alyssa’s definitive list of live john mayer music & when to listen to it
Yeah, I know. this seems detailed and unnecessary. But, i still wanted to make it because I think the world really needs to be aware of the magnificence of this music and the awesome effect it can have on your day. Here goes.
1. “In Your Atmosphere-Live at the Nokia Theater” - Where The Light Is
Listen to this one in the early fall: right when it’s finally nice enough to ride around with the windows down. Also, only when it’s sunny out, and not at night. This one’s a personal favorite.
2. “Wildfire-Live from Red Rocks”- Wildfire
Only the actual greatest song ever. I know the idea he had for the song was kinda summery, but I definitely get a fall vibe. Same weather conditions as number one: sunny, early fall, windows down: but this song is a definite pick-me-up. It’s just so dang cheery and catchy. You’ll be clapping and driving (no, I’m serious) while you’re listening to this one. You can also ignore all of that and just listen to it 24/7 because it’s perfect.
3. “Comfortable-Live at C.W. Mitchell Pavillion” - As/Is
This song is perfect for middle-to-late fall and winter, at night, with the windows down (noticing a theme?). But, probably forego this one if you’re really emotional or going through a breakup, because it will 100% definitely make you cry. Unless that’s what you’re going for, then be my guest. It’s great thinking music.
4. “Split Screen Sadness-Live at the Shoreline Amphitheater” - As/Is
Another good one for any night in any season. Only listen to this one if you’re feeling really introspective, because this song gets real. John himself said “It’s a little too true sometimes to sing all the time,” so use this one in moderation (seriously, I learned the hard way).
5. "Daughters-Live at the Nokia Theater" - Where the Light Is
Great song in general, and it’s near and dear to my heart, because it’s the first John Mayer song I ever heard. I was in middle school, back when I listened to B95.1 morning, noon, and night. Anyways, I digress. I’ve found that this one is a great one for a summer night on the road. But kinda good for all the time too.
6. “Slow Dancing in A Burning Room-Acoustic” - John Mayer the Village Sessions
Okay, so this one isn’t live, but it’s such a great song to play when you’re feelin’ not so peppy, but not really sad: just kind of mellow & chill. This usually happens at night, and it’s good song to play with open windows to calm yourself down.
7. “I’m Gonna Find Another You-Live at the Nokia Theater” - Where the Light Is
This one’s a good song, but not one you actively pick. It just kind of sneaks its way into your speakers when your playlist is on shuffle, and then you find yourself vibin’ to the chillness and it’s stuck in your head for two weeks straight. It’s catchy, and it reminds you that you’re gonna be alright. Pretty chill song for nighttime drivin’.
8. “I Don’t Trust Myself-Live at the Nokia Theater” - Where the Light Is
One of the funkiest songs ever, and it only gets funkier every time he performs it live. It’s the most chill song in the universe. Seriously, it’s so great. Fall & winter nights driving with the windows down just enhance the vibe of this song. Drive & vibe, guys. Drive & vibe.
9. “Why Georgia-Live at the Nokia Theater” - Where the Light Is
If you’re ever driving on 85, or in Atlanta in general, or even are 4 exits from your apartment, this song is definitely the right choice for obvious reasons.
10. “Neon-Live at C.W. Mitchell Pavillion” - As/Is
Similarly, a good night song if you’re on Peachtree St. (any of the 15 of them in ATL) or even just know where one of them is. It’s just a good song. Listen to it.
11. “Gravity-Live at the Nokia Theater” - Where the Light Is
Can & should be played anytime and all the time. John plays it at every show and enjoys the heck out of it, and you should too. Play it daily. rain or shine, snow or hell-level heat, because you can always do with a reminder to stay where the light is.