Each year, when I sort through my favorite songs, I have trouble ranking them because each one has a different meaning to me. I always wind up creating a mixtape (or a playlist, for you younger readers) of those songs and arrange them so that the music flows like a great album or concert set. Without further ado, here’s my mix of the twenty songs I returned to for repeated listens throughout 2010.

“Fade Like a Shadow,” KT Tunstall
Tunstall continues to produce pop gems that are spirited, bright and full of life. This single from her latest, Tiger Suit, has everything you want in a single: a passionate delivery, a great melodic hook, and a unique rhythm that helps it stand out from other songs. A great way to kick off a mix tape.

“I Should Have Known It,” Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers
The lead single from Mojo has that vintage Petty snarl and bite. The rest of the album may be a mixed bag, but this great rocker builds to kick-ass guitar jam and stands up with some of their best.

The eclectic individuals over at Consequence of Sound let us know that OhBoy Records will be releasing a John Prine tribute album on June 22. Acts on tap for Broken Hearts & Dirty Windows: Songs Of John include Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band, My Morning Jacket and The Avett Brothers.

Here’s the tracklist:

01. Justin Vernon of Bon Iver – Bruised Orange (Chain Of Sorrow)
02. Conor Oberst And The Mystic Valley Band – Wedding Day In Funeralville
03. My Morning Jacket – All The Best
04. Josh Ritter – Mexican Home
05. Lambchop – Six O’Clock News
06. Justin Townes Earle – Far From Me
07. The Avett Brothers – Spanish Pipedream
08. Old Crow Medicine Show – Angel From Montgomery
09. Sara Watkins – The Late John Garfield Blues
10. Drive-By Truckers – Daddy’s Little Pumpkin
11. Deer Tick featuring Liz Isenberg – Unwed Fathers
12. Those Darlins – Let’s Talk Dirty In Hawaiian

I guess I’m not too surprised that nobody is covering the cheesy, yet hysterical “Dear Abby.” I remember both of my parents enjoying Prine when I was growing up, and this was the only song that made an impression on me. I avoided him until I got older when I suddenly decided to spend some time with more of his songs. What can I say? “Illegal Smile,” “Sweet Revenge,” “Down By The Side Of The Road” — so many good ones.

I could care less if you buy this album, but I do think John Prine deserves more recognition from the younger generations.