Music possesses an almost magical ability to transform our emotional state, and nowhere is this more evident than with songs deliberately crafted to elicit joy. On this episode of Super Awesome Mix, we're returning to a favorite theme with Pure Joy Mix Volume 2, featuring twelve tracks scientifically engineered to boost your mood and put an irresistible smile on your face.

We've structured this mix as a friendly competition between hosts, with Matt's selections comprising Side A and Samer's picks making up Side B. From the moment you press play, you'll feel the rush of dopamine that comes from Wham!'s iconic "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" and its instantly recognizable "jitterbug" intro. The journey continues through nostalgic hits like Blue Swede's "Hooked on a Feeling" and modern gems including Wet Leg's subversively joyful "Chaise Longue."

Throughout our musical exploration, we unpack what makes certain songs universally uplifting – whether it's the infectious energy of Stevie Wonder's horns, the whistle-heavy hooks of Peter Bjorn and John that physically encourage smiling, or the self-affirming lyrics from Fitz and the Tantrums that remind us to "shine like the sun." We discover that joy comes in many forms: nostalgia, humor, empowerment, and the celebration of life's simple pleasures.

This episode doesn't just offer a mood-lifting playlist. It provides insights into how different musical elements – from surprising intros that capture attention to lyrics that promote present-moment appreciation – work together to create an emotional response that's greater than the sum of its parts.

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