cool new pop songs
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Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week – particularly as we get within striking distance of the end of the year? We feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
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These 10 tracks from artists like Blake Rose, Meet Me @ the Altar, Halsey, CHVRCHES 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.
mazie, “are you feeling it now”
Psych-pop artist mazie’s debut album, blotter baby, is a colorful world of her mind’s own making. The bubbling mid-tempo track “are you feeling it now” can be considered the halfway check-in point for the vibey journey she takes fans on, offering a quick moment to take stock before diving in deeper. — Lyndsey Havens
Blake Rose, “Don’t Stop the Car”
Australian pop artist Blake Rose has been building an impressive presence and resume since relocating to L.A. His latest EP, You’ll Get It When You’re Older, is a testament to that growth — and “Don’t Stop the Car” sums up his path quite well. “Let’s take it fast, let’s take it far…” he sings, amplifying the voice inside his head that’s been cheering him on. — L.H.
Meet Me @ the Altar, “Kool”
Meet Me @ the Altar’s smashing new single opens with a guitar chug that recalls Green Day’s “Brain Stew,” but Edith Victoria’s chuckle in the opening seconds nods less toward a slacker anthem than a playful mash note for a crush. After some promising moments in the past, Meet Me @ The Altar make “Kool” come across as brash and confident — the sound of a pop-rock trio growing into the stature of its fat riffs and cymbal rides. – Jason Lipshutz
Body Type, “Miss the World”
Australian garage rockers Body Type are quickly following last year’s debut album Everything Is Dangerous But Nothing’s Surprising with sophomore LP Expired Candy, due out in June, and “Miss the World” makes for a riveting opening shot, with social commentary delivered so quickly that you have to run it back to catch every line. Fans of Sleater-Kinney and Television’s more pop-leaning moments should absolutely devour “Miss the World.” – J. Lipshutz
Loreen, “Tattoo”
Swedish pop star and former Eurovision winner Loreen is back with a dramatic, nitro-fueled anthem that hopefully previews her first proper project since 2017’s Ride. “Tattoo” represents the cinematic, string-supported dance-pop sound that has historically struggled to connect with American audiences but tops charts overseas; hopefully, U.S. listeners will make an exception, and embrace a song as epic as “Tattoo.” – J. Lipshutz
Maryjo, “Love Fools”
Nope, not a Cardigans rework, but a showcase for Cleveland singer-songwriter Maryjo, whose words tumble out with searing emotion and who untangles some knotty melodies on this beautifully rendered piano ballad. “It’s funny how four letters can dismiss all of your rationale,” Maryjo spits on “Love Fools,” her voice rising higher even as she realizes her relationship is doomed; heartbreak is in the cards, but it makes for a great introduction. – J. Lipshutz
Nicky Youre, “Shut Me Up”
Opening with a bright, bouncy beat that brings to mind Wham! at their cheeriest, “Shut Me Up” is a sweet, self-effacing romantic overture (“Kiss my lips and shut me up”) from “Sunroof” hitmaker Nicky Youre, who seems poised to deliver a song of the summer juggernaut one of these days. – Joe Lynch
Halsey, “Die 4 Me”
If you dug Post Malone’s Halsey/Future collab “Die 4 Me” from his 2019 blockbuster Hollywood’s Bleeding but longed for a solo Halsey version of the track, well, your four-year-old prayers have been answered. The brooding pop singer-songwriter owns the parts of the Posty track that came from their own pen, explaining on Instagram, “All my verses I wrote myself. Spit them right out like a bad taste in my mouth.” – J. Lynch
CHVRCHES, “Over”
Scottish electropop trio CHVRCHES is barreling into 2023 with brand new single, “Over.” Lauren Mayberry’s vocals float over anthemic synthesizers and larger than life percussion as she sings of feeling detached from her surroundings. In the trio’s own words, the track “explores themes of trying to exist in an escapist dreamscape when life is difficult,” adding the release “felt timely” in light of recent global events. – Starr Bowenbank
Broods, “F—ck My Money”
Satire and modern capitalist criticism are at the core of Broods’ new release, “F—k My Money.” Vocalist Georgia Nott turns her back on humanity as she realizes that in the grand scheme, no one really cares – but hey, at least money will always be there to soften the blow. All that’s left to do, per her instructions: “Eat my money/ Wear my money/ Smoke my money/ F–k my money” until the void has been properly filled. – 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
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
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.
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See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
These 10 tracks from artists including Rita Ora, Stephen Sanchez, Quinnie 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.
Stephen Sanchez, “Evangaline”
Rising singer-songwriter Stephen Sanchez had a breakout hit with “Until I Found You,” which introduced the world to his warm and vintage tone. “Evangaline” continues down that path, sounding entirely timeless as Sanchez croons over Evangaline — there’s even a crackle of a record to close out the track, further cementing the idea that Sanchez holds a bit of the past, present and future. — Lyndsey Havens
Samia, “Honey”
Alt-pop artist Samia paints a specific picture for a specific crowd (New York-based indie music fans) on “Honey,” singing: “Do you wanna go to Baby’s? / It’s been a long week and I don’t want to think / and Porches is playing.” Even more engaging is the end, when Samia repeats the refrain “it’s all honey” over and over again — as if willing everything around her to be just as sweet, and asserting she won’t have it any other way. — L.H.
Elle King, “Lucky”
Rock-country-pop star Elle King recently released her latest album Come Get Your Wife, which includes a particularly touching song inspired by her son, Lucky Levi. “Lucky” details the various lows in King’s life — “I’ve been a runner / I’ve been a fighter … It’s a bad reputation, but it’s damn well earned,” she sings — setting the scene for her to admit she got to where she is today but sheer luck. The catchy track is made even better with Lucky’s giggles, which wisely appear at the end — pretty hard to top that. — L.H.
Riovaz, “u neva”
It’s not the music Riovaz makes that shows his age, but rather that fact that the music can hardly fit into any one box. Seemingly inspired by hip-hop, alterantive, dance and pop, the teenage newcomer is not only eager to explore it all, but on tracks like “u neva” he’s proving he can deliver it all, too. – L.H.
Quinnie, “Flounder”
Introduced by melodic-sounding footsteps and quick-picking instrumentation, “Flounder” instantly creates some creative tension — an unexpected stage-setter for Quinnie’s delicate vocals. The single shows a slightly edgier side to the rising artist — compared to hits like “Man” and “Touch Tank” — and sets her up for an exciting year ahead. — L.H.
Rita Ora, “You Only Love Me”
At this point in her career, Rita Ora is an expert in the type of sleekly designed, electro-tinged pop on display in “You Only Love Me,” a finely crafted ode to complicated romance. Listen to the internal rhyme of “Whiskey’s! Pouring! Four in! The morning!” in the chorus, or the supportive harmonies of the verses, or the strobe-light shimmer of the post-chorus breakdown — Ora makes all of these sumptuous details sound effortless, and serves up another sturdy addition to your pop playlist. – Jason Lipshutz
Jessika, “Her”
UK-born, NYC-based singer-songwriter Jessika strikes a tropical pose on “Her,” which basks in the dejected feelings of seeing a former flame be the one to move on first. Over relatively sparse production, Jessika lets her vocal tone tell the story — at moments she sounds like she’s about to crawl back into bed, and others like she’s ready to huff, puff and blow her ex’s whole house down — and turns “Her” into a striking introduction. – J. Lipshutz
Jordy, “Story of a Boy”
Even if Nine Days’ pop-rock confection “Absolutely (Story of a Girl)” didn’t soundtrack countless radio sing-alongs in your teen years, Jordy’s “Story of a Boy,” which cleverly interpolates the 2000 single, is a welcome retrieval of a bulletproof melody. Jordy turns the hook into a snapshot of flustered male infatuation — “In short, this song is what I needed as a kid,” the singer-songwriter says in a statement — and gives us a sunny, effective queer anthem in the process. – J. Lipshutz
SOFY, “L-Plates”
Percolating with the incisive wit of Lily Allen and the lo-fi melodicism of C86, buzzing British artist SOFY delivers a delectable pop treat in the form of new EP Bored In Colour (Pt. 2). Highlight “L-Plates” is a self-deprecating account of struggling to put down the phone and “get out of bed” that shimmers with wee-oooh synths and effortless songcraft. – Joe Lynch
Cassie Marin “ptsd”
Of her first offering of 2023, Los Angeles-based artist Cassie Marin said new track “ptsd” was written “to remind us that we are not wandering through this alone,” a sentiment captured by the electropop track’s foreboding, borderline scientific production. Throughout, Marin uses her voice as an instrument, guiding the listener through vast instrumentals as she ponders if she’s real, or just a product of a simulation suspended in time. Elements of breakcore and autotune provide a welcome twist to the track’s conclusion. – Starr Bowenbank
Throughout 2022, the Billboard staff offered up 10 Cool New Pop Songs To Get You Through the Week, rounding up the best and brightest new tracks to highlight your Mondays and power you through the work week. We’ll keep wrangling cool new pop songs next year… but until then, let’s look back on some of our favorite tracks from 2022, the soaring ballads and propulsive bangers that may have missed your playlist but deserve to be on repeat well into ’23.
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Check out the Cool Pop team’s picks for the 20 pop songs you have missed in 2022 but absolutely should not miss out on anymore; these picks and write-ups were previously featured in our weekly roundup, but we’re bringing them back once more for some year-end shine. And check the bottom of this post for a handy playlist of all 20 tracks!
Phoebe AXA, “Panic”
Phoebe AXA (stylized as Phoebe ∆X∆) is a self-taught, self-produced singer-songwriter out of East London whose technical skill soars on a song like “Panic,” a savory bit of pop-rock that stomps, squeals and glides in equal measures. The best part of “Panic”? Listening back to its multiple movements and uncovering delicious new details upon each play. – 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
Spacemoth, “Pipe and Pistol”
As Spacemoth, Bay Area-based artist Maryam Qudus has crafted a song as fascinating as its backstory: focusing on her parents’ immigration from Afghanistan to America in the late 1970s, “Pipe and Pistol” utilizes a warped drum loop and thundering post-punk arrangement to a depict a process of confusion and adjustment. Add the rest of Spacemoth’s excellent 2022 album, No Past No Future, onto your must-hear list after absorbing this one. – J. Lipshutz
Moss Kena, “Primadonna”
British pop artist Moss Kena has lent assists to dance-adjacent artists like Purple Disco Machine and The Knocks in the past, but “Primadonna” moves him center stage with a starry-eyed thumper that serves as an ode to an untouchable woman (“Give her the world, but oh my God / She’s gonna drop it, gonna drop it,” he sings). “Primadonna” sounds like the start of something grander for Kena, who officially has our attention. — J. Lipshutz
Sorry, “Key to the City”
Sorry’s sophomore album Anywhere but Here, released in October, showcased the North London alt-pop group’s ability to mix sardonic gloom with slick, enticing melodies. “Key to the City” basks in pre-breakup bitterness, with Asha Lorenz’s voice echoing and fading as the contours of the song abruptly change, like a lot of Sorry’s best work. – J. Lipshutz
Sky Ferreira, “Don’t Forget”
After a nine-year wait for the follow-up to Sky Ferreira’s critically acclaimed 2013 debut, Night Time, My Time, the pop singer came back in 2022 to give fans a glimmer of hope for a new LP with the release of comeback single, “Don’t Forget.” Picking up where previous singles “Everything Is Embarrassing” and “I Blame Myself” left off, Ferreira returned with stadium-ready pop dripping with ’80s-inspired synths and lyrics that prove her bark is just as ferocious — and not to mention, infectious — as her bite (“keep it in mind / nobody here’s a friend of mine”). – Starr Bowenbank
100 Gecs feat. Skrillex, “Torture Me”
Following the releasing of April’s “Doritos and Fritos,” 100 Gecs — the duo of Laura Les and Dylan Brady — ended their period of silence when they enlisted Skrillex on December’s “Torture Me,” an amalgamation of nightcore, emo, hyperpop and rap. Les and Brady’s delivery of the song’s many questions — “Do you wanna see me bleed?/ Do you wanna torture me?/ Do you wanna see me cry?” — complements the anguish well, and allows the experimental instrumentation to shine. – S.B.
PinkPantheress feat. Willow, “Where You Are”
2022 saw Willow decorate her musical resume with a series features — which included Machine Gun Kelly’s “Emo Girl” and Camila Cabello’s “Psychofreak” — but her best of the year was an assist on Pinkpantheress’ “Where You Are.” Though PinkPantheress’ bubbly and borderline saccharine vocals seem like they wouldn’t mesh well with Willow’s full-bodied tone, the juxtaposition is exactly why it works. The garage track, which samples the Paramore deep cut “Never Let This Go,” finds the singers taking unexpected spots in the song’s lush and layered harmonies in between moments of angst and loneliness, making for the perfect 2000s-inspired cocktail. — S.B.
Phoenix, “Alpha Zulu”
Phoenix’s “Alpha Zulu” served as the formal introduction to the band’s album of the same name, while simultaneously serving as a departure from the French indie pop quartet’s often sleek and stylish signature sound — which received the most refinement in previous albums Ti Amo and Bankrupt! Darker synth instrumentals reminiscent of Pet Shop Boys’ heyday (see their 1987 hit “Shopping”) provide tension as singer Thomas Mars sings of humanity’s impending judgement day. — S.B.
Hunny, “Speed Dial”
2000s pop-rock nostalgia is at the core of Hunny’s infectious track “Speed Dial,” which recalls classics like Fountain of Wayne’s “Stacy’s Mom” and Relient K’s “Sadie Hawkins Dance.” Frontman Jason Yager embraces the feels that come from knowing the lady of his affections keeps him at the top of her mind — or rather, her cell. – S.B.
Alfie Templeman, “Colour Me Blue”
If you’re feeling blue, “Colour Me Blue” from English singer-songwriter Alfie Templeman is a surefire pick-me-up. With jangling guitars, a syncopated beat and a winning rapid-fire vocal hook, “Blue” is three minutes of distilled indie-pop sunshine from the 19-year-old talent whose debut album, Mellow Moon, dropped earlier this year. – Joe Lynch
Mykki Blanco ft. ANOHNI and Kelsey Lu, “French Lessons”
Stay Close to Music is the title of Mykki Blanco’s latest album, but it’s also solid advice during these tumultuous times. On “French Lessons,” Blanco teams up with ANOHNI – an artist who knows how to make beautiful sounds in the face of painful realities – and singer/cellist Kelsey Lu for a gentle, synth-y meditation on new romance and that feeling of “drifting away” into bliss. – J. Lynch
Honey Dijon ft. 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 2022 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 dance floor around the world still bumping past closing time. – J. Lynch
CupcakKe, “H2hoe”
With plinky synths and a Middle Eastern flavor, the latest single from CupcakKe, “H2hoe,” is another winner that’s as clever as it is NSFW. For someone who’s been sharing eyebrow-raising couplets for more than half a decade, Chicago’s filthiest pâtissier has yet to get stale: Sample new lyric “make a p–sy stretch like minimum wage” on this motor-mouthed morsel as proof. – J. Lynch
Chappell Roan, “My Kink Is Karma”
While it kicks off with a thumping, ominous beat that seems culled from the realm of Reznor, Chappell Roan’s “My Kink Is Karma” quickly morphs into a synth-pop power ballad. With Roan’s knack for deliciously vindictive breakup lyrics (“Wishing you the best in the worst way / Using your distress as foreplay”), it’s no surprise that there’s a Swiftian cadence to her delivery. – J. Lynch
Jim-E Stack feat. Lucky Daye, “Next to Me”
Producer-artist Jim-E Stack’s “Next To Me” features velvety vocals courtesy of singer-songwriter Lucky Daye over a rippled and bass-heavy beat. The contrasting sonic elements result in an intriguing track that’s equal parts calm, collected and frenzied all at once — and perfectly captures the whirlwind of emotions that come with seeking a partner while knowing you need to work on yourself first. — Lyndsey Havens
Reneé Rapp, “Tattoos”
The debut single from actor-artist Reneé Rapp (The Sex Lives Of College Girls, Mean Girls on Broadway) is a complete knockout as she pairs poignant songwriting with soaring vocals — resulting in an affecting pop ballad. Perhaps what helps it cut through the most is how sparse the production is, a clever move when the bones are this sturdy. — L.H.
Michelle, “Fool 4 You”
New York-based collective Michelle released its second album After Dinner We Talk Dreams in March; Soon after, the sextet fed fans another round with its two-pack After Dinner We Talk Dreams: Side Dishes, which included “Fool 4 U” and “Sea Shanty.” The former that stands out most for its visceral storytelling (“Waking up to your familiar smell / covered in the blankets that you made last night”) and delicately delivered vocals. While much of the song plays on in a beautiful and almost too-polite hush, the last few seconds break that mold, as if in an instant the singer no longer cares whether they wake the person sleeping next to them or not. — L.H.
Hailee Steinfeld and Anderson .Paak, “Coast”
The first taste of new music in two years from pop star Hailee Steinfeld is intriguingly less shiny than previous hits, instead opting for laid-back, breezy production. Perfect for the end of summer as the days begin to cool down, she and first-time collaborator Anderson .Paak bottle up the feeling of a relationship’s casual beginnings on “Coast,” with her singing, “Relax and let the riptide pull you close,” as if wanting to absorb all the season has to offer before it comes to an end. — L.H.
Abby Sage, “Backwards Directions”
From the moment the fuzzy looped guitar of “Backwards Directions” begins, its familiar yet quirky beat sets the stage for alt-pop newcomer Abby Sage to have some fun. Her soft vocals grow as the beat picks up, and suddenly she’s delivering a Wet Leg-esque hook no one saw coming. — L.H.
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 Alec Benjamin, Noah Cyrus, 100 Gecs, Caroline Polachek, Chloe George 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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Oliver Sim, “Sensitive Child (Soulwax Remix)”
A standout track from Hideous Bastard, the recent solo album from The xx’s Oliver Sim, becomes an enthralling, extended groove as Soulwax turns the shaggy rock of “Sensitive Child” into a thumping dance scorcher. The legendary dance group zeroes in on the refrain “I can feel it! When we kiss!,” and grounds Sim’s ethereal vocal take with heaps of percussion; the remix is almost six minutes long but could have been twice that length without growing the least bit stale. – Jason Lipshutz
Alec Benjamin, “Paper Crown”
The original version of Alec Benjamin’s delicate sway-along “Paper Crown” was released on his Narrated for You mixtape in 2018, and has since become a fan favorite that the singer-songwriter decided to retool as a year-end treat. The new edition of “Paper Crown” is marked by its clean production and Benjamin’s earnest delivery, which made him stand out upon the song’s original release and has helped him gain a sizable fan base in the years since. – J. Lipshutz
Eaves Wilder, “Morning Rain”
Plenty of schools are about to go on holiday break, but before that, London-based singer-songwriter Eaves Wilder has released a striking new single about being frustrated by returning to class when all she wants to do is make music in her bedroom. “Morning Rain” has a lived-in quality that nods to Wilder’s real-life experiences, with melancholic harmonies cascading over wandering piano chords and a despondent kick drum. – J. Lipshutz
Whenyoung, “Unchained”
Irish duo Whenyoung make songs that are both mysterious and wholly engrossing — witness “Unchained,” a haunting collection of hooks and fuzzed-out guitar that possesses some dissonance underneath its surface throughout its run time. The electro-pop lane that Whenyoung occupy is crowded, but a song like “Unchained” has enough intriguing details to make the group one to watch in 2023. – J. Lipshutz
Noah Cyrus, “Set for Life”
A best new artist nominee at this year’s Grammys, Noah Cyrus is back with an expanded version of her debut full-length, The Hardest Part. New track “Set For Life” is a lush, romantic slice of singer-songwriter pop in the vein of Carly Simon with light Lana Del Rey undertones. – Joe Lynch
$uicideboy$ and Germ, “My Swisher Sweet, but My Sig Sauer”
On “My Swisher Sweet, but My Sig Sauer,” latest collab between $uicideboy$ and Germ, $crim and Ruby da Cherry bring a percolating combination of attitude and insecurity to a lo-fi but busy trap production with a spaced-out guitar riff, a Star Trek sample and Middle Eastern flavoring. – J. Lynch
Mynolia, “All Things Heavy”
Mynolia’s “All Things Heavy” is like a comforting cuddle, as the folk singer’s inviting voice floats over the folky, mostly acoustic production. Also the title track off the artist’s debut album, “All Things Heavy” proves that sometimes the softest moments can make a big impact. — Lyndsey Havens
Chloe George, “Sunny D”
Built around and amplified by a crunchy chorus of harmonized “oohs,” alt-pop singer Chloe George confidently shows her range on “Sunny D.” Delivering more polished verses with Ariana Grande-like melodies right alongside grungier riffs, the song is a shining example of what an artist who contains multitudes — and isn’t afraid to explore them — can create. — L.H.
Caroline Polachek, “Welcome To My Island”
Caroline Polacheck is back — and with a vengeance. On “Welcome To My Island” the pop star embraces the feminine and ferocious kicking off with swooping ethereal notes reminiscent of a siren song and before evolving into booming, arena-ready synths. The lyrics, according to Polachek, explore “conflict and frustration” as the tension sets the tone for her forthcoming album, Desire I Want To Turn Into You. – Starr Bowenbank
100 Gets, “Torture Me (feat. Srillex)”
After taking a short break following April’s “Doritos and Fritos,” 100 Gecs — the duo of Laura Les and Dylan Brady — enlist Skrillex on “Torture Me,” an amalgamation of nightcore, emo, hyperpop and rap. Les and Brady’s delivery of the song’s many questions — “Do you wanna see me bleed?/ Do you wanna torture me?/ Do you wanna see me cry?” — complements the anguish well, and allows the experimental instrumentation to shine. – 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
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See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
These 10 tracks from artists including Red Velvet, Alan Walker, Julia Pratt and Bahari 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.
Alan Walker, “Ritual”
Walkerverse Pt. I & II, the just-released collection from British-Norwegian DJ Alan Walker, contains a multitude of pulsating beats and ecstatic choruses, but “Ritual” is sleek and seductive enough to stand out on the set. Lyrics like “The ritual fires / They light up and guide us / Shining inside us / Calling all, la la la!” may be peak EDM-tent silliness… yet you’ll likely fail when you try to resist its thumping charm. – Jason Lipshutz
Bahari, “Destructive”
The alt-pop duo of Natalia Panzarella and Ruby Carr created “Destructive” with the veteran hitmakers Rock Mafia, and the new single carries a level of polish that recalls the producers’ fluttering pop radio hits of the late 2000s. Yet chalking up the success of “Destructive” solely to Rock Mafia discounts the playful vocal takes of Bahari’s two members, who enjoy melding their personal flaws into joyful, complementary harmonies. – J. Lipshutz
Virginia To Vegas, “Break Up With That Guy”
Derik Baker, the producer-songwriter who also records under the name Virginia To Vegas, originally wrote “Break Up With That Guy” with Band Camino during a hungover morning session in Nashville, but decided to keep the snappy synth-pop track for himself. Good call: “Break Up With That Guy” makes an impression in a short amount of time, with Baker’s voice conveying a coziness even while suggesting the end of a relationship. – J. Lipshutz
AR/CO, “Supersonic L.U.V.”
“Supersonic L.U.V.,” the latest single from promising new dance duo AR/CO, begins with a siren cry, then a whistle, as if the track is presenting its beguiling hooks one by one. The song congeals from there: whooshing synths, doubled vocals, a bass drop that’s effective without being too intrusive, and a general feeling of fizziness make this a winner that should be kept on repeat until festival season kicks back up. – J. Lipshutz
Julia Pratt, “Odyssey”
Emerging Philadelphia-based singer-songwriter Julia Pratt fittingly takes listeners on an intriguing trip with her new single, “Odyssey.” Threaded with her sturdy falsetto, the indie-pop song explores different tempos and production styles within a tight three minutes, a promising indication of all Pratt is capable of — and leaving fan eager for the next journey. – Lyndsey Havens
Billianne, “No Wonder”
“No Wonder” is the kind of rare debut single that immediately establishes a new voice as one to watch. With this piano-led first single, Ontario’s Billianne introduces fans to her inviting tone, capable of soaring to Adele-esque heights. She said in a statement the song was inspired by her parent’s love, noting, “With an upbringing like I’ve had, it’s no wonder I’m ready to go.” – L.H.
Red Velvet, “Birthday”
Red Velvet fans have admittedly gotten spoiled this year: following the March release of the K-pop group’s Feel My Rhythm EP, the idols have come back with “Birthday,” a return worthy of celebration. The upbeat track, which holds a hint of surprise due to a sampling of Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” sees the girl group employing their usual calling cards — cheerful lyrics, poppy synths and a tinge of R&B swag to round out their sound. As expected, the song is sugary sweet and features lyrics that transports listeners to a world filled with confections (“I got a special day/ Let’s start, another chance/ Sugar sweet, ice cream cake“) and interesting delights. – Starr Bowenbank
Cosmo Pyke, “A Piper for Janet” (Live at Brodie Sessions)
Cosmo Pyke’s 2021 EP, A Piper For Janet, has been re-imagined for the live setting. The English singer-songwriter sat down for the Brodie Sessions, an intimate concert series filmed on 16 mm film from a private home in Copenhangen, and sang the EP’s self-titled track with just an acoustic guitar to accompany him. The jazzy track highlights Pyke’s penchant for romance, inner reflection and unconventional rhymes (“I, caught my reflection having breakfast and this delicatessen/ And so alone I’ve been stressin’ its fairly depressing. I won’t feel afraid”) in a format that feels much more personal and truer to form for the artist. – S.B.
Alberta Cross, “Mercy”
Anglo-Swedish rockers Alberta Cross are due to return with an album in 2023, and first taste “Mercy” is an achingly gorgeous indication of what’s to come. Between singer/guitarist Petter Ericson Stakee’s wistful upper registry vocals (think Jim James) and soundscapes that bring to mind Mark Knopfler and Ry Cooder, “Mercy” ends up as invigorating as it is melancholy. – Joe Lynch
Kele, “Vandal”
A solo offering from the Bloc Party frontman, “Vandal” finds Kele taking no prisoners on this ode to channeling frustration into positive change. “Use that rage in your stomach / Let the anger flow from you,” he sing-raps over a jagged yet limber guitar line and staccato dance beats. To take his point home, the single art shows him burning a copy of the Smiths’ The Queen Is Dead, presumably in reference to Morrissey’s anti-immigration viewpoints. – J. Lynch
“Love,” PEGGY
Boston-based singer-songwriter PEGGY’s latest is a stunningly bare track that spotlights her wide-ranging vocals and self-harmonies. The slow-burning track — which at times seems to pluck inspiration from “Look At Me I’m Sandra Dee” –sounds tailor-made to soundtrack a romantic comedy. “I’ve never been in love,” sings PEGGY, before asserting, “No, I don’t need l-o-v-e.” — Lyndsey Havens
“Missing You,” Stephen Sanchez and Ashe
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On the heels of breakout hit “Until I Found You,” emerging pop-rock artist Stephen Sanchez tapped pop singer-songwriter Ashe for the tender duet “Missing You.” A true collaboration, the pair trade verses and challenge one another to push hardest on the chorus, allowing the song’s story to soar both sonically and emotionally. — L.H.
“Lifetime,” SG Lewis
As English artist SG Lewis readies his upcoming album AudioLust & HigherLove, he continues to drop a steady stream of enticing singles. The latest, “Lifetime,” is a late-night groove with the purest of intentions: “I’ve waited for a lifetime to tell you I love you,” he sings. He said in a recent interview it could be “my favorite record I’ve ever made,” sharing it channels the music he grew up listening to. — L.H.
Billy Porter, “Stranger Things”
On “Stranger Things,” multi-hyphenate Billy Porter reaches back even further than the decade a certain Netflix series has made synonymous with the phrase, mining the slow-burning soul of the ’60s. That period saw many progressives beginning to grow weary of the uphill battle for change (sound familiar?) and turning that exhaustion into powerful statements of resilience, which is exactly what Porter does on this knockout musical missive from a man who refuses to throw in the towel. — Joe Lynch
Jordana, “You’re In the Way”
Ahead of her upcoming EP I’m Doing Well, bedroom pop purveyor Jordana delivers another low-key treat in the form of “You’re In the Way.” While previous teaser “SYT” brought to mind the indie boom of the ’00s, this one – a lovely acoustic number with a shuffling beat – is worth its weight in Beck’s Mellow Gold. – J. Lynch
Q, “Today”
Q, the young singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Broward County, Fla., casually radiates talent, as if constructing rhythm pop songs with an eye on vintage R&B and another on futuristic production techniques comes naturally. New single “Today” hangs in midair during its first half as Q showcases the warmth of his tone, and when the instrumentation kicks in, he invites you along for the ride. — Jason Lipshutz
First Aid Kit, “Palomino”
“Where you go my love goes, darling / I can hear the unknown road calling,” First Aid Kit’s Johanna and Klara Söderberg croon on wind-swept new single “Palomino,” which doubles as the title track of their new album. Sonically, “Palomino” reaches outward with a yearning for open space, with the electric and acoustic guitars finding a folk-pop harmony as the Swedish duo offer a universal vision of romance and adventure. — J. LIPSHUTZ
Girl Scout, “All the Time and Everywhere”
New Swedish band Girl Scout just released their second single, but “All the Time and Everywhere” sounds so accomplished — its pop-rock jangle immediately grin-inducing, its melodies clean and effervescent — that it’ll trick you into believing that the collective has been rolling for a decade. For a song about the crushing weight of daily existence, “All the Time and Everywhere” positively floats, and serves as a three-minute panacea. — J. LIPSHUTZ
Hunny, “JFK”
On HUNNY’s July EP Homesick, the four piece dabbled in angsty, 2000s-inspired rock while dealing with themes of loneliness, youth and ennui. The newly extended version of the EP includes “JFK,” a raw track that talks of “losing your partner to the love of another city and selfishly becoming bitter about it,” according to bassist and keyboardist Kevin Grimmett. Crunchy guitar work and upbeat drums contrasts vocalist Jason Yager’s pain as he sings of heartbreak. – Starr Bowenbank
Coco & Clair Clair, “Lamb” (feat. Porches)
On new album Sexy, pop-rap duo Coco & Clair Clair expand on their infectious, signature sound while giving new genres a try, too. Deep cut “Lamb” — which features Porches, the brainchild of Aaron Maine — sees the girls slowing down their typically upbeat flow to something melancholic and alternative leaning, as Coco languidly sings the chorus’ refrain (“Dancing in the club with my friеnds, my friends/ Nothing’s really changed, I’m the same as always/ But I would give it all to go back to the old days”). Maine swoops in for the assist at the second verse, providing mesmerizing harmonies. – 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.
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These 10 tracks from artists including Ellie Goulding, Kimbra, PVRIS and Blu DeTiger 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.
Ellie Goulding, “Let It Die”
“Now the lights are dimming,” Ellie Goulding sings on her propulsive new track “Let It Die” — a sly callback to her breakout hit, and a slick metaphor for a romance that ends with a whimper instead of a bang. By contrast, “Let It Die” surges with electricity, with Goulding’s voice possessing a determination that commands this relationship to end, and for the listen to move.
Rosa Linn & Duncan Laurence, “WDIA (Would Do It Again)”
As her song “Snap” takes off globally, Rosa Linn has teamed up with Eurovision breakout Duncan Laurence for a piano ballad that centers both of their most tender inclinations. “WDIA (Would Do It Again)” is an old-school post-breakup duet, showcasing the singers’ vocal skills even as the percussion picks up in the back half.
PVRIS, “Anywhere But Here”
Both songs within the two-pack that PVRIS dropped last week are worth your time: while “Animal” channels its fuzzed-out rock aggression toward modern fame, “Anywhere But Here” withdraws with yearning acoustic guitar and Lyndsey Gunnulfsen’s pleas for a fresh start. Extra credit to the latter for a keen sense of space and the soulfulness of Gunnulfsen’s vocal take, which recalls electro-R&B in its approach.
Siights, “Fake It”
Siights are the relatively new L.A. duo of Toni Etherson and Mia Fitz, but within about 15 seconds of new single “Fake It,” the pair convinces you that they’re experts at creating warm, heartfelt pop. “Fake It” adopts a whirring, multi-part pileup of instruments in its hook, but the thesis of the song — “I could never fake this with you” — slices through and rings out.
Joel Corry feat. Tom Grennan, “Lionheart (Fearless)”
Think of “Lionheart (Fearless)” as a caffeine substitute: blast this new collaboration from Joel Corry and Tom Grennan in the first hour of your day and you’ll be ready to take on the world. The chest-thumping lyrics are paired with production that matches the soaring effect of the early-2010s EDM boom — festival season may be a little while away, but “Lionheart (Fearless)” will get you counting the months.
Blu DeTiger, “Elevator”
Blu DeTiger tends to exude an unflappable sense of cool in all of her songs, but “Elevator” may be her most impressively chilled-out track yet, as the rising pop star gives a tiring relationship no more attention than an eyeroll. DeTiger, embarking on a headlining tour this fall, is quickly amassing a catalog that would highlight any live show.
Biig Piig, “This is What They Meant”
Biig Piig’s track “Feels Right” was used in the closing credits of the recent romantic comedy Meet Cute because of its beguiling groove — something the singer-songwriter replicates, with a bit more atmosphere, on new single “This is What They Meant.” The song finds a commendable balance between her hushed words, funk guitar and the rain of synth lines sparkling across each line.
Champs, “Adeleine”
“Adeleine,” the first new track since UK duo Champs since 2019, bounces along with an ease that makes it four-and-a-half minute run time feel like half of that, as brothers Michael and David Champion lock in to a folksy rhythm and shake it for all it’s worth. This is type of song you’ll be happy to have stuck in your head for hours after a single listen.
Kimbra, “Save Me”
“Save Me” is the type of showcase for Kimbra that serves as a reminder that the New Zealand singer-songwriter, who’s preparing her first new album since 2018’s Primal Heart, has been dearly missed within the pop landscape. A meditation above cascading pianos that oscillates between sparse vulnerability and chorus-backed fortitude, “Save Me” recalls the fragile beauty of Kate Bush’s later records, and sets the table for a breathtaking new era.
The Hails, “Exonerate”
Indie quintet The Hails linked up with Magdalena Bay’s Matt Lewin for new single “Exonerate,” and you can hear the crisp, comfortable electro-pop of Lewin’s duo being translated here. For their part, The Hails take the blueprint and run with it, with the keyboard line humming along and each hook landing with the utmost conviction.