cool new pop songs
Page: 2
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 Kenya Grace, Jaden Hossler, Marian Hill 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 with all 10.
Explore
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
Kenya Grace, “Only in My Mind”
[embedded content]
Instead of resting on her laurels and basking in the recent success of “Strangers,” which exploded on TikTok last month and yielded a Hot 100 debut, Kenya Grace has moved on to showcase how her gentle approach to propulsive dance music sounds in another setting. “Only in My Mind” gestures at the drum-n-bass exploration of “Strangers,” but places Grace’s lilting voice over a beat that thumps harder and within a tempo that’s a bit more breathless, resulting in another beguiling groove from the new star. – Jason Lipshutz
Spencer Barnett, “Swank”
[embedded content]
Singer-songwriter Spencer Barnett has been relatively quiet since his 2020 EP I’m Fine, but new single “Swank” is effortlessly appealing enough to justify the wait. The guitar and bass creep around each other and create an air of pop-rock relaxation, while Barnett’s honeyed tone perfectly matches the production’s haze — he soothes the listener, and then leaps out of the speaker, to prevent “Swank” from becoming background noise. – J. Lipshutz
Miki Ratsula, “What Would the Neighbors Think?”
[embedded content]
“I hate how you wait till its almost too late / To tell me you love me,” Miki Ratsula confesses on the heartbreakingly sad “What Would the Neighbors Think?,” which provides a glimpse at the quiet emotional devastation contained within the confines of a family home. Ratsula has a knack for plainly addressing towering feelings, and they imbue every inch of “What Would the Neighbors Think?” with tender detail, each line stacked atop the one that preceded it upon a foundation of long-gestating hurt. – J. Lipshutz
Claire Rosinkranz, “Swinging at the Stars”
[embedded content]
“Swinging at the Stars,” the new single from Claire Rosinkranz’s just-released album Just Because, hints at becoming an anthem of personal ambition — “We’re just looking for a good life / Swinging at the stars,” the chorus opens — but the song is actually a rollicking take on sharing every facet of life’s tapestry with a special someone, sung with a brightness and grandeur befitting the 19-year-old singer-songwriter. Rosinkranz’s voice is multiplied to provide “Swinging at the Stars” more heft, but she’s able to convey a delightful breeziness throughout its run time. – J. Lipshutz
Zada, “Sweet Things in Life”
[embedded content]
Celebrating the “Sweet Things in Life” on her latest song, Zada reminds us that variety is the spice of those sweet things by crafting a mix of sparkling neo-soul, acoustic flourishes and romantic synths. The Ethiopia-born, Canada-based singer tosses and turns between determination and uncertainty, all while her dulcet tones carry the listener along her personal journey. – Joe Lynch
Feid and ICON, “FERXXO 151”
[embedded content]
Colombian star Feid teamed with production duo ICON for this sunny and uptempo track, and together, the trio created a soundtrack for a worry-free fling. While the lyrics are a bit eyebrow-raising as Feid sings of all the ways in which his love interest is irresistible, the beat matches his energy with a cadence that’s instantly catchy. – Lyndsey Havens
Royel Otis, “Fried Rice”
[embedded content]
Last week, Australian pop duo Royel Otis announced its upcoming debut album Pratts & Pain, arriving in February 2024. Lead single “Fried Rice” captures an early-2000s indie pop-rock sound with lo-fi vocals layered under driving drums and a repeated riff, all of which combine for a hummable chorus in which the word “I” extends for three syllables across three notes. It’s easy to imagine this one soundtracking an episode of The O.C. – L.H.
Cosmo’s Midnight feat. Shungudzo, “Gimme Some More”
[embedded content]
Twin brothers Cosmo and Patrick Liney comprise the Aussie electronic-pop duo Cosmo’s Midnight, and on the shimmering, feel-good “Gimme Some More,” they tapped singer Shungudzo to drive home the sentiment that “enough is not enough” when it comes to the person you love. A song as giddily fun as this demonstrates that sometimes there’s no such thing as too much of a good thing. – L.H.
Jaden Hossler, “Chrome Hearted”
[embedded content]
After teasing a name change and new musical direction on social media, the pop-punk artist formerly known as jxdn finally revealed what he’s been up to: released under his birth name Jaden Hossler, his new single “Chrome Hearted” is a trash-talking pop-trap song. Here, Hossler puts his vocals more front and center than they ever have been before — and hopefully, that’s where they will stay. – L.H.
Marian Hill, “You Were Always Sure”
[embedded content]
Jazz undertones have always been present in Marian Hill’s sound, but new single “You Were Always Sure” sees the group amplifying those notes even further. The electronic foundation of the duo duo (Samantha Gongol and Jeremy Lloyd) remains present, showing up as sparse synths that act as the beating heart throughout the track in combination with twinkling piano keys, while Gongol’s vocals swell into lush harmonies as she tells a tale of an uneven romance. – 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.
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
These 10 tracks from artists including Sia, Madison Beer, Corrine Bailey Rae, Poppy 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 with all 10.
Corinne Bailey Rae, “A Spell, A Prayer”
After turning heads with her garage rave-up “New York Transit Queen,” Corinne Bailey Rae – best known for the neo-soul-pop classic “Put Your Records On” — has unreleased her full Black Rainbows album. As evidenced on the expansive, atmospheric opening track “A Spell, A Prayer,” the singer-songwriter is in the midst of a fruitful creative 180, refusing to limit herself to any one genre while still maintaining her meticulous approach to songcraft. The results are as eclectic as they are thrilling on this 10-song LP. – JOE LYNCH
Madison Beer, “Sweet Relief”
[embedded content]
Hailing from Madison Beer’s latest album Silence Between Songs, “Sweet Relief” nicely demonstrates the pop star’s subtle, effective vocal choices when it comes to three-minute-song storytelling. Opening with a propulsive verse that conjures the slight melancholy of infatuation, the song lets loose on the chorus, with Beer conveying the feeling of an irresistible romantic obsession. – J. Lynch
Riovaz, “The Rake (Can’t Complain)”
[embedded content]
Riovaz continues his genre agnostic journey through the ups and downs (though mostly the latter) of relationships with “The Rake (Can’t Complain).” It’s a single that proves high BPMs and emo lyrics pair nicely together, especially when refracted through the Jersey artist’s obsession with ‘90s dance, from drum’n’bass to house. – J. Lynch
K. Flay, “Punisher”
[embedded content]
On the electric and menacing “Punisher,” included on K. Flay’s latest album Mono, the genre-blurring artist sings of a “great manipulator” and “vindictive dictator.” By the chorus, it’s clear who the villain in question is, as K. Flay admits to a relatable truth: “Nobody knows how to punish me like me.” The confession sets the stage for the catchy chorus built around a whining riff and whispering voices — leaning into the notion that everyone is their own toughest critic. – LYNDSEY HAVENS
Poppy, “Motorbike”
[embedded content]
Poppy goes sleek and seductive for her latest Zig single, “Motorbike,” tackling fierce femininity over darkwave synth instrumentation. Kicking off the track is an ominous voice that ponders, “I wonder why, nothing catches my eye, quite like the sight of a girl with a powerful machine between her legs” — a potential nod to her Poppy.Computer days — before descending into a full blown groove that sees her lusting after a girl ready to overpower the large metal machine. Whether the lust is in attraction or jealousy is up for interpretation. — STARR BOWENBANK
Sia, “Gimme Love”
[embedded content]
While Sia has found great success in the past with motivational anthems like “Alive,” “Unstoppable” and “The Greatest,” new single “Gimme Love” — which previews her first solo pop album in eight years, out next spring — adopts a more pleading attitude, as the singer-songwriter begs for affection over echoing drums and a cloudy sea of synthesizer. The tone of “Gimme Love” doesn’t diminish its scale, however: Sia is still making pop music for enormous spaces, and her latest can fill any sized room. – J. Lipshutz
Leah Kate, “Desperate”
[embedded content]
“God, I’m a mess right now,” Leah Kate squeaks right before launching into the chorus of “Desperate,” the most impressive new track on her recently released debut album Super Over. In between eye-rolls at her own clinginess and super-charged melodies that sound ripe for top 40 radio, Kate sneaks some unkempt vulnerability into the pre-chorus, giving a post-breakup track like “Desperate” a stronger, more empathetic foundation. – J. Lipshutz
Bella Poarch feat. Lauv, “Crush”
[embedded content]
Midway through his new collaboration with Bella Poarch, Lauv declares, “Love Island is my favorite show”: the point that he and his co-star on “Crush” are making is that sometimes, you can go on TV, give out roses, and go home alone, without any drama following you off camera. “Crush” is low-stakes post-summer giddiness, with two skilled voices harmonizing about embracing the butterflies without putting down stakes; Poarch in particular sounds self-assured on this type of rhythmic pop track, tossing in vocal flourishes for good measure. – J. Lipshutz
Yumi Zouma, “KPR”
[embedded content]
New Zealand quartet Yumi Zouma have been releasing music together for nearly a decade, and new single “KPR” demonstrates the way in which they keep getting better: after perfecting their brand of fine-tuned indie-pop, “KPR” delves into atmospheric, slightly askew shoegaze, and the results are even more rewarding. The single captures the range of vocalist Christie Simpson, who simmers beneath the production, steps forward into the silence, and commands the final hook. – J. Lipshutz
Hannah Diamond, “Poster Girl”
[embedded content]
It’s hard to make bubblegum pop that sounds as effortless as Hannah Diamond’s “Poster Girl” — which perfectly matches the aesthetic of its single artwork, featuring Diamond surrounded by pop-star posters in her bedroom as a hair dryer becomes her low-budget wind machine. The synth lines and vocal melodies of “Poster Girl” sound instinctive, as if Diamond woke up one day with turn-of-the-century teenybopper smashes fully internalized; it’s a new single, but it feels time-honored. – 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.
These 10 tracks from artists including Leigh-Anne and Ayra Starr, Romy, Blondshell, Tirzah 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.
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
Leigh-Anne feat. Ayra Starr, “My Love”
[embedded content]
Little Mix star Leigh-Anne Pinnock has found an intriguing new lane for her solo career: “My Love,” co-starring rising Nigerian artist Ayra Starr and produced by Afropop connoisseur Magicsticks, values movement above all over the course of nearly three minutes, with both artists singing about relentlessly vibrating rhythms as the percussion follows their cue. “My Love” is designed to be bellowed among groups of friends on the dance floor, and succeeds in pushing Leigh-Anne’s sound into the future. Jason Lipshutz
Romy, “She’s On My Mind”
[embedded content]
“She’s On My Mind” is a joy, as both the album closer to Romy’s recently released Mid Air and what the song represents in that spot: after Romy Madley Croft murmured her subtle magic with The xx, her debut solo album lets her spread out into sensual, often smile-inducing dance music. With its euphoric key plinks and whooping vocal hooks, “She’s On My Mind” ends the full-length triumphantly — but of course, the track works just as well on its own, the softness of Romy’s voice highlighting any dance break. – J. Lipshutz
Baby Queen, “Quarter Life Crisis”
[embedded content]
Before the final five seconds of Baby Queen’s new single “Quarter Life Crisis” speeds up into a chaotic swirl and then crashes down, 25-year-old Bella Latham sings about living within that hurricane of post-teen uncertainty, asserting in the chorus, “I look at my face and I don’t recognize it.” A shakier writer might have trouble provoking empathy for mid-20’s ennui, but Latham understands how to make each line both biting and relatable — as well as deliver a hummable waltz of a hook. – J. Lipshutz
Morgan Saint, “It Hurts To Be Human”
[embedded content]
The title of Morgan Saint’s sparkling new dance-pop track refers to post-breakup agony: as the bass hits a groove and the cymbals get tapped, Saint bemoans putting an untrustworthy partner’s needs before her own and ignoring clear-cut warning signs during a doomed romance. The tension between Saint’s sorrow and her self-produced, happily chattering track helps “It Hurts To Be Human” levitate above other dance floor cuts of its ilk, particularly when the song arrives at its elastic breakdown. – J. Lipshutz
Jolie Laide, “Pacific Coast Highway”
[embedded content]
Jolie Laide is the new collaborative duo of Nina Nastasia and Jeff MacLeod, and after Nastasia unveiled Riderless Horse, her first album in 12 years, last year, “Pacific Coast Highway” suggests that we’ll be getting more moving songwriting from the beloved cult figure soon enough. “Pacific Coast Highway” possesses a stormy foundation, with a cracked guitar-and-drums arrangement that threatens to explode, although Nastasia also communicates a calmness while extolling the peace and freedom of her subject. – J. Lipshutz
iann dior, “You Don’t Even”
[embedded content]
iann dior topped the Billboard Hot 100 for eight weeks as the featured guest on 24kGoldn’s “mood,” and the Texas singer-rapper brings the same irresistibly melodic melancholy to his latest solo track, “You Don’t Even.” Dior melds sweetness and pain so breezily that it’s easy to overlook his knack for pop songcraft. – Joe Lynch
Tirzah, “Promises”
An album title like trip9love…??? doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, but Tirzah isn’t the type of singer-songwriter to meet the audience halfway. Once again paired with producer Mica Levi, the English artist creates a strangely compelling mixture of minimalist piano, skittering 808s and gently haunted vocals on gems such as “Promises.” – J. Lynch
George Riley, Elixir
[embedded content]
The meaty beat and jangling metal that introduces “Elixir” are immediately grabbing. And once London singer-songwriter George Riley adds her vocals into the mix, it’s game over. Her syrupy sweet delivery paints the thumping dancefloor production with colors of R&B and pop, resulting in a track just as enticing as the elixir she sings of. – Lyndsey Havens
Blondshell, Street Rat
[embedded content]
After teasing the fondly titled “Street Rat” online and in her live show, alternative artist Blondshell finally unleashed the track as part of the forthcoming deluxe edition of her self titled album (out Oct. 6). “Wouldn’t feed that / To a street rat,” begins the artist, doubling down on her knack for scorching one-liners delivered as softly as possible — which, somehow, makes them all the more painful. And when the chorus hits, during which she confesses certain circumstances to be “awful … and needed,” Blondshell reminds listeners that her greatest strength of all is her unrelenting honesty. – L.H.
Slothrust, “Pony”
[embedded content]
Ginuwine’s “Pony,” a R&B classic and staple for the ’90s, is seen through a brand new lens in Slothrust’s latest cover of the track. The song goes grunge, trading the original winding bass instrumental for fuzzier and notably heavier guitar and drum work from duo Leah Wellbaum and Will Gorin. Wellbaum shines on the song, delivering the lyrics — which boasts of sexual prowess amid searching for a partner that can truly satisfy — with a knowing wink and the perfect hint of seduction. – 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.
Explore
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
These 10 tracks from artists including Renée Rap, aespa, Alana Springsteen and Land of Talk 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.
Renée Rapp, “Pretty Girls”
[embedded content]
“This conversation’s classic / I can predict this s–t, line by line / I like a straight jacket / But it feels like it’s a little tight,” Renée Rapp sings on “Pretty Girls,” the most cleverly satisfying track on just-released debut album Snow Angel. “Pretty Girls” gestures at acoustic singer-songwriter production before speeding up to an electro-pop hook, but Rapp’s wordplay sizzles within both sounds, as she tries to navigate women who want to sexually experiment without any emotional understanding. – J.L.
Promiseland, “Bad Days”
[embedded content]
Promiseland may be signed to Julian Casablancas’ label, Cult Records, and the Strokes leader may make a cameo in the music video to new track “Bad Days,” but the lead single to the band’s forthcoming debut album recalls the atmospheric eeriness of Joy Division more than any garage rock revival tune. “Bad Days” moves with ghostly purpose, the skittering beats pushing the verses downhill before the chorus reaches skyward. – J.L.
Moyka, “Perfect Movie Scene”
[embedded content]
“Perfect Movie Scene” does not possess a discernible chorus; instead, Norwegian artist Moyka presents a few types of refrains over shuddering electronics and nearly five minutes, sprinting down a winding pathway of ideas concerning idealized romance. The momentum gathers as “Perfect Movie Scene” continues until a dance floor climax arrives, and Moyka wisely lets the moment breathe, understanding that sometimes the most impactful sequence doesn’t need a catchy hook. – J.L.
Sadie Jean, “16”
[embedded content]
Sadie Jean’s new single “16” is defined by the same gentleness that we often use to reminisce about simpler pieces of our youth: the singer-songwriter’s voice never rises above an amiable warble, but it never needs to while she reflects on teenage memories of girl talk, parking in a parent’s car and childhood bedrooms feeling smaller than they once were. Jean impressed on past singles like “WYD Now” and “Locksmith,” but “16” showcases her most nuanced performance to date. – J.L.
Margaret Glaspy, “Get Back”
[embedded content]
Echo the Diamond, Margaret Glaspy’s third full-length released last week, is defined by the singer-songwriter’s unfussy view of reality, each tweaked guitar string and weary-yet-hopeful lyric steeped in the California native’s reality. “Get Back” is highlighted by that uncompromising point of view: as she insists on returning to herself amidst immense loss, Glaspy holds nothing back, each production blemish adding character to a rugged song that will get stuck in your head. – J.L.
Alana Springsteen, “Amen”
[embedded content]
“Amen” is the final song on Alana Springsteen’s 18-track debut album Twenty Something, and its placement at the end of a 53-minute project gives the anthem an extra sense of gravity, as if the lessons learned across the first 17 tracks have led to the self-realization of who she is and what she wants. “I don’t need a happy ending,” Springsteen declares, her voice rising as she apologizes to those who wanted her to follow a safer path — and in its power, demonstrating why she couldn’t choose that option. – J.L.
Jake Scott, “Come Close”
[embedded content]
Jake Scott’s “Come Close” flirts with piano balladry, settles into synth-pop verses, and scoops up some echoing percussion midway through, but really, the single represents the singer-songwriter’s plain-spoken plea for fully unguarded connection with the one he loves. Scott has collaborated and toured with country musicians in the past, but “Come Close” is straightforward, sumptuous pop music, and Scott shines in that medium. – J.L.
Land of Talk, “Your Beautiful Self”
[embedded content]
About a minute and 10 seconds into Land of Talk’s new single “Your Beautiful Self,” Lizzie Powell’s vocal approach changes, their lower tone climbing onto a raised platform and escaping the shadows of the piano and drums. It’s a special moment within the influential Canadian project’s grand return — new album Performances will be released in October — and Powell stays in that register through the rest of the song, their voice a reminder of Land of Talk’s hypnotic appeal. – J.L.
aespa, “Better Things”
[embedded content]
With just a few dates into the girl group’s North American tour, aespa delighted MYs with the release of new track “Better Things.” Equal parts summer kiss-off and chill breakup anthem, the song sees the K-pop stars experimenting outside of their spellbinding universe to dabble in tropical house vibes. Karina, NingNing, Winter and Giselle ultimately shrug off a romance shrouded in doubt in favor for protecting their peace — and the end result is intoxicating. – S.B.
The Drums, “Isolette”
[embedded content]
The Drums’ Jonny Pierce leans into the emotional wounds of his past on new track, “Isolette.” Inspired by his mother’s traumatic birthing experience and the strained relationship they had as a result, Pierce allows himself to be vulnerable about his personal shortcomings, from being incapable of loving another properly to feeling paralyzed at the thought of making a mistake. Plucky, slightly upbeat guitar work shows that while Pierce is not fully past his issues, he continues to cope and often returns to the solitude from which he came. – S.B.
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.
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
These 10 tracks from artists including Cannons, Lauv, BAMBII with Aluna, Meet Me @ the Altar 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.
BAMBII feat. Aluna, “Hooked”
[embedded content]
Toronto-bred DJ BAMBII has become known for her unexpected fusions, ensuring each release offers a new roadmap to the same destination: a good time. On the sultry “Hooked,” she and Aluna journey through gently thumping, and at times oscillating orchestral beats — setting the scene as if the pair are slowly winding down a dim-light, hazy road in no rush at all to reach their destination. — Lyndsey Havens
Saint Motel, “Fine Wine”
[embedded content]
The latest from Los Angeles pop band Saint Motel offers a reassuring take on growing up: “Our bodies will age but we’ll never grow old,” sings frontman AJ Jackson, comparing the process to that of fine wine, becoming better with time. And once the glimmering chorus hits, which sounds tailor-made to accompany an onstage curtain of sparklers, it’s hard not to buy in. — L.H.
Cannons, “Desire”
[embedded content]
“I’ve got a fire / I feel it starting to grow,” Cannons singer Michelle Joy declares on their sensual new single, “Desire”: the line may be a knowing or unwitting callback to “Fire for You,” and like the band’s breakout hit, the new track conveys its yearning message through ’80s textures and clean, dreamy synth-pop. When Cannons release singles that are both smoky and designed for swaying, you better be ready to press the replay button. — Jason Lipshutz
Dylan feat. Bastille, “Liar Liar”
[embedded content]
British singer-songwriter Dylan has specialized in emotionally heightened pop tunes during her speedy ascent, as have Bastille over the course of their mega-streaming career; together, Dylan and the band’s Dan Smith have conjured an intensely magnetic duet with “Liar Liar.” Both singers spit out the titular phrase as a decree against deception, accentuating the song’s piercing strings and sprinting beat with ample charisma. — J.L.
Lauv, “Love U Like That”
[embedded content]
The single artwork for Lauv’s “Love U Like That” is a neon-purple lipstick print — a fitting image for a love song that embraces its listener with enough heartfelt emotion to glow in the dark. Lauv has earned billions of streams with this brand of vulnerable, immaculately constructed pop, and “Love U Like That” once again finds him navigating fizziness with airtight hooks and generous falsetto. — J.L.
Speedy Ortiz, “Ghostwriter”
[embedded content]
“I’m tired of anger” is the lynchpin line on Speedy Ortiz’s bewitching new single “Ghostwriter,” as Sadie Dupuis sings about attempting to live with less rage while also existing in a world full of social injustices that deserve to be called out. Out of all of the singles that Speedy Ortiz has shared ahead of upcoming album Rabbit Rabbit, “Ghostwriter” may possess the most immediately satisfying balance of shimmer and substance, pushing forward with purpose as Dupuis ponders her next move. — J.L.
Chris Farren, “All We Ever”
[embedded content]
“All We Ever,” the best song on Chris Farren’s great new album Doom Singer, essentially exists as a list of the singer-songwriter’s large and small desires: as the guitar surfs forward and a synth hook pops in and out, Farren proclaims that he wants to “fall asleep reading a book,” to “get drunk with my friends,” to “make my mother proud of me,” to “love being alive.” The cover of Doom Singer finds an animated Farren on his knees, pleading with the heavens; “All We Ever,” then, serves as that image’s lovely audio counterpart. — J.L.
LANY, “XXL”
[embedded content]
Perhaps a song that’s nostalgic for the year 2018 will make you feel older than the dirt under your shoes, but LANY sell the not-so-distant look back on “XXL,” an expansive pop-rock track about a misbegotten romance and the too-large hoodie that makes the memories flood back. The repetition of the “XXL” motif, used at the end of each verse and throughout the chorus, serves the song well, turning what could have been a stray observation into a memorable anthem. — J.L.
Meet Me @ The Altar, “Take Me Away (Freaky Friday)”
[embedded content]
For fans of Freaky Friday’s “Take Me Away,” as sung by actress Christina Vidal for the 2003 movie’s House of Blues performance scene, Meet Me @ The Altar put their spin on the classic track and revived it for Gen Z, just in time for the film’s 20th anniversary. Vocalist Edith Victoria injects a fair amount of bite, adding more of the band’s signature pop punk edge to the group’s rendition of the track. — Starr Bowenbank
Puddle Splasher, “Basic Forms”
Following 2019’s The Blankest Blue, Puddle Splasher — Brooklyn based trio consisting of members Dante Fotino, Andy Altadonna and Adam Thibeault — has returned with new single “Basic Forms,” their first in five years that doubles as the first look at an upcoming album. The band continues to dive headfirst into fuzzy, alternative leaning rock as Altadonna’s voice melts into energetic guitar and drum work at the turn of the chorus. — S.B.
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 Tinashe, Lizzo, Poppy 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.
Explore
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
Poppy, “Knockoff”
[embedded content]
While Poppy is ostensibly singing about a relationship on “Knockoff,” the first single from forthcoming album Zig, it’s hard not to think about the questions of authenticity currently propelling debates about AI while enjoying its stormy, sinewy groove. “How you gonna prove to me that you’re the real thing?” Poppy sings, the synths around her constructing a metallic fortress that the soft, human warmth of her voice effectively breaks. – Jason Lipshutz
Jenna Raine, “It Is What It Is”
[embedded content]
Handclaps, hard acoustic strums, piano melodies and boisterous group vocals are all helping Jenna Raine get out of the funk of growing up on “It Is What It Is,” a brisk charmer that gives the singer-songwriter ample room to showcase her personality over a short run time. Raine eye-rolls her way through hardship before mining some positivity, deploying snappy lyrics that could feasibly blow up in the next uplifting TikTok trend. – J. Lipshutz
Rosie Darling, “Boxes”
[embedded content]
The ornately detailed post-breakup songwriting of hits like Olivia Rodrigo’s “Drivers License” and Lizzy McAlpine’s “Ceilings” is present in Rosie Darling’s “Boxes,” on which the Boston-born singer-songwriter examines the messiness that comes with a split — the changed locks, the tearful trip home, the call from an unaware family member. Darling nails those quiet moments, but also balls up her frustration in affecting big-picture questions: “What did you want from me? / I gave you everything.” – J. Lipshutz
Mitch Rowland, “Come June”
[embedded content]
Those familiar with Mitch Rowland’s work alongside Harry Styles — he co-wrote and played on multiple Harry’s House tracks, including performing drums on the chart-topping smash “As It Was,” and joined Styles’ Love On Tour world trek — should check their preconceived notions at the door when pressing play on debut single “Come June.” Instead of trying to re-create that magic, the singer-songwriter has found some of his own in a subtle indie-folk template, unfurling his own fragile voice with confidence. – J. Lipshutz
Becca Means, “My Darling”
[embedded content]
Nineteen-year-old Becca Means has accrued 3 million TikTok followers through a series of cover songs, demos and entertaining clips that showcase her personality — and while translating social media charm into a catchy song is often a tall order, Means pulls it off on debut single “My Darling.” The beguiling kiss-off pulls from ‘60s pop but feels modern and lived-in, with plenty of melodies worth returning to tucked into the verses. – J. Lipshutz
Bruno Major, “The Show Must Go On”
[embedded content]
The first verse of Bruno Major’s “The Show Must Go On” is split in half between fantasy and reality: after describing a scene of a hero triumphing, getting the girl and evoking crowd applause, Major snaps back into a more common occurrence of staring at a ceiling late at night, full of existential dread and ennui. “The Show Must Go On” demonstrates Major’s songwriting panache as a prescription for living your truth: his voice soulfully winds through ideas and scenario, dispensing advice in second person. – J. Lipshutz
The Beaches, “Me & Me”
[embedded content]
With “Me & Me,” a driving rock track about prioritizing yourself, Canadian foursome The Beaches deliver an updated take on the Beyoncé classic “Me, Myself and I”: Over a fuzzed-out riff, vocalist Jordan Miller confidently observes, “When I’m with myself, it’s honestly zen / Might as well be my girlfriend.” Elsewhere, she asks if spending time with herself is really such a sin, or more of a win; judging by the unbothered tone of “Me & Me,” it seems to be the latter. – Lyndsey Havens
Lizzo, “Pink”
[embedded content]
Unlike Dua Lipa’s “Dance the Night,” which could’ve appeared in the soundtrack to any number of summers flicks, Lizzo’s contribution to the blockbuster Barbie film features lyrics that serve as a meta commentary on the action of the film’s brilliant opening scene. Like the movie itself, the bright, buoyant tones of “Pink” set up a frozen plastic perfection that – by the time Lizzo spells out an acronym for the color, ending with ‘K’ standing for ‘cool’ – you know is bound to crack. – Joe Lynch
Tinashe, “Talk to Me Nice”
[embedded content]
With a soft, skittering rhythm and looped vocal syllable repeating throughout (courtesy of producers Nosaj Thing and Scoop DeVille), “Talk to Me Nice” finds Tinashe in her sweet spot, delivering shadowy, sensual R&B that’s hypnotic in its beauty. It’s a promising tease of the singer’s upcoming 2023 project, BB/ANG3L. – J. Lynch
NewJeans, “Get Up”
[embedded content]
After a successful run of singles (“Attention,” “Hype Boy,” “Ditto” and “OMG”) in less than one calendar year, NewJeans’ Get Up EP, released on July 21, quickly became one of the most highly anticipated K-pop project of the summer. While the first half of the EP employs Baltimore dance and UK garage beats for an energetic listen, title track “Get Up” – albeit only 36 seconds long – acts as an interlude to catch your breath. Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin and Hyein’s voices melt into airy synth instrumentals as they dabble in R&B, offering a hopeful glimpse at what’s to come from their future releases. – 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.
Explore
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
These 10 tracks from artists including The Aces, Madison Beer, Blonde Redhead and Boys World 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.
Ilsey with Bon Iver, “Heart of Gold”
Singer-songwriter Ilsey Juber has worked with everyone from Miley Cyrus to Kacey Musgraves and dozens more across the last decade. On “Heart of Gold,” her warm tone takes on the affecting Neil Young classic with an assist from Bon Iver: there’s a fullness to Ilsey’s rendition — and with the slightly faster pacing, the ongoing search for that illusive heart of gold sounds more urgent than before. — Lyndsey Havens
Gabriels, “Glory”
Rising three-piece band Gabriels, a British-American act formed in 2016, have uncovered a kind of magic when they combine, and “Glory” is a stellar example. Though the song clocks in at under three minutes, with its heart-racing cymbal taps, full-bodied harmonies and soul-stirring fusion of jazz and gospel, the moments that Gabriels manage to pull off within that frame have a lasting impact. — L.H.
The Aces, “Attention”
Indie-pop quartet The Aces kicked off Pride month with the release of its uplifting third album I’ve Loved You For So Long. Standout track “Attention” focuses on the recognition of your own limits, and what you can give: “I’ve become your enemy / You’ve started resenting me,” sings lead vocalist Cristal Ramirez with a touch of remorse, before admitting, “I’m tired of tearing you apart / Know your heart has had enough.” — L.H.
Alicia Creti, “Strange”
Montreal singer-songwriter Alicia Creti only debuted last year with the piano-led “Congratulations,” and on “Strange,” she’s sticking with what she does best, delivering impressive range over soulful R&B-pop production — and, of course, led by keys. “Strange” sounds less pristine than her debut track but in the best way possible, allowing her unfiltered vocals to hit full force. — L.H.
Madison Beer, “Home to Another One”
“Home to Another One” may sound like a stylistic exercise by Madison Beer on first listen — the respective sounds of Tame Impala and Lana Del Rey, springy psych-rock and lilting pop, smushed into three minutes — but Beer’s performance stands out within the mash-up, synthesizing those influences into a sturdy groove and reflection on betrayal. The long-simmering pop artist’s sophomore album, Silence Between Songs, is due in September, but “Home to Another One” was wisely released in time for summer spins. – Jason Lipshutz
Becca Mancari, “Over and Over”
“I wanted to write a queer pop song that has meat on its bones,” Becca Mancari explains in a press release for new single “Over and Over”; to accomplish this, the singer-songwriter combines a novelistic lyrical approach (“Line cook, janitor / That year I was invisible / Back in the closet, celibate / But we don’t have to talk about it”), a killer refrain centered on its titular phrase, and backing vocals from their pal Julien Baker. The product is both airy and substantial, one of the more satisfying pop tracks of the year — in other words, mission accomplished. – J. Lipshutz
Blonde Redhead, “Snowman”
Back with their first album since 2014, Blonde Redhead have previewed the forthcoming Sit Down for Dinner with a breathtaking five-minute comeback statement: “Snowman” draws upon experimental Brazilian music, but exists in the warm comforts of 2000s indie rock, Amedeo Pace’s voice swirling across the layered production like a long-lost siren from the blog era. The length and depth of “Snowman” suggests that Blonde Redhead’s return will carry lofty artistic ambitions — as listeners, we’re all the better for them. – J. Lipshutz
Porsh Bet$, “Moving On”
Over a gentle yet prickly guitar, Porsh Bet$ tells a soon-to-be-ex, “We’re holdin’ on to what’s left of nothing / what’s the point of a long discussion if we’re moving on?” With a chorus like that, you might expect a sneering delivery, but the Harlem-raised indie singer-songwriter asks the question with a wistful warmth, making this a rare breakup song that isn’t pained or pissed off – just grateful, but ready to call it a day. – Joe Lynch
Los Aptos & Cuco, “Miel”
Los Aptos and Cuco are a match made in heaven on collaborative track “Miel.” The group – which consists of trio Juan Ortega, Jony and Alex Rivera – effortlessly croon about the beauty their lover possesses (“Y esos ojos hermosos color a miel” — “Your beautiful eyes are the color of honey”), and dare to consider what life would be like without the object of their affections, a perfect complement to Cuco’s romantic musings. – Starr Bowenbank
Boys World, “me, my girls & i”
Heartbreak doesn’t stand a chance against the girls of Boys World – Elana, Makhyli, Queenie Mae, Lillian Kay and Olivia Ruby – and their new track, “me, my girls & i.” The track sees the quintet uplifting the unofficial sixth member of the group (the listener) out of her “sad b—h” state of mind, and employs all the trappings of mending a broken heart: going out, dancing, spending time with your closest pals. With nearly three minutes of girl power themes, high-energy beats and bouncy instrumentation, the track acts as an antidote to emotional slumps of any kind. – S.B.
Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week? We feel you… and with some awesome new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
These 10 tracks from artists like Chappell Roan, Jenny Lewis, Lauren Jauregui 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.
Explore
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
Chappell Roan, “Kaleidoscope”
With singles like “Casual,” “My Kink is Karma” and “Pink Pony Club” last year, Chappell Roan established herself as a pop singer-songwriter to watch entering 2023 — and while “Kaleidoscope,” her first new track of the year, doesn’t posit itself as a potential radio breakthrough, the aching piano ballad illustrates why Roan is here for the long haul. “Kaleidoscope” tiptoes around its emotional center before drilling down on the devastation, as Roan’s voice arrives as at a falsetto so fragile it might break in half at any moment. — Jason Lipshutz
JFDR, “Life Man”
How many personal experiences can be considered significant, and how many can be chalked up to just being part of life, man? Jófríður Ákadóttir, the experimental Icelandic artist better known as JFDR, struggles to find an answer on “Life Man,” lobbing out rhetorical questions as guitar strings and handclaps envelop her voice. Even before the song finds a sense of closure, “Life Man” dazzles with a relaxed elegance — existential crises have rarely sounded this beautiful. — JL
Lauren Jauregui, “Trust Issues”
The instrumentation beneath Lauren Jauregui on new single “Trust Issues” remains sparse out of necessity: as the singer-songwriter examines her hesitancy to accept others into her orbit, the strings stay muted, and the guitar work never distracts, because Jauregui’s voice would simply bowl them over with its modulated power. As Jauregui continues to refine her approach as a solo performer, “Trust Issues” serves as another impressive vocal showcase for an artist who’s concurrently evolving as a songwriter. — JL
Annie Blackman, “Bug”
At nearly five minutes, Annie Blackman’s “Bug” represents an ambitious songwriting endeavor from the Brooklyn-based artist, who mixed similes and memories of being pushed too far with airy harmonies and a taut indie-rock arrangement. When Blackman’s voice reaches skyward during the makeshift hook — “Actually if you’re around come by-y-y-y-y / It’s late, but if you’re awake, then so am I-I-I-I-I” — we receive one of the most tender pop moments of the year. — JL
Superviolet, “Big Songbirds Don’t Cry”
Steven Ciolek, the former leader of The Sidekicks, may lean towards the verbose on the new single under his Superviolet project — the words “pentatonic,” “adage” and “telecasted” all pop up in the opening verse of “Big Songbirds Don’t Cry” — but Ciolek balances out the wordplay with straightforward folk-pop melodies and a bright, oversized sing-along bridge. Pop “Big Songbirds Don’t Cry” onto a road trip playlist, and find yourself becoming a songbird, too. — JL
Jesse, “Rainbow”
The Neighbourhood frontman Jesse Rutherford has revived his eponymous solo project with a two-pack of tracks, “Joker” and “Rainbow,” and while both are melancholy and introspective, the latter is most intriguing for the way in which it exposes his heart — and seemingly, how he feels for his partner, Billie Eilish. “I’ve had some others there won’t ever be another like you… you give me butterflies I might puke,” the artist confesses over light crackles in the production, putting the listener directly into his mindset. — Lyndsey Havens
Jenny Lewis, “Psychos”
Jenny Lewis makes a grand return with “Psychos,” a song that, in spite of its title, plays out smoothly and serenely. Working within juxtapositions is what Lewis does best, as she previews new album JOY’ALL with an emotive, laid-back listens that put not only those around her, but perhaps even herself, at ease with declarative lines like, “I’m not a psycho, I’m just trying to get laid.” — LH
Cian Ducrot, “Part of Me”
While touring with Ed Sheeran across Europe, Irish singer-songwriter Cian Ducrot started teasing new music, including the soaring “Part of Me.” His vivid storytelling — which chronicles the pain of someone becoming “only a memory” — is accompanied by guiding keys and a simple, steadying drumbeat; both sounds seem to become physical forces on the song, as if they alone are holding him up. — LH
Altın Gün, “Su Siziyor”
Turkish psych-rockers Altın Gün release captivating music at a steady clip, and arriving as the latest single off its upcoming album Aşk (which follows 2021’s Yol), “Su Siziyor” delivers on all of the band’s trademarks, with a slight SoCal twist. Here, Merve Dasdemir’s airy vocals calmly surf the atmospheric and layered instrumentals with ease — arriving just in time for longer, warmer days ahead. — LH
Olivia Dean, “Dive”
On a souful pop song like “Dive,” Olivia Dean makes sure that listeners can picture the 24-year-old English artist smiling as she sings. “Dive” is a syrupy-sweet love song that prioritizes all the healthiest parts of diving in: “Lately you just undеrstand my feelings / Make me see I’m capable and finе,” Dean confidently confesses, while also unintentionally delivering a How To manual on the very act. — LH
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!
Explore
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
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.
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.
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
These 10 tracks from artists including Arlo Parks, Portugal. The Man, Jutes 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.
Arlo Parks, “Impurities”
Arlo Parks’ 2021 album Collapsed in Sunbeams was one of the strongest, most promising debut albums in recent memory, and based on what we’ve heard so far from follow-up My Soft Machine (out May 26), it sounds like the British singer-songwriter may soon have a classic on her hands. “Impurities” finds the retro soul vibes of Collapsed taking a backseat to blissed out ambient rock, with Parks’ voice occupying a satisfying middle ground between childlike sweetness and a sort of all-knowing assurance. – JOE LYNCH Dijon, “Coogie”
Baltimore-based artist Dijon taps into the creakier regions of his voice and the chunkier tunings on a guitar for “Coogie,” an idiosyncratic slice of alt-R&B. According to Dijon, it was recorded in the woods and “is out because it lived on a phone and wanted out.” Fair enough – who can argue with the wants and needs of a song? – J. Lynch
Mimi Webb, “Amelia”
The tender closing track to Mimi Webb’s self-titled debut album of the same name (Amelia) is a letter to her younger self: “Your mistakes, heartbreaks, only make you stronger anyway / And when you’re older, you’ll see life will pass you by, so just enjoy the ride… Everything is gonna be just fine.” For an album that’s made for introverts and extroverts alike, “Amelia” finds middle ground with its introspective lyrics that can be belted out loud. – LYNDSEY HAVENS
Portugal. The Man, “Dummy”
Released as the lead single off the alt-rock outfit’s forthcoming album Chris Black Changed My Life, “Dummy” is a slow groove built around a hypnotic, counting chorus (“One two three four/Everybody get on the dance floor/Five six seven eight/Its four am and I am wide awake”). Moving away from the pop appeal of the crossover smash “Feel It Still,” here the band is embracing its original method: follow a vibe down a rabbit hole. It pays off. – L.H.
binki, “Hotel Window”
DIY artist binki’s “Hotel Window’ is a gritty, surging track that mantains a similar momentum to a theme park ride. It starts off steady, but from the chorus to the verse and beyond the song seems to subtly pick up the pace. At just barely over two-minutes, it’s the type of song one wouldn’t hardly notice — or mind — if it played on loop. Much like a parkgoer wanting to ride again and again. – L.H.
Allie Kelly, “Gunshy”
Little is publicly known of newcomer Allie Kelly, but her rock-pop “Gunshy” is an intriguing enough entry point. Equal parts pointed (like the declarative chorus and confident riffs) and soft (like the hushed self-harmonies and whispered bridge), Kelly is an artist unafraid to embrace — and explore — life’s ups and downs in her music. – L.H.
Leland feat. MUNA, “Bad at Letting Go”
“Bad at Letting Go” sports some charming synth-pop production and a snappy tempo, but when you’re dealing with songwriters as impressive as Leland and MUNA, you’d expect the lyricism to serve as a highlight — and this collaboration does not disappoint. “Dancing in the bar, the boys have all turned to shapes / Cursing in the dark, and no one heard anything,” Leland sings on the chorus, providing late-night decisions with provocative imagery and a sense of urgency. – JASON LIPSHUTZ
Victoria Anthony, “Can’t Hold Back”
Victoria Anthony’s sophomore album, New Disaster, will be released on May 12 — the same day as the Vancouver-based singer-songwriter’s high school graduation — and new single “Can’t Hold Back” contains all of the ferocity of a teenage rebel yell. Anthony adopts the pop-punk production smoothly here, singing about catching feelings as the guitar line bares its teeth leading into a howl of a hook. – J. Lipshutz
Jutes feat. Royal & the Serpent, “Punkstar”
With a title like “Punkstar,” Jutes’ latest single aims high as a new-school pop-punk anthem, and carries the magnetism to sell its concept. Jutes sounds compelling whether he’s crooning the hook or fuzzing out his voice in the verses, and when Royal & the Serpent crashes into view, “Punkstar” multiplies its appeal. – J. Lipshutz
Cafuné, “Perspective“
Cafuné — the duo of Sedona Schat and Noah Yoo — continues to delve into the shift in sound explored in its 2021 viral smash, “Tek It.” Schat’s lush vocals float over contemplative, full bodied guitar instrumentation and drum work that, at times, ever so slightly hints at early 2000s emo and drum and bass, as she sings of losing the connective thread once had with an acquaintance: “I saw your face fall/ Through the hours of daylight left/ Now we’re running out of time/ I think I’m losing perspective.” – STARR BOWENBANK