In the November issue of UCnetwork, just before Thanksgiving, President Drake shared his personal playlist for rest and contemplation.

“For me, music has always been a source of great joy and a lens that allows me to come back into focus,” President Drake wrote. “I am often asked to share what I’m listening to lately. Here are a few links to music that means a lot to me — I hope it keeps you company and boosts your spirits.”

1. Smokey Robinson on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert — what a legend! Check out “Cruisin” at the 23-minute mark on this video.

2. “Wake Up Everybody” by Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes

3. “Banana Boat (Day-O)” by Harry Belafonte, who died earlier this year. Belafonte, in addition to being a great artist, was a civil rights activist and a humanitarian.

4. “(Sweet, Sweet Baby) Since You’ve Been Gone” by Aretha Franklin

5. “Nature at Play: J.S. Bach’s ‘Cello Suite No. 1’ (Live from the Great Smoky Mountains)” by Yo-Yo Ma — A beautiful video, celebrating nature and humanity.

6. “Simply the Best” by “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll” Tina Turner, who also died this year — I’ll miss this national treasure.