Here at CT Working Moms we’ve been trying to let our readers get to know us a little bit. So, I thought this was the perfect way for you to learn something about me. To be honest, it’s actually just a Facebook challenge that’s been going around that I had been secretly hoping I would get tagged to participate. When I finally did, I realized that some of my favorite albums weren’t really that remarkable.

I kept thinking about albums that define me or have influenced my life. That was too hard. So, instead, I present to you – in no real order – 10 albums that I absolutely love and that I have some sort of emotional attachment to – no explanations. Ok. Maybe a short small explanation, here and there. I have also included my favorite song from each album! Easy listening!

One. Green Day – Dookie

I remember being in Woolworth (talk about being old) and I was trying to decide between Green Day and Warren G. All my friends were listening to Warren G, but I really liked the songs that I heard on the radio by Green Day. My dad offered to buy and gently nudged me in the direction of Green Day. I truly feel that decision changed the course of my life. Not sure if it was in a good way or a bad way, but I’m happy where I ended up, so clearly it was the right way.

You may find out that your self doubt means nothing was ever there,
You can’t go forcing something if it’s just not right

Two. The Beatles – Rubber Soul

My dad’s favorite album, so ended up being one of my favorites by default.

Three. Ryan Adams – Heartbreaker

My bff and I literally traveled the world to see Ryan Adams. Well, we traveled across some states and to Canada. We even met him, if you count nodding and waving from about 10 feet away meeting.

I ain’t never been to Vegas but I gambled up my life
Building newsprint boats I raced in sewer mains
I was trying to find me something but I wasn’t sure just what
Funny how they say that some things never change…

Four. No Doubt – Beacon Street Collection

You’re so fake
You make me shake

Five. Silverchair – Diorama

This band was such a big part of my life for so long. Even though I don’t listen to them much these days, I felt obligated to throw them on this list. My teenage self would be appalled that Silverchair is only here because I feel obligated. They will always hold a special place in my heart.

You light up my life
like a polystyrene hat that melts in the sun,
like a life without love

Six. Cursive – The Ugly Organ

So he would sulk and drink and mope 
And cross his arms and hope to die 
And then a fairy came one night 
To bring this sorry boy to life 
She pulled some strings, spilled him about 
That boy jumped up and began to shout
“My arms, my legs, my heart, my face 
They are alive!”

Seven. Justin Timberlake – FutureSex/LoveSounds

Don’t need no Maybelline
‘Cause you’re a beauty queen
Don’t need no L’Oreal
‘Cause, bitch, you’re bad as hell

Eight. Ryan Adams & The Cardinals – Cold Roses
Mockingbirds sing
Sing me what the Lord was singing
On the day He made the water
The color of the blues
Sing me that song
Sing me to till the heavens rising
On the day He made the water
The color of my baby’s eyes

Nine. TI – Paper Trails

The soundtrack to my short, but totally fun (and a little irresponsible) party girl days.

Ten. The Strokes – This Is It

When we was young,
Man did we have fun.
Always. Always.