Today (July 12) is the anniversary of the birth of 1800s-era philosopher, writer, abolitionist, and nature buff Henry David Thoreau. Throughout his life, he wrote extensively about living more simply in nature, including the 1854 book Walden. To remember Thoreau, National Simplicity Day falls each year on his birthday.

It’s fitting that we choose a simple theme for such a day. Simply put, let’s put together songs that have a simple structure or songs that mention something simple. It’s as simple as that.

For today’s 9:30 Coffee Break, which songs that embrace simplicity do you want to hear?

Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive.

Songs Played

The Shins - Simple Song
XTC - The Mayor of Simpleton
Dressy Bessy - Simple Girlz
Robert Palmer - Simply Irresistible
Sly and the Family Stone - Sing a Simple Song
Ray LaMontagne - Such a Simple Thing
Bob Dylan - Simple Twist of Fate