque vibe of the song leans into the syncopated genre of eclectic ‘90s pop. A definite throwback for many of the astronauts, it will bring them back to a sense of nostalgia. A funky five minute groove, with nonsensical lyrics, to give their brains a mental break from conducting scientific research.
“If You Don’t Want My Love” – Jalen Ngonda
A soulful inspired song with heavy bass guitar and drums transports one to a sunny day in the city. Jalen Ngonda’s voice is smooth like honey, switching seamlessly between warming lyrics and insane high notes. The build up to the chorus through string and tambourine give the song its ‘70s style feeling. Ngonda’s upbeat classic makes it a recognizable funk, even from outer space.
“Live For You” – Thee Sacred Souls
Prominent lead vocals by Josh Lane are accompanied by bass guitar and melodic guitar riffs. “Learn to love yourself the way you love the idea of love” brings a humble and loving start to the morning. This song is grounding and serene as Lane’s vocals layer on top of the rich melody. When considering a landing in San Diego, Artemis II should be greeted with a warm welcome from this local band.
“Everywhere” – Fleetwood Mac
With a distinct introduction to the song using electric and acoustic guitars that are sped up to give off the sound of a synth produced riff, “Everywhere” by Fleetwood Mac is just the song to wake up to. The song is radiant and dreamy with lyrics like “I want to be you with everywhere” followed by hypnotizing vocals from Christine Mcvie. For a day up in space, this song will definitely take one to the moon and back.
