Three years ago, out of the blue, astrophysicist Summer Ash was told she needed heart surgery. But it was what happened after the surgery, while she was recovering, that turned out to be the most surprising thing: her newly mended heart had a beat that was very, very strong. In this story told by Radiolab producer Molly Webster, we come to see just how complicated our relationship with our heart is, and what it means to be ever-aware of this lifelong companion.

The Heartbeat was scored live by SO Percussion, their new work "Music for Wood & Strings" is out now.

While reporting this story, it seems everyone had a "heart" song they suggested to producer Molly Webster. She's compiled the staff's suggestions below. Please let us know some of your favorites.