Pregame Playlist: Lauren Koester

Before every game, match, or meet every athlete has a go-to playlist that they listen to before to get themselves ready for action. In Pregame Playlist we hear what student-athletes' playlists mean to them! Today, we hear from sophomore Lauren Koester as she shares the songs that get her locked in ahead of the IRA Rowing Championships.

GoStanford.com: What’s your favorite song on this playlist and why?

Lauren Koester: It has to be “Ginger” by Riton. One of my high school teammates jokingly recommended it to me (because I’m a ginger), but it stuck. I’ve had it in my pre-race routine ever since, and it always gets me in that fierce, soulless race-day mindset. 

GS: Who are your favorite artists these days?

LK: My favorite artist of all time is Maggie Rogers. I love Mt. Joy and Still Woozy, as well as Fred Again.. and Fisher.

GS: What about this playlist gets you ready for competition?

LK: These songs are high energy with strong beats. I love the unique adrenaline of race day and the competitive persona you get to channel– this playlist helps me tap into that mindset.

GS: How would you describe your music taste in general?

LK: It’s definitely a range. My Spotify recommended playlists range from “Ibiza club mixes” to “coastal indie folk”. I appreciate anything with a solid beat or memorable lyrics. 

GS: Is this playlist different from what you listen to normally? If so, how come?

LK: My teammates know I’m always down for EDM, but I try to save this playlist for race day. It helps me flip the switch and get into that race-mode mentality. Day to day, I usually go for something a bit more chill and lyrical.

GS: Any unique stories behind what these songs meant to you or your team?

LK: Somebody (2024) became a staple of our afternoon bike sessions in A-Hall. It reminds me of all the hours we’ve put in as a team, and how we find joy in sharing good music and pushing through tough workouts together. 

GS: How does your music taste compare to the rest of your team’s?

LK: We’ve got a pretty diverse mix of race-day music. I like to get amped up with house or techno, while some teammates go for something calmer to steady the nerves. Rowing’s kind of like that; you need adrenaline to push through the pain, but also the focus to move with precision and rhythm.  

GS: Describe your relationship with music, and how/if that relates to your sport.

LK: Music is a big part of my everyday life. Every morning starts with the van ride out the boathouse. It’s early and dark, but I have come to really appreciate these 20 minutes of calm where we get to listen to a few songs and enjoy each other's company. It’s a small ritual, but it brings us together before the grind of the day begins. 

Check out Lauren's full playlist below.