cool pop songs
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Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week? We feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
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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”
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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”
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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”
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“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”
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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”
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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”
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“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”
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“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”
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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)”
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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.
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These 10 tracks from artists including PinkPantheress, Reneé Rapp, Baby Queen 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.
Baby Queen, “Dream Girl”
Rising British pop star Baby Queen has demonstrated a knack for sunny pop melodies and sardonic lyrics from her first singles, and new track “Dream Girl” shrugs off cynicism for an earnest declaration of unrequited adoration. The singer-songwriter deploys endless rhetorical questions (“Does he give you everything you need? And baby, do you ever think of me?”) to prove herself more worthy of love than some lame boyfriend, and does so with an array of bouncy, undeniable hooks. – Jason Lipshutz
Frankie Bird, “Twenty Nothing”
At the beginning of the “Twenty Nothing” music video, Frankie Bird, the singer-songwriter who formerly went by Frankie, breaks the horizon, striding down the middle of an empty street with a guitar strapped to her back; the shot is an apt metaphor for the singer-songwriter, who spends the single looking back on her tumultuous twenties and looking ahead to her next artistic era. “Twenty Nothing” pinpoints disappointment through musical evolution: the country-tinged production and harmonies prove affecting as she expands her pop-rock environment. – J.L.
Mahalia feat. JoJo, “Cheat”
Searching for a modern, more feminism-forward take on Brandy and Monica’s “The Boy is Mine”? Look no further than “Cheat,” on which Mahalia and JoJo brush off a dude who’s two-timing them while leaning into the turn-of-the-century rhythmic pop production (the music video, complete with flip phones and MySpace nostalgia, is a blast as well). Ahead of her sophomore album IRL, Mahalia continues to delight as a new-school UK pop star, while JoJo, currently owning Broadway in Moulin Rouge, sounds reinvigorated a lifetime removed from her “Leave (Get Out)” days. – J.L.
Glaive, “All I Do is Try My Best”
Years of promising singles and short projects have led to Glaive’s debut album, the spectacularly titled I Care So Much That I Don’t Care At All, due out July 14; those releases have also resulted in the (slight) polishing of the teen’s unruly songwriting, as heard on the sweeping strums and full-throated sing-along of “All I Do is Try My Best.” Glaive’s messy, often nihilistic wordplay sounds even more intoxicating within a defined pop structure, creating a tension between styles that makes the song stand out in an impressive discography. – J.L.
Youth Lagoon, “Rabbit”
Trevor Powers became an indie-blog darling in the early 2010s as the mastermind of Youth Lagoon, then retired the moniker that made him famous in 2016; Heaven is a Junkyard, the first Youth Lagoon album in eight years, sounds like an old friend stopping by and sharing tales from several travels. “Rabbit” floats in the wind with piano sprinkles and Powers’ tender voice, then surges toward a propulsive finale that’s barely perceptible before it arrives — the mark of an effective storyteller, confident in their craft. – J.L.
Reneé Rapp, “Snow Angel”
Reneé Rapp has become a buzzy new name in pop, known first for starring roles in Mean Girls on Broadway and The Sex Lives Of College Girls, but following her 2022 debut EP, it became clear she’s a double threat — and rousing lead single “Snow Angel,” off her forthcoming debut full-length, solidifies that sentiment. The rock-pop ballad fits within a formula that has worked well for artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Billie Eilish (it’s similar to the latter’s “Happier Than Ever”) and advances Rapp’s skillset, showing off her powerful vocal range and heart-wrenching honesty. — Lyndsey Havens
Romy, “Loveher”
Led by delicate, twinkling keys and a steady drumbeat, Romy begins to sing tenderly of the one she loves — delivering each line like she’s confessing her feelings to herself alone. Yet as the production picks up and the lyrics become more hypnotic — “I love her I… I love her I…” — it’s clear Romy made this song for the masses. And there’s more to come, as Romy announced her debut solo album, set to arrive September 8. — L.H.
Tiwa Savage, “Pick Up”
While a call (or several) going unanswered often incites some rage, the latest from Nigerian singer-songwriter Tiwa Savage checks that emotion at the door. Instead, as she sings of calling someone repeatedly she maintains an air of confidence over a meaty, bouncy beat. From the perspective of the listener, it works: a song this catchy would never go ignored. — L.H.
PinkPantheress, “Angel”
Diehard PinkPantheress fans have been given a treat with “Angel”: released as part of the forthcoming Barbie soundtrack, multiple snippets of the song’s demo were floating around the Internet over the past year, and have since become fully actualized. Pink’s effervescent vocal delivery stays true to hits like “Boy’s a Liar” and “Break It Off,” while the instrumentation adds another unique layer to the British artist’s sound with the inclusion of the fiddle. – Starr Bowenbank
Slayyyter, “Out of Time”
Slayyter makes a grand return with new single “Out of Time,” embracing pop maximalism on the track with ’80s-inspired synth instrumentals and large-than-life hooks that tells the sad tale of a fame-hungry woman with an alluring charm. “Make up runs from her eyes/ She walks in/ Oh goddamn, he could get it tonight/ She hates herself, but if they all love her then she don’t mind,” she sings on the pre-chorus of the cut, a first look at what’s to come from a forthcoming LP from the singer. — 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 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 stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
These 10 tracks from artists including Lauren Spencer Smith, Claud, Brothers Osborne 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 our favorite 2023 cool pop songs.
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Lauren Spencer Smith, “That Part”
How soon is too soon to start daydreaming about forever? Lauren Spencer Smith wants to skip “that part” – i.e., the humdrum length of time between the exhilarating meet-cute and the inevitable “I do’s” – on her new single, filling in the details of a life that she hopes is waiting for her around the corner. “That Part” cleverly depicts fast-forwarded romance, but the rising singer-songwriter’s voice – pleading, impatient, but wholly committed – is what sells the concept. – Jason Lipshutz
Claud, “Wet”
“That’s not an apology / But I’ll take what I can get,” Claud shrugs in the hook of “Wet,” an unassuming anthem that worms its way into your heart with the same stubbornness as its writhing bass line. The previews of Claud’s forthcoming sophomore album, Supermodels, have thus far magnified their pop craft through vulnerability, and even at the most defeated moments of “Wet,” Claud sounds eager to show the world who they are. – J. Lipshutz
Needanamebro, “Not a Lot Left to Say”
London rhythmic-pop trio Needanamebro have already scored millions of likes on TikTok, and new single “Not a Lot Left to Say” makes it easy to understand why: the melodies burst throughout the two-minute track, ready to be harvested for 10-second clips or enjoyed as a harmonious whole. Following the crackling debut single “Better Love” last month, “Not a Lot Left to Say” makes the new group 2-for-2. – J. Lipshutz
Charlotte Jane, “Coming Home”
Charlotte Jane’s latest single displays the brand of sweeping soul-pop that worked on adult pop radio at the turn of the 2010s, but adds a modern sensibility, its drums hitting a little harder and the hooks rendered with more crispness. The British singer-songwriter remains in the eye of the storm, keeping up with the driving tempo and laying into a track worthy of her bright vocals. – J. Lipshutz
BANNERS, “Name in Lights”
“The support of a partner’s ambition” is not often used as thematic fodder in pop, but Liverpool native and BANNERS mastermind Michael Nelson uses “Name in Lights” as an updated edition of a love song. He reaches his voice skyward while championing another’s relentless drive (“It doesn’t matter what you do / Just make it real, just make it true / Trust yourself, ‘cause you got you”), as strings sashay forward in operatic fashion. – J. Lipshutz
Speakers Corner Quartet feat. LEILAH, “Soapbox Soliloquy”
The South London collective Speakers Corner Quartet have found a natural collaborator in UK singer LEILAH, who sounds mesmerizing while waxing poetic on “Soapbox Soliloquy,” from the group’s upcoming album Further Out From The Edge. LEILAH weaves her voice around the flickering drum patterns, which soon incorporate cacophonous synths for an extra jab of emotion – although even when the noise bubbles up, “Soapbox Soliloquy” never loses its soothing foundation. – J. Lipshutz
Emei, “Irresponsible”
Having competed on Chinese Idol years ago, rising pop singer Emei has more recently started dropping successful singles like “Late to the Party, “Scatterbrain” and “That Girl” — all of which chronicle the frenzied early-twenties mindset. “Irresponsible” does the same, as Emei sings of being mortified that she never grew up (something she realizes while trying to recall where she left her keys) over a hard-hitting, glitchy beat, offering a direct line into the constant noise inside her head. — Lyndsey Havens
Towa Bird, “Boomerang”
Towa Bird’s knack for building a pop song around a fiery guitar solo might be her greatest strength, as showcased toward the end of energetic new single “Boomerang.” Though the pop-rocker only debuted in April with first single “Wild Heart”, thanks to her fervent TikTok following and appearance playing in Olivia Rodrigo’s Disney+ special Driving Home 2 U, Towa Bird has quickly become an intriguing act. — L.H.
Sofia Reyes and Danna Paola, “tqum”
Mexican singer-songwriter Sofia Reyes has long leaned into collaborations, working with Jason Derulo, Anitta, Rita Ora and others. On the pulsating “tqum” she taps former child star Danna Paola, who tweeted of the collab, “Mexican Pop Power” — but despite the uptempo production, the lyrics tell a sadder story of losing someone you soon realize you still love. Perhaps the sunny disposition is all part of the plan to stay positive… and get them back. — L.H.
Brothers Osborne, “Goodbye’s Kickin In”
Brothers Osborne are back with the title track to their first new album since 2020 with “Goodbye’s Kickin’ In.” Although TJ’s twangy delivery and their drink-the-blues-away lyrics are pure country, John’s guitar work evokes the blues-rock of ‘70s AM radio while background singers provide a soulful boost. – Joe Lynch
Looking for some motivation to help power you through the start of another work week? We feel you, and with some stellar new pop tunes, we’ve got you covered.
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See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
These 10 tracks from artists including Lauren Daigle, Daft Punk, Charlotte Cardin 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 our favorite 2023 cool pop songs.
Charlotte Cardin, “Looping”
Montreal singer-songwriter Charlotte Cardin makes the most of a sample of Barbra Streisand’s “The Way We Were,” and her own vocal loops, on a track that turns the phrases that haunt us through mental repetition into a literal refrain. Created with Mr. Hudson, Felix Joseph and Jason Brando, “Looping” fits into the soulful pop tradition that made a mark on top 40 radio near the beginning of the 2010s, but the songwriting makes Cardin’s obsessions sound thoroughly modern. – Jason Lipshutz
Victoria Anthony, “New Disaster”
The title track of Victoria Anthony’s just-released sophomore album captures a delightfully familiar teen-hang scenario: after breaking her best friend’s phone and realizing it’s time to head back to her house, the Vancouver native lingers a little too long with the wrong partner, knowing it’s a mistake but being okay with making it. “New Disaster” speeds ahead with a light pop-punk touch, as Anthony commits to her course of action with youthful energy and plenty of hooks. – J. Lipshutz
Becky Hill & Lewis Thompson, “Side Effects”
A wondrous dance song like “Side Effects” isn’t the least bit surprising when considering Becky Hill’s track record: the UK house mainstay has been scoring hits for nearly a decade, and her voice is pristinely attuned to this type of kinetic energy. Working with British producer Lewis Thompson, Hill wields her power comfortably on “Side Effects”: belting with restraint on the pre-chorus, racing alongside the beat on the hook, and injecting every stray thought about an ex with roof-rattling emotion. – J. Lipshutz
Kamille feat. Nile Rodgers, “Muscle Memory”
Part of the fun of first listening to “Muscle Memory,” the new disco strut from British multi-hyphenate Kamille, is waiting for Nile Rodgers’ main guitar riff to arrive, as if the song waits a bit before reaching another gear of groovy euphoria. Once the legend steps in, “Muscle Memory” really takes off: with Kamille guiding the action and Rodgers supporting her direction, the track invites repeat listens so that you can experience that arrival all over again. – J. Lipshutz
Local Natives, “NYE”
Indie-rock staple Local Natives have returned with “NYE,” the lead single off Time Will Wait For No One and a new balancing act for the band, as its members deliver a characteristically breezy melody with more edge and urgency. Member Ryan Hahn recalled in a statement how the song was inspired by his own wedding, during which the band continued its tradition of performing at one another’s nuptials. Once Hahn’s bandmates started to play a song by The Strokes, “I thought we had to do a fast and wild song — and ‘NYE’ was born.” — Lyndsey Havens
Lauren Daigle, “Ego”
2023 is a major year for Lauren Daigle: fresh off a label deal with Atlantic Records, the Contemporary Christian Music star has now released the first half of her two-volume self-titled album, filled with songs that highlight her brand of personal pop and soulful roots. “Ego” is situated in the sweet spot of Daigle’s register, as she sings in a low and cautionary tone: “Have we lost who we are to the pressure / Trading souls for the sake of the pleasure / I’m done wrestling with my ego / Lord knows it all feels so hollow.” — L.H.
Beverlee, “I Am a Window”
“Don’t have to open all up baby, go slow,” sings Beverlee on new single “I Am a Window.” With its playful rhythms, plinky synths and a recurrent siren, this ode to finding balance in a relationship (which comes with a “lesbian reimagining of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” music video) is an irresistible slice of quirky queer pop, reminiscent of Tune-Yards, from the L.A.-based singer-songwriter. – Joe Lynch
Tucker Nichol, “Long Story Short”
Juxtaposing sensual R&B vibes with blunt lyrical kiss-offs (“to make a long story short, I can’t stand you”), “Long Story Short” finds up-and-comer Tucker Nichol expertly demonstrating that you can move on from a toxic relationship while still feeling yourself. – J. Lynch
Daft Punk feat. Julian Casablancas and The Voidz, “Infinity Repeating”
Daft Punk’s Random Access Memories turns 10 this month, and to celebrate, the defunct French duo released a deluxe edition of the album featuring several demos from the vault — including the Julian Casablancas and The Voidz collaboration, “Infinity Repeating.” While the original version of the album will cause fans to draw comparisons to “Instant Crush,” “Repeating” serves as its jazzier B-side: Casablancas languidly sings over hi-hat drum beats and trinkling synth keys as he reflects on the fickle nature of humans. – Starr Bowenbank
Albert Hammond Jr. feat. Matt Helders and Steve Stevens, “Thoughtful Distress”
Albert Hammond Jr. rolled out the first half of his fifth studio album, Melodies on Hiatus, last week, and of its nine tracks, “Thoughtful Distress,” serves as a delightful surprise. Arctic Monkeys drummer Matt Helders and Billy Idol guitarist Steve Stevens teamed up with The Strokes member on the song, helping to flesh out its simmering yet groovy instrumental as Hammond Jr. plays tug of war with the object of his affection. – 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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See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
These 10 tracks from artists including aespa, Alison Goldfrapp, GAYLE 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.
Q, “Incapable Heart”
Mononymous singer Q dropped his debut album, Soul, PRESENT, last Friday, and the sparkling 10-song effort is brimming over with ethereal, romantic delights that draw on synth-pop, ‘80s funk, Quiet Storm and more. The smooth “Incapable Heart” even throws in a bit of reggae skank for good measure as Q (the son of dancehall legend Steven “Lenky” Marsden) delivers a sound both familiar and forward-thinking – not unlike those first The Weeknd mixtapes that set the Internet on fire in the early 2010s. — JOE LYNCH
MisterWives, “Nosebleeds”
After a detour to Fueled by Ramen, MisterWives reteamed with original label Photo Finish to create their own imprint, Resilient Little Records, which will house their upcoming LP. New single “Nosebleeds” — with its woozy synths, chugging guitars and a relentless backbeat – is anything but little in its sonics, but it certainly captures the resilience that propelled the NYC-based rockers forward over the last near decade. – J. Lynch
Amaarae, “Co-Star”
Ahead of her new album Fountain Baby out June 9, Afropop star Amaarae has shared the project’s second single, “Co-Star.” The astrological track is both bouncy and twinkling, aligning with the singer’s goal of crafting “something cute and flirty for the summer.” As Amaarae said in a statement: “Astrology is such a huge part of our youth culture, it felt like a missed opportunity to not lean into that and give the girls an anthem that reads and celebrates them all at once!” — LYNDSEY HAVENS
Kiss Facility, “In My Room”
The quietly enticing “In My Room” is just as intriguing as its creator, newcomer Kiss Facility. Coated in nuanced nonchalance, “In My Room” sounds just as intimate as the title suggests, with the as-of-yet unknown artist captioning the cover art on Instagram, “It’s a very personal song that I put all my emotions into.” — L.H.
GAYLE, “Don’t Call Me Pretty”
“Don’t Call Me Pretty” is the first song GAYLE has debuted since joining Taylor Swift on her Eras tour, and ahead of hopping aboard P!nk’s upcoming stadium run; the “abcdefu” singer-songwriter clearly has shout-along anthems on the mind, and her latest contains plenty of opportunities for crowds of thousands to embrace her words. The chorus spirals up and the post-hook “ooo-ooo-ooo” crooning is effective, but most importantly, GAYLE sounds downright soulful on “Don’t Call Me Pretty,” with a heft that gives her message even more power.— JASON LIPSHUTZ
Alison Goldfrapp, “Love Invention”
Everything pre-release from The Love Invention has shown promise for Alison Goldfrapp’s debut solo outing after seven albums as the leader of Goldfrapp, but the title track possesses a little extra electro-pop oomph that suggests a summertime dance floor heater. Goldfrapp’s ethereal voice dips in and out of sounding hyper-processed (“Is this real or not?,” she sings), but the production never flags, all cascading synths and percussion that keeps pushing forward. — J. Lipshutz
Bruno Major, “We Were Never Really Friends”
“This doesn’t have to be the end,” Bruno Major pleads on “We Were Never Really Friends,” a classic spoil-the-friendship jam that masquerades as a piano ballad before blooming into a lighters-up rock sing-along, complete with a stringy guitar solo. Major’s patience stands out here: the British singer-songwriter never presses too hard in any direction on the song, letting the full instrumentation and the slight quiver in his voice carry home his first new music since 2020. — J. Lipshutz
Coach Party, “All I Wanna Do is Hate”
Isle of Wright quartet Coach Party opened up for Wet Leg last fall and will support Queens of the Stone Age on tour later this year, but great new single “All I Wanna Do is Hate” sounds closer to bands like Elastica and Metric — sharp-elbowed pop-rock with readily deployed chiming guitars and synth riffs. The song walks a fine line between lyrical aggression and zipped-up production, resulting in a song that’s fully realized and invites plenty of fist-pumps. — J. Lipshutz
aespa, “Thirsty”
Aespa’s new mini album, Welcome to My World, sees the girl group — which consists of Giselle, Karina, NingNing and Winter — dabbling into the many facets of its sound, which includes everything from simmering bangers to lush pop ballad showing off the members’ vocal range. But album cut “Thirsty” really shows off the K-pop stars’ strength in R&B. The infectious chorus combines subtle trap-inspired beats with soft vocals, and gives a subtle wink to the object of the girls’ affections, as Giselle teases: “So tell me what you wanna, wanna do, boy?” — STARR BOWENBANK
Cosmo Pyke, “What Can I Do?”
A collective sigh of relief can be heard from Cosmo Pyke’s fans, as the British artist has delivered the new EP Curser’s Lament. “What Can I Do?” from the set shows off Pyke’s talent with jazz melodies, while catering to fans of his more introductory, alternative and indie-leaning work featured on 2017’s Just Cosmo. The musician cleverly splits the song into three separate parts, first drawing in the listener with drum heavy instrumentation, leading in with up tempo guitar licks before a soulful finish. — 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, NewJeans, JP Saxe 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 our 2023 pop faves.
Ellie Goulding, “Just For You”
“When I listen back to it I visualize myself floating, slowly downwards but never falling,” Ellie Goulding says of her new full-length Higher Than Heaven in a press release, and album highlight “Just For You” does provide that feeling of gradual, serene collapse. Goulding has long excelled at this type of sleek synth-pop track, but “Just For You” sounds especially centered in its dance floor shimmer, the rush of the bridge hovering above warm sighs and coos. – J.L.
JP Saxe, “I Don’t Miss You”
JP Saxe’s new single was co-written by, and features guitar work from, his current touring partner, John Mayer — and you can hear his influence on the song’s pillowy melodies and Saxe’s relaxed vocal approach. The intensity of recent singles like “When You Think of Me” suited Saxe’s range well, but a song like “I Don’t Miss You” offers an unexpected, delightful release of the thematic and sonic tension that’s been building in the singer-songwriter’s catalog. – J.L.
Wallice, “Best Friend”
When Wallice tours with The 1975 later this summer, new single “Best Friend” is going to hit those sprawling crowds like a shot of adrenaline: regardless of whether or not you know the lyrics to the chorus, that hook flares up with abandon and the guitars buzz like the song is angling for spins on a long-lost ‘90s alt-rock radio station. The last 10 seconds of “Best Friend” offer the listener a chance to his or her breath, and considering the preceding swirl, it’s much-needed. – J.L.
Overmono, “Good Lies”
While British duo Overmono have been sharing previews of new album Good Lies over the past few months, the title track demonstrates just how far the electronic pair is reaching: the entrancing two-step that Smerz’s voice follows on the track, paired with the waning synths, helps underline the festival-ready power of that garage beat kicking in. “Good Lies” sounds primed to make a lot of people groove along in unison, in a way that Overmono hasn’t quite unlocked before now. – J.L.
Ricky Montgomery, “Eraser”
The central push-pull of Ricky Montgomery’s new single “Eraser” is in the declarative statements and rhetorical questions, as the singer-songwriter tries to grapple with who he is and how life’s lessons can help prepare him for the next phase of his professional and personal life. And while “Eraser” is defined by that searching, the songwriting is rendered with such care and succinct messaging that the listener can’t help but pay attention to Montgomery, whose Warner Records debut arrives later this year. – J.L.
Mahalia, “Terms and Conditions”
Mahalia has described new single “Terms and Conditions” as “a love letter to myself whilst being a warning to others”; that might read as defensive, but the track bathes the listener in self-sufficient power, with the R&B star examining her boundaries while encouraging others to set their own. “Terms and Conditions” finds Mahalia applying her technical skill to a successful songwriting concept, and using that compound to send her artistry upward. – J.L.
Corook, “CGI”
The type of breathy funk-pop that Corook attempts to pull off on new track “CGI” often includes a high degree of difficulty, but (unlike too much actual CGI) the movements come across naturally, as if Corook’s recording career has been winding up to eventually strike this pose. In some ways, they have: “CGI” is about the intense attraction Corook feels for their girlfriend after five years together, grounding a universal feeling in a personal reality. – J.L.
Yaeji, “Passed Me By”
All of Yaeji’s striking new album, With A Hammer, is worth perusing, but new single “Passed Me By” best encapsulates her ambition, shapeshifting into different melodies and mixes in jarring fashion — but also giving the listener a drooping “na-na-na” hook to grab onto and shake for all its worth. Yaeji’s voice (and the way that it’s produced) will always be a calling card, but the manipulation of the scenery around that voice is what makes “Passed Me By” truly sing. – J.L.
NewJeans, “Zero”
NewJeans have made their return, but not in a typical way — the K-pop girl group’s newest single, “Zero,” actually serves double duty as an advertisement for Coca-Cola’s zero-calorie beverage. The result is as refreshing as a cold sip: incorporating a well-known Korean nursery rhyme dating back to the 1940s into the catchy chorus (“coca cola mashita”/“coca cola is delicious”), the track is infectious while pushing the group’s sonic boundaries through use of sputtering, bouncy breakcore beats. – Starr Bowenbank
Baby Storme, “Alt Disco”
Baby Storme gives Jenna Ortega’s iconic dance in Wednesday a second life in the video for her new track “Alt Disco.” Shedding the pain and heartache discussed in previously released track, “Painkillers,” the New York native is ready for a night on the town and brings her closest friends along for the ride. The sparse instrumental, which features light guitar work and synth, highlights the purity of Storme’s vocals and allows them 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 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.
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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.
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These 10 tracks from artists including Monsta X, The New Pornographers, Leony and JW Francis 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.
Monsta X, “Beautiful Liar”
The members of Monsta X have always been adept at synthesizing different genres into a fun, immediate product, and on “Beautiful Liar,” the standout track from new mini-album Reason, the K-pop stars mash up funk, hair metal, dance-pop and hip-hop in a manner that doesn’t sound overstuffed or lose its foundation. Plenty of Monsta X singles possess interesting tidbits in their margins, but “Beautiful Liar” keeps its ambition front and center. – Jason Lipshutz
India Theiriot, “Montage”
Ever scroll New Music Friday and hear a pop song so self-assured and satisfying that it stops you in your tracks? That effect undoubtedly happened to anyone lucky enough to stumble upon singer-songwriter India Theiriot’s “Montage,” a heartfelt and ornately produced track that possessed the quality of a breakthrough. Theiriot’s vocal warmth wraps around the synths here, presenting observations and memories with a gravity that invites the listener closer. – J.L.
Leony, “Somewhere in Between”
Now this is how you do a pre-chorus: on “Somewhere in Between,” the new single from Leony, the German pop artist’s voice keeps creeping upward, inching toward higher octaves, before the hook kicks in and the listener feels a rush of speed and danger. Best of all, “Somewhere in Between” matches its construction with a tale of self-confidence (“Got clarity inside of me, I know who I am / No matter what you saw, I know my heart always stayed the same,” Leony sings), so that the payoff feels earned. – J.L.
Debby Friday, “So Hard To Tell”
Debby Friday’s backstory is fascinating enough to fill a novel — the Nigerian-born artist grew up hopscotching across Canada, attending all-night raves, quitting DJ’ing due to personal issues, then picking up the pieces as a singer-songwriter through YouTube tutorials. Even a context-free listen to new single “So Hard To Tell,” however, reveals one of the young year’s most audacious bangers, a daring and cacophonous piece of pop that wants to entrance (or maybe pummel) its listener with its percussion. – J.L.
The New Pornographers, “Really Really Light”
The New Pornographers have been slinging pristine indie-pop hooks for over two decades now, and new single “Really Really Light,” from just-announced album Continue as a Guest, reminds the world of the combined power of A.C. Newman, Dan Bejar and Neko Case as singers, songwriters and complementary pieces in a group setting. “Really Really Light” is at once big and driving, but also reserved and a little clouded, as if the New Pornos want to make their pop sheen slightly askew here. – J.L.
Violet Saturn, “Love U Madly”
Looking to re-create some Warped Tour memories… or at least the time you scream-shouted “good 4 u” with your friends? Siblings Lauren and Spencer Carr Reed have you covered with this enjoyable pop-punk offering from their group Violet Saturn — just don’t headbang too hard to miss the sly time-signature change on “Love U Madly,” where the phrase “My heart stops” literally causes the tempo to rearrange. – J.L.
Neriah, “Puppet on a String”
Los Angeles newcomer Neriah’s latest single successfully see-saws between her airy vocals and some punchier production as the song builds toward a sticky chorus. Though on the shorter side — the track clocks in at two minutes — “Puppet on a String” has just enough for fans to trust where Neriah is headed. – Lyndsey Havens
MyKey, “Bender”
Singer-songwriter MyKey (a moniker inspired by his real name, Mikey… get it?) blissfully blends acoustic riffs with folk-inspired pop melodies, creating contemplative, consuming songs like “Bender.” With its bare-bones production, the single’s power is in its subtlety, but MyKey pulls off a rare feat here. – L.H.
JW Francis, “Going Home to a Party”
With a style reminiscent of the 2000s indie-rock heyday, “Going Home to a Party” could help usher back in a renaissance of rollicking riffs and whimsical production. Courtesy of bedroom pop artist JW Francis, the single is a strong coming attraction of his upcoming album Dream House, out Jan. 27. – L.H.
Suriel Hess, “Wasted”
There’s a refreshing immediacy to “Wasted” that comes from Suriel Hess’ lyrics rather than any grabbing melody. Supported by an acoustic guitar, he sings, “It could be easier, to sit back and just observe, but my mind races.” It’s a perfect lay-up for what follows, as he chronicles what exactly is running sprints through his mind (spoiler alert: it’s a girl). – L.H.
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.