Inspired by this post on the Word Magazine blog, which was in-turn inspired by Nick Hornby’s 31 Songs.

These songs just about represent the 36 years I have been on the planet. They all bring to (my) mind either a period in my life, a certain event or anecdote, or are connected with a specific person.

I’ve discounted music that I no longer like and those that I can no longer face as a result of overplay. I’m happy with what’s left.

My Life in 31 Songs

1. New Slang – Shins
2. Anchorage – Michelle Shocked
3. Just a Little Lovin – Dusty Springfield
4. Killing in the Name Of – Rage Against the Machine
5. Train in G Major – Lindisfarne
6. Just Like Heaven – The Cure
7. Hell Yeah – Neil Diamond
8. I Will – The Beatles
9. Hope that I Don’t Fall in Love With You – Tom Waits
10. Man in the Iron Mask – Billy Bragg
11. Cruel – Prefab Sprout
12. Paint a Vulgar Picture – The Smiths
13. These Foolish Things – Bryan Ferry
14. Birth, School, Work, Death – The Godfathers
15. Harvest Moon – Neil Young
16. Grow Old with Me – John Lennon
17. Indoor Fireworks – Elvis Costello
18. Baubles, Bangles and Beads – Frank Sinatra
19. Solitary Man – Johnny Cash
20. Special Brew – Bad Manners
21. Tunnel of Love – Fun Boy Three (Above)
22. Save it For Later – The English Beat (Below)
23. I’m a Man you Don’t Meet Everyday – The Pogues
24. Willow’s Song – Wickerman OST
25. Joy of Living – Ewan MacColl
26. How Does it Feel – Slade
27. Mr Jones – Counting Crows
28. Bluebird – Wings
29. Self Evident – Ani Di Franco
30. Debris – The Faces
31. All Across the Sands – Stone Roses