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Opening night's narrators, juniors Yuri Sternberg and Sasha Rotton, turn to watch as a wave of confetti is dropped onto the stage. The performance was unusually colorful, complementing its chaotic nature. "I’m really proud of the cast and the way we were able to come together and work towards putting on the show,” Rotton said.
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Support staff of WJ
Support staff of WJ
Backstage with WJ STAGE
Backstage with WJ STAGE
The official student newspaper of Walter Johnson High School

The Pitch
The official student newspaper of Walter Johnson High School

The Pitch
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WJ’s top picks: songs of the summer

Kiley Ring, Feature Editor • Jun 12, 2019
Photo courtesy of Pixabay
As school winds down, artists are releasing the newest hits of the summer.

Since school is coming to a close, it’s only right that along with packing swimsuits and sunscreen, everyone has their summer playlist ready. Whether going to the beach, the pool or just spending time around town, this playlist has something in it for everyone. Enjoy!

 

1. if we never met by JOHN.k

This pop title track of JOHN.k’s debut EP, released just a month ago, is a summer staple. The song is one of the more relaxed and laid-back off of the EP, but the breezy vibe that carries on throughout makes it a catchy song that you’ll find yourself humming along to all summer.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6eRY9fY6EM

 

2. It’s Strange (feat. K. Flay) [Bee’s Knees Remix] by Louis The Child

Although somewhat old compared to most of the other songs on this playlist (released in 2016), Louis The Child is notorious for churning out songs that give off just the right vibe for summer. The resounding beat drop paired with the pounding drums that kick off the chorus make the song exciting and fun to listen to. It’s an upbeat, feel-good song for any summer mood.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUTwBU0lEHY

 

3. BAD NEWS by Aries

For people who aren’t so into all of the electronic music, Aries is an up-and-coming rapper who recently dropped his debut album “WELCOME HOME” at the end of March. It combines the more intense elements of hip-hop and rap with lighter chords in the background that keep the song upbeat and exciting.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osE9DTIr7hg

 

4. Change Your Mind (feat. lovelytheband) by Dillon Francis

This single, released by pop artists Dillon Francis and lovelytheband at the end of March, is very upbeat; the chorus is very singsongy and airy and the whole song gives off a bouncy, summer vibe. It’s exciting while still chill, and the perfect addition to any summer playlist.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5AoVkBdhtA

 

5. Hallelujah by John The Blind

John The Blind, songwriter for pop artists such as Maroon 5 and One Direction, has decided to turn around and make his own music, releasing his self-titled EP on May 10. Hallelujah, the most popular single off the EP, has an electronic intro and builds up to an eccentric, exploding chorus. If you’re in need of an exciting, jam-packed song, John The Blind has you covered.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sm8V8JONerw

 

6. EARFQUAKE by Tyler, The Creator

Rap sensation Tyler, The Creator has done it again, releasing his fifth studio album IGOR on May 17th. EARFQUAKE, the album’s top track, has Tyler’s signature harmonized vocals and tells the tale of a breakup, but this is no sad breakup song. The synth in the background keeps the song upbeat and exciting.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HmAsUQEFYGI

 

7. Carry On by Kygo & Rita Ora

Released on April 19 from the soundtrack for “Pokémon Detective Pikachu,” Kygo doesn’t fail to disappoint as the tropical dance track screams summer. The vocals in the back of the chorus keep the song interesting and bubbly and it’s a great track to play on a sunny beach day.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxaR42Vy2LI

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The college and career center there are many pamphlets on college information and SAT/ACT prep. Within the center is Mrs. Evans' office, she can help answer some questions one may have about the next steps
The benefits of college visits
Junior club treasurer Lily Bienfang unlocks the equipment collection bin. As of April 2024, the WJ LPF club became the bin ambassador for the Falls Road bin.
WJ LPF club levels the playing field
A group of Israelis in the community rally together on Montrose Bridge. They decided to gather together around 6:30 a.m., marking the exact one-year anniversary of the war. (Courtesy Liann Keren)
Oct. 7: the impacts one year later
Two friends play video games together through their TVs. They met through social media, and have become best friends since thanks to the internet. Without it, their friendship wouldn't have been possible, as it is the case for many real life relationships.
How social media has changed relationships
AP Calculus teacher Rachel Zussman works on finishing up her grades prior to the end of the quarter. With many teachers wanting change in the MCPS pay system, a performance-based pay system is an intriguing idea.
Teachers reflect on performance-based pay system
Senior Mwape Sokoni (middle), junior Daniella Ngah (right) and senior Michelle Lett (left) practice a routine in the cafeteria. Step Team practices diligently, performing the routine until the entire group catches on.
A force for good: Mwape Sokoni’s social impact on WJ
About the Contributor
Kiley Ring
Kiley Ring, Print Editor-In-Chief
Kiley Ring is a senior this year at WJ. She was a Print Feature Editor last year and is looking forward to being a Print Editor-in-Chief on the Pitch! In her free time, she enjoys hanging out with friends and going downtown.
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