Over the course of growing up, everyone accumulates songs that take them back to their childhood. The Falconer talked to several staff members, asking them to share their favorite songs from their childhood. Based on their answers, we created this throwback playlist.

Mr. Tom Mclaughlin

“Rocky Mountain High” – John Denver

Released in 1995, “Rocky Mountain High” was one of Religious Studies Teacher Mr. Tom Mclaughlin’s top picks from when he was growing up. He loved this song because of its multiple references to mountains which he loved, and still does today.

“The Eagle and The Hawk” – John Denver 

Released in 1990, “The Eagle and The Hawk” was also one of Mr. Mac’s favorites in high school. He had the lyrics pasted to the inside of his locker door, because he loved it so much. 

About the artist: John Denver was a popular songwriter based out of Colorado in the 60’s and 70’s.  His song, “Rocky Mountain High,” later became the official song of Colorado. An Evening With John Denver was his most popular album, which was released in 1975.

Mr. Gregory Larson

“Ocean Avenue” – Yellowcard

Released in 2003, one of English Teacher Mr. Gregory Larson’s favorite songs when he was growing up was “Ocean Avenue.” He even called a radio station to request this song for his girlfriend at the time, and this is why he feels a connection to this song. This song is about old memories on Ocean Boulevard in Jacksonville’s Atlantic Beach, and how the band missed the times when they hung out there. 

About the artist: Yellowcard was a popular rock band in the early 2000’s. The band consisted of seven members: Ryan Key, Lougineu Parsons, Ben Harper, Sean Mackin, Ben Harper, Josh Portman, and Alex Lewis. Ocean Avenue, their most popular album, was released in 2003.

“Air Force Ones” – Nelly

Released in 2002, another of Mr. Larson’s top songs was “Air Force Ones.” He loved the song because of its sole focus on shoes. “Air Force Ones” is a rap song about the Nike Air Force One shoes.

About the artist: Cornell Iral Haynes Jr., better known as “Nelly,” was a popular Hip Hop and Rap artist in the early 2000’s. Country Grammar, his most popular album, was released in 2000. 

Ms. Karen Kessler

“Rio” – Duran Duran

Released in 1982, “Rio” was one of Spanish teacher Ms. Karen Kessler’s favorite songs from her childhood because of how happy and motivating it was.

About the artist: Nick Rhodes, John Taylor, Andy Wickett, and Roger Taylor, the members of Duran Duran, were a popular band that played a mix of Rock, Pop, and Electronic Music in the late 70’s and early 80’s. Duran Duran, their most popular, album was released in 1981.  

“People are People” – Depeche Mode

Released in 1984, “People are People” was another of Ms. Kessler’s favorite songs. She liked the song because it still applies to society today. The song is asking humans to put an end to unjust violence and prejudice.

About the artist: Depeche Mode was one of the most successful electro pop bands of the 80’s. The group consisted of Dave Gahan, Martin Gore, Alan Wilder, Vince Clarke, Andrew Fletcher, and Peter Gordeno. They released their highest ranked album, Violator, in 1990.

Ms. Nancy Orr

“Mack the Knife” – Bobby Darin

Released in 1959, “Mack the Knife” was counselor Ms. Nancy Orr’s favorite song growing up. She liked it because the song didn’t make sense and was fun to listen to with all the instruments used. 

About the artist: Bobby Darin was a popular Rock and Roll, Pop, and Rock music in the late 50’s and early 60’s. That’s All, his most popular album, was released in 1959.

Mr. Seth Altschuler 

“Sitting on the Dock of the Bay” – Otis Redding

Released in 1968, “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay” was one of counselor Mr. Seth Altshuler’s favorite songs which he often listened to while cleaning his house. The song is about how the hopes of the Civil Rights Movement were unfulfilled.

About the artist: Otis Redding was a popular artist in the 60’s that played a combination of Rock, and Blues. Otis Blue / Otis Redding Sings Soul, his most popular album, was released in 1965.