Dear President-Elect Obama,

Image Credit: Bess Kalb

First, congratulations on your victory. I am very proud of this country for electing you as our next president.

However, you should be aware that the job of President is fraught with pitfalls. It is very easy to get off track of your promises, or to maybe forget the little people. Or even the big picture.

But have no fear. I have taken the liberty of appointing myself to your cabinet as Director of Musical Advice.

I have gathered a playlist of songs for your first days in office. Think of it as advice as background music.

(I would like to thank my fellow twitter-ites for all their wonderful suggestions and notations for this playlist.)

1. Otis Redding – “Try a Little Tenderness”

For when you’re making foreign policy decisions.

2. New Radicals – “You Get What You Give”

A little give and take with the people; we’ll respect you as much as you respect our voice.

3. Elton John and Kiki Dee – “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart”

Continue to be the Obama we voted for. We voted for change, don’t become just another politician!

4. Simple Minds – “Don’t You Forget About Me”

For remembering how you got here!

5. Roger Miller - “You Can’t Roller Skate in a Buffalo Herd”

This means something. I’m just not sure what.

6. Three Dog Night - “One (Is the Loneliest Number)”

Remember–Mavericks go it alone. Presidents surround themselves with smart people.

7. Average White Band – “Pick Up The Pieces”

This one is obvious, no?

8. Bob Dylan – “Gotta Serve Somebody”

The American people. All of them. You represent people of many different values, ideals and opinions. Listen to them all.

9. Ween – “Don’t Shit Where You Eat”

This is just good advice for anyone.

10. Supertramp – “Give a Little Bit”

This goes along with serving the people and give and take.

11. The Byrds – “So You Want to be a Rock and Roll Star”

Let’s face it, O. This is how many people view you and it’s more or less what you are for right now. If you want to play this as rock star, may I suggest being more Dave Grohl than Axl Rose?

12. Atmosphere – “Trying to Find a Balance”

You see where I’m going with that, right?

13. Funkadelic – “Free Your Mind and Your Ass Will Follow”

There will be days when you need to get away from it all. This will help.

14. Frankie Goes to Hollywood – “Relax”

I would love to see you show up at your inauguration in a Frankie Says Relax t-shirt.

I would add two bonus tracks, which you should take more as cautionary tales than as pure advice:

The Who - “See Me, Feel Me”

Flobots – “No Handlebars”

And here’s one more track, suggested by Alex, who says “you really earned it.”

Geto Boys — “Damn, It Feels Good to be a Gangsta”