A Playlist for Alaska's 98th Birthday

All right, so maybe 98 years ago today Alaska merely became a U.S. territory. (It wasn’t until almost 50 years later that President Eisenhower actually declared AK the 49th state.) But why not go ahead and celebrate the inclusion of this frosty state beneath the stars and stripes?

The moose state might not boast the largest population, nor do any of the musicians below hail from the Land of the Midnight Sun, but AK’s tundra may certainly be credited with inspiring some great tunes.

So here’s to you, Alaska, and today’s 98-year mark celebrating your baby steps into statehood. We’re happy you’re here, and below is a playlist of 10 of the best songs inspired by you:

Johnny Cash – “When it’s Springtime in Alaska”

Velvet Underground – “Stephanie Says”

Bee Gees – “Road to Alaska”

Modest Mouse – “Grey Ice Water”

Nick Drake – “Northern Sky”

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah – “In This Home on Ice”

Monolake – “Alaska”

John Denver – “Alaska and Me”

Sad Lovers & Giants – “Alaska”

Dr. Dog – “Alaska” (Obviously.)