10 cool new pop songs
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Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week? We feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
These 10 tracks from artists including Jorja Smith, Passion Pit, Jessie Ware, Dawn Richard, Lauren Spencer-Smith, GAYLE & Em Beihold and more will get you energized to take on the week. Pop any of these gems into your personal playlists — or scroll to the end of the post for a custom playlist of all 10.
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Shy Martin, “Glued to the Floor”
Shy Martin’s “Glued to the Floor” is a song about antidepressants that hails from an album (late night thoughts, May 19) written entirely in a bedroom. Naturally, it’s gonna feel introspective, but there’s a guileless warmth to the Swedish musician’s delivery here that makes the interiority of her world feel every bit as immediate as the one beneath your feet. – Joe Lynch
Khamari, “Right My Wrongs”
The gentle, sweet ache in Khamari’s voice is earning him understandable comparisons to Frank Ocean, but the Boston-born, L.A.-based singer-songwriter’s discography, while limited, demonstrates a musical range and creative perspective all his own. New single “Right My Wrongs” is a velvety, laid-back slice of R&B with retro soul and bedroom indie-pop vibes. Don’t be surprised if Khamari is the next big thing. – J. Lynch
Jessie Ware, “Begin Again”
Ware’s upcoming album is called That! Feels Good! (April 28), and latest single “Begin Again” is certainly as excitable as the exclamation point-happy title. Inspired by dreams of a Brazilian escape during the doldrums of lockdown, “Begin Again” melds Ware’s soulful disco with shades of samba-like syncopation, adding up to five-minutes of celebratory bliss. – J. Lynch
King Krule, “Seaforth”
Three years and a whole pandemic have passed since King Krule geared up to release an album, and new track “Seaforth” shows that Archy Marshall has changed for the better. Where some of his previous work explored his more melancholic side (“Dum Surfer”), “Seaforth” — the first look at Krule’s next album, Space Heavy — sees him sweetly embracing the little joys that fatherhood has to offer, from recognizing himself in his daughter’s eyes to taking walks together in a mall (“Now walk through shop centers together/ Our love dissolves this universe”). — Starr Bowenbank
Passion Pit, “American Blood”
What’s old is officially new again for Passion Pit, as singer Michael Angelakos has formally released “American Blood,” a deep cut from their 2012 critically acclaimed album, Gossamer, that only ever appeared on its iTunes deluxe version. Cloaked behind its upbeat synth instrumental is a darker reality, as Angelakos grapples with his past, and wonders if he can turn back the hands of time. — S.B.
Jorja Smith, “Try Me”
Jorja Smith released an EP in 2021 titled Be Right Back, and now that the R&B star (and former best new artist nominee) is indeed back, early returns on her sophomore LP sound extremely promising. “Try Me” drips elegance in its spaces of incredulity — “Nothin’ is ever enough / I don’t have to tell you what I’ve changed,” Smith sings with exasperation on the chorus — and reads as both complex in its rhythmic palette and straightforward in its pop presence, a line that Smith walks well. – Jason Lipshutz
Dawn Richard, “Bubblegum”
After Dawn Richard teamed up with composer-producer Spencer Zahn for last year’s experimental, gorgeous LP Pigments, she’s back with a rhythmic pop single that will delight fans of her avant-R&B solo work and her radio-friendly Danity Kane fare. “Bubblegum” pops with sexual innuendo and tempo increases, as Richard, continuing a period of circling through several stylistic approaches with ease, sounds as confident as ever. – J. Lipshutz
Lauren Spencer Smith with GAYLE & Em Beihold, “Fantasy”
Between “Fingers Crossed,” “ABCDEFU” and “Numb Little Bug,” Lauren Spencer Smith, GAYLE and Em Beihold have watched songs go unexpectedly viral over the past year and change, rack up millions of streams and unlock previously unfathomable professional opportunities. “Fantasy,” a strength-in-numbers kiss-off in which the three rising artists decimate the lamest type of ex, makes room for all of their respective styles, finding cohesion around a lovely piano line and the type of clouds-high chorus that the three artists have previously mastered on their own. – J. Lipshutz
Girl Ray, “Hold Tight”
The new single from London trio Girl Ray contains the power to make mundane activities feel thrilling — witness how the group traipses around a farm in the “Hold Tight” music video, high-kicking while pushing identical wheelbarrows, and you’ll get an idea. An endearing pop-rock love song, “Hold Tight” offers carbonated goodness without overselling its appeal, and as they prepare new album Prestige, Girl Ray have delivered a single that will be a blast to hear, and perform, live. – J. Lipshutz
Speedy Ortiz, “Scabs”
Wry vocal hooks, liner-notes-ready wordplay and guitar riffs twisting around time changes are all hallmarks of Speedy Ortiz, who return with a song decrying hollow activism as their first new single in five years. Yet “Scabs” possesses a tenacity that sounds fresh and hard-earned: credit goes to the solidified band lineup (longtime touring bassist Audrey Zee Whitesides and drummer Joey Doubek have joined singer-songwriter-guitarist Sadie Dupuis and guitarist Andy Molholt) as well as Sarah Tudzin, the Illuminati Hotties mastermind who co-produced “Scabs” and helps provide space for the band to roam. – J. Lipshutz
Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week? We feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
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These 10 tracks from artists including The Japanese House, Donna Missal, Amaarae, FLO and more will get you energized to take on the week. Pop any of these gems into your personal playlists — or scroll to the end of the post for a custom playlist of all 10.
The Japanese House, “Boyhood”
The Japanese House (aka Amber Bain) returns with the provoking and expectedly gorgeous “Boyhood, the artist’s first taste of new music this year. Arriving as the first single since Bain’s 2020 EP Chewing Cotton Wool (which featured Justin Vernon), “Boyhood” dives in deep, exploring childhood trauma and learned identity — all of which, of course, Bain sings with the utmost delicacy. – Lyndsey Havens
Amelia Moore & jxdn, “FUMD”
The latest from alt-pop artist Amelia Moore is a metallic and rattling track on which she yells (veiled in industrial, distorted production) to an ex, “I think of you when I sleep / You can’t just leave me alone / You gotta fuck up my dreams.” Jxdn perfectly fills in the blanks, offering the other side of the story — while echoing the exact same feelings. The catharsis is palpable. – L.H.
Softcult, “Spoiled”
There’s an intimate awareness that accompanies sibling harmonies — and Softcult, the grungy, dream-pop duo of twins Mercedes and Phoenix — is no exception. “Spoiled” takes listeners on a trip through two extremes: downtempo, tender moments lead to the more assertive and surging summit. The song is a standout on the Canadian DIY act’s latest EP, See You In the Dark, of which the siblings say: “We finally see ourselves as we currently are, not who we want to be.” – L.H.
Donna Missal, “Flicker”
It’s immediately clear that “Flicker” was a song Donna Missal had to make — it sounds like the dance-pop equivalent of a long-awaited sob, as if it just spilled right out all over the studio floor. Arriving as the first single since Missal was released from her label last year, “Flicker” has an undeniable shine, and Missal herself sounds stronger — and more empowered — than ever. – L.H.
Harriette, “bc I love you”
After a six-year hiatus, VV Brown — one of the most strikingly ambitious pop artists of the 2010s — is back with “Black British,” an incisive look at race relations in the modern U.K. that nods to influences ranging from Erykah Badu to James Baldwin. Brown can rap, belt, construct pop melodies and weave harmonies into thoughtful criticism; her talent bowls over everything in its path, and its return with “Black British” is very welcome. – J. Lipshutz
Amaarae, “Reckless & Sweet”
“Reckless & Sweet” possesses the type of ringing hook that beckons whoever is listening to the dance floor — and that’s before the wind-swept rhythms kick in and Amaarae arrives, asserting the world around her with coos and commands. The rest of “Reckless & Sweet” lives up to the second half of the song title, but Amaarae’s latest gem is carefully orchestrated, a sense of purpose within each smooth motion. – J. Lipshutz
DWLLRS, “Driving”
Titling a song “Driving” suggests that it will make for a sublime open-road soundtrack, and when it comes to the new track from California indie-pop duo DWLLRS, mission accomplished: the wispy guitars, extended syllables and rolling percussion synch up to passing mile markers and open-window exhalations quite nicely. Sure, you could listen to “Driving” on headphones, but you’d be missing a bit of the spark. – J. Lipshutz
Jam City feat. Aidan, “Times Square”
British producer Jam City is adept at concocting shoulder-wiggling dance tracks, and “Times Square,” a disco bumper with guest vocals from Aidan, an Omar S sample racing across its runt time and a love of hip-hop at its heart, marks one of his sleekest hits to date. “Times Square” clocks in at four-and-a-half minutes but begs for an extended remix — we could groove to this for twice as long. – J. Lipshutz
VV Brown, “Black British”
After a six-year hiatus, VV Brown — one of the most strikingly ambitious pop artists of the 2010s — is back with “Black British,” an incisive look at race relations in the modern U.K. that nods to influences ranging from Erykah Badu to James Baldwin. Brown can rap, belt, construct pop melodies and weave harmonies into thoughtful criticism; her talent bowls over everything in its path, and its return with “Black British” is very welcome. – J. Lipshutz
FLO feat. Missy Elliott, “Fly Girl”
British girl group FLO pick the clock up flip it and reverse it to 2002 with “Fly Girl,” a smooth R&B ride with some impressive vocal runs, none of which veer into ostentation. The chorus, naturally, draws on Missy Elliott’s 2002 classic “Work It” — and Misdemeanor herself even stops by for a joyous guest verse. – Joe Lynch
Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week? We feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
These 10 tracks from artists including BTS’ Jimin, Phoenix with Clairo, Hozier, Aly & AJ and more will get you energized to take on the week.
Pop any of these gems into your personal playlists — or scroll to the end of the post for a custom playlist of all 10.
Joy Oladokun & Noah Kahan, “We’re All Gonna Die”
The stately strings that open “We’re All Gonna Die” belie the impish charm of this delightfully dark duet between Joy Oladokun and fellow singer-songwriter Noah Kahan. Hard to argue with the message of this song, or its charming sing-song chorus. – Joe Lynch
Fred again.., Skrillex & Four Tet, “Baby again..”
Coming a month after the three dance artists played a pop-up concert at Madison Square Garden, the collaborative “Baby again..” finds the rather unlikely trio reimagining 2019’s “Baby” from Quality Control, DaBaby and Lil Baby as an insistent slice of rave that will carry you away. – J. Lynch
Jimin, “Set Me Free Pt.2”
Are ominous gospel choirs having a moment? Arriving on the sequined high heels of Sam Smith & Kim Petras’ “Unholy,” “Set Me Free Pt.2” opens with a dramatic choral section, before Jimin takes over and shifts it into an anthemic banger augmented by regal horns and an Auto-Tune breakdown. – J. Lynch
Kyle, “Movin’”
In a repetitive, almost obsessive cadence, Kyle sings about “Movin’” over a skittering beat and an 8-bit-flavored hook, dropping a few lyrical gems along the way: “Whenever my heart’s broken, girl, I write the best lines / So thank you in advance when you hear this in Best Buy.” – J. Lynch
Phoenix feat. Clairo, “After Midnight”
“After Midnight,” a cut from the top half of Phoenix’s 2022 album Alpha Zulu, sees the group tapping into a euphoria that leaves the listener hyper and energized. But now, with the addition of Clairo’s breathy and weightless vocals, the song gains an additional layer of depth that serves as a serene contrast to the jittering synth instrumentals. Phoenix lead singer Thomas Mars and Clairo harmonize effortlessly, allowing for the 2023 update to stand firmly apart from its original version. – Starr Bowenbank
Melanie Martinez, “DEATH”
After a long waiting period following 2020’s After School EP, singer Melanie Martinez finally says a farewell to her Cry Baby persona and formally declares that she is “back from the dead” on new track “DEATH.” The clever track sees the star embracing a rebirth and electronic, synth-driven sound for her Portals album cycle, which — based on the alien-like visuals and various song teasers — promises to be one of her most sonically ambitious yet. – S. Bowenbank
Mitsume, “Chocolate”
Japanese indie band Mitsume – which consists of members Yojiro Suda, Moto Kawabe, Mao Otake and Nakayaan – embraces guitar-driven funk on its new single, “Chocolate.” The wistful track likens the sweet, bitter taste of quality chocolate to the experience of meeting someone exciting, only to have that feeling fade away. The accompanying instrumentals are just as sweet. – S. Bowenbank
Hozier, “Eat Your Young”
“Eat Your Young” arrives as the title track off a three-song EP, the first bit of new music from Hozier since his 2019 second album Wasteland, Baby! The single, though lush, is even more apocalyptic as Hozier describes a frenzied feast, exploring the idea of gluttony. “I’m starving, darling … Let me wrap my teeth around the world,” he sings, as if anything less would never satisfy. — Lyndsey Havens
Tash Sultana, “James Dean”
The glimmering production and crisp vocals from Aussie singer-songwriter Tash Sultana contrast with the picture that “James Dean” paints. The opening line offers a vivid image: “You burnt out all the cigarettes / Watching James Dean films on a monochrome screen.” As the artist continues to describe a dud, the song grows stronger and more layered — as if proving just how full her life already is without the extra weight. — L. Havens
Aly & AJ, “Blue Dress”
Sister duo Aly & AJ recently released its folk-leaning pop-rock album, With Love From, which includes standout single “Blue Dress.” Through chilling harmonies, the pair describe the feeling of buying a new outfit solely for a partner — but with the intent of forgiving and forgetting past mistakes. Sure, it’s asking a lot of one blue dress, but it soon becomes clear only one thing really matters: “I just care that you get here,” they sing in a way that’s not quite pleading but more so at peace with whatever is to come. — L. Havens
Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week? We feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
These 10 tracks from artists including d4vd, Hatchie, Christine and the Queens and more will get you energized to take on the week. Pop any of these gems into your personal playlists — or scroll to the end of the post for a custom playlist of all of our pop favorites for 2023!
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d4vd, “Worthless”
Quick-rising newcomer d4vd continues his hot streak of successful singles, including “Romantic Homicide” and “Here With Me,” with “Worthless,” an exasperated alt-rock song that shows the artist’s vocal range. “It’s easier said than done / I’m trying to find my purpose,” the Houston teen sings — but to those on the outside looking in, it’s clear he already has. — Lyndsey Havens
Christine and the Queens, “To be honest”
French indie-pop auteur Christine and the Queens is gearing up for an epic 20-track album titled PARANOÏA, ANGELS, TRUE LOVE, co-produced with Mike Dean. Yet for as ambitious as the project sounds, lead single “To be honest” doesn’t over-exert itself — its genius is in the subtle, ominous pull of the production, which creates a perfect canvas for honest confessions like “I’m trying to love, but I’m afraid to kill.” — L.H.
Angel Olsen, “Nothing’s Free”
Acclaimed singer-songwriter Angel Olsen’s latest is familiarly chilling, as “Nothing’s Free” showcases what she does best: create space. For as soft as the song is, it’s equally intimidating in the way in which it takes its time, leaving plenty of room for big breaths and horn solos galore. — L.H.
Softee, “Isn’t Enough”
DIY pop artist Softee — the moniker of singer-songwriter and actress Nina Grollman — will soon release her second album, Natural, much of which she wrote while recovering from a breakup over Christmas. Current single “Isn’t Enough,” a slinky and intimate mid-tempo track, puts listeners right there with her, encouraging an empowered sing-along on lines like, “All along, I loved you, oh it wasn’t fake / But I need to love myself in my space.” — L.H.
Hatchie feat. Liam Benzvi, “Rooftops”
“I watch the sunset melt from the rooftop,” Hatchie and Liam Benzvi sing together on “Rooftops,” “Smile as the clouds roll over the sea.” It’s a serene image, and the song around those words is just as breathtaking: a new track from the deluxe edition of Hatchie’s great 2022 album Giving the World Away, “Rooftops” embraces a ‘90s alternative jangle and lush, languid harmonies to become a highlight of an expanded project. – Jason Lipshutz
Nation of Language, “Sole Obsession”
Brooklyn trio Nation of Language has previewed their upcoming album Strange Disciple with the hard-knocking, jittery “Sole Obsession,” which cloaks its emotional vulnerability in an avalanche of synthesizer and a rapid tempo. The hooks satisfy, but the song’s true power comes in the slow fade, as all of the neon-colored noise dissipates into a silence that begs to be broken. – J. Lipshutz
Echosmith, “Hindsight”
A decade removed from “Cool Kids,” Echosmith is still releasing highly enjoyable pop-rock, and a single like “Hindsight” demonstrates just how much Sydney Sierota has evolved as a vocalist since the group’s breakout single. “Reminisce too much to look forward / I get out of reverse when I know it’s true,” she sings, her melancholy enveloping every word as an electric guitar pokes its head up into the mix. – J. Lipshutz
Nicole Han, “Nerve”
Over spacey, pillowy beats, Nicole Han delivers pointed post-breakup barbs (“I don’t know how / you’re happier than you deserve / I’m a lesson that you never learned”) in a soft but resolute cadence on “Nerve.” The Orange County singer-songwriter’s pen recalls Olivia Rodrigo’s diaristic lyrics, but the ethereal chorus is pure Taylor Swift. – Joe Lynch
Misha Biork, “In Your Head”
Little is known about Misha Biork, who released a string of singles throughout 2022 before returning at the top of the year with new material. His latest offering, “In Your Head,” uses the elements of nature to provide an atmospheric instrumental, heightened by D’n’B and breakcore bits to match the frantic pace of an overthinking mind. – Starr Bowenbank
Baby Storme, “Painkillers”
“If I pause my breathing, would that make it stop?” Baby Storme opens her latest track, “Painkillers.” The emotive track sees the New York native grappling with an overflow of emotions that she’s unable to cope with, while the track’s sparse instrumentals — gossamer-like synth, thumping beats and delicate piano — complements her soft vocal delivery, as her feelings fall to the floor in delicate ribbons. – S.B.
It’s a shorter week thanks to President’s Day giving us a three-day weekend, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s an easier one.
If you’re looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week, we feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
These 10 tracks from artists including Victoria Monét & Bryson Tiller, Princess Nokia, Hippo Campus, Riton, the Zombies and more will get you energized to take on the week. Pop any of these gems into your personal playlists — or scroll to the end of the post for a custom playlist of all 10.
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Victoria Monét and Bryson Tiller, “We Might Even Be Falling In Love (Duet)”
The only valid complaint you can levy against Victoria Monet’s “We Might Even Be Falling In Love (Interlude)” from her 2020 EP Jaguar is that at 51 seconds, the twinkling funk-soul treat is over far too soon. So it’s an overdue boon to the tune that Bryson Tiller teamed up with the singer-songwriter to expand the track into a duet for Spotify Singles; it’s only 40 seconds longer, but you’ll relish every moment. – Joe Lynch
The Zombies, “Love You While I Can”
Fittingly released on Valentine’s Day, “Love You While I Can” is a gentle, harmony-laden acoustic celebration of love from British rock legends The Zombies. It hails from their upcoming album Different Game (March 31), which follows on the heels of their documentary Hung Up on a Dream making its premiere at SXSW this year. – J. Lynch
Seán Barna, “Ben Whishaw Smiled”
Over the mischievous, bubbly rhythm of “Ben Whishaw Smiled,” Kill Rock Stars signee Seán Barna paints a vivid picture of romance and/or lust in the wee, booze-soaked hours of a Greenwich Village night. It hails from the singer-songwriter’s upcoming full-length An Evening at Macri Park (May 12), which takes us across the East River and into the heart of queer Brooklyn nightlife nerve center Marci Park. – J. Lynch
Hippo Campus, “Kick in the Teeth”
Is Hippo Campus in its cowboy era? All signs seem to point to ‘yee-haw’ with the release of their new track, “Kick In the Teeth.” The laid-back song sees the band trading its indie rock sensibilities to experiment with some country twang, much to the delight of fans. Lead singer Jake Luppen’s vocals complement the genre shift quite well, languidly flowing over lax guitar melodies and harmonizing with himself so smoothly, even the hardest of rancheros would weep. “I’m about as lonely as a cowboy can be/ And a night without you is a kick in the teeth/ So when you go home, could you think about me?” he sings. – Starr Bowenbank
Princess Nokia, “Closure”
Princess Nokia always has always been a genre bending chameleon when it comes to her music. In fact, they gave listeners a sharp reminder on 2020’s “The Conclusion” (“All my albums differ, and I am really proud of that/ ’Cause I like to experiment, and I see nothing wrong with that”) that switching it up should be expected. With this in mind, new track “Closure” — Nokia’s pivot to nostalgic, Y2K-coded pop-rock — feels more like a return to form. Chugging guitars and bright drums serve as the perfect backdrop as she sings of an effervescent new love that provides the perfect distraction as she moves on from a dead relationship. – S. Bowenbank
The Aces, “Always Get This Way”
The Aces make a glittering return on high-energy single “Always Get This Way,” but beneath its ‘80s-leaning synths and poppy melodies lie raw, relatable lyrics that tell the truth about mental health struggles. Lead vocalist and guitarist Cristal Ramirez is brutally honest on the track, and reveals sleeping problems, appetite loss and other markers of depression. “This song is about shame, panic, and struggle. It’s about the fact that we hold no space for those struggling mentally in our society, and just kinda wish they’d get over it and quit being an inconvenience,” Ramirez says of the track, which gives fans the first look into the band’s forthcoming LP, I’ve Loved You For So Long. – S. Bowenbank
Eloise, “Giant Feelings”
At first blush, the new single from London singer-songwriter Eloise might be mistaken for a coffee-shop nod-along, all gentle harmonies and disarming guitar fuzz. But “Giant Feelings” is actually pissed-off, post-breakup fare, with Eloise bemoaning lingering sentiment while wondering, “When’d you get to be so damn cruel?” Romantic frustration rarely sounds this at ease, and that’s a testament to the Trojan horse that Eloise has made into a potential breakthrough single. – Jason Lipshutz
Maude Latour, “Heaven”
The chorus of “Heaven,” Maude Latour’s blazingly romantic new single, sounds primed for a TikTok takeover, as she snappily lists the reasons why her subject should give in to the bliss of love — but without the rest of the song creating a golden halo of feelings around it, the hook would sound tossed-off instead of hard-earned. “Heaven” carefully constructs its pop joy, and Latour does a fine job dancing around the main refrain, then doubling down when it returns. – J. Lipshutz
Riton feat. Soaky Siren, “Sugar”
Leave it to Riton — the U.K. dance veteran who’s been on a hot streak of late contorting classic hooks into different positions — to turn 50 Cent’s “Candy Shop” into the foundation of a boisterous, far more uptempo club track. With Soaky Siren providing a nimble vocal take over the sped-up, years-old beat, “Sugar” functions like Riton’s 2021 international hit “Friday”: familiar yet irresistible, a killer hit spun on its head. – J. Lipshutz
Stolen Jars, “Somewhere Else”
One half of Brooklyn duo Stolen Jars, Cody Fitzgerald, is active in the world of film scores, having recently helped compose the music for the Disney film Noelle; the other half, Sarah Coffey, is something of a TikTok sensation, with over 200,000 followers. They don’t need to be lobbing out gorgeously aching indie-pop tracks like “Somewhere Else,” which flares up with some pandemic-ridden stir-craziness and fluttering drums… but we’re all the luckier to have them. – J. Lipshutz
Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week? We feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
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See latest videos, charts and news
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These 10 tracks from artists including Dove Cameron, Sabrina Claudio, Rebecca Black and XG will get you energized to take on the week. Pop any of these gems into your personal playlists — or scroll to the end of the post for our updated 2023 playlist of cool new pop songs.
Moss Kena & Super-Hi, “Light It Up”
On both his solo tracks and collaborations, British singer-songwriter Moss Kena possesses a keen sense of tightly controlled pop craft; each movement of “Light It Up,” a new team-up with Super-Hi, is clearly delineated but melodically pristine, as if designed in a lab for maximum dopamine rush. Kena is building quite the singles catalog at this point, and “Light It Up” suggests that they’re going to keep getting better from here on out. – Jason Lipshutz
Rebecca Black, “Misery Loves Company”
After spending years rebuilding her image from Internet meme to singer-songwriter, Rebecca Black sounds remarkably confident on new album Let Her Burn, and that self-assured approach yields sleek, fully realized pop gems like “Misery Loves Company.” Black adopts an ultra-cool hyperpop approach for the majority of the track, but the pre-chorus displays the newfound power of her voice — an impressive showcase on multiple levels, and a worthy playlist addition. – J. Lipshutz
Indigo De Souza, “Younger & Dumber”
Here’s a pro tip: do not experience “Younger & Dumber,” the towering new single from singer-songwriter Indigo De Souza, as background music. The song demands your attention with monumental emotion — De Souza reflects on her past naiveté, while also trying to protect her younger self from the damage ahead — and a searing climax that places the song among the young year’s most affecting, across all genres. Give yourself over to “Younger & Dumber,” and prepare to be dazzled. – J. Lipshutz
Zolita, “Crazy Ex”
Zolita infuses new single “Crazy Ex” with a captivating amount of spirit: while she tosses out declarations about just how crazy of an ex she is, the chorus keeps soaring higher and higher, too defiant to ever look back at how far away the ground has become. Bonus points for the “Crazy Ex” video — which combines Coyote Ugly, stripteases, queer romance and curdled revenge — playing out in similarly animated fashion. – J. Lipshutz
Mae Stephens, “If We Ever Broke Up”
The highly teased TikTok hit “If We Ever Broke Up” arrives right in time for Valentine’s Day: on the punchy pop song, 19-year-old Mae Stephens reveals she wouldn’t be sad over a breakup, but rather “call your dad / and tell him all the shittiest of things you said.” She’s not bracing for a breakdown or seeking revenge, but instead anticipating the end of a relationship with a matter-of-fact mindset — and preparing to dance through it. – Lyndsey Havens
YEИDRY, “Herrera”
The latest from Dominican artist YEИDRY is a pulsing, sultry song with serpentine-like production that slithers through different tempos and moods. And though she asserts in the lyrics that she wasn’t looking for love, she says the passion “thawed me out,” a feeling felt in the music as the track heats up. – L.H.
Sabrina Claudio, “Nurture”
On the airy “Nurture,” Sabrina Claudio’s voice melts over sensual strings and twinkling keys, making even the most stubborn of listeners want to give in to her pleas. “Let me nurture you / Tell me what I need to do,” she sings without any trace of desperation in her voice, but rather an innate knowledge that her help will only prove beneficial. – L.H.
Dove Cameron ft. Khalid, “We Go Down Together”
After stealing your “Boyfriend” and eating your “Breakfast,” Dove Cameron teams up with Khalid (an always valuable feature) for “We Go Down Together.” A slow burner fueled by a meditative piano, “Together” finds their voices weaving, well, together, as they sing about an obsessive love that occupies your every thought. – Joe Lynch
Bob the Drag Queen, “Take My Picture”
Taken from Bob the Drag Queen’s cleverly titled new EP Gay Barz, “Take My Picture” is a throbbing electro hip-hop banger about having “so much fur and so much ice I’m looking like a Yetti.” At one point, Bob references the Material Girl as a well-deserved flex; after all, the Drag Race season 8 champ is Madonna’s special guest on every date of the Queen of Pop’s upcoming Celebration Tour. – J. Lynch
XG, “Left Right”
With only four singles under its belt, global girl group XG has been on a steady grind since debuting less than a year ago and are starting to kick into overdrive, as evidenced by new track “Left Right.” Sung in English, the girl group — which also sings in Japanese and Korean — swaps the high-energy instrumentals and biting lyricism seen on previous releases (“Shooting Star,” “Mascara” and XG Cypher) for bubbly, Y2K-leaning pop and R&B. Each of the group’s seven members excel as a vocalist, as they sing of a newfound fling that sends their hearts into orbit. “I want your body movin’ left, right, left, right/You keep me up, my heart is beating up and down,” the promising young starlets sing on the track’s chorus. – Starr Bowenbank
Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week? We feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
These 10 tracks from artists including TWICE, Caroline Polachek, Overcoats, Alison Goldfrapp and more will get you energized to take on the week. Pop any of these gems into your personal playlists — or scroll to the end of the post for a custom playlist of all 10.
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TWICE, “Moonlight Sunrise”
2021 saw K-pop darlings TWICE release their first-ever English single, “The Feels,” which notably charted at No. 83 on the Billboard Hot 100 following its release. Now, the girl group is back with their second stab at an English release with “Moonlight Sunrise”; the track sees members Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung and Tzuyu demanding ’round the clock affection and attention from their lovers against a backdrop of bouncy synths and subtle trap beats (Dua Lipa & Megan Thee Stallion’s “Sweetest Pie” comes to mind). The girls also step more into their mature sides, delivering lines like “baby, let’s do it all night” with a certain cheekiness. – Starr Bowenbank
Caroline Polachek, “Welcome to My Island (George Daniel & Charli XCX Remix)”
Caroline Polacheck’s “Welcome to My Island” was a serene, at times bubbly, look into isolation, but with the newly released George Daniel (The 1975) and Charli XCX remix of the track, the isolation turns into an all-out dance party filled to the brim with rave-ready instrumentation. Charli spits on the track, asserting her relationship demands, sexual prowess and love for expensive, luxury goods while Polachek’s pitched-up vocals add another dash of dopamine. – S. Bowenbank
Eli Smart, “Done Me”
This breezy, whistling tune from newcomer Eli Smart is a refreshing take on beachy pop-rock, as he repeatedly questions, “What have you done to me?” But with production this catchy and lighthearted, it seems he’ll recover just fine. As the Hawaii-born singer-songwriter said in a statement, “The tune came very naturally, and we just danced around my room … it gave us a version of the sunshine we were yearning for.” — Lyndsey Havens
Raine, “Never Tell”
“Never Tell” is just as intriguing as its maker; little is known of emerging singer-songwriter Raine, other than her age (19) and home base (Los Angeles). The single plays out like a colorful and winding staircase, introducing new tempos and beats at every turn. All the while, Raine’s crisp and inviting voice is what guides listeners along — even through the sudden pauses — ensuring no one will get lost on the unexpected journey that is “Never Tell.” — L. Havens
Ashley Kutcher, “Everyone and No One”
Baltimore singer-songwriter Ashley Kutcher deploys the titular phrase of her new midtempo ballad in the lynchpin line “Am I the one you want when everyone and no one’s watching?” — a question that betrays an uncertainty in her partner during loud and quiet moments. Kutcher navigates the situation with an open heart and sense of pace, her voice growing more commanding as the song (which follows her promising 2022 EP Survive My Own Mind) engrosses the listener. – Jason Lipshutz
Malady, “Pressure Builds”
After opening for Wet Leg last year, London quartet Malady hope to enjoy a breakout year of their own with debut EP All Pressure, No Diamonds, out next month. They’re off to a strong start with “Pressure Builds,” a woozy, shuffling alt-pop track with fuzzed-out guitar sparring with vocal hooks that sound primed for packed clubs; there are a lot of whirring details, especially in the song’s back half, which suggests a bevy of ideas to be presented on Malady’s upcoming project. – J. Lipshutz
Girl Scout, “Weirdo”
As the world shut down due to the pandemic in 2020, Girl Scout singer-guitarist Emma Jansson was working at a grocery store, trying to understand adjustments in social interactions and generally feeling pretty strange about everything. “Weirdo” captures that anxiety within a crisp indie-pop shrug, as the intriguing Swedish group makes a declarative statement about an abnormal time and comes up with one of their best tracks to date. – J. Lipshutz
Alison Goldfrapp & Claptone, “Digging Deeper”
“Everything has changed,” Alison Goldfrapp open her new Claptone collaboration, “Digging Deeper.” If the longtime member of synth-pop duo Goldfrapp is thinking about unleashing more work as a solo artist, this kinetic new single is a strong first step: “Digging Deeper” is designed for dance floor euphoria and delivers a drop that needs to soundtrack your next treadmill sprint. – J. Lipshutz
Brye, “Diet Culture”
A sharp arrow aimed at unfair and narrow body standards in society, Brye’s “Diet Culture” is an indie pop confection about not just loving yourself but loving the way you look, too. Over bubbling syncopation and unusual string flourishes, the Chicago singer-songwriter defiantly tells off anyone who would dare “look at me with pity” because they’re “afraid to gain a pound or two.” – Joe Lynch
Overcoats, “Never Let You Go”
Ahead of their April 7 album Winner, Overcoats share “Never Let You Go,” a beguiling meditation on the way you sometimes feel an increased attraction and dependency in the midst of a breakup. But even if the topic is bittersweet, the single is an irresistible, tightly woven slice of moody pop elevated by the NYC duo’s gorgeous harmonizing and a shimmering piano solo. – J. Lynch
Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week? We feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
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These 10 tracks from artists including Mazie, Honey Dijon and Josh Caffe, Pinkpantheress and Fana Hues will get you energized to take on the week. Pop any of these gems into your personal playlists — or scroll to the end of the post for a custom playlist of all 10.
Mazie, “Girls Just Wanna Have Sex”
“Girls Just Wanna Have Sex” by rising Baltimore native Mazie may be a brash, unabashed ode to queer pleasure, but the singer-songwriter gets all the details right in her vocal delivery — the breathlessness of her infatuation, the zippy elation of a high-speed physical collision, the commanding tone of her “Get outta your HEAD!” plea. There’s a lot to like within “Girls Just Wanna Have Sex,” and the majority of its positive attributes are by Mazie’s design. – JASON LIPSHUTZ
Fred again.. & Romy, “Strong”
Dance floor euphoria can often be about comfort in community, and on “Strong,” the latest team-up between Fred again.. and The xx’s Romy Madley Croft, a simple message precedes a major drop: “Let me be someone you can lean on … You don’t have to be so strong.” The gentle foundation of Romy’s voice has always balanced out the darker undertones of The xx’s catalog, and here, she counteracts the laser-light fantasia of the production with natural grace. – J. Lipshutz
Ayleen Valentine, “Next Life”
Ayleen Valentine’s latest single harkens back to her origin story: after spending time at the Berklee School of Music, the singer-producer dropped out and moved to Los Angeles to get a jump-start on her career. “Next Life” focuses on the desire to sprint into a new chapter, as Valentine’s smoky voice shies away from the melodramatic and coolly operates over drum thwacks, layered harmonies and glistening keys until swimming solo in the final 30 seconds. – J. Lipshutz
Blake Rose, “In Your Arms”
“This song is about wanting to pour all your love into someone but not being able to because the timing is never right,” Australia’s Blake Rose says in a press release for “In Your Arms,” which takes an open-hearted approach to missed opportunities and crafts an affecting piano ballad that showcases his skill set. Slower tracks like these can be a tough sell at pop radio, but “In Your Arms” is likable enough to have crossover potential. – J. Lipshutz
Fletcher, “Better Version”
Included on her new album Girl Of My Dreams, Fletcher’s “Better Version” is a stunning self-reflection with a subtle country twist. While for most of the, song the pop artist bemoans the feeling of someone new getting the better version of her ex, she ends with an optimistic outlook that proves a post-breakup glow-up can go both ways: “Now some other person, is gonna get the better version … of me.” — LYNDSEY HAVENS
Grace McKagan, “Jimmy (Lookin’ Like Trash)”
Sounding fresh out of the 2010s indie rock scene, “Jimmy (Lookin’ Like Trash)” is a welcome throwback — it’s not hard to imagine the song soundtracking a scene of the Humphreys’ Brooklyn living in Gossip Girl. With a warm tone that compliments the lo-fi instrumentals, this second single from Grace McKagan (daughter of Guns N’ Roses bassist Duff McKagan) should create just the right kind of stir ahead of her upcoming debut EP, out Dec. 2. — L.H.
Honey Dijon feat. Josh Caffe, “La Femme Fantasique”
Opening with spacious, eerie echoes, “La Femme Fantasique” quickly shifts into chilly electro territory with a relentless throb. It’s a highlight from Honey Dijon’s knockout new LP Black Girl Magic, and while the title might be French, this collab between the London-based Josh Caffe and Dijon (who splits her time between NYC and Berlin) is fit for any dancefloor around the world still bumping past closing time. – JOE LYNCH
Fana Hues, “Float”
Fana Hues, one of the best new voices in R&B, brings her lilting, earthy croon to the forefront on “Float,” a track that coasts gently down a lazy river of soul-funk. It hails from the recently released deluxe version of her wittily titled Flora + Fana and arrives with a fittingly blissful visualizer. – J. Lynch
Pinkpantheress, “Do you miss me?”
The world was first introduced to Pinkpantheress and her heavily garage-, jungle- and drum and bass-inspired music in 2020, but now, the continually rising star is experimenting with different genres through collaborating with some of her favorite artists. New track “Do you miss me?” sees the singer once again embracing her bubbly, effervescent vocals — this time, against a more worldy backdrop with Afrobeats influences, thanks to co-producers phil and longtime idol Kaytranada, allowing her to step just a few feet out of her comfort zone. – STARR BOWENBANK
Cigarettes After Sex, “Pistol”
It’s been a long time coming for a new Cigarettes After Sex single, but new song “Pistol” was certainly worth the wait. The track — which serves as the three-piece band’s (Greg Gonzalez, Jacob Tomsky and Randall Miller) first offering since 2020’s “You’re All I Want” — builds on their signature dreamy, romantic and melancholic sound, and sees Gonazlez lamenting the loss of a relationship, begging for the affections of his former lover for in the simplest of ways: “I know if I saw you/ And we kissed just once/ You could be happy/ Maybe you’d come back/ ‘Cause I really miss you.” —
Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week? We feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
These 10 tracks from artists including Beach Weather, the Dragon Sisters, Patrick Wolf, Lila Drew, Stevie Bill and more will get you energized to take on the week. Pop any of these gems into your personal playlists — or scroll to the end of the post for a custom playlist of all 10.
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Beach Weather, “Trouble With This Bed”
High off of its 2016 single “Sex, Drugs, Etc.” recently hitting No. 1 on Billboard’s Alternative Airplay chart, three-piece alternative band Beach Weather — which consists of members Nick Santino, Reeve Powers and Sean Silverman — have returned with a brand new track, “Trouble With This Bed.” The song sees the trio expanding on its feelings of discontent and loneliness, but under a comforting veil of sunshine. Santino sings of wanting to be joined by a lover to end the agony that comes with sleepless nights, while Powers and Silverman provide fuzzy guitar work and synth instrumentals upbeat enough for a stark juxtaposition to the lyrics. – Starr Bowenbank
The Dragon Sisters, “Back Down”
The Dragon Sisters sashayed to the forefront of New York City nightlife as the city emerged from its COVID coma, and on new single “Back Down,” the duo demonstrates that their cool-as-a-cucumber onstage ferocity translates to the mic as well. Over a metal-tinged guitar riff and rapid-fire beats, Issa and Odessa Dragon unleash their inner Minaj and tear into those who are “quick to back down” when faced with opposition. – Joe Lynch
Lila Drew, “Used To”
London-born, L.A.-raised singer-songwriter Lila Drew conveys a winning curiosity on “Used To,” the opening track on new album All The Places I Could Be. The melody remains fairly straightforward and Drew’s voice picks up momentum as the song rolls on, but the combination of the production details — stray beats crashing in, DJ scratches and sound effects — and the way Drew’s lyrics swirl around infatuation without landing too heavily make “Used To” feel like an exciting opening chapter to the project. – Jason Lipshutz
Patrick Wolf, “Enter The Day”
“Enter The Day” marks British pop virtuoso Patrick Wolf’s first new music in 10 years, and also coincides with the 20th anniversary of his recording debut. While Wolf’s multi-faceted skill set and fascination with genre were on display throughout the first decade of his career, his new single also serves as a reminder that he can simply sit down at the piano and bang out a wonderful pop song. Wolf’s voice, always his greatest power, sounds as warm and remarkable as ever on “Enter The Day,” which stretches out across multiple verses but hammers down on the emotional heft during the chorus. – J. Lipshutz
Reneé Rapp, “Too Well”
It’s a big time for multi-hyphenate Reneé Rapp, who released her debut EP Everything to Everyone last Friday and will star in a new season of the HBO Max series The Sex Lives of College Girls later this week. Standout track “Too Well” emits a melancholy charm that’s reminiscent of the dramedy: Rapp laments, “It sucks, I don’t hate you as much,” as her post-breakup anger gives way to sadness, and she demonstrates a knack for showy hooks as well as tossed-off details. – J. Lipshutz
Beatenberg, “Symposium”
Cape Town singer-songwriter Matthew Field has been beguiling listeners in recent months with his solo project M Field, but Beatenberg, the long-running trio he fronts with Robin Brink and Ross Dorkin, produces similarly ornate and heartfelt pop. “Symposium” is a lovely introduction for new fans, twirling skyward with twee instrumental pileups while also clearing out space for Field’s delicate messages. – J. Lipshutz
Stevie Bill, “Poison”
With the release of her debut EP Messy, NYC-based, Amsterdam-born pop singer Stevie Bill shows off her range with airy tracks like “The Boy Who Cried Love,” which spotlights her falsetto, and latest single “Poison,” which explores a grittier, more thunderous sound. Inspired by artists from Post Malone to Clairo, Stevie Bill has managed to carve her own lane somewhere right down the middle. – Lyndsey Havens
dee holt, “Sober”
The confidence dee holt exudes on “Sober” is only amplified by her crisp vocals, as she makes it sound oh-so-easy to dismiss a partner. “Come and see me when you’re sober, when you get rid of your persona,” sings the Montreal-based artist over minimal, creeping production that supports the notion she’s not messing around. – L. Havens
Sault, “Fight For Love”
British music collective Sault, helmed by producer Inflo, has a knack for fusing jazz, R&B, house and disco. And while “Fight For Love” (off new album 11) is a more melancholy release, it hits just as hard thanks to a funky bassline and delicate vocals that softly spill over the song as if no one was ever meant to hear them. – L. Havens
Hatchie, “Nosedive”
The surging “Nosedive” arrives as the latest from Aussie alt-pop artist Hatchie, and with its relentless electro-rock backdrop and the singer’s echoing vocals, it immediately stands out in her catalog. With the production doing the heavy lifting, Hatchie slinks around the song, experimenting with her own harmonies and deliveries on each verse. – L. Havens