ski trip songs

Summit Skier

71 Best Skiing Songs Of All Time You Need On Your Playlist

Are you looking for the best skiing songs to add to your playlist?

Listening to the best skiing songs while on the slopes has completely transformed my time on the mountains. I used to ski down in silence, just lost in my thoughts and hearing others rush by. But everything changed when my brother-in-law got me a pair of Bluetooth headphones that fit perfectly into my ski helmet. 

Now, I never hit the slopes without my favorite songs playing in the background. It adds a whole new level of excitement to skiing. If you’re looking to build the ultimate ski playlist this year, I’ve got the best songs for you.

The Best Skiing Songs For Hitting The Slopes

I’ve been skiing for a decade and have carefully curated my playlist to feature only the most upbeat tracks that are perfect for shredding down the slopes. Keep reading as I highlight the best songs to add to your skiing playlist.

• The Nights – Avicii
• It Ain’t Me (with Selena Gomez) – Kygo, Selena Gomez
• C’mon ‘N’ Ride It (The Train) – Quad City DJ’s
• Every Time We Touch (Hardwell & Maurice West Remix) – Cascada
• High And Low – Empire Of The Sun
• Electric Feel – MGMT
• All Night – The Vamps, Matoma
• Bad To The Bone – George Thorogood & The Destroyers
• Runaway (U & I) – Galantis
• Young Blood – The Naked And Famous
• Dancing In My Room – 347aidan
• Blinding Lights – The Weeknd
• Middle – DJ Snake, Bipolar Sunshine
• You Broke Me First – Tate McRae
• Summer – Calvin Harris
• Ride It (Remixes) – Regard
• Numb – Mashmello, Khalid
• More Than You Know – Axwell Ingrosso
• The Thrill – Wiz Khalifa, Empire Of The Sun
• Heat Waves – Glass Animals
• Baby – Bakermat
• Mood (feat. Iann Dior) – 24kGoldn
• Freaks – Timmy Trumpet
• SICKO MODE – Travis Scott
• Where Are You Now – Lost Frequencies, Calum Scott
• Midnight City – M83
• Can’t Stop – Red Hot Chili Peppers
• Goosebumps (Remix) – Travis Scott & HVME
• Alive – Krewella
• Memories (feat. Kid Cudi) – David Guetta
• Weatherman – Eddie Benjamin
• West Coast (feat. Quinn XCII) – DVBBS
• Aftergold – Big Wild
• ​My Head & My Heart – Ava Max
• Lean On – Major Lazer, MO, DJ Snake
• Come & Go – Juice WRLD & Marshmello
• Heaven – Avicii
• Hallucinogenics (Seeb Remix) – Matt Maeson
• Walking On A Dream – Empire Of The Sun
• Looking At You (feat. Sam Vesso) – Two Friends
• Firestone – Kygo, Conrad Sewell
• Stolen Dance – Milky Chance
• The Bender (Party Pupils Remix) – Matoma & Brando
• Colorado – Milky Chance 
• Higher Lover – Kygo & Whitney Houston
• Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma – Luke Combs
• Blue (Flume Remix) – Eiffel 65
• The Spins – Mac Miller, Empire Of The Sun
• ​ Sunday Best – Surfaces
• All Star – Smash Mouth
• The Business – Tiesto
• Mr. Brightside – The Killers
• UCLA – RL Grime & 24hrs
• No Sleep – Wiz Khalifa
• ​ AOK – Tai Verdes
• Circles – Post Malone
• Riptide – Vance Joy
• Sit Next To Me – Foster The People
• This Girl – Kungs & Cookin’ On 3 Burners
• Budapest – George Ezra
• Good To Be Alive (Hallelujah) – Andy Grammer
• Stay – The Kid Laroi, Justin Bieber
• Seven Nation Army – The White Stripes
• Body – Loud Luxury, Brando
• Black Betty – Ram Jam
• On Top Of The World – Imagine Dragons
• That’s All – Genesis 
• Nevermind – Dennis Lloyd
• Clarity (feat. Foxes) – Zedd
• Classic – MKTO
• My Way – Calvin Harris

The Best Way To Listen To Music While Skiing

While some prefer to blast music through speakers, the best way to enjoy tunes on the slopes is with a Bluetooth helmet or Bluetooth speakers that can be integrated into your helmet.

My top choice for a helmet with Bluetooth technology is the POC OBEX MIPS Communication Helmet . This helmet features MIPS technology for added head protection in the event of a collision or fall. Plus, it comes with built-in Bluetooth speakers and a mic, allowing you to listen to your favorite songs and stay connected with your friends while skiing.

👉🏻 Grab your own bluetooth ski helmet here!

If you already have a helmet but want to start listening to music on the slopes, I highly recommend helmet-compatible speakers . These were my first choice when I started skiing with music, and I quickly fell in love with them. They fit right into your helmet’s earmuffs, deliver impressive audio quality, are easy to use, and are simple to remove and charge after a day on the slopes.

👉🏻 Click here to grab your own helmet capable speakers!

FAQs About The Best Skiing Songs

Continue reading down below as I answer a couple frequently asked questions about the best skiing songs. 

What music do skiers listen to?

Skiers listen to upbeat music while on the slopes ranging from rock, hip-hop, rap, country, and more. 

What is apres ski music?

Après-ski music is lively yet not too loud, allowing skiers to enjoy the rhythm without needing to shout at each other while enjoying drinks and food.

Final Thoughts On The Best Skiing Songs Ever

Crafting the perfect skiing playlist can truly elevate your experience on the slopes. Every song transforms your ride into an epic time. So, as you prepare for your next outing, be sure to load up your playlist with the best skiing songs because they’ll bring an extra layer of joy to every run. 

Abby, a co-founder of Summit Skier, is an avid skier with extensive expertise in skiing, snowboarding, and ski resorts. Abby enjoys spending time in the mountains and cherishes the winter season for its exciting sports. Her mission is to inspire others to embrace the outdoors, have fun while skiing and snowboarding, and discover fantastic ski resorts, whether they're well-known or hidden gems, all around the world, with a special focus on those in the United States.

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Music is highly personal, so there’s not a single perfect ski song (aside from KC and the Sunshine Band’s “Give It Up”—I will hear no arguments). But there’s a perfect kind of song for every part of your snow day, whether you’re storm-skiing or partaking in après. So we’ve provided a framework for the ideal ski-season playlist , along with some favorite songs to get you started.  

The Drive Up

The hard part of the drive up is that you don’t want your excitement to peak too early. Do not engage your pump-up jams just yet. Modulate your coffee intake, and ease into the morning with something upbeat but not ear blasting, like Lily and Madeleine’s soothing hand clapper , “Just Do It.” About 15 minutes away from the ski area is when you initiate the jams. Art director Petra Zeiler recommends   “Go to Town,” by Doja Cat , and “Nevermind,” by Dennis Lloyd . “I’m going to keep playing them all season long,” she says. “Apologies in advance to all my future car-pool pals.”

The Boot-Up

Anticipation! Turn up the volume for the put-your-gear-on, probably-have-to-pee-by-now dance. If you are of a certain generation, this is the single time of day that it’s appropriate to listen to Rage Against the Machine’s “Bulls on Parade.” If you are everyone else, consider the unfailing, invincible Mary J. Blige  or the only thing better than Lizzo: Missy Elliott and Lizzo . All of the above “go great with a hangover and a giant cup of coffee,” says assistant editor Abbie Barronian.

The Skin-Up

This is controversial. Some people, myself included, like to suffer to the tune of their own off-key renditions of the Dixie Chicks’ “Cowboy Take Me Away” when uphill skiing. If you prefer some rhythm and a little distraction instead, you need something upbeat—but not too upbeat,—like Bakar’s “ Hell n Back .” 

The Chairlift Jam

Joy! Friendship! Togetherness! An excellent time for sing-alongs. Elton. Wheatus . Sheryl Crow. Biggie. Or perhaps the perfect song handpicked for your time on the chair: “I’ll never forget the day I heard the faint sounds of ‘ Ayako,’ by Gui.tar , while aboard a creeky old two-seater lift,” video producer Jackson Buscher recalls. “As I reached the top and the song grew louder, I knew it was destined to be on my ski playlist—after, of course, embarrassingly calling out to the liftie, ‘Dude, what’s that song?’”

The White Room

When you’re finally in front of untouched powder, insert the song you always pictured playing in the background of your personal ski-movie segment. For me that’s a mid-nineties jam about cocaine addiction, which is probably problematic on a lot of levels, but have you ever made bouncy pow turns to “ Sometimes I Rhyme Slow ,” by Nice and Smooth? Try it. If that’s not what you’re looking for, it might be classical . Or a classic . 

The Shack Break

Can’t go hard all the time. Take a pause and eat your greens to a range of what one of my much cooler ski partners calls “beaty likes,” like Big Wild. Associate editor Kelsey Lindsey recommends the “minimalist sound, chill lyrics, and steady beat” of “No Talk,” by Lowell.

The 3 P.M. Bump-Off

Afternoon group shred? No better time for a bop. This “ Higher Love ” remix does it for me—and, I assume, everyone else with a pulse. 

Tailgate tallboys call for familiar sounds mixed with some under-the-radar current standouts to hint at the fact that you are a socially relevant human who doesn’t just listen to Steve Winwood covers on repeat. Throw in a few bygone ski-movie songs, like this old Blitzen Trapper , and a little bit of brassy, ballsy Caroline Spence .

The John Denver

Even if your copilot is dozing off their parking-lot High Lifes, you still need to stay awake. The optimum vibe for the road back down is chill but not snoozy (which is also a pretty good line for your online-dating profile). First Aid Kit’s “ Emmylou ” fits the bill: “Nothing like Swedish alt-country to take you home on a long, cloudy evening drive,” says editorial fellow Philip Kiefer. Or how about mellow new Pete Yorn ? Take me home, country roads.

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The Ultimate Skiing Music Playlist

Skiing and music are two of my favorite things. Thus, when I ski, I do like to listen to music. However, I do find that it can be distracting on really hard trails when you have to focus. So, I really only listen to music on cruiser runs. That being said, here are some of my favorite songs to play and playlists on Spotify to listen to while I’m skiing. 

Most of these songs are pretty chill but some are more “head banger” songs than others. This article is all about skiing music, skiing music playlists, skiing music downloads, and more.

This article is all about skiing music.

Skiing Music:

Skiing music playlist.

Like I said above, when I ski, I really do like to pay attention, thus, if I listen to music it will probably be later in the day when I’m cruising down the mountain. I like to listen to a variety of music, my taste is really all over the place, so hopefully you will find at least a couple songs you like from this playlist. Also, the song recommendations, is the best skiing music, in my opinion.

• Go Flex – Post Malone
• Empathy- Bassnectar
• Do I See Color – Adventure Club
• Excited – Ant Clemons, Ty Dolla $ign
• Firefly – White Panda
• The Heat (I Wanna Dance with Somebody) – Ralph Felix, SDJM
• The Touch – KOLAJ
• Drifter – Morgin Madison, Dominique
• Go with U- BAYNK
• After Hours – Aly & AJ
• Magic (feat. babyidontlikeyou) – Gryffin
• Slip Away – Clarence Carter
• Sax on the Beach- Party Pupils 
• Parrot Cay – Deep Chills
• Time is Dancing – Ben Howard
• Another Chance (Don Diablo Edit)- Big Pineapple
• Sally- Thundamentals 
• Like I Do – J. Tajor
• Obsessive- Chase Atlantic 
• Nina Cried Power (feat. Mavis Staples) – Hozier
• Everybody Got Their Something- Nikka Costa 
• Moon Rider (feat. Wrabel)- Jai Wolf 
• Spaceships- Area21
• Farrah Fawcett Hair- The Capital Cities
• Blow (with Chris Stapleton & Bruno Mars) – Ed Sheeran
• Prada – CassÖ, RAYE, D-Block Europe
• Without Me – Eminem
• X Gon’ Give It To Ya – DMX
• Friday – The Chainsmokers
• Utah Freestyle – Russ
• Slow Dancing (Hazel English Remix) – Aly & AJ
• Keep it Up- Chase Atlantic
• Electric Feel – MGMT
• Just My Type – Palate Royale
• She Don’t (feat. Ty Dolla $ign) – Ella Mai
• Dangerous Times – Wildlife
• Happiness – 1975
• For the Love (Big Wild Remix)- Griz
• You Should Probably Leave – Chris Stapleton
• Free Ride – The Edgar Winter Group
• Boat to Bermuda- No Suits 
• Party on Fifth Ave – Mac Miller
• Purple Hat – Sofi Tukker
• Sure Thing (Sped Up) – Miguel
• Sweet Disposition – The Temper Trap
• Don’t Get Caught Up – Ziggy Alberts
• She Burns – Foy Vance
• Ribs – Lorde
• The Blue – Brynn Cartelli
• Real Love X Sunchyme (feat. Jess Glynne) – Clean Bandit, Dario G, Jess Glyne
• Transportin’ – Kosack Black
• We’ll Be Heard- Calippo
• Manifest – Russ
• Strawberries – Wax Remix, Caamp, Wax Jackets
• Wavy (feat. Joe Moses) – Ty Dolla $ign, Joe Moses
• Call From the Bank (feat. MGMT) – Nipsey Hussle
• Children of the Hour – Dande and the Lion
• I Took a Pill in Ibiza (Seeb Remix) – Mike Posner
• Highly Possible – feat. Waka Flocka Flame, Big Gigantic
• No Sleep – Gab3, Skepta
• Supermodel – Manskin
• Tie Me Down (with Elley Duhe)- Gryffin
• Loco Por Vos – Silvestre y La Naranja
• Paint the Town Red – Doja Cat
• Invincible – Pop Smoke
• Put You On Game – Russ
• Don’t Need Nothing – Aly & AJ
• Dandelion Eyes – Patrick Martin
• Rock N Roll – Pusha T, Kanye West, Kid Cudi
• Take Me – Aly & AJ
• They Don’t Love It – Jack Harlow
• Glamorous – Fergie, Ludacris
• Face Like Thunder – The Japanese House
• Wicked Race – Russ
• Set My Heart on Fire – Majestic, The Jammin Kid & Céline Dion
• Leave it for Tomorrow- Rudimental (feat. Elli Ingram)

Spotify Playlists : Skiing Vibes, Skiing Playlist 2023, Ski & Snowboard Powder Playlist : 2023

Skiing Music Download

When it comes to music downloads, I like to listen to Spotify when I ski or listen to music in general. However, I’m sure AppleMusic is great as well. I like to go to different songs that I like then press the more option and go to that songs radio. That’s how I pickup a lot of new songs. Or I listen to my discover weekly playlist that Spotify creates about every two weeks for me. There’s also a ton of YouTube skiing playlists that you can find here .

Skiing Music Festival

There are some skiing music festivals which look really fun. Some ones that look fun are Electric Mountain Festival (SÖLDEN, AUSTRIA), Polaris (VERBIER, SWITZERLAND), Snowbombing (MAYRHOFEN, AUSTRIA), Winter Wonder Grass (Squaw Valley, California), Rock the Pistes (CHÂTEL, FRANCE), Palm Tree Festival (ASPEN, CO), Tomorrowland Winter(ALPE D’HUEZ, FRANCE), Winter Wonder Grass (STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO) and more that you can find here . You will also find the dates under each music festival as well. Chamonix Unlimited Festival is a really popular skiing music festival in France.

And that wraps up our different songs to listen to while skiing. I hope you found some cool new tunes to play while skiing or snowboarding and some fun new music festivals to check out. Thank you for reading and take care!

This article was all about skiing music, skiing music playlists, skiing music downloads, and more.

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The Limelight Hotel

5 perfect skiing & snowboarding playlists on spotify.

• By Kelsey Anderson
• "Lighten Up"

We’ve got you covered with five perfectly pre-made playlists for skiing. On those perfect powder days, early first tracks, or spring break ski week, turning up and tuning out on the mountain is pure bliss.

The following playlists for skiing (or snowboarding or snowshoeing) are curated by ski enthusiasts across Spotify. Feel free to shuffle through and find your favorite.

One thing to note – We don’t recommend skiing or boarding with music if you’re a beginner or the slopes are packed. Being able to hear someone coming up behind you is crucial. If you are a pro, we’re fans of the one-ear-in-one-ear-out method; so you can jam, but hear skiers around you.

Happy shredding.

Fire Throwbacks

This old-school playlist is perfect if you want some sultry slow jams. Instant swagger on the mountain.

Skiing All Day

This one is fun and funky with mostly pop-rock hits. It’s a whopping 20 hours so you can listen all week.

Ski Bum Shredding

Ski Bum Shredding is on the chiller side with feel-good tunes from Greta Van Fleet, Kaleo, and Moon Taxi (to name a few). Get in a mood with this skiing playlist.

Sweet Songs for Sunny Days

Perfect for bluebird days, this playlist will chill you out as you carve out the mountain. There are some old goodies on this one (“Falling in Love at a Coffee Shop,” anyone?).

Mountain Sounds

Get in a mountain mood. These songs are also on the chiller side and each sound like they belong on a movie soundtrack.

Whichever mountain you choose to ski or snowboard, keep your headphones by your side for these playlists for skiing. For more musical treats, head to Belly Up , Wheeler Opera House, or the Limelight Lounge .

Headed to Aspen or Sun Valley for a week of skiing or snowboarding ? Book a night (or three) at The Limelight Hotel, located in downtown Aspen and Ketchum.

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1 Comments on "5 Perfect Skiing & Snowboarding Playlists On Spotify"

[…] Drive through, rest your legs and blast your favorite playlists. […]

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About Kelsey Anderson

Kelsey is a Midwest native who currently resides in Colorado. She spends her weekends hiking, biking, and checking out local eateries. Her favorite things to do in Aspen are hiking around Maroon Bells, jamming at Belly Up, and exploring the latest restaurants.

• Kelsey Anderson
• 7 years ago

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Ultimate Skiing Playlist: Ski Music for the Slopes & Après Ski

It's amazing how much of an influence music has on all our experiences – and skiing is no different. Whether you're out on the slopes or relaxing afterwards in the sunshine around Val d'Isere there's a perfect skiing playlist for every occasion.

  Playlist 1 – ski music for the slopes

• Wham: Last Christmas – the video for this classic track was filmed in Saas Fee, Switzerland and it's about as atmospheric as it gets so start your skiing playlist off right with this Wham classic.
• Coldplay: Shiver – a good one for the start of the day when you perhaps haven't warmed up yet.
• David Bowie: Let's Dance – particularly if you need a bit more energy in your technique, this is the perfect ski music track. Controlled but skillful, stick Let's Dance on and you'll instantly feel like a master of movement.
• Led Zeppelin: Over the Hills and Far Away - classic rock for those who love a bit of cross country skiing.
• Tribulations: LCD Soundsystem – ski music with a sick beat for digital enthusiasts on the slopes.
• Midnight City: M83 – it's the theme from Made in Chelsea, yes, but it's also a great track that will make you feel like you're in a filtered world where everything always ends with drinks in jam jars.
• Prince: Kiss – this has to be on your skiing playlist if your day contains a single opportunity to strut.
• Muse: Stockholm Syndrome – the powerful riff is perfect when you're faced with a big old empty piste you can roar down.
• Red Hot Chili Peppers: Snow (Hey Oh) – this really needs no explanation.
• David Gray: Falling Down the Mountainside with You – cap off your skiing playlist with something slow and a little more romantic to wind your day down.

  Playlist 2 – après ski music

• Ella Fitzgerald: Baby It's Cold Outside – particularly around Christmas time this track brings all the atmosphere to the après ski.
• Glee Soundtrack: Don't Stop Believing – if you've got a chalet full of teens or kids then this song gets everyone miming with a hairbrush.
• Lionel Richie: All Night Long – a gentle party track and the perfect après ski music to get everyone shaking off aches and after effects.
• Peter Sarstedt: Where do you go to my Lovely? – if your après ski preference is for something a little more sedate then this is the ideal track, particularly as the lyrics reference living it up in the Swiss resort St Moritz.
• Talking Heads: Once in a Lifetime – this is the track that everyone thinks they know the words to but no one actually does. However, the fun lies in hearing everyone trying to get it right.
• Taylor Swift: Shake it Off – even the cool kids can't resist a bit of a shimmy to this pop track after a couple of après ski beers.
• Beyonce: Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) – it's officially an anthem whether the words apply to you or not. Anthems are what après ski music is made for.
• Ed Sheeran: Shape of You – it's catchy and cool and almost appropriate for all ages.
• Psy: Gangnam Style - officially one of the top 10 most watched YouTube videos of all time because everyone wants to learn the moves. Put this on your après ski playlist to see how many of your group has nailed them.
• Anything by Snow Patrol – the clue is in the name and the tracks seem tailor made for views of snowy pistes and memorable nights.

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The Top 5 Ski Songs of All Time

By, Barclay Idsal

You know that song, the one you’ve always wanted to include while directing the modern day “Blizzard of Aaaahs?” Yeah we’ve got a few of those too. Here are the Unofficial top 5 ski songs of all time.

1) Riders on the Storm: The Doors

This Doors classic that put the finishing touches on Jim Morrison’s final album LA Woman is the most fitting tune for private powder days. Mind altering, calming, and Zen-like “Riders” as Morrison called it, captures the ski-bum like a deer in the headlights. When a couple friends drive up a mountain pass to their home ski area or a lone solo-artist rides a double chair alone, they’re thinking of Riders. The song itself captures the escapism that Skiing in its purest form seeks to emulate. Riders is not just a song that resembles skiing, Riders on the Storm is skiing.

2) Jah Houphouët: Alpha Blondy

Before Henrik Harlaut was throwing nose butter, triple cork 1620’s, Greg Stump was filming Scott Kennet with his world famous dog Zudnik shredding the perfect mix of steep Telluride moguls and perfectly spaced glades that provided some of the best shots in ski history (see 3:49 in the clip below). Cheers to one of the best backbeats in reggae history. Jah is pleased with this pick.

The song has since been featured in other ski movies/edits over the years like Nimbus Independent’s Compass (Jump to 10:02). http://nimbusindependent.com/videos/indie-films/

3) Young Men Dead: The Black Angels

You finally made it to Alaska or AK as your bro’s call it. You find yourself perched on a knife-edge summit, that funnels into a couloir the size or your penis (skinny) and you want to hear music (never mind backcountry etiquette). The helicopter flies in front of your face. What are you going to play? That was an easy one.

4) La Femme de Argent: AIR

The metal heads are going to get all Metallica on me here in a second (get old and suck). This song wins gold as a solo mission beater that takes you into moonscape pow fields that you wish never ended. These Frenchman get weird for seven minutes and it’s as melodic as it is structured like skiing deep pow through aspen groves.

5) Sam and Dave: I’m a Soul Man

This one goes out to the Jackson Hole Tram. If you live in Jackson, you’ve probably heard of the Soul Tram. As a visitor it may make your trip. The Soul Tram rides once each day and the tram operator and soul spiritualist let’s the soul tram ride to a favorite jam. The best song you can get on a soul tram: I’m a Soul Man by Sam and Dave or the Blues Brothers… whatever floats your tram.

What would YOU add to the list?

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7 Pieces Of Songs About Skiing

No scenery on Earth compares to the soft glimmering of snow upon the mountainside, the cleansing coldness of the rushing winds and the bright sun overwatching an untouched, natural landscape.

Skiing is synonymous with freedom and adventure, whether you’re gliding through the peaceful pine trees or speeding your way to victory.

Similar to how any force of nature holds indomitable power over us puny humans, skiing is a sport riddled with the risk of life-changing injury if you make just one bad turn upon the slopes.

Our list of songs about skiing covers it all, collecting the best and the strangest tracks to cover you with the tranquil atmosphere of a sweeping, snow-bleached landscape and the bright energy of fast-paced success.

Songs About Skiing

1. MAWAAN – Never Been Skiing

If there’s only one song you listen to on this list, make it this one. Comedian Mawaan’s 2020 hit, Never Been Skiing, is an addictively colourful, meme-clad anthem centred around the fact, “It ain’t a holiday if you gotta do exercise.”

Never Been Skiing creates a panorama of classic Brit-com pessimism, as Mawaan lists every inevitable downfall of the sport , “I heard you slip and look like a dickhead, I ain’t no dickhead, I heard you have to sleep in a chalet, what’s a chalet? Ain’t that an onion? … My neck, my back, I ain’t falling on my crack, started from the bottom and I’m staying like that.”

Hidden within the track is the satirical exposure of underlying racist tendencies which blanket such a middle-class sport, from the insightful perspective of a Pakistani-born Brit:

“All my rich white friends are like, ‘Didn’t you go as a kid?’, and I’m like, ‘No, skiing is a homogeneous experience with no socio-economic diversity’ … Just be stranded up a mountain, surrounded by white, and I ain’t talking about the snow.”

2. John Denver – Dancing With The Moutains

Although being born in Roswell, New Mexico, with a name like John Denver it’s no wonder the pop musician devoted a song to skiing through the snow-swept peaks.

This 1980 hit, Dancing With The Mountains, carries an energy that gleams as bright as the sun on ice, with a warmingly nostalgic sound which transports you back to the joy of tireless youth.

Decorated with lyrical flavours of disco-fever , Denver’s track is clad with captivating, free-spirited imagery which beautifully conjures the cleansing peace of the mountain air.

He blends this sentiment with the heart-warming communal energy conjured naturally within ski-trips, “We are one when dancing with the mountains, we are one when singing in the wind, we are one when thinking of each other, more than partners, more than pieces, more than friends.”

3. Khaid – SKI

Khaid’s twists the skiing concept a little, emulating the energy of extreme sports with his line, “I be doing the jet ski,” metaphorising his dazzling speed of success as skiing through the industry at lightning speed.

ki draws parallels with the danger of high-speed no matter how exhilarating the rush may be, “Ski, ski, please don’t let me turn it up, don’t let me f*** it up, I know you wanna f*** me up.”

Ski’s beat is enthrallingly serene, woven with delicate piano highlights which glisten like falling snow, matched with a fresh, clear-headed sound .

4. Dean Martin – Canadian Sunset

Dean Martin’s rendition of the classic song, Canadian Sunset, carries an e nchanting vintage atmosphere of crackling fires and snow-dusted vacations.

With a warm jazzy ambience flickering with cosy orchestral elements , Canadian Sunset details a story of finding love upon the ski hill and falling in love to the colours of sunset.

The ski slopes are woven into the scenery time and again, alongside the melting feeling of cute vintage romance , “Once I was alone, so lonely and then you came out of nowhere, like the sun up from the hill. Cold, cold as the wind, warm, warm were your lips, out there on the ski trail, where your kiss filled me with thrill.”

5. Bob Gibson – In This White World

Bob’s Gibson track is lush with tranquil scenery and the spirit of freedom and peace in knowing you’ve found your life’s calling.

His picturesque lyrics are laced with ski tracks cutting through the soothing untouched blanket of powder-white snow, racing the rushing wind and gliding between trees.

A minor tone of sadness glimmers within its ambience, like the overwhelming emotion of finally being content after a lifetime searching for peace, “In this white world, that reaches the sky, I’ve found a future for me… My skis are the things that give me my wings, and make me an eagle and free.”

Gibson undertones this heart-warming with an acoustic guitar played tremolo-style, conjuring the hazy atmosphere of thick, falling snow, swelling with pure emotional power and serenity

Crowning the track is a radiant metaphor which captures the very essence of adoration for the mountains; “The snow is my lover, the sun is her kiss, the wind sings a love song to me.”

6.  Bjørn Aslaksen – Ski Jumper

Bjørn Aslaksen’s enchanting country-style track, Ski Jumper, tells a heart-warming story of a boy learning to ski with his dad by his side, laced with beautifully evocative imagery;

“I remember those winter days when I first started skiing, my skies were huge, my body was small, but you urged me to keep on trying, you drove me one million miles in your old car.”

Bjørn reminisces on his dad’s endless encouragement throughout his life, alongside how disaster binds a family closer together.

Ski Jumper is anchored in a message which echoes the love of all children to their eternally devoted parents; “What a ski jumper you are.”

7. Yung Gravy – Skiing In Japan Freestyle

Yung Gravy’s hip-hop track, Skiing In Japan, doesn’t craft the scenic landscape you’d imagine. Gravy’s voice bears an absolutely compelling tone despite this track being a sleazy metaphor for sleeping around.

He embeds an abundance of addictively outlandish lines to prove his lustful point, “I’m literally f****** the police, she read me my rights, ooh, feeling so right, yeah I’m feeling so ripe, you could just eat me, just Princess Peach me… I’m skiing in Japan, come and get your man, lean back.”

Gravy’s sound is captivatingly catchy with an authentic sense of style, letting his lyrical dark humour shine against a warmly retro soundscape , brought full-blast into the modern age by an irresistible beat .

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Beyond Boarding

Boarding and beyond

2020’s Ultimate Playlist: The Best Snowboarding Songs to Shred to

You’ve got your snowboard strapped on, you’re catching the lift, and you can feel the adrenaline pumping through your veins.

What’s the missing ingredient? The perfect playlist. Look no further, because we’ve curated 2020’s ultimate snowboarding soundtrack for you. Whether you need songs to pump you up, help you relax, or inspire you to push forward, we’ve got you covered. And as a bonus, we’re throwing in some tips and tricks to ensure a fun and safe ride. So grab your headphones and let’s hit the slopes together.

1. Pump-Up Songs to Start Your Ride

Welcome to the exhilarating world of snowboarding! The wind brushing against your face, the thrill of the slopes, and the adrenaline rush with every turn–there’s nothing quite like it. But before you hit the snow, you need to have the perfect playlist of pump-up songs to get in the zone. Here are the top three songs you need to add to your playlist to start your ride with a bang – Panic! At The Disco’s “High Hopes,” Eminem’s “Lose Yourself,” and AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck.” So grab your board, buckle up, and let’s hit the slopes together!

• High Hopes – Panic! At The Disco

When it comes to snowboarding, having the right playlist can make all the difference. And one song that definitely deserves a spot on your, high-energy, pump-up list is Panic! at the Disco’s “High Hopes”.

As the name suggests, “High Hopes” is all about setting your sights high and chasing your dreams – a mindset that’s perfect for a thrilling day on the slopes. The driving beat and catchy lyrics will have you feeling invincible, and the soaring chorus is practically made for racing down the mountain.

But it’s not just about the adrenaline rush – “High Hopes” also has an undeniable air of optimism that’s perfect for staying positive and motivated during the challenges that come with mastering any new skill. So if you’re ready to conquer the mountain and achieve your snowboarding goals, don’t forget to add this upbeat anthem to your playlist.

• Lose Yourself – Eminem

When it comes to snowboarding, there’s nothing like a good pump-up song to get your blood flowing and your adrenaline pumping. And when it comes to pump-up songs, you can’t go wrong with Eminem’s “Lose Yourself.” This classic hip-hop anthem is the perfect track to get you in the zone and ready to tackle even the toughest slopes.

With its driving beat and powerful lyrics, “Lose Yourself” is the kind of song that will give you the confidence you need to conquer any obstacle in your path. Whether you’re a beginner hitting the bunny slopes or an experienced shredder tackling the black diamond runs, this song is sure to keep you motivated and focused on your goals.

So the next time you’re getting ready to hit the slopes, be sure to add “Lose Yourself” to your snowboarding playlist. With its unbeatable combination of raw energy and inspirational lyrics, this song is guaranteed to help you reach your full potential and make the most of your time on the mountain.

• Thunderstruck – AC/DC

Thunderstruck is a song that has the perfect combination of high energy and intensity that anyone needs to start their snowboarding adventure. With the electrifying guitar riffs and powerful drums, you can feel the adrenaline coursing through your veins right from the very first note. The tempo is fast and wild, which makes it the perfect pick for hitting those steep slopes.

As you fly down the mountain at top speeds, this iconic rock track surrounds you with an almost palpable sense of energy. It’s as if the song is fueling your every move, pushing you to go faster and higher with every passing moment. With Thunderstruck blasting through your headphones, there’s no limit to what you can achieve on your board.

It’s not just the music that makes this song a must-have for any snowboarding enthusiast, though. The lyrics themselves are almost like a call to arms, urging you to break free from the ordinary and embrace the thrill of life. As you shred the powder on the slopes, the words “I was caught in the middle of a railroad track / I looked round / and I knew there was no turning back” will ring in your ears and inspire you to push your limits even further.

Overall, Thunderstruck is the kind of song that can turn an ordinary snowboarding trip into an epic adventure. It’s the perfect choice for anyone looking to add a bit of excitement and energy to their ride. So next time you hit the slopes, make sure you’ve got this classic AC/DC track queued up and ready to go.

2. Fast-Paced Songs to Amp Up Your Speed

If you’re looking for songs to elevate your snowboarding experience and go full throttle down the slopes, then you’ve come to the right place! The following fast-paced tracks are sure to amp up your adrenaline and encourage you to push yourself to the limit. From Kanye West and Pusha T’s “Runaway” to Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’ “Can’t Hold Us” and Papa Roach’s “Last Resort,” these songs are perfect for shredding at high speeds!

• Runaway – Kanye West & Pusha T

When “Runaway” by Kanye West & Pusha T starts playing in your earbuds, you know it’s time to pick up your pace and amp up your speed on the slopes. The fast-paced and frenetic beat of the song is perfect for when you’re in the mood for some adrenaline-fueled snowboarding.

As you navigate the twists and turns of the mountain, the song’s tempo changes and slows down, giving you moments to catch your breath before picking up speed again. The haunting choir sample and Kanye’s emotive lyrics only add to the song’s intensity and create an almost cinematic experience that makes you feel like you’re in your very own snowboarding movie.

“Runaway” is not just a great snowboarding song because of its musical structure and tempo, but also because of the themes it explores. The lyrics of the song encourage you to embrace your inner weirdness and be confident in who you are. This message is especially relevant when you’re navigating the slopes, where you might feel out of your comfort zone, but need to push yourself to try new things and conquer new challenges.

So, when you’re looking for a song to help you pick up speed and tackle the mountain with confidence, “Runaway” by Kanye West & Pusha T should definitely be on your playlist.

• Can’t Hold Us – Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

When it comes to fast-paced snowboarding songs, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis’ “Can’t Hold Us? is an absolute essential on any shredder’s playlist. This upbeat and energetic track will get your adrenaline pumping and your feet moving as you carve your way down the mountainside. The driving beat and catchy hooks of “Can’t Hold Us? make it perfect for a high-speed ride or for practicing tricks in the park. Every time the chorus hits, you’ll feel an extra burst of excitement that will push you to go faster and try harder. So if you want to add a song that’s sure to take your ride to the next level, be sure to add “Can’t Hold Us? to your snowboarding playlist.

• Last Resort – Papa Roach

Papa Roach’s “Last Resort” is an intense and edgy song that’s perfect for those who love shredding down the mountainside. The song’s heavy guitar riffs and angst-filled lyrics will pump you up and get you ready to hit the slopes. As you carve through the snow, you’ll feel the adrenaline coursing through your veins and the energy of the song pushing you forward. The intense beats and driving rhythm are the perfect soundtrack to your intense snowboarding session.

But don’t be fooled by the song’s hard exterior. There’s a message of hope hidden within the song that can be applied to your snowboarding experience. The lyrics speak of never giving up, even when things seem bleak. And isn’t that the perfect mindset to have when you’re out on the mountain? Snowboarding can be tough and challenging, but with the right attitude and determination, you can conquer any obstacle.

So the next time you’re getting ready to hit the slopes, be sure to add “Last Resort” to your playlist. It’s a song that will inspire you to push yourself to the limit and achieve greatness. And who knows, maybe you’ll become the next snowboarding champion while “Last Resort” blasts through your headphones.

3. Chill and Relaxing Songs for a Fun Ride

Looking for a more laid-back snowboarding experience? These chill and relaxing songs are the perfect accompaniment for a fun ride in the snow. From Chris Janson’s Good Vibes to Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here, and Weezer’s Island In The Sun, these selections will take you on a calming and breezy ride down the slopes. So sit back, relax, and let the music carry you away.

• Good Vibes – Chris Janson

When it comes to snowboarding, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as you glide down the mountain. And what better way to accompany that feeling than with some good vibes by Chris Janson?

His song “Good Vibes” has the perfect upbeat tempo and positive lyrics to get you in the right mindset for a fun day on the slopes. The opening guitar riff sets the tone for the rest of the song, making you feel like you’re in for an adventure.

As Janson sings about letting go of anything negative and embracing positivity, you can’t help but feel inspired to do the same. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, “Good Vibes” will add a little extra joy to your ride. So blast this song through your headphones as you carve up the mountain and let the good times roll.

• Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd

Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd is a classic that seems to be made for snowboarding. This song has a way of making every snowboarder feel like they are on an adventure that they will never forget. The guitar riff in the beginning is instantly recognizable and is enough to get any snowboarder pumped up for their ride. The way the song builds up to the chorus is like a snowboarder building up their speed before hitting a jump. The lyrics are emotive and poetic, and seem to describe the feeling of freedom that can be experienced on the slopes. It’s a great tune to play when you just want to relax, take in the scenery and enjoy the moment. Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here is a timeless classic that should be on every snowboarder’s playlist, and it’s the perfect song to listen to when you need a moment of calm in the middle of an exhilarating ride.

• Island In The Sun – Weezer

When you’re shredding the slopes and the wind is rushing past you, there’s nothing quite like the mellow vibes of “Island In The Sun” by Weezer to accompany your ride. The perfect mix of relaxed guitar riffs and enticing lyrics, this classic tune will have you feeling like you’re cruising easy through tropical waves instead of carving down a mountain. Let the rhythm and melody set the pace and help you find your flow as you glide effortlessly down the hill. So take a moment to breathe in the crisp winter air and soak up the sun, all while enjoying the laid-back beats of Weezer’s “Island In The Sun” on your snowboarding adventure.

4. Inspirational Songs to Keep You Going

Feeling a little burnt out on your ride? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some inspirational tunes to keep you motivated. These songs are sure to give you that extra boost of energy you need to tackle even the toughest of slopes. From the classic “Eye of the Tiger” to the modern hit “Brave,” these songs will keep you going strong all day long. So, grab your headphones and get ready to conquer the mountain!

• Eye of the Tiger – Survivor

When you hear the opening beats of “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, you can’t help but feel pumped up and ready to take on any challenge. This classic rock anthem has been a motivational anthem for years and it’s not hard to see why. As a snowboarder, you know that every ride is a challenge and you need all the motivation you can get to face it head-on. “Eye of the Tiger” is the perfect song to help take your snowboarding game to the next level.

With its driving guitar riffs and motivational lyrics, “Eye of the Tiger” is the perfect song to listen to when you’re tackling a challenging run or getting in the zone for a new trick. The powerful melody and stirring vocals will give you the energy and confidence you need to take on any obstacle.

So the next time you hit the slopes, be sure to add “Eye of the Tiger” to your snowboarding playlist. It’s the perfect song to help you push your limits and reach your full potential. With its upbeat tempo and inspiring lyrics, you’ll be shredding the mountain like a pro in no time.

• Who Says – Selena Gomez & The Scene

Who says snowboarding can’t be a mind-blowing adventure? Well, Selena Gomez and The Scene certainly don’t think so! Their hit song “Who Says” can add a much-needed boost of confidence to your ride. The lyrics remind us that we should stay true to ourselves, no matter what anyone else says. And what’s more true to oneself than shredding down a mountain in your own unique style? So, don’t worry about what others might think. Put on “Who Says” and tackle the slopes with the fearless attitude that comes from being unapologetically you. Plus, the upbeat tempo will have you cruising down the runs with ease. So why wait? Press play and let the good times roll!

• Brave – Sara Bareilles

Sara Bareilles’ “Brave” is a perfect song to add to your snowboarding playlist, especially when you need a little inspiration to keep going. The empowering lyrics, “I wanna see you be brave,” will push you to take risks and overcome any obstacles you may face while shredding down the mountain. Plus, the upbeat tempo and catchy chorus will get you in the zone and add a little extra excitement to your ride.

As you’re snowboarding down the mountain, you might start to feel a little nervous or hesitant about attempting a new trick or going down a steeper run. But with “Brave” playing in your headphones, you’ll feel more confident and ready to tackle any challenge. The song’s message of facing fears head-on will inspire you to push yourself beyond your limits and take your snowboarding skills to the next level.

And if you’re feeling a little down or defeated after wiping out on a run, “Brave” will remind you to get back up and keep going. The song’s positive energy will help you brush off any falls or mistakes and keep you moving forward.

Overall, “Brave” is a must-have song on your snowboarding playlist. Its motivational lyrics and upbeat tempo will keep you energized and inspired throughout your ride.

5. Tips and Tricks to Make Your Ride More Fun and Safe

Don’t forget that snowboarding is an extreme sport, and like any extreme sports, it involves risk. You need to take the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe and sound during your ride. Here are some essential tips and tricks to help you make your ride both fun and safe.

• Proper Safety Gear and Equipment

When it comes to snowboarding, proper safety gear and equipment should be your top priority. Without the right gear, you could be putting yourself in serious danger, so don’t skimp on quality. A good helmet is a must-have, as it can prevent serious head injuries in the event of a fall or collision. Look for a helmet that meets safety standards and fits comfortably on your head.

In addition to a helmet, you’ll also want to invest in a good pair of snowboarding boots, gloves, and goggles. All of these items will protect your body from the elements and potential injuries. When selecting boots, make sure they fit snugly and provide ample support for your feet and ankles. The right pair of gloves will keep your hands warm and dry, while a pair of goggles will protect your eyes from snow, wind, and UV rays.

Another important piece of equipment to consider is a wrist guard. Wrist injuries are common in snowboarding, so wearing a wrist guard can help prevent sprains and fractures. These guards typically slide under your gloves and are secured with velcro straps.

Investing in quality safety gear and equipment may seem expensive, but it’s a small price to pay for your overall wellbeing. Don’t take any chances – make sure you’re properly equipped before hitting the slopes.

• Plan Your Route Ahead of Time

Planning your route ahead of time can save you a lot of hassle and time. It can also help you avoid any areas that may be too advanced for your skill level. You can research the terrain ahead of time, taking into consideration the slope, the difficulty level, and the length of the trail.

One of the best resources for finding the right route is ski resort websites. They provide detailed maps, trail difficulty levels, and other important information that can help you plan your route. You can also check out snowboarding forums and message boards to see what others recommend.

When planning your route, don’t forget to consider the weather conditions that you may encounter. A bright, sunny day may be perfect for a leisurely ride on the groomed trails, while a heavy snowstorm may require a different strategy altogether.

With a little bit of preparation and research, you can customize the perfect route that meets your skill level and desired experience on the mountains. So before hitting the slopes, make sure to plan your route ahead of time to maximize your snowboarding adventure.

• Take Breaks to Avoid Fatigue

Sometimes, the adrenaline rush of snowboarding can make you feel like you can conquer the world. However, pushing yourself too hard without taking breaks can lead to fatigue, putting you at risk of injury. It’s essential to listen to your body and take breaks throughout the day to prevent this from happening.

Not only will taking breaks keep you safe and prevent injury, but it will also improve your overall experience on the mountain. Taking a moment to rest and recharge will leave you feeling rejuvenated and ready to shred again, allowing you to fully enjoy your day.

But how often should you take breaks? It ultimately depends on your fitness level and skill level. Beginners may need to take breaks more frequently, while more experienced riders may be able to go longer without stopping. Listen to your body and take breaks when you feel tired or fatigued.

When you do take breaks, avoid sitting down in the snow, as this can lead to getting wet and cold, which can be dangerous. Instead, head into a nearby lodge or restaurant to warm up, rehydrate, and refuel.

Remember, taking breaks isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a smart way to ensure you have a fun and safe day on the mountain. So, take a beat, catch your breath, and get ready for the next run.

Curating the Perfect Ski and Ride Playlist

It is the year of solo activities which means we’ve got to get creative with ways to occupy ourselves. There are days when there are so many thoughts pinging around in my head that I recognize the importance of tuning into those thoughts. Other days, I could use a distraction and a complete tune out from said thoughts. My favorite way to completely turn off the day-to-day bustle is with music. And while I’m in no way a professional playlist curator, I figured I’d offer some ideas on how to spice up your ski and ride playlist.

Make a Playlist Dedicated to Skiing/Riding

My everyday playlists are all over the place and consist of songs that I play repeatedly until I can’t stand to listen to them anymore. This is exactly why I keep these songs off of my list of snowboarding tunes. Olivia Rodrigo’s Driver’s License has served its purpose of allowing me to stare longingly out of my car window for minutes at a time while I learn every lyric, but really brings down the mood while I’m on a chairlift. No one needs that. So, your songs to shred to, hey that’s a great name for your playlist, should be made up of upbeat songs to get you in the flow of your day out on the hill. It’s a good place to put things you’ve recently just discovered. Songs that subconsciously get your head bobbing.

Add Your All Time Favorites

Green Day and Queen will forever reign as my top two favorite bands of all time. Although what I listen to on a day-to-day basis goes through changes, my nine-year-old drum set playing self would be proud that my core taste in music hasn’t changed. With that being said, it’s always a good idea to put your all-time favorite bands, songs, or even a whole album onto your playlist. This will set you up so no matter what gets added to this list of songs, you’ll always have your go-tos to get you pumped.  I’m trying to become a runner, and nothing distracts me from the agony of cardio than some early 2000s Pop Punk. So imagine how much I enjoy it while I’m doing something that I really love to do.

Just Keep Adding

If I’m not into a song I’m not going to make myself listen to it. This is where long playlists come in handy. There’s nothing worse than putting together a playlist, just to have skipped through to the end before your ski day is over. So, any time you hear a song that you may want to ski or ride to, add it to the list! This also ensures that the wide variety of songs will keep you occupied and excited, no matter how long you happen to be out on the slopes that day.

Make Sure to Delete and Update

I’m going to admit that I’m writing this blog partially for myself. I’m terrible about deleting old songs and playlists. In fact, if you were to look at my Spotify, my “Snowboarding” playlist is from 2016 and full of Top 20 Pop Hits from five years ago. Pop Hits are great in the moment, but in my opinion unless they’re from the 90s, they don’t tend to age well. The best way to ensure that your playlist evolves with you is to make sure you’re deleting songs that don’t get you amped anymore. This seems like a simple step, but definitely makes a big difference!

Songs for Sugarbush

If you’re a loyalist and like the idea of having a playlist dedicated to your days at Sugarbush, I like your style! Lucky for you, I also like a good theme. Here’s a few to get your playlist started.

“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin – Great for while you’re on Heaven’s Gate Chair

“Let’s Get Ready to Rumble” from Space Jam – You know you should add this for your run down Rumble

“Twist and Shout” recorded by The Beatles – You’ll be groovin’ like Ferris Bueller all the way down Lix’s Twist

“Domino” by Jesse J – Play this heading down Domino and Lower Domino

“Paradise” by Coldplay – You don’t have to dream of paradise, you can ski it!

That’s all I have for now, but I’m going to come back to this.

If you’re a Spotify user and not feeling super motivated, let the actual professional music curators do the work! Their premade playlists are really great and are an easy way to discover new songs. Just take a look at your preferred genre and there will be lots of playlist options to choose from!

As a disclaimer, if you choose to ski or ride with music playing, please be mindful of your surroundings. Keep the volume low or one earbud out so you can hear what is going on around you. It’s always a good idea to turn your music completely off while getting onto a chairlift. This is helpful for hearing employees and lift operators. Have a favorite song to ride to? Think you have one that’ll fit into the above Sugarbush playlist? Let me know! I’m always looking for recommendations.

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JD Souther, Singer Who Co-Wrote Eagles Classics Like ‘New Kid in Town,’ Dies at 78

Souther was also known for acting roles on 'Nashville' and 'Thirtysomething,' as well as being a Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee associated with Linda Ronstadt and James Taylor.

By Chris Willman

Chris Willman

Senior Music Writer and Chief Music Critic

• Sierra Ferrell Wins Artist, Album of the Year at Americana Awards; Brandy Clark, Grace Bowers Also Get Top Honors 6 hours ago
• JD Souther, Singer Who Co-Wrote Eagles Classics Like ‘New Kid in Town,’ Dies at 78 1 day ago
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JD Souther , the singer, songwriter and actor who co-wrote some of the biggest hits of the Eagles , like “New Kid in Town” and “Best of My Love,” and had a long solo career that included the top 10 hit “You’re Only Lonely,” died Tuesday at age 78. No cause of death was given but he was described by reps at Solters PR as dying peacefully at home in New Mexico.

Souther was about to go out for joint concert dates this fall with Karla Bonoff, another veteran of the 1970s Southern California singer-songwriter scene, and had performed as recently as five days ago.

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Beyond his work with the Eagles, he was also closely associated with the discography of Linda Ronstadt , whom he dated in the 1970s, with the tracks she recorded including “Prisoner in Disguise” and “Faithless Love.” He also had songs recorded by the Dixie Chicks, George Strait and Bonnie Raitt.

Souther enjoyed an unexpected career as an actor in television and film, starting with a role on the prime-time series “Thirtysomething” in 1989. He subsequently was best known for appearing on the first season of “Nashville” in 2012, with his other parts including small roles in the films “Postcards From the Edge,” “Always,” “Purgatory,” “Deadline” and “My Girl 2.”

“The acting stuff came because someone asked me,” he said in an interview with Acoustic Storm. “I acted when I was a kid… in high school and college. I never thought of it much in L.A., although anybody who likes movies fantasizes about being in them. But great people asked me to be in their movies. Steven Spielberg asked me to be in a movie, Ed Zwick asked me to do this arc of episodes on ‘Thirtysomething’ and Mike Nichols asked me to be in ‘Postcards From the Edge.’ There’s absolutely no reason to say no to people of that quality when they ask you to be in their films. I had an agent, but I don’t know that I really read for any of those roles. I may have read for the one in ‘Thirtysomething,’ although I think Ed just wanted me to do it. I think I read a page or two. I left and then my agent called and she asked me how I did. I said, ‘I sucked, it was terrible.’ She said, ‘That’s funny, because just you got the part.’ So much for self-evaluation.”

Souther was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2013.

His collaborations with the Eagles followed a short-lived band that Souther was actually in with Glenn Frey, Longbranch Pennywhistle, which released one self-titled album in 1969, which Souther did not hold in high regard.

As a solo recording artist, he was not prolific, but he started out with a burst of albums as part of David Geffen’s Asylum Records stable — starting with 1972’s “John David Souther,” the debut LP that included the future Eagles cut “How Long.” That was the last time he went by his full name, preferring thereafter to use initials, saying, “It started with me turning in songs as JD Souther in ’71. I had seen the J.S. Bach music, first in books and then at the British Museum, and as there was no higher music for me to aspire to. I adopted the abbreviation.”

One interruption in his early solo career came when he, Chris Hillman and Richie Furay were corralled to form a supergroup, the Souther-Hillman-Furay Band, which fell apart after two mid-’70s albums went almost instantly to the cutout bins.

Of the scene at the time, he told this writer, “The fact that the music we made was considered to be its own genre — Southern California rock or whatever — wasn’t intentional. First of all, because there were no true southern Californians in that group except Jackson Browne, and he was from Orange County. Glenn is from Detroit, Henley’s from Texas, I’m from Texas, Linda’s from Arizona, Waddy (Wachtel) was from New York, Kooch (Danny Kortchmar) was from New York, James (Taylor) was from outside Boston, and Warren Zevon was from Mars. It was a really incredibly diverse bunch of people that moved there from everywhere else. The common denominator is that we were all hungry at the same time. We were all playing these open-mic nights at the Troubadour, hoot nights, and we became friends and had a real shared ethic about music being good, and about its being good being more important than it being temporarily popular. We tried to write songs that we felt would last a long time. At least that was my motivation.

“There was nothing flippant about what any of us were writing,” he continued. “The group that was hanging out was Don and Glenn and Jackson and Zevon and me and Linda — who, even though she didn’t write, played a huge part in that, because she was such a good ear. She really chose the best of all of our songs to record. She’s just smart as a whip and had a great ear for songs and for what she could sing. And Judee Sill, who doesn’t get mentioned much, because she never sold a lot of records and she died a while ago, but she was very much in my group of friends, too. All those people were just really serious about music. There was some friendly competition about it, even though we were all definitely on each other’s side. Everybody wanted to show up with something that made all the rest of us go, ‘Wow! I wish I had thought of that.’”

As the ill-fated Souther-Hillman-Furay Band wound down, he resumed solo work for Asylum with the 1976 album “Black Rose,” then moved to Columbia for 1979’s “You’re Only Lonely” and 1984’s “Home by Dawn.”

Following that, he took a 24-year release from record-making, preferring life in the home he had built for himself in the Hollywood Hills, and ski trips to New England or retreats in Japan, to continuing to work in the music industry. “It was paradise. Life was as peaceful as I had known it since I was a child in Wellington, Texas, but I knew I would have to go back to work sometime.”

In a 2018 interview with the Chicago Tribune , Souther said that he was still friendly with most of his superstar collaborators. “I’m very close to (Ronstadt). I’m still very close to Jackson (Browne); I talk to him all the time,” he told the newspaper. “Don and I keep sending each other the same silly emails we always have. Probably the person I saw the least of the last few years, to my regret, was Glenn. It hit us all very hard that he died. I was his first partner, he was my first songwriting partner and best friend. When we were just babies we did a lot of really crazy stuff for no money, just for anyone who would let us play.”

He said that he’d nearly become a member of the Eagles when the group was being formed, but was the first to realize his inclusion wouldn’t work after one tryout with him in the lineup. “I think I was in the band for one day. David Geffen thought it that would be ‘four songwriters, good; five songwriters better.’ So we put together a set and played it at the Troubadour in the afternoon for the management team. I just remember them looking down the front line and seeing four of us bashing away at stringed instruments. And, to be frank, they didn’t need me. They were a perfectly well-rounded, self-contained band. I figured we were going to keep writing together anyway, so I think we all got the best of that situation, the best possible outcome. Frankly, when I said, ‘No, I don’t think I really want to be in the band,’ I’ve never seen four guys more relieved. I think they were more delighted than I was.”

Souther said that there was no strict division of duties when he co-wrote with Frey and Henley. “Usually all three of us are writing all lyrics and music,” he told Acoustic Storm in an interview. “’New Kid in Town’ is probably a bit different because I had the chorus done for almost a year before I showed it to Glenn and Don. …  It’s always a joint effort. I can’t speak for them, but as much music as I had in my background, it was mostly jazz and orchestral music. I wasn’t exposed to country music until I was almost grown.” Although he admitted he generally preferred to write by himself, he was more than willing to make an exception for these all-stars. “(Writing as a team) speeds things up a lot,” he said. “When you’re writing with good writers like Jackson or Warren Zevon or Don and Glenn, you’re so critical of each other that you don’t let anything pass that doesn’t feel like it’s A+.”

His closeness with Ronstadt lasted through the years. When he was releasing his final album in 2015, he told the Arizona Republic, “She’s always the first to hear a new album. She’s the greatest listener: an astute, well-read woman, as well as musical… She’s a very thoughtful person, spontaneous and funny… Every time I hear Linda Ronstadt’s voice with my words and melodies, I just melt. It was a privilege to be her painter and also her musical partner.”

Souther dated not only Ronstadt but Stevie Nicks and Judee Sill, who was said to have written “Jesus Is a Crossmaker” about him. But he was not up for revealing too much about how those relationships or others affected his lyrics, though he did concede his final 2015 album reflected his divorce. “Faulkner said all fiction is autobiographical. But I wouldn’t tell you what,” he said. “I don’t talk about my personal life anyway. There’s a very thin line between my life and fiction, but I’m not going to be one to say where it is.”

He was comfortable with his level of renown. Henley, he said, is “being paid really well to be on the road in Europe with the Eagles, and I’m being paid less well to sit here on my farm and watch my dogs run around in the field. But I don’t know how I would deal with it the other way around. I always try to be grateful. My father was very insistent on having good manners when people approached me or complimented me or something. But I like the fact that I don’t get made up before I go out of the house or check to be sure my hair looks great. I’ve got on these beat-up old boots right now and some Levi’s with a hole in the knee. I don’t really want to be stopped when I’m in the grocery store and have somebody pay a bunch of attention to me. I’ll be nice if that happens, but it’s not what I want.”

Souther performed for his biggest audience in years this past January when he joined the Eagles at one of their shows at L.A.’s Kia Forum. “What an absolute joy,” he posted on Facebook, “performing these songs written with my best pals and now standing next to Don singing ‘Best of My Love’ with him 50 years after it was number one. It’s impossible to wipe the smile off my face. Huge thanks to them and to all of you.”

Souther is survived by his two sisters and his former wife and her daughter. Donations in JD’s honor can be made to Best Friends Animal Society, an organization that was very important to him.

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