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Doechii is blossoming into a star. The Top Dawg Entertainment rapper checked off another box within her ascension on Friday (Dec. 6) by making her Tiny Desk concert debut at NPR’s headquarters. Explore Explore See latest videos, charts and news See latest videos, charts and news The Swamp Princess didn’t disappoint with her set either, […]
On today’s (Dec. 6) episode of the Greatest Pop Stars of the 21st Century podcast, we’re finally out of new rankings and pop stars to discuss — so we take a look back at the top 10, and the entire Greatest Pop Stars project, with some help from AJ Marks, moderator of Reddit’s r/Popheads forum and […]
The holiday season is in full swing, but today’s top music artists are hardly slowing down. Kicking off the new music releases this week is BLACKPINK star Rosé, who dropped her first solo album, Rosie. The dozen of songs include hit single “APT.” with Bruno Mars — which has spent six weeks so far at […]
Ella Langley’s “You Look Like You Love Me,” featuring Riley Green, leaps from No. 7 to No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart dated Dec. 14. The song, which the pair penned with Aaron Raitiere, increased by 18% to 26.5 million audience impressions Nov. 29-Dec. 5, according to Luminate. (The six-spot leap ties for the third-greatest to the top in the chart’s nearly 35-year history.)
Langley lands her first Country Airplay No. 1 with her second entry (on SAWGOD/Columbia/Nashville Harbor). “Strangers,” with Kameron Marlowe, spent a week at No. 56 in July. Green nets his second chart-topper, following his featured turn on Thomas Rhett’s “Half of Me,” which led for a week in November 2022.
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Meanwhile, for the first time in 2024, a woman artist rules Country Airplay. Lainey Wilson last led among women, as featured on Jelly Roll’s “Save Me” for two weeks in December. Langley is the first woman to reign in a lead role also since Wilson, who spent three weeks at No. 1 in October 2023 with “Watermelon Moonshine.” Langley ends the longest break – 51 weeks – between women (including groups with prominent female vocals) topping the chart since a record 61-week shutout in 2003-04.
New Top 10s
Morgan Wallen banks his 18th Country Airplay top 10 as “Loves Somebody” lifts 11-9 (20 million, up 10%). The song is the second single from Wallen’s upcoming album, following “Lies Lies Lies,” which topped the Nov. 23-dated chart, becoming his 15th No. 1 – and his fifth of 2024, a new annual high for any artist.
Plus, Tucker Wetmore’s “Wind Up Missin’ You” becomes the singer-songwriter’s first Country Airplay top 10, as it hops 12-10 (18.1 million, up 4%). The 25-year-old previously charted with “Wine Into Whiskey” (No. 56 peak, May). The Kalama, Wash., native, who boasts 1.2 million TikTok followers, sent his debut collection, Waves on a Sunset, to No. 18 on Top Country Albums in October.
All Billboard charts dated Dec. 14 will update on Billboard.com Tuesday, Dec. 10.
In partnership with Billboard and Johnnie Walker, Ovy on the Drums sat down with rising star PapiKaiser to offer industry advice, listen to music and share a toast as part of the Voces del Futuro video series. Ovy On The Drums: I am who I am today obviously thanks to my talent and my effort, but behind […]
Majo Aguilar finishes the lyrics to some of her biggest hits, which include “No Voy a Llorar,” “Cuéntame” and more! Majo Aguilar:How are you? I’m Majo Aguilar, and I am going to Finish the Lyrics of my own songs here with Billboard. It’s unclear to me/ Remember that you said/ You would never do me […]
It’s Kendrick Lamar Week for Billboard Unfiltered following the Thanksgiving break. Lamar unleashed his GNX album without any sort of warning on Nov. 22, and the LP debuted atop the Billboard 200 with 319,000 equivalent units earned.
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Dot also took up a ton of real estate on this week’s Billboard Hot 100, with seven out of the top 10 and the entire top five. He even announced an accompanying 2025 North American stadium trek called the Grand National Tour, on which his “Luther” collaborator and former Top Dawg Entertainment running mate SZA will be joining him.
There was a clean sweep of approval from the quartet of co-hosts, with GNX launching Lamar into the album of the year conversation and stamping his banner year of rap domination.
Deputy Director of R&B/Hip-Hop Carl Lamarre believes K. Dot’s ’24 rivals some of the great years rap’s seen in the last 25 years. “Him being able to land three No. 1s this year on the Hot 100 … Him announcing this tour, him having a No. 1 album,” he said. “I think his run this year is probably comparable to what we’ve seen from an ’08 [Lil] Wayne, an ’03 50 [Cent], a 2018 Drake with what he’s been able to do.”
Editorial Director Damien Scott credited Lamar with “blanketing the culture” and compared GNX to Jay-Z’s The Blueprint with how direct and to the point the project is while releasing digestible hit records. “To me, this album feels like a Jay-Z album. It feels like The Blueprint. It’s very direct, it’s very to the point. Here’s Jay at the height of his powers being like, ‘I run this s–t. F–k all of you.’ Just like Kendrick is on the opening track,” Scott opined. “First it was f–k this one guy, now it’s f–k all of you … It’s an amazing rap record.”
The Debbie Deb-sampling “Squabble Up” launched at No. 1 on the Hot 100, and Senior Charts Analyst Trevor Anderson didn’t expect to hear a hit record like that. “Coming off ‘Squabble Up,’ I was up there looking like Jonathan Majors in my apartment doing the little civil rights dance,” he joked. “One thing we missed with Mr. Morale was a clean Kendrick hit.”
Elsewhere during Billboard Unfiltered, the staff discussed Drake making a pair of legal filings against Universal Music Group in November, alleging that his record label artificially inflated the popularity of Lamar’s “Not Like Us.”
Staff Writer Kyle Denis was confused initially by the 6 God’s legal actions, but believes the first pre-filing has a chance to be a landmark case if it indeed heads to trial and there’s a ruling in Drake’s favor that shakes up streaming’s landscape. “If this does end up going to trial and we get a decision that actually impacts the very model of streaming, this would be an important case,” he stated. “All of that is still colored by the timing of it all, and this arriving during GNX week. It’s a little bit pathetic … It just feels a little bit ‘Let me do what I can to muddy up this guy’s release week any way that I can.’”
Watch the full episode above.
This week in dance music: Lightning In a Bottle announced its 2025 lineup featuring John Summit, Jamie xx and Khruangbin, and Electric Forest dropped a 2025 lineup featuring Justice, Sara Landry and Tiësto. Meanwhile, we spoke with jungle boss Nia Archives, EMPIRE signed Palestinian American DJ Habibeats, Depeche Mode said they’re not currently focused on making new music, we went backstage at Portola to see the festival’s hybrid battery system that saved the use of a whopping 6,053 gallons of diesel fuel.
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But that’s not all: Charli XCX revealed that she’s frequently in “a lot of pain” due to nerve damage, we spoke with Charli’s Club Sweat tour partner Troye Sivan, electronic pioneers Kraftwerk announced a 2025 North American tour, and Burning Man art car Titanic’s End announced the launch of a new record label, Titanic’s End Records.
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And as we see the end of the year in the headlights, these are the best new tracks of the third-from-last Friday of 2024. (And watch this space for our best of the year dance lists, unrolling right here next week.)
Rebecca Black, “Sugar Water Cyanide”
After a buzzy Boiler Room set in October and standout performances at Portola in September, Rebecca Black is further establishing herself as our new favorite Brat-lite club queen with “Sugar Water Cyanide.” The track is pop on its face via Black’s silken-voiced verses, but ultimately it’s club-coded in its pitched-up vocals laid over a hyper-pop-tinged house production. Coming from Black’s album Salvation, out January 17, the song is one Black says is “like if my drug of choice were a person. This is one of those songs that feels as though it’s been inside of me my whole life and was waiting for the right day and time to be ready for it to pour out. I wanted to make THAT song you could only really hear on 100% volume in your car or busting through the bass in the club.”
RL Grime & Knock2, “come aliv3”
Hitting hard with waves of 2012-era mainstage nostalgia, the latest collab from San Diego wunderkind Knock2 and bass icon RL Grime hits as hard as you want it to, with the pair shifting from a throwback progressive sound to oversized, ride-that-rail trap fare that is both their specialities. “come aliv3” is third single from Knock2’s forthcoming debut album, nolimit, coming on 88rising, on a date that’s yet to be announced. The 25-year-old producer will tour behind on the album on a run of more than two dozens dates that starts in February and wraps in April all the way over in Australia. This release comes after a three-show residency from Knock2 and his pal ISOxo (performing as Isoknock) at the Bill Graham Auditorium in San Francisco, where special guests included genre titans Hudson Mohawke, Baauer and 100 gecs’ Dylan Brady.
Tokimonsta, “For You”
After pushing the release date for her forthcoming album back in September due to a personal matter, Tokimonsta is back with a new single and a revised schedule. A collaboration with multi-instrumentalist and producer Kaelin Ellis, album single “For You” is a softly gorgeous and soothing but still swiftly moving production that puts crisp, complex polyrhythms at the fore and layers it up with bass and other instruments that create something with genuine soul. “After taking necessary time off to prioritize caring for a loved one, I’ve realized that creating and sharing my art remains my deepest purpose,” the Los Angeles-based producer says. “‘For You’ is a reflection of my journey forward, embracing joy and connection through music. It’s a gift from my heart to the world, and I hope it resonates with everyone who listens.” Tokimonsta’s seventh album, Eternal Reverie, is now coming in 2025 via her own Young Art label. The project will feature collaborations with Cakes da Killa, Anderson .Paak and more.
Bubble Love, “Original Mix”
Bubble Love is a side project from longstanding U.K. producer Ross From Friends, with the artist saying that this alter-ego gives him the ability to harness the wilder and more experimental energy of his clubs sets without feeling pressure to change his de facto sound. It’s a welcome addition to his oeuvre, with the fusion of rap and two-step on his Cameo Lush colla “Close Your Eyes” giving a good indication of the overall sound and spirit of the 10-track eponymous LP.
Storken, “Totoish”
Swedish producer Storken absolutely outdoes himself on the seven-and-a-half-minute nu-disco opus “Totoish.” Weaving in bits of Moroder, Vangelis, Todd Terje and ’80s power pop, this multi-movement production — made in collaboration with fellow Swedish producer Gusteau — melds piano, hand drums and a shimmering, chord-changing synth at the center. “Enjoy this Swedish baked assemblance of the rock n roll hall of fame legacies, a try to unite a lot of bands that never saw daylight,” Storken says of the independently released single.
Solana season appears to be on the horizon. After promising a pair of albums, SZA has teased the deluxe edition of her record-breaking SOS album. The Grammy-winning singer posted a photo to her Instagram Story on Friday (Dec. 6) featuring a whiteboard that appeared to have a tracklist for the upcoming deluxe, but SZA made […]
New Music Latin is a compilation of the best new Latin songs and albums recommended by Billboard Latin and Billboard Español editors. Check out this week’s picks below.
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Sech, Tranki, Todo Pasa (Rimas Entertainment)
After a three-year hiatus and following his 2021 set 42, Sech officially makes his comeback with fifth studio album Tranki, Todo Pasa. Musically, the Panamanian artist delivers edgy reggaetón fusions with electronic music and his signature sultry reggae plena melodies. Lyrically, he’s a changed man: The opening track, “Toy Perdio,” explains why he went missing in action, and all signs lead to a heartbreak. “Tarde” further cements that analysis: “That crazy woman did so much harm to me […] the weight you left behind I can’t even carry in the gym,” he sings.
In “Chiste JAJA,” where he samples Rosalía and Tokischa’s “Linda”; in “Picasso,” where he samples La Oreja de Van Gogh’s “Rosas”; and in “Me Quedé Off,” he continues to vent about the former sour relationship. But beyond an album that’s about heartbreak, it’s a true reminder that “relax, everything passes.” The new Sech is — physically and emotionally — transformed, evolved, healed, and doing just fine, as he powerfully sings on the 14-track set, home to collaborations with Elena Rose, De La Rose, Beele and more. — JESSICA ROIZ
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Tini, “El Cielo” (Hollywood Records/5020)
Tini is precise with her lyrics in “El Cielo,” as she sings about closing a chapter of a love story that ultimately became just a short story. Mixing dance and pop with Afrobeat influences, Tini narrates the spiritual growth that comes from living life with no regrets and loving unconditionally, even if all roads lead to uncertainty. The new release follows her critically acclaimed un mechón de pelo, released in April. While the song alone is captivating, the music video is equally invigorating. Directed by Malu Boruchowicz and filmed in Buenos Aires, Tini is as free as ever dancing under the rain surrounded by her friends, expressing a joy that is almost infectious — perfectly capturing that transition from heartbreak to self-liberation. — GRISELDA FLORES
Xavi & Fuerza Regida, “STR” (Interscope Records)
Swagger and bravado pulse through “STR,” a sierreño that fires up with bold tololoche strings and commanding trumpets. As the rhythm thrums, Xavi and JOP lay out lyrical dominance and tales of empire, narrating a journey fuelled by non-believers turned to staunch supporters. The lyrics, flavored with streetwise grit and an unapologetic spirit, cruise through experiences of luxury and betrayal. “Y por eso ahorita me voy, me vale verga, ahorita yo soy el rey,” the duo asserts in the chorus, encapsulating the essence of self-made royalty. The song is a declaration of independence and unchecked power, perfect for blasting on a drive in an SRT. — ISABELA RAYGOZA
Carín León, Palabra de To’s (Socios Music LLC)
As if one song weren’t enough to channel heartbreak, Carín León presents Palabra de To’s, a 16-track album where heartbreak is the common thread in a wide range of emotions. From the heartbreaking drama of the lead single “El Amor de Mi Herida” to firm declarations like “De Su Vida Me Iré,” León creates a perfect project that demands us to sit down and listen to, sing to your heartbreak, or hang out with friends. The carefully crafted lyrics, in collaboration with 28 composers and curated by Edgar Barrera, highlight León’s style of weaving stories that sound like an intimate conversation without falling into repetitive verses.
Musically, strings predominate, played with simplicity and sensitivity, serving as a perfect canvas to highlight his voice. With just one collaboration, “Ocupo Una Limpia” with Luis Mexia, León reaffirms his ability to hold the weight of an entire solo album. On the other hand, the album cover, inspired by Da Vinci’s The Last Supper, underlines León’s intention to present this project as a banquet of emotions to share. All in all, an album so well-crafted that it is a pleasure to listen to from start to finish. — LUISA CALLE
Ryan Castro, Juanes & SOG “El Chucu Chucu” (AWOO Corp./Sony Music Latin)
Ryan Castro and his longtime producer SOG have a talent for creating the most “Parranda-style” anthems each year, making it a cherished tradition in true Ryan Castro fashion. This year is no exception and, on this occasion, he teams up with Colombian powerhouse Juanes to celebrate their shared heritage from Antioquia in Medellín. The song “El Chucu Chucu” serves as a vibrant tribute to the holiday traditions of Antioquia, seamlessly blending nostalgia with contemporary urban rhythms in a perfect mix of cumbia, plus the guitar riffs that embody Juanes’ distinctive sound. In this release, Castro adopts his alter ego ‘Richy,’ a character inspired by the rich cultural tapestry of his native Medellín, this year accompanied by his cousin Toño, portrayed by Juanes, to create a festive anthem that honors family, music, and their heritage. — INGRID FAJARDO
Los Rakas, La Raka Zaza (Raka Music)
After a five-year pause, Los Rakas burst back onto the scene with La Raka Zaza, a colorful mosaic of Afro-Latin and Afrobeat rhythms intertwined with soul-thrilling dancehall. This latest offering cousins Raka Dun and Raka Rich showcases their signature pulsating grooves and a penchant for reimagined classics, fueling an irresistible urge to thrust.
Kicking off with the sultry “Dinero Que Llueva,” their Auto-Tune-laced vocals weave hypnotic spells that set the tone for an album ripe with innovation and nostalgic nods. “Cámara Lenta,” in collaboration with Texas’ DJ/producer El Dusty, revitalizes Juvenile and Soulja Slim’s “Slow Motion” by intertwining robust dancehall elements. “Amigos Con Derecho,” featuring DJ Zaa and Mike Zuleta, flaunts melodic nylon strings alongside steamy vocals, crafting an atmosphere that’s both intimate and liberating.
The heat intensifies with “Candela,” where Nigerian artist Big Klef brings his Afrobeats genius, culminating in carefree lyricism aimed at simply having a good time. Meanwhile, “Tóxica” delivers reggae en español with a classically reverberating vocal stylings, and “Completa” alongside 2-EZ, merges dancehall with dembow. Each of the 13 tracks in La Raka Zaza contributes to a potent blend of styles and stories, marking a triumphant return for the dynamic Oakland-by-way-of-Panama duo. Los Rakas remain unapologetically themselves while crafting tracks that beckon the world to listen — and sway to the riddim. — I.R.
Yeison Jiménez & DFZM “El Tierno” (Yeison Jiménez)
Música popular Yeison Jiménez is taking a bold step into the realm of urban music alongside emerging young rapper DFZM. Their new collaboration, “El Tierno,” blends the traditional elements of Jiménez’s signature sound with contemporary, energetic beats that characterize rap. In “El Tierno,” Jiménez demonstrates that his music is capable of transcending genres, presenting a captivating sound that is both dynamic and infectious. — I.F.
Listen to more editors’ Latin recommendations in the playlist below: