Doja Cat, Zach Bryan, Shakira & More: What’s Your Favorite New Music Release of the Week? Vote!
Written by djfrosty on September 22, 2023
Rap, country and Latin music decorate this week’s new music Friday, which features high-profile releases from Doja Cat, Zach Bryan, Shakira and more.
Doja Cat has made her highly anticipated return with new album Scarlet. After expressing a desire to turn her back on her pop roots — seen on past chart topping hits such as “Say So,” “Kiss Me More,” “Woman” and more — the rapper fully embraces rap on the set, while still keeping the infectiousness of her previous releases on select tracks. “Agora Hills,” much like the LP’s second single “Paint the Town Red,” is ripe for radio play, employing bouncy trap beats and and breathy vocal delivery for an intoxicating listen. “Shutcho,””Gun,” and “F–k the Girls (FTG)” particularly shine on the album, showing the rapper at her most boastful and confident.
Bryan surprised fans with a brand new EP, Boys of Faith, after previously teasing collaborations with Noah Kahan and Bon Iver. Those songs, “Sarah’s Place” and the EP’s title track, sees the steadily rising country star tapping into feelings of wistfulness and vulnerability, while “Nine Ball” serves as the real standout. On the track, Bryan details his complicated relationship with his father while helping him to win a billiards bet.
The highs for Shakira continue. The latest Billboard cover star, who is fresh off winning the Video Vanguard Award at the VMAs earlier this month, teams up with regional Mexican powerhouse Fuerza Regida on “El Jefe” to deliver a vivacious verse on the track, proving no matter the genre, the icon will always continue to soar to new career heights.
Blink-182 and Kylie Minogue also return with new material this week.
Which release is your favorite? Vote in the poll below.