As high school students, music stands as a therapeutic, emotional release that speaks for us when our own voices are too weak. Many appreciated artists are “one-hit wonders” and only a few songs receive attention while other songs linger in the shadows. These often under-appreciated songs deserve more praise than they are currently getting.

For instance, take a look at A Great Big World and their single Say Something that took seventeenth on “The Hot 100 Chart” for April. It may appear, at first glance, that this is their only truly memorable song, but if you like their distinctive style, listen to Already Home or You’ll Be Okay. They have a smooth sound with positive lyrics and soft vocals. I always listen to A Great Big World when I really want to connect to the words in the song. It’s great music to fall asleep to or even just to clear a busy mind.

Ed Sheeran is another artist that just about everybody knows. His hippy-like, soulful tone and lyrics will stay in your head longer than “Do You Want To Build a Snowman?” from Disney’s beloved Frozen. Really, his only songs that received serious recognition on the radio were The A Team and Kiss Me.  I See Fire is just now being discovered after being featured in 2013’s The Hobbit. If you’ve enjoyed his artistry in those songs, you’ll love Little Bird, Give Me Love, Wonderwall, and Where We Land. If you’re interested, check out more of his albums: Plus, Songs I Wrote With Amy, and Loose Change.

All of Me took second place on “The Hot 100 Chart” for this month.  John Legend is a musical genius and always has been. He sings with a pure voice and much intent – all of his words have a deep meaning. If you’re a fan, listen to Ordinary People, Green Light, or This Time. They have a similar sound to All of Me, but are each beautiful in their own ways.

Enough about male singers, though; Ellie Goulding is climbing to the top-charts with Burn, taking twentieth place. If you watched Divergent and you think you heard a hint of her voice, you’re right. With the movie out now, her songs in it will be heard much more often. She sings Beating Heart, Hanging On, Dead in the Water, and My Blood. Her sound is extremely unique and vibrant – essentially unforgettable.

Each artist that is shooting for the stars usually has other songs that also showcase their artistry, creativity, and passion. Recognize them.

“The Hot 100.” Billboard. N.p., n.d. Web. 08 Apr. 2014.

“Divergent (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) [Deluxe Version].” ITunes. N.p., n.d. Web. 08 Apr. 2014.