Nostalgic & timeless tunes that have a story to tell.
If time travel exists, it’s made possible through music. The right song can transport us right back to pivotal—and even trivial—moments in our lives. MindHandle Vol. 5: Favorites Over Time, created by our senior production artist, Santiago “Bo” Botello, reminds us that music is not merely meant to be heard—it’s made to be felt.
Join us for a trip with him down memory lane in this interview.
Bo, what is the name of your mix?
Favorites Over Time
How would you describe it?
These are all songs that have been my favorite at one time or another. Songs that, after I found them, I listened to on repeat for days. Some go as far back as high school, but most are since my mid-twenties. Whether it be for the melody, the musicality, or the lyrics, these songs really connected with me.
What inspired you to choose the theme?
On iTunes I have a playlist called ‘Favorites at One Time or Another’. This selection is 33 of the 102 songs included on that playlist.
Last year, I took a trip to California. I flew into San Francisco and drove up the Pacific Coast Highway all the way to Arcata. The weather was beautiful and I had this playlist turned up and the windows rolled down. That 8-hour drive was one of the best times of my life!
What is your favorite song on this mix?
If I had to choose… I never tire of the song “The Very Thought of You” by Wynton Marsalis. I bought a compilation CD in my late thirties including that track and I’ve loved it since.
If this mix was a brand, which brand would it be and why?
This mix has a pretty relaxed vibe throughout. For me, ideally, a relaxing time is spent with good friends and a glass of Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Select in one hand and a just-lit Arturo Fuente cigar in the other—so those are my two brands.
Do any of the songs bring up a specific memory?
A long while back I saw Tony Bennett with the Dallas Symphony at the Meyerson. I was there with a good friend (not a date!) We were near the aisle and when he sang this song I wanted to ask my friend to get up and dance with me… I didn’t because 1. We were at the Meyerson and 2. I didn’t want my friend to think I was hitting on her. Looking back now, I wish I’d asked. How often are you going to get to dance to Tony Bennett performing live?
Thanks a million, Bo! We’re raising a glass of Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Select to you and your magnificent playlist.
Follow Mindhandle on Spotify and stay tuned for MindHandle Mixtape Vol. 6, available next Friday.
