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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To Friday

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To Friday

    Hot summer nights, mid July, baby! Yes, that’s right. It’s the middle of the summer and we’re smack dab in the epicenter of a heat wave. No one can seem to shake the heat, not even the rain is helping.

    And while I’m scurrying off to the beach somewhere, you may be gearing up for a cross-country road trip…or a rooftop bar somewhere in the city…or a night in with your friends. Regardless of everyone’s weekend plans, it’s imperative that we have a good playlist to listen to this weekend.

    That’s where I come in! I round up all of the new music released this week and pick out a few great songs to put into a Weekend Playlist. That way, you don’t have to do all the work of searching through a bunch of new playlists in order to find the songs that are actually worth listening to.

    This week is no different from the rest, another busy week trying to figure out which song will top the charts and compete with songs like “Bar Song (Tipsy)” by Shaboozey and “Please, Please, Please” by Sabrina Carpenter for Song of the Summer. With so many new songs out, it makes the odds even greater that you’ll find something you like.

    So, without further ado, let’s get listening!

    Wallows- “Bad Remake” 

    Fans have been asking for Wallows to release “Bad Remake” for years. Ever since the band was doing live sessions for their debut album, Nothing Happens, which just celebrated its five year anniversary. Now, as the band releases an exclusive vinyl for its anniversary, “Bad Remake” is officially out for the world to hear.

    The song is the epitome of surf rock: dreamy, nostalgic, and equally catchy. It’s perfect for summer, sending you straight to the beaches of California. Something about the song sends you back to the 60’s, when The Beach Boys were ever-so-popular…but at the same time, “Bad Remake” is a sign that Wallows has always had their sound figured out, and it will always work.

    Glass Animals- “Show Pony” 

    Glass Animals long-awaited album, I Love You So F***ing Much, is finally here alongside single “Show Pony.” The song itself is classic Glass Animals sound, the one that made us fall in love with hit song “Heat Waves.” However, “Show Pony” has the same makings of a banger that everyone will love.

    It’s the tale of a relationship from start to finish. It’s blunt and almost heartbreaking, but is masked with a melodic beat and lead singer Dave Bayley’s unique vocals that make it an exciting beginning to an even better album.

    MABEL- “Female Intuition” 

    A leading voice in R&B right now, MABEL can twist and turn her smooth vocals throughout any song and it sounds incredible. Her newest song, “Female Intuition” is the badass Destiny’s Child-esque renaissance we’ve all been yearning for. It’s empowering, sexy, and strong.

    We certainly don’t have enough celebrated female R&B artists in the game right now…and MABEL knows how to push boundaries in the best way with her music. “Female Intuition” is just another reason she’s so iconic.

    Madison Beer- “15 Minutes” 

    There are times where I’ve thought Madison Beer deserves the same hype that pop girls like Sabrina Carpenter are receiving. With “15 Minutes”, Beer brings the heat with a bouncy, entrancing pop song that oozes sex appeal in a dream-like melody. It’s different from what the rest are doing, and that’s a good thing.

    Her vocals are as solid as ever with “15 Minutes” and it’s just another should-be hit for Beer.

    ROLE MODEL- “Scumbag”

    A fun loving track is exactly what we needed on this playlist. Thankfully, ROLE MODEL is here to deliver what he knows best: heartbreaking lyrics masked with upbeat melodies and ear-wormy hooks. “Scumbag” happily screams lyrics like “I’m a scumbag! But you stand by me” during its chorus.

    It’s about seeing someone for who they really are, and loving them even if they suck a bit. We’ve all been there, ROLE MODEL is just being honest.

    Neon Trees- “El Diablo” 

    A new era of Neon Trees is underway: one where the band is more raw and honest than ever, willing to bare it all to their listeners. With new album, Sink Your Teeth, written over the course of three years, a lot has changed for the band. Newest single, “El Diablo”, is high energy right off the bat with an essence of pop rock.

    It’s perfect for a night out with your friends, pure fun the entire way through. “El Diablo” is a song that you may not have pinned to be written and performed by Neon Trees, but somehow their new sound works perfectly. It’s edgy, but not in a way that doesn’t work.

    Gallant- “Fly On The Wall (Osaka Version)”

    “Fly On The Wall” is an emotional and introspective track that gently washes over you as soon as you turn it on. With deep, soothing vocals, Gallant prepares for the release of his sophomore album, Zinc., where he stays true to himself as an artist. “Fly On The Wall” is a perfect beginning to the album, soft and building, reminiscent of an argument.

    “It came together as an honest and visceral story I’d been trying to write for a long time,” says Gallant. “It’s focused on the lyrics. The chorus reminded me of saying something I regretted in the heat of themoment during an argument.”

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    I know I always say this…but I’m particularly excited for this weekend. No, it’s not because the weather has been so beautiful that I don’t want to sit inside on my laptop (although that’s true). It’s because we’re approaching Memorial Day Weekend- and for me, a New Jerseyan, that means going to the beach.

    No matter if you have family parties, plans with your friends, or aspire to sprawl on the sand this weekend…we all need one thing, and that’s a killer playlist to be the soundtrack for our plans. You’ve probably spent the week participating in the streaming war between Billie Eilish (HIT ME HARD AND SOFT) and Taylor Swift (THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT ANTHOLOGY), but we all know there’s always room for new music.

    And that’s where I come in, dear reader. If you’re new here, I create a weekly playlist to get you ready for your weekend and make you look cool to your friends. You’ll never be in need of new tunes while I’m around. And since it’s a special long weekend, I have a special lengthy playlist for you!

    Now that we’re all on the edge of our seats…let’s get listening!!

    Louis The Child x Madeon – “Believe It” 

    Everyone knows you need a classic house song to start your summer off right and that’s what “Believe It” is. A dynamic track that starts off strong and somehow builds throughout its entirety, “Believe It” will get your friends up and dancing immediately. But this is no surprise when the collab is coming from two seasoned veterans like Madeon and Louis The Child.

    Vincent Mason – “Really Don’t Love Me”

    Country artist Vincent Mason has released his EP, Can’t Just Be Me, alongside single “Really Don’t Love Me” today. With a plethora of instruments from guitar to harmonica to a background drumbeat, this symphony perfectly complements Mason’s crooning tone. He’s the next big thing in the country world, and “Really Don’t Love Me” spins the tale of an ex who revealed their true colors into a hit track.

    Empire Of The Sun – Music On The Radio

    With their new album, Ask That God, coming out July 26, Empire of the Sun is preparing to release their first album in eight years. “Music On The Radio” reminds us that Empire of the Sun has not missed a beat- creating an ethereal disco-esque track that is perfectly timed for summer. It’s light, catchy, and refreshing, indicating a new era of the duo who seem to get it right every single time.

    “To me this song is like a teenager rebelling against his imaginary emotions. It’s penned in only that unique way Lord Littlemore can bring words to life. The bass wraps it’s arms around you in some kind of hypnotic groove and you’re powerless to its charms” says band member Luke Steele

    Jeremy Zucker, Lauv, Alexander 23 – “Cozy” 

    Jeremy Zucker, Lauv, Alexander 23 create a perfect blend of their smooth vocals with “Cozy.” Their voices and styles are ideal for this collaboration that truly makes you feel cozy when you’re listening to it. It’s an Avengers-style collab for indie fans and music fans alike.

    “When Jeremy, Alexander and I went into the studio to make a song, I knew we had to create something super fire. I’m so excited you guys can hear it now too. I feel like our fans have waited for us to collaborate for so long, and I truly just love these boys and think they’re so talented, so it’s an honor to make a song with them.” says Lauv.

    Dax- “A Real Man” 

    Dax has the power to seamlessly glide from genre to genre within one song and it creates a hit. “A Real Man” ebbs and flows between country, R&B, and hip-hop without missing a beat. It’s introspective and creative, telling the story of a woman wanting a “real man” in a relationship…but never quite living up to it.

    “The worst place I’ve ever been trapped was in the cage of someone’s expectations that I couldn’t live up to. The constant feeling of being unappreciated is a hammer that will beat the love out of your heart until you have none left to give.” – Dax

    Sabrina Sterling – “Soon” 

    Sabrina Sterling’s soft cadence is reminiscent of favorites like Billie Eilish or Phoebe Bridgers…but she creates a song entirely her own with “Soon.” Her voice shines through as she sings this heartbreaking ballad about how she’s afraid her partner is leaving sooner than she wants. It’s both nostalgic and heart wrenching, but incredibly beautiful nonetheless.

    Mont Duamel- “Imagine” 


    “Imagine” transports you into a different realm of music- with layered vocals and an instrumental backing that just makes sense…this song will be perfect for your long drives with the windows down, or maybe even when you’re lounging on the beach with your friends. Mont Duamel creates an adventurous track with meticulous production that is evident as you listen.

    “I feel like this new body of music I’ve been making feels human and organic but also is getting pushed into a more otherworldly, personal, intimate kind of place.” Mont says.

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    Now that we’re in the wake of Taylor Swift’s epic release of The Tortured Poets Department anthology, other artists have gathered the courage to release music yet again…I mean, the album literally broke every Spotify record in the book- already surpassing 1 billion streams in five days, she has the most streamed song and album in a single day. You get the point.

    But now, you’ve replayed the album sufficiently and you’re ready for new music. I know, we’re all insatiable when it comes to streaming new tracks. It’s why fans of other artists are lamenting that their faves don’t release as often as Swift. If, say, Billie Eilish or Harry Styles started releasing more frequently alongside Swift, we’d have a lot of work to do…my playlists would grow endless.

    Every Friday, I like to compile a list of the hottest new hits released that day so you know which songs to listen to. Whether you’re heading into the weekend ready to party, or need to get some spring cleaning done and need a soundtrack…there’s a song on my Weekend Playlist for everyone.

    And yes…our playlists are now available on Spotify! So all you need to do is press play and let the music take you away from your laptops and into your weekend.

    So, without further ado, let’s get listening!

    Chris Lake, Sammy Virji, Nathan Nicholson- “Summertime Blues”  

    We are no strangers to the technical genius of Chris Lake here at Popdust. He has the power to hop on collaboration tracks and make a hit…which is exactly what happens in “Summertime Blues.” An instant house classic that will smoothly transition you from spring to summer.

    Every warm weather season needs its essential techno house track, and it looks like we already have it. “Summertime Blues” transcends the listener to a club somewhere far away, maybe in Ibiza. It’s an instant classic- bouncy, sunny, heavy on the bass. A perfect blend of Virji, Lake, and Nicholson. Chef’s kiss.

    R3HAB, Jason Derulo- “Animal” 

    Jason Derulo and R3HAB team up for the ultimate collaboration: “Animal.” With Derulo’s smooth vocals and R3HAB’s production talent, you’ll be playing this song over and over. If you want a song with sexy lyrics, Jason Derulo’s famed voice, and R3HAB’s ability to meld any track into gold, this one is for you.

    This is the fourth collaboration for the now iconic duo, and it shows. “Animal” is a product of two powerhouses in their respective genres who know how to make a hit. Combining sounds isn’t always easy, but R3HAB and Derulo make you think it is.

    Mabel- “Vitamins” 

    Mabel delivers a hard-hitting R&B track with “Vitamins.” Perhaps my favorite song on the playlist this week, Mabel reminds you that she’ll be good for you. It’s reminiscent of R&B greats like Mary J. Blige and Ashanti, with all the soulful vocals and heartfelt passion that only Mabel can convey in her music. It’s easy listening, a slow burn that keeps shining from start to finish. About the track she says,

    “This is my family and friends’ favorite song out of all the music I’ve made over the past couple of years. It’s a reminder to the man I love to take care of himself but also that in difficult times I’ll always be there in his corner. I dedicate the record to my uncle David Cherry who passed during the making of this song. He was a musician and I felt him guiding me musically during the session, to be braver and bolder with my songwriting.”

    The Scarlet Opera- “Catch Me If You Can” 

    The Scarlet Opera delivers an empowering symphony of guitar and keys with “Catch Me If You Can.” It’s your dose of rock-and-roll combined with a mixture of badass lyricism, an intoxicating chorus, and a whole lot of infectious melodies. The Scarlet Opera’s message is that they have their stuff figured out, and they’re not letting anyone stop them.

    “We don’t really believe in revenge, but we do believe in epic destiny. We’re fortunate that those who have and continue to doubt us, hold little space in our hearts– this record will act as a constant reminder that we’re in control. Catch us if you can!”

    Justice, Tame Impala- “Neverender” 

    A Tame Impala track is essential for warm weather. Teaming up with the all-encompassing French touch DJ, Justice, the duo delivers a solid track in “Neverender.” Upbeat, well-paced, and catchy, this song will get you through the weekend seamlessly.

    If you want to check out our playlists, listen on our Spotify below!

    Listen To The Playlist On Spotify!

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    Breaking news: it’s Friday. So that means we have a whole week’s worth of new music. After Billie Eilish basically broke the internet by announcing a new album this week, everyone’s wondering who else is gearing up to release some future Grammy nominees. My guess? Harry Styles. (Or is that just a wish?)

    Either way, we have to focus on the present. While I’m overly ecstatic for it to be the weekend, I’m also equally excited to be listening to all these songs on Spotify. Plus, Coachella starts today, and I know a lot of you are going to need to add some songs to your pregame playlists.

    As always, I’ve combed through every New Music Friday playlist, I’ve read all the press releases, and I’ve done my own research. Here are some of the best new songs to listen to that were released today. Let’s get listening!

    Sabrina Carpenter- “Espresso” 

    Sabrina Carpenter is having herself a year. Ahead of her first Coachella performance this weekend, she releases “Espresso”, a fun-loving hit single that makes you want to lose all your worries and just move. Carpenter is having fun with her life, and it reflects her music. Written in Paris, she was in her traveler mindset just appreciating what the world had to offer. One of my favorite releases today, “Espresso” is a certified banger.

    Sabrina told Zane Lowe,

    “I don’t think I’ve ever gone into writing an upbeat, confident record being like, “I really want to write an upbeat, confident record.” I have to be in that headspace and I have to be in that mood. And this was one of those times in my life where it was just like, I just thought I was the shit in the moment.”

    Perrie- “Forget About Us” 

    Perrie Edwards may not be a familiar name by any means…formerly a leading member of Little Mix, Edwards’ vocal power set her apart from the crowd early on. “Forget About Us” is Perrie’s debut single as a solo artist, a pivotal song that’s both upbeat in melody and melancholic in lyricism.

    Written alongside Ed Sheeran, she reminds us in the same track that although relationships don’t always last, they’re still dynamic moments in our lives that shape who we are. Edwards says,

    “I look back on past relationships and do think happily about those times. Do I want to be there now? No. It didn’t work out that way and if it was supposed to be it would have happened. Relationships have been a huge part of my life and they’ve made me who I am now. I think it’s a nice sentiment to be honest about and it’s super relatable.”

    Peter McPoland- “Speed of the Sound (of you)” 

    Peter McPoland is a one-of-a-kind talent in the music industry. A special force who can write, produce, and record a record by himself and have it sound flawless, McPoland has an ear for a hit track. As his prowess grows, the songs get better…which is exactly the case with “Speed of the Sound (of you).”

    McPoland’s first song of 2024 doesn’t disappoint by any means. It’s a bop that’s worthy of playing over and over. Unique in its own way, Peter McPoland delivers yet another earworm-y song.

    Dua Lipa- “Illusion” 

    I’m getting a bit upset with Dua Lipa for not releasing any sort of ballad and declaring that her album would sound different than the rest…however, I can’t deny that her disco-pop style is great for partying. Although she hasn’t strayed far from her usual style, Lipa shows us she knows what it takes for a chart-topping record…and she’s sticking with what works.

    “Illusion” is every bit the 80’s workout sound you know and love.

    Future, Metro Boomin- “We Still Don’t Trust You” 

    Metro Boomin is the Jack Antonoff of rap, if that makes sense. A highly regarded producer and creator who can work with the best-of-the best and create a Grammy-nominated album every single time. Every time you hear that iconic “Metro Boomin want some more” intro, you know you’re getting a banger.

    “We Still Don’t Trust You” is an absolute vibe. A song I could see myself driving on the highway to at midnight, it’s more beat-heavy than about lyricism. Plus, a few melodies from The Weeknd make this even more of a brooding, moody tune that just works.

    Maggie Rogers- “The Kill” 


    Maggie Rogers has gone for the kill with her new album, Don’t Forget Me. A songwriter to her core, Maggie Rogers is highly regarded as one of the best indie alt stars of our generation. This album deserves its own separate article, but “The Kill” is one of her best submissions.

    About a relationship that has gone sour, Maggie Rogers reflects on how things used to be good…but now they’re just going for the kill.

    Chlöe- “Boy Bye” 


    Chlöe delivers an electric breakup anthem with “Boy Bye.” I immediately added this to my playlist because the song encapsulates being so done with a partner, needing to leave them because they don’t treat you right. She bids her boy bye with this upbeat R&B track, telling him to go back to his mother because she won’t even cry.

    It makes me even more excited for her debut album, In Pieces. The world is in desperate need of an R&B diva who isn’t afraid to tell it like it is…and I think we’ve found her.

    Suki Waterhouse- “Fun” 


    New mother, Suki Waterhouse, is wasting no time getting back to her music. In “My Fun”, she yearns for a partner who loves her like she loves having her fun. A folksy rock track that is reminiscent of classic greats like The Beatles, “My Fun” is the perfect ending to this playlist.

    Fun loving, scream worthy, “My Fun” is an easy listen. Suki Waterhouse makes no mistakes with her music.

    Listen To Our Full Playlist Here: 

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    Happy Cowboy Carter day– oops, I mean Friday — to all who celebrate. Yes, it feels a bit sacrilegious to work on Opening Day, Beyonce’s Release Day, and Good Friday, but I digress. Some of us have to stay strong and power through the workday while others are enjoying the singular sunny day we’ve had all week.

    But, I’m not bitter. No. Because every Friday I jump out of bed and open my Spotify app, where I’m greeted by a plethora of new music that just makes the day go by quickly. And even better, I get to make a fresh playlist for everyone to enjoy throughout the weekend.

    With Easter coming up, we all have our plans to travel home and that entails tons of music. Whether you’re trying to ignore your family members, need something to pass the long hours traveling, or simply need some new tunes to fill your playlist with, I’ve got you covered. Because we all understand how difficult it can be to comb through every single playlist on Spotify, I do the work for you!

    While you may be streaming Ariana Grande’s Written By playlist on Spotify, which includes some of her own smash hits like “7 Rings”, “Positions”, and “Into You”, and also features collaborations with Missy Elliott (“Borderline”), Lil Wayne (“Let Me Love You”), Nicki Minaj (“Bad to You”), Pharrell Williams (“Blazed”), and The Weeknd (“Off the Table”), among others…it’s time for new music.

    It’s a new weekend filled with brand new music from artists like Beyonce, Becky Hill, and more. While Cowboy Carter has been all the rage as Beyonce makes her country debut, I took the time to shoutout a few songs you may have missed. I’m super excited, so let’s get listening!

    Becky Hill- “Outside Of Love”

    As her album inches closer, Becky Hill proves time and time again that she can push boundaries in the dance community. She can make a heartfelt ballad feel like a dance party- having a unique ability to isolate her vocal abilities while uplifting her lyrics. “Outside of Love” is one of her best to-date, which means it only gets better from here. Becky says,

    “I’m so proud to present my latest single ‘Outside Of Love.’ This song is a big anthemic dance ballad with fresh underground production and is one of the stand out moments of the new album. I wrote it with my long time collaborators Mike Kintish and Charlotte Haining ,and producers Parisi. I really hope people connect to this frustrated and isolated love song and still feel like they wanna dance their way through the shared sadness.”

    Anyma- Genesys II

    Anyma is a dynamic character in the electronic dance music world. Not only a record label founder and performer in his own right, but a visionary in production and creating music. Following up his debut album, Genesys, Anyma continues to dazzle listeners with Genesys II.

    Exciting and refreshing, Genesys II is exactly what you want from a sophomore album.

    Louis The Child- “Falling” with NJOMZA & Daniel Allen

    My favorite thing about Louis The Child is that they can take any track and turn it into something solely their own. With “Falling”, you get a perfect melancholic vibe that masks sad lyricism behind catchy beat drops. Louis The Child delivers yet another banger in their already impressive discography. They add,

    “We have this thing we love to do when we make music with NJOMZA. We’ll write a song super slow based around some emotional chords, then strip the production, speed the whole song up, and reproduce with the song in mind. This was originally written at 128bpm and sounded like a slow ballad, nothing like what you hear now. We loved the songwriting, and when we got together with Daniel Allan, we played it for him and it was like ‘oh for sure let’s do this.’”

    Quinn XCII- “Pasadena”

    His first song post-fatherhood, Quinn XCII returns with “Pasadena”- a reminder for all of us to just live our lives, because we’re too old to care. It’s about living in the moment, doing things for no reason just because you want to. Quinn XCII gives us the reminder that we don’t need to wait to do the things we love.

    Whether it’s going to Pasadena, or eating breakfast for dinner, this song is a great reminder to live for yourself.

    YUNGBLUD- “Abyss”

    Written as the opening track for the new anime series, Kaiju No. 8, YUNGBLUD traveled to Japan to write the song. What makes “Abyss” stand out is the attention to detail- how it perfectly encapsulates the struggle of the main character while remaining relatable. YUNGBLUD says,

    “I think there are times when we feelthat the world is cruel and not necessarily made for us. I think that’s expressed very beautifully in the story, and it’s really in line with what I’m trying to achieve myself. Tofind my place in the world, to find my friends. Don’t suppress your hidden talents andpower, even if you can’t be proud of them yourself. Because everyone is beautiful”

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    After a week full of 60+ degree weather in New York, I’m officially read to slam the laptop shut and enter the weekend. I’m bathing suit shopping online, I’m spending time basking in the short-lived early spring weather, and I’m absolutely gearing up to make another playlist to get through the weekend.

    Since this weekend is St. Patrick’s Day, I’m sure many of you are traveling to hotspots like Boston and New York for parades and soul-crushing crowds. The only way to get through this weekend of horrors? Lots of music, and even more green beer. Doctor’s orders.

    But, you can’t keep replaying your same old playlist with songs your friends have heard come over your speakers time and time again. People will stop letting you get aux if you can’t deliver a dance-worthy playlist that’s both refreshing and timeless. That’s where I come in, dear reader.

    I love to deliver a playlist filled with new music releases today, March 15, 2024. So get your Spotify accounts ready, because it’s time to see what’s in store for this week! Let’s get listening.

    ZAYN- “What I Am”

    He’s baaaacckkk. Former member of One Direction, Zayn Malik, left the band (and should be paying my therapy bills for this) in 2015 and completely switched direction (pun intended). Now an R&B soul god, ZAYN has found his stride with “What I Am.”

    “I think just being where I was at that time, staying away from things and living with my own thoughts inspired me to want to write something from that place. I’ve got to put this out as a whole body of work, it’s something for myself, not even just for the world,” says Zayn.

    I worried at first that ZAYN wouldn’t be able to create a stylistically different track without sounding repetitive. “What I Am” highlights his vocals without going overboard, conveys yearning, longing, and melancholy all in one. It’s an easy listen. Zayn Malik, you’ll always be famous.

    Cardi B- “Enough (Miami)”


    If you’ve been missing Old Cardi, she’s here. With “Enough (Miami)”, Cardi goes back to her roots: classic rap, biting lyrics, a hook that gets you out of your seat. It’s reminiscent of classics like “Bodak Yellow”, where Cardi tells it as it is: you can’t beat her, you can’t even be her.

    Kacey Musgraves- “The Architect”


    With one of the most satisfyingly crisp voices in country music, Kacey Musgraves delivers “The Architect” on a silver platter. It’s introspective, beckoning the listener to really look inside themselves and wonder who’s the architect of their lives. A song about not fully understanding someone, something, or everything, “The Architect” is one-of-a-kind.

    Ahead of her new album, Deeper Well, which she promises to be a “cleanse” of sorts for listeners, “The Architect” is a great intro.

    Zack Bia, Teezo Touchdown- “DAMN”

    Any weekend should be met with house music, which is why Zack Bia and Teezo Touchdown’s “DAMN” is a perfect fit. Something light and easy, “DAMN” is the perfect track to lead off a night out, or to help you get hyped up while getting ready. Zack Bia is known for his commitment to the nightlife scene, so it’s no surprise that this track embodies a night out with your friends.

    Sydney Sherrill- “Boy In The Blue Cadillac”

    Alongside her debut album, 17 Young and Stunning, Sydney Sherrill releases vocal powerhouse single, “Boy In The Blue Cadillac.” Few singer-songwriters can belt out a commanding chorus riddled with guitar trills and have such an impact as Sydney Sherrill does.

    Singing from the perspective of her 17-year-old self, 17 Young and Stunning, takes us through the throes of adolescence. From finding your first love to figuring out who you really are in the world, Sherrill knows how confusing growing up can be. “Boy In The Blue Cadillac” sends you back in time in the best way.

    Cloonee- “Sippin’ Yak (We Like)”

    Cloonee is in high demand: with both weekends of Coachella booked, a headline LIV Beach Las Vegas residency, a show at the Brooklyn Mirage, and more, fans flock to see a performance no matter where he is. After teasing “Sippin’ Yak” on socials and in live sets, Cloonee is finally releasing the track ahead of all of these major performances.

    “Sippin’ Yak (We Like)” is an instant hit for fans of tech house with an intricate eye for production and style.

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    When commuting to work, I do a lot of people watching. Call me creepy, but in New York City, there’s not much else you can do besides be hyper-aware of your surroundings. And that includes taking note of the three main different types of commuters.

    There’s the insufferable worker: has a classic novel folded as they lean against the subway rails, barely cognizant of the fact that they could be launched onto their neighbor at any moment. Yes, they’re waiting for someone to ask them if they truly enjoy the discourse of the Charles Dickens book they’re toting.

    Then there’s the head down, hating-the-world commuter who just needs to get to their destination in one piece. Do not make eye contact, you’ll turn to stone.

    …And then there’s me: the off-duty DJ. At any moment, I’m hoping someone stops and asks me what song I’m listening to for their TikTok’s. I’m bobbing my head, there’s a little skip to my step, and I’m rocking out at all times. I like to think of myself as the pedestrian version of Baby Driver.

    Music gets me out of bed and helps me hype myself up for work. It’s the background noise as I get ready to go out each weekend. It’s also part of my job. I should have a black card Spotify membership at this point.

    So, as we know, I spend the week gathering up all the new music that’s released every Friday and compiling a playlist that is so irresistible you’ll spend the weekend replaying it. If you’re looking for new music, well, you’ve come to the right place.

    We’ve got another week filled with fresh tracks you won’t wanna miss. Without further ado, let’s get listening!

    “Saturn” – SZA


    GRAMMY award winner, SZA, is fresh off her SOS album: a thrilling sophomore addition to her no-skips, no-miss collection of music. She’s gearing up to release the deluxe reissue of the album titled, Lana, and “Saturn” is her first submission. It’s your classic, dreamy SZA sound with ethereal beats and longing vocals.

    Singing about how she doesn’t belong on this planet, how life is better on Saturn – where none of this matters. It’s about the sheer feeling of escapism that overwhelms you from time to time…and it gets us excited for what comes next.

    “Planet” – Aidan Bissett 

    Aidan Bissett has a unique way of combining rock and pop to create an earworm-worthy single. Alongside his EP, Supernova, Bissett releases “Planet” – a song about finding inspiration in the most unlikely places. Written after being ghosted, he touches on real-life experience to produce yet another banger in his already impressive discography.

    Begging for someone to “come back down to this earth”, Bissett bursts into the chorus lamenting how he’s wasting his time and unable to understand his partner…so she must be from another planet. It’s a softer edge to Bissett that works just as well as his upbeat songs.

    “Proud” – SERGIO 

    When interviewing SERGIO a while ago, you could tell he was someone who had two things figured out: his sound, and how he wants to stay true to making music he loves. You can see this reflected in his new song, “Proud”, which emphasizes all the hard work he has put in to get to where he is now.

    SERGIO’s voice is smooth, clean-cut, and soothing, gently guiding you throughout the song filled with catchy pop sounds and passionate lyrics. “Proud” is a perfect example of how SERGIO can make a song both relatable and unique all in one.

    “All I Want” – Simi 

    Simi is a star in her own right: an actress, a songwriter, a singer, and a performer. She owns her own label, Studio Brat, which is where she’s releasing her next single, “All I Want” – and it’s every bit as fulfilling as the rest. An upbeat, encouraging song that is dedicated to finding love, Simi makes it all feel possible with this new single.

    “All I Want” is her follow up to last year’s ballad, “Stranger”, which is an exemplification of her vocal range and songwriting ability. It’s rare to have someone who can do it all, but Simi seemingly does it with ease.

    “Believe” – USHER

    Fresh off a Super Bowl Halftime performance, USHER has had himself a year. An extended Vegas residency that draws A-list crowds (my roommate sat next to the Kardashian’s table), and now new music as the cherry on top of it all. “Believe” is everything you love about USHER: his traditional R&B sound, littered with vocal runs and sensual sounds.

    “Believe” is your reminder that USHER isn’t going anywhere, any time soon. He looks as good as he did when he was performing “Somebody To Love” with Justin Bieber, and he sounds even better.

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    Now that I’ve obsessively pored through my Spotify Wrapped 2023 playlist a few times over, unfortunately I need something new. Regardless of the fun Spotify Wrapped features this year, my Blend playlists with friends are the entire Stick Season (We’ll All Be Here Forever) album with a mixture of Elvis. So it’s not even like I can get variety there!

    I know I’m not the only one who’s done this: whether you may be an Apple Music or Spotify type of person, you’re a bit tired of the same old-same old right now.

    Which is where I have to step in and be my own hero here. You may be familiar with this little segment I run called “Weekend Playlist”, an all-over-the-place roundup of the best music released this week. And as we’re surging into the holiday season, I am spending a lot of time traveling…so I need fresh playlists.

    Before we know it, I’ll be preaching about how it’s the new year, which calls for new music…but before I get too ahead of myself, let’s stay in the moment. One of my favorite things to do is create a playlist for every type of mood I’m in, which only further proves my credentials as Playlist Maker Of The Year.

    It’s December 8, which means it’s time for a brand new Weekend Playlist! Let’s get listening!

    Nicki Minaj- Pink Friday 2 

    Barbs, assemble. The epitome of Nicki Minaj is the Pink Friday album, with hits like “Super Bass”, “Moment 4 Life”, “Roman’s Revenge”, and “Did It On ‘Em”, it’s a literal no-skips body of work. Now the Queen of Rap is here with the next installment of the iconic album, Pink Friday 2.

    You’ve seen the Gag City memes already, and there’s perhaps no bigger buzz for an album this week than the swarm of listeners ready to consume more Nicki. I’m ready to be sent back to middle school with the classic Nicki/Roman we all know and love.

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    It’s a week before Thanksgiving, which means we have been thrust into the holiday season whether we were ready or not. While you’re gearing up to see your family and friends for your obligatory annual catch-up conversations, we need new music now more than ever. Because there are travels to be completed, and soothing is needed.

    And as I previously mentioned, it’s holiday season- which means many artists will be releasing holiday tracks to get you in the spirit. Compiling songs from Spotify’s New Music Friday playlist, the countless press releases flooding my email, and doing my own investigations, we have yet another week’s worth of new music ready!

    That’s right, I’ve got a fresh playlist of songs you didn’t know you needed in your life. Whether you have Friendsgivings to attend, clubs to dance in, or are just staying in on this lovely November Friday, there’s always a good time to find new tunes.

    We’ve got no time to spare, so let’s get listening!

    Lauren Spencer Smith- “Santa Baby” 

    Lauren Spencer Smith is one of the most exciting rising stars in pop music right now. She can spin any track into gold, whether it be a ballad, or a rock-inspired pop dance tune. Now, she’s here with a taste of the holidays for us with a rendition of “Santa Baby”- her clear, concise vocals are flawless, haunting, and flirty.

    She’s fully in holiday season…releasing a cover of “Hallelujah” earlier this month and releasing “Broke Christmas” alongside her “Santa Baby” cover. It begs the question: is there anything she can’t do?

    Sabrina Carpenter- fruitcake 


    Another woman in the music industry having a massive year is Sabrina Carpenter, who went viral on TikTok for her “Nonsense” outros on tour, both her own and opening for Taylor Swift. Coming off her fifth studio album with emails i can’t send in 2022, Carpenter is establishing herself as the “next big popstar.”

    She’s here with her holiday EP, fruitcake, with six festive songs that are uniquely Carpenter. You can get tired of the same old holiday cheer songs over and over, but Sabrina Carpenter’s fruitcake proves there’s still ground to be broken in the holiday song category.

    Jimmy Fallon, Meghan Trainor- “Wrap Me Up” 


    Jimmy Fallon and Meghan Trainor team up for a light-hearted track during the gifting season. Begging for you to “wrap me up” because she’s the “whole damn package”, you get the classic Meghan Trainor sound and vibe. Plus, any track adding Jimmy Fallon is guaranteed to be instantaneously exciting.

    What I love about Meghan Trainor’s music is that it truly is all about having fun and feeling your best. It’s an infectious, often viral method that gets everyone dancing whether they wanted to or not. “Wrap Me Up” is no exception , which is no surprise.

    Chloe Stroll, “Homesick” 


    Chloe Stroll is one of Popdust’s favorites for a good reason: she has an honest approach to making quality music that is both relatable and easy to listen to. Her new single, “Homesick”, is proof that she is willing to work hard to create these borderline perfect tracks and shows her growth as a new artist in the industry. She sings about yearning for someone’s love, being homesick for them.

    It’s a pop sound with synths and, of course, a hint of piano. It exhibits her vocal range and you can hear the emotion through each chorus as she launches in. If you need an introduction to Chloe Stroll, this is the song for you.

    Elle Darlington- “christmas is you”  

    Elle Darlington has a soulful, ethereal tone that is reminiscent of pop divas we know and love. You wonder if there is a note she can’t hit as she effortlessly glides through “christmas is you”. She delivers a dreamy bedroom pop Christmas song that makes you want to go out in the snow and romanticize your holiday season. Darlington says,

    “Christmas has always been my favorite time of year. This songreflects the thing I love most about Christmas – being with my family and friends. So many of my idols including Mariah & Ariana have been the soundtrack to my favorite festive memories; so it’s super exciting that ‘christmas is you’ could play a part in making those memories for other people.”

    DRAMA- “As I Am”  


    “As I Am” is the latest single off of DRAMA’s Til We Die EP that offers high energy and otherworldly sound, sending you straight to the club dance floor. Til We Die is one of DRAMA’s best bodies of work to date, and “As I Am” perfectly encapsulates all the album has to offer. It’s like stepping into a haze in the best way possible, listening feels like the ultimate escape.

    DRAMA delivers electronic R&B that includes thought-provoking lyrics and refreshing beats…melding into catchy club tracks that make you want to go out all night long. “As I Am” is a peek into a tortured love affair, masked by a celestial, entrancing sound.

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    It feels like it’s been forever since I’ve graced everyone with a new batch of fresh music…but like all inevitable things in life- love, loss, aging- I’m here again. Call me persistent, call me determined, call me relentless- I will not give up on finding new music worth listening to every single Friday.

    I am overtly excited to share all of these tracks, spanning all different genres to give you a little taste of everything…because what’s a good playlist if not all over the place? Riddled with exciting beats, refreshing sounds, and unique vocals, the first week of November is proving to be one of the best weeks we’ve had for music in a while.

    With your Spotify Wrapped being slowly curated, you can wait in anticipation by discovering all these new artists and songs! How convenient. You’re very welcome.

    We don’t have time to waste, so let’s get listening!

    Victoria Justice, Toby Gad- “Big Girls Don’t Cry” 

    Toby Gad is a collaborative genius- co-writing mega-hits like Beyonce’s “If I Were a Boy”, Demi Lovato’s “Skyscraper”, and John Legend’s “All Of Me”. He’s working on re-creating his extensive repertoire by recording piano versions…his latest installment being Fergie’s “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, accompanied by famed singer-actress Victoria Justice.

    Justice’s strong vocals and ability to belt make her the perfect touch to Gad’s already iconic writing. When re-imagining music, you want to make it uniquely your own. Which is why Justice and Gad put such a refreshing, soothing approach on the song that makes it unlike anything you’ve heard before.

    Conan Gray- “Killing Me” 

    Conan Gray’s gentle tone yearns to move on in “Killing Me”, his latest track about being unable to move on from those relationships that are toxic. The hold they have on you remains, but you can’t seem to find any more redeemable qualities that keep you around. Those relationships feel like they’re killing you, and Conan Gray has a special way of putting it into words.

    “I wrote “killing me” while I was sick with the flu. It was a miserable time where I was both physically sick, but also super heartbroken over somebody. Hence, ‘you’re KILLING me.’ I think we all have those people who don’t treat us nearly well enough, but we just can’t seem to let them go. People who call you at 2AM, and who you know you shouldn’t pick up……but you do. “Killing Me” is for when you’re on your last limb begging this person to just please stop torturing your heart.”

    ericdoa- “dancinwitsomebawdy”

    At age 21, you wouldn’t expect ericdoa to be as experienced and talented at creating a hit track…but he is, and that’s what makes him a juggernaut in the hyperpop, rap scene. He blends genres into one that just makes sense, which “dancingwithsomebawdy” is an example of. The track gets us ready for a new album in the new year, “dancingwithsomebawdy” is both a thrill to listen to and a promise of what’s to come.

    “I missed a lot of childhood being in meetings, obsessing over trying to be this artist that I wanted to become,” he says. “I really lost the freeing, adolescent feeling of just creating whatever I wanted.”

    ROSIE- “It’s Not Christmas” 

    The first holiday song on our Weekend Playlists! It was inevitable, but ROSIE’s is a beautiful encapsulation of what it’s like to miss someone during the holiday season. We know it as a time of celebration and to be around family, but don’t often consider what it may be like for those missing a person. A pleasant reminder to stay positive, ROSIE delivers a heart-warming holiday track.

    “It’s Not Christmas” is about missing someone during the holiday season. Although this time of year is full of joy and magic for some, it can be extremely difficult for others, so I wrote a song for anyone who needs a reminder that’s it’s okay to be sad, even on Christmas!”

    Dax ft. Darius Rucker- “To Be A Man” 


    Nigerian-Canadian country rapper Dax has a way of molding country music into its own, special sound. Pairing up with hit country singer, Darius Rucker, makes “To Be A Man” even better thanks to his smooth sound that can complement anyone’s vocals. The track instantly went viral on Instagram, which makes sense due to its empowering, uplifting lyrics that hit home with any listener.

    It’s an introspective, honest track that encourages you to look inside and acknowledge when you need help as well. It’s a look into mental health, the struggles we go through, and what it means to “be a man.”

    Zoe Ko- Baby Teeth 


    When you listen to Zoe Ko’s EP, Baby Teeth, you’ll get notes of pop-rock princesses like Gwen Stefani during her No Doubt days, Olivia Rodrigo, and maybe even a hint of Paramore in there. You’ll hear her cutting edge, witty lyrics and lilting voice that hits every note just right, and want even more from her.

    Baby Teeth consists of five tracks to give you the perfect sampling of who Zoe Ko is as an artist: honest, funny, and edgy. In the world of Zoe Ko, there is something satisfying about the guitar riffs and confidence that exudes from this EP. She’s one to watch in the industry for sure.

    Sammy Virji- “If U Need It” 


    Sammy Virji is on fire lately, “If U Need It” is the perfect track to go out and dance to. It’s got the makings of a staple on your going out playlist: a hook that makes you want to sing, a beat that makes you want to dance, and the innovativeness to sound fresh and new every time you hear it. “If U Need It” has it all.

    Known for his risk-taking with his music, Sammy Virji is proving that he’s a name to be remembered in electronic dance music. We can’t wait to see what comes next, knowing that he delivers time after time.

    Joy (Anonymous)- Cult Classics 

    Joy Anonymous is here with their vital collection of tracks essential for a night on the dance floor. With all tracks technically (and cleverly) titled “JOY”, you’re getting what is considered Joy Anonymous to their core. It’s a bold mix of disco, house, soul, and classic EDM that works perfectly.

    “Cult Classics is the soundtrack of Joy Anonymous meetings over the past two years. It began in Imogen Heap’s house in Romford. Where we spent two weeks working with various friends and new collaborators to form the skeletons of what was to become the album you hear today. Then we took these sounds on tour and tested them out in meetings around the world, honing and developing the sound on the move. Joy Anonymous is a movement where people feel included and feel safe to share expression and emotion. We have tried to capture that in the sound, process, and delivery of this album.”

    Take That- “This Life” 

    Gearing up to release their ninth studio album as a band, Take That shares the second single from their upcoming album, Brand New Sun. “This Life” is a showcasing of Take That- their vocals, their band, and their production skills all display their expertise in the industry. It’s polished, well-rounded, and a sign that Take That has it all figured out.

    “It’s been a wonderful experience being back in the studio together making this record.It has that feeling of spreading your wings, letting out the old and bringing in the new” commented the band. ‘We’re incredibly proud of the new album – there’s a sense oftogetherness, whether that’s us coming back together as a band or people wantingconnection in their own lives. We’re excited for this new chapter!”

    Jai Phillips

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  • Sinego Takes Us Through Latin America With Alterego

    Sinego Takes Us Through Latin America With Alterego

    Sinego’s attention to detail in his music is what sets him apart in the industry: he can take a recording from any everyday interaction and use it to perfect a track, he develops missions in music- providing necessary exposure and education to Latin American cultures whether you notice or not, and he has a way of tying it all together into a well-produced record. Sinego is a once-in-a-lifetime artist, deserving of his accolades and his fan’s support, and he’s here with his debut album, a labor of love called Alterego.

    Alterego has a mission, split into two parts: El Dia and El Noche, the albums follow Sinego through multiple Latin American countries…showcasing their classic sounds, honing in on instruments and vocals that complement the cultures. It’s an impressive feat by Sinego, who created a documentary alongside his travels as he worked tirelessly to encapsulate the essence of countries like Cuba, Colombia, Puerto Rico, and more. You can listen to lead single, “Labios (La Noche)” here:

    As a multi-instrumentalist and DJ, Sinego solidifies himself as one of the most exciting artists in the dance community who has a clear idea of who he is as an artist. Alterego enlists Sinego as an advocate for bringing Latin American music into the mainstream, which has already been growing in popularity thanks to the likes of Bad Bunny, Karol G, and J Balvin.

    However, Sinego takes it a step further: immersing himself, and listeners, in rich culture that ignores stereotypes and dispels them. It gives the perfect picture of both Latin American culture and Sinego’s sound as an artist. One of the most well-rounded dance albums I’ve heard, Alterego is worth your time.

    We got a chance to sit down with Sinego and talk about representing Latin America, Alterego, and more! Check it out below!

    PD: Your new album, Alterego, highlights different Latin American countries and their local artists. How does it educate listeners about Latin American culture?

    It helps us show the world there are many flavors and contrasts in the region. There´s not just one sound that’s part of this stereotypical idea that Latin America is “spicy”, “tropical”, and ¨hot”. There are hundreds of genres that touch other parts of art not related to these concepts. For example Tango, Boleros, Milongas. Def colder genres.

    PD: You’re also releasing a documentary from the album about your travels while creating it. What was your favorite memory from these trips?

    I made a stop in Cuba to create the collab with my friends, Pauza. We ended up creating a rave in a place called Yarini in La Havana. It was quite the experience, playing for an audience that´s non-pretentious and very tuned in with dance. At the end of the night, I lost my camera with tons of footage from the country, but one of the girls from Pauza told me: “When you lose something, all bad things go with it.”

    PD: What message do you hope listeners will take away from your album?

    As my big inspiration, Anthony Bourdain said, “Your body is not a temple, it’s an amusement park. Enjoy the ride.”
    I want electronic music fans to enjoy the ride at the dancefloor. Make it a little bit less pretentious and more about discovering the culture of a region like Latin America.

    PD: You use a lot of recordings from your travels in your music. Can you give us some examples?

    In the song from Colombia, I went to different markets to get textures for the high-end of the tracks. I wanted to give them depth so I basically added an extra layer of sound recordings from the country as if it were vinyl noise (the kind lo-fi producers use in their tracks).
    Also in the Puerto Rico song I ended up working with Millo Torres for the vocals, one of the musicians for Cheo Feliciano, the inspiration behind ¨El Raton¨.
    Lastly, in most of the album, I use guitars. Each time I travel to a new country I look for the best acoustic guitarist to record them. It was an excellent experience to get to know so many talented people from Argentina to Puerto Rico.

    PD: The album is in two parts…do they both tell the same story? Or would you say they have separate themes?

    Alterego has El Dia (day) and La Noche (night). They are two sides of the same coin but serve a different purpose. El Dia wants to explore the colors and the listening experience for the listener. La Noche shows the contrast from the regions and wants to generate a dancefloor catharsis for the audience. It´s a perfect analogy of Latin-America, a place full of colors, brightness, and culture, but also a place full of dark stories, nostalgia, and nights.

    PD: How did you encapsulate Ecuadorian culture in your single “Labios (La Noche)?”

    Labios is a song full of nostalgia. It mixes the Nostalgia from Ecuadorian Boleros with the dancefloor energy from House raves. Its “traditional trio” choirs and guitars bring a legacy sound to the dancefloor with a sound that reminds of artists like DJ Seinfeld & Fred Again. Its lo-fi drums mixed with a rolling bass make it a perfect tool for an underground rave.

    Labios reminds me of Quito. A place to remember the good times of the past.

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    Every few weeks, I get the same text from one of my friends: “Jai, I need new music. I’m tired of my rotation of usual playlists.” And to be honest, a little sigh emits from my mouth every time…why? Because I have a Weekend Playlist article every. Single. Week.

    I compile all of the latest, greatest new songs that are featured on Apple Music and Spotify- covering the lesser known tunes to new Taylor Swift. Honestly, no one in my inner circle should be lost for new music because that means they’re not reading my articles and, subsequently, that would mean I need new friends.

    While your choice of streaming service may have curated playlists based on your music taste, and a plethora of other options to find music…it can be daunting, and time consuming, to go through everything and find the songs you truly want to add to your playlist. That’s where I come in.

    Each week is a different selection of songs, and I guarantee you you’ll come out of these articles with at least one new banger to play for your friends. A wide range of genres, artists, and sounds, the Weekend Playlist is meant to get you through these arduous weeks. The good news? There’s always another to look forward to.

    So, without wasting anymore of our precious time here, I’ve got a ton of music to share with you this week! Let’s get listening!

    Rosie Darling- “I’m Different Now” 

    With elements of Phoebe Bridgers, Rosie Darling has a soft, introspective voice that haunts and seeps into your soul. “I’m Different Now” exhibits her beautiful, delicate vocals and talks about the part of life where you are moving on from someone who no longer serves you. It’s looking back at a relationship that maybe wasn’t all you thought it was.

    “I’m Different Now” is about getting to the other side of a difficult relationship. What’s awesome is that even though healing is messy and scary, it paves the way for a more mature, more refined self to take the space of what once was. It is learning to sit with who you’re becoming despite knowing that your old self still lingers, almost like a ghost following you around.”

    Joe P- “Glass House” 

    Joe P has been teasing “Glass House” for a while now across social media platforms. Frequently called “Dinosaur Bones” by fans before the single was announced, “Glass House” was highly demanded…and Joe is finally answering their call. With “Glass House”, you get the classic electric guitar, alternative sound that he has spent time refining and perfecting. It’s about losing someone and finding pieces of them wherever you go, and it does not disappoint.

    “To me, this song is about the physical proof we leave behind in the wake of relationships,” says Joe P. “A lot of my friends talk about how they unfollow someone on socials because they don’t want to see them anymore. We have these little moments when we’re reminded of something/someone and that nostalgia can trick us into believing feelings still exist where they don’t.”

    Chelsea Cutler- Stellaria 

    Chelsea Cutler is our featured artist of the week with her third studio album: Stellaria. A reflection of life post-pandemic, Cutler tackles grappling with mental health and self-image, healing and love. She brings an honest approach to songwriting as she continues to grow as an artist, producer, and songwriter.

    “I had just turned 23 and COVID started. I was about to turn 26 by the time things felt more normal. It was like I fell asleep at 23 and woke up at 25, and the whole world was different. I spent a lot of time wondering, ‘Am I going to feel like myself again or a new iteration of myself?’ I tried to write a song to get reacquainted with myself and love this new person post-pandemic.”

    Lewis OfMan- “Frisco Blues” 

    If a song could be the end of the summer, it would be “Frisco Blues.” With a melancholic background track, you’ll find yourself reminiscing on old times, lost love, and the end of the season. Sampling “Frisco Disco,” all Lewis OfMan needed was an acoustic guitar to complete the track…and it’s perfect.

    “The song was inspired by a bus ride from Florence to Marseille in one day back in December 2021. We were driving across the south of France, the vibe in the bus was nice, students, kids playing cards, I was listening to an obscure Jim Morrison interview, watching the cold sunset on the hills, good spirit. A few days later I was in the countryside only with an acoustic guitar and an Ensoniq Sampler with this sample of a song called ‘Frisco Disco’ I’d found at A1 record in NYC.”

    Em Beihold- “Pedestal”

    One of both my favorite songs and artists on this list, Em Beihold delivers a cheeky breakup track centered around a ukulele sound. Her vocal range is unmatched, and her biting lyrics are contrasted by the light, acoustic-heavy track about moving on after putting someone on a pedestal for so long.

    “I’m so excited to be announcing my first ever headline tour and to also be dropping “Pedestal”this week,” says Em. “I’ve been touring “Pedestal” for a couple years now and it’s the last songof that era of music for me, so it feels full circle to announce a new beginning at the same timeas closing an old chapter. So much fun, truly 2024 couldn’t come any faster!”

    Blu DeTiger- “Cut Me Down”


    A fun upbeat collaboration between Blu DeTiger and Mallrat, “Cut Me Down” shows the difficult side of relationships. With lyrics like “every time you cut me down, I just laugh it off” and “I wonder who you think you are”, Blu DeTiger and Mallrat sing about being degraded and put down by someone who doesn’t value them. The synth-y, club beat in the background make this song suitable for nights out or long runs as well.

    “I feel like this song is a nice evolution for me and a side of me that people haven’t heard, but the soul-full chords and movement of the bassline anchor it in the Blu DeTiger sound. This is one of the most melodic and moving bass parts I’ve written, and it follows and supports the vocals in a really cool way.”

    Until The Ribbon Breaks- “Nature Mother” 

    Until The Ribbon Breaks has a soulful voice that punches into this track, an overview of our roles in society and in nature. It’s contemplative, pensive, and daunting all at the same time, combining complex metaphors with a soulful Hozier-esque tone. “Nature Mother” with Emoni Wilkins belting at the end is a masterpiece.

    “If there was a single lyric that encompassed the whole feeling that I have – and where I’ve been emotionally and why I even made this record – it’s that chorus. It specifically talks about our role in nature and our role to each other: ‘Wild is the wind. Rage is the sea. If it’s in me, it’s in me, it’s our nature mother.’

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    When I was younger, I knew of two ways to get music: the legal way, paying $0.99 (and then $1.25) for songs on iTunes, and the illegal way, paying $0 to download the pirated versions on Limewire…Don’t lie, you had your ways, too.

    Maybe I’m aging myself by saying social media wasn’t as prevalent as it was now…you couldn’t just go on Instagram and announce new music. That’s right, you’d have to do things like watch television and pay attention, like when Disney Channel would play music videos instead of commercials. It was prime MTV time, you know that line from Bowling For Soup’s hit song “1985”: “and music still on MTV?” That.

    Essentially, you’d rely on solely on search engines, iTunes, and the radio to get your news. How archaic. Back when “doom scrolling” meant checking your email incessantly for new messages from your friends.

    There was no Spotify or Apple Music to curate special playlists…only writers like me reviewing new tracks (that were often printed on CD’s…gasp). Can you believe we used to burn playlists onto CD’s and listen to them as our parents drove?

    Now, music is more accessible than ever. We have access to any song written ever, essentially. I mean, people are constantly even hacking into celebrity’s iClouds and releasing their unreleased tracks! (It’s not ethical, but you get my point.)

    There is no better time to be a fan of music than this era. Now, with apps like Spotify, you can get a monthly subscription to listen to unlimited, commercial-free music with specially picked playlists geared towards your music taste and access to pre-sales for your favorite artist’s shows. The music world is truly at our fingertips.

    And that’s where I come in! I pick the best music that comes out every Friday across the board so you don’t have to comb through all of the new music playlists and feel lost. If you want your weekend to get a little easier, let’s get listening.

    Noah Kahan, Kacey Musgraves- “She Calls Me Back”

    At this point, Noah Kahan is just completing side quests. Whether it be performing onstage with Hozier, releasing collabs with Post Malone, Lizzy McAlpine, Zach Bryan, or most recently Kacey Musgraves, Noah’s been busy. This week’s newest duet is with Musgraves, who shows the other side of Kahan’s hit song “She Calls Me Back.” Musgraves’ melodic voice adds the perfect touch to this song filled with yearning.

    James Arthur- “Just Us” 

    What James Arthur can do to a song is unmatched. He’s the mastermind behind a heart-aching, soul-grasping ballad that will top the radio for weeks on end. An instantaneous creator of classics, James Arthur releases “Just Us”, ahead of his new album Bitter Sweet Love. It follows singles like “Blindside” and “A Year Ago”, “Just Us” is a reminder to focus on what’s really important.

    “‘Just Us’ is a song in which I confess to running away from what really matters and getting lost in the pursuit of validation from external things,” James explains. “It’s about chasing a hedonistic, hollow life. Realizing the true meaning of life which is of course about true love, loving ourselves, our families and our communities and being there for them.”

    Dom Dolla- “Saving Up” 


    Dom Dolla is one of the most exciting names in the electric dance community right now. With the mega-hit “Rhyme Dust” featuring the iconic MK out earlier this year, we got a sense of how Dom Dolla can produce any sort of dance music- regardless of if it’s house, disco, or anything in between. Now, with “Saving Up”, you have the perfect disco-inspired song to get you through the weekend. It’s a promising reminder that anything Dom touches is a banger.

    “I was in the UK last year after a massive summer of touring when I caught the train down to Brighton with some friends and ended up in an incredible studio overlooking the beach. I was missing home a bit, but felt really inspired and wanted to write a feel-good record, reminding myself of the importance of saving time for the ones I care about and love. Whilst (in the studio) overlooking the same site Fatboy Slim hosted his ‘Big Beach Boutique’, I was thinking about the UK’s dance music history and it inspired me so I decided to lean into the idea of writing something that sounds sampled, but isn’t. I often like to write records completely on my own, but it feels so perfect to have written this one alongside some good pals, Clementine Douglas, Caitlin Stubbs & Toby Scott.”

    Joel Corry- Another Friday Night 

    Another heavy-hitter in the EDM community is Joel Corry, who has a proven track record of solidified hits with songs like “Lonely”, “0800 Heaven”, “Head & Heart.” He’s produced songs that are the soundtrack to many nights out, and now he’s here with his debut album, Another Friday Night, just in time for the weekend. It’s one of the most highly anticipated dance albums of the year, with Corry’s uncanny ability to make a song everyone likes.

    Claire Rosinkranz- Just Because

    Claire Rosinkranz isn’t our featured artist of the week “just because”, it’s due to the fact that she’s released her debut album, Just Because. Rosinkranz is a young, dynamic artist who encapsulates the sound of surf and Southern California through picturesque music and retro inspiration. After being discovered at age 16, Rosinkranz has since taken the world by storm with her aptitude for songwriting and her fortifying vocal range.

    Just Because is highlighted by key single tracks like “Wes Anderson”, where Rosinkranz encourages the listener to get over their breakup…and “Swinging at the Stars”, more of an optimistic love anthem with an anticipated accompanying music video featuring a very special guest. It’s a no-skips, must-not-miss album.

    Chloe Stroll- “Hurricane” 

    No stranger to our featured artists lineup, Chloe Stroll is a Popdust fave. After debuting her music career earlier this year (and exclusively speaking with us on the matter), Chloe Stroll is not backing down. Her newest release, “Hurricane”, is a testimony to being loyal to the ones you love.

    One of the most admirable parts of Stroll’s music is that she is staying true to herself, and writing from a genuine place in her heart…which translates to the listener over time. “Hurricane” is an easy listen when you pair her voice with true, sincere lyrics.

    Neil Frances, DRAMA- “Energy”

    A fun-filled track meant for the dance floor, “Energy” is the product of when artists are able to combine their sounds seamlessly. It doesn’t always work, but “Energy” brings a genuine sense of excitement and makes you want to stay out dancing all weekend long.

    “Working with Neil Frances is fun. We’ve been jamming to their tunes for years, and when we teamed up, it was like a lightbulb moment. You know how it is when you work with strangers – it can be hit or miss. But with these guys, it’s a total breath of fresh air! We see a lot of ourselves in them which makes it very easy to create together. There is no pressure to conform or do things the “right” way. We’re just having fun and doing whatever it takes to take our music to the next level.”

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    Every week, I imagine all of us sitting…thinking about what the next Weekend Playlist article has in store for us. Call me a narcissist, but it’s surely what I’m doing all week long. It’s exhausting, truly.

    I spend the week excited for new music, because quite frankly I go through so many minutes of listening that I need a constant flow of new tracks to get me through each week. It’s the price of being a music reporter and lover, you simply can never have enough. And, if I can let you in on a little secret, we’ve got a ton of great new tunes this week.

    What I love about fall is there is literally no choice but to sit inside with your AirPods on stare out the window, yearning for warmer weather. And while you have your normal queue of fall albums (for me: Noah Kahan’s Stick Season (We’ll All Be Here Forever), Taylor Swift’s 1989, and Harry Styles’ Harry Styles), there’s always room for a new favorite song or two.

    There’s no need to do all the searching yourself, which is why I take the liberty of curating a special playlist for you! So let’s not waste anymore time and get to it…the moment we’ve all been waiting for (or maybe just me, who knows?)

    Drumroll please…let’s get listening!

    Jeremy Zucker- “this time” 

    Recovered from his hit album, summer, Jeremy Zucker is releasing “this time”…five years later! Zucker just released a new album, is nothing sacred?, this year and is preparing for his North American tour starting in October. It’s all about celebrating how far he’s come as both a musician and songwriter, five years after the mega hit “come thru” hit the charts.

    He’s someone who can collaborate with any genre, his voice melding perfectly into his duet’s. A threat in the music industry who just gets it, Zucker’s song “this time” proves he’s known who he is from the start.

    Surf Mesa ft. Griff Clawson- “Run” 

    Surf Mesa continues to blaze his own trail in the electronic dance community with “Run”, a borderline perfect collaboration with Griff Clawson. A talented producer and songwriter, Surf Mesa builds momentum as Griff soundtracks a song about running away from the good ones. Surf is in the middle of touring, and is releasing his debut EP Come True soon, but he’s not slowing down…and “Run” is proof.

    “The track ‘Run’ off my upcoming EP Come True is one of my favorites,” Surf Mesa says. “I’ve been diligentlyworking on this unreleased track, and it’s been a deeply personal project for me. I’m excited to share it withyou. This song represents a significant chapter in my musical journey, and I believe it will resonate with you in a profound way.

    Oliver Tree- Alone In A Crowd 

    Oliver Tree is perhaps the most creative, one-of-a-kind artists out there…constantly paving the way using different sounds, instruments, and synths to curate songs that are both easy and exciting to hear. Now, he’s back with his third studio album, Alone In A Crowd, 14 tracks including features from Super Computer and the iconic Robin Schulz.

    Tree is about to tour the new album through Australia and the UK, and his live shows aren’t one to be missed. Picking apart social media and the need for approval in this new EP, it’s both thought-provoking and uplifting.

    Del Water Gap- I Miss You Already + I Haven’t Left Yet


    Del Water Gap has consistently put out solid, soulful tracks that make you want to press replay when you finish. Now, he’s back with his EP, I Miss You Already + I Haven’t Left Yet, 12 tracks of honesty, passion, and self-reflection. It stays true to your classic Del Water Gap sound- fun and playful, mellow and melancholic.

    This is the sophomore album from Del Water Gap, who has given us classics like “Better Than I Know Myself” and “Ode To A Conversation Stuck In Your Throat.” An instant classic, he’s solidifying himself as a dynamic singer-songwriter in the industry today.

    Joy (Anonymous)-  “JOY (I Did You Wrong)”

    In anticipation of their new album, Cult Classics, Joy (Anonymous) is taking their iconic music to the next level. Blending sounds of disco, house, and soul through talented songwriting, Joy (Anonymous) is constantly coming up with innovative ways to change the game. “JOY (I Did You Wrong)” is another example of how the duo can make a hit that sounds different than anything you’ve heard before.

    “Cult Classics is the soundtrack of Joy Anonymous meetings over the past two years. It began in Imogen Heap’s house in Romford. where we spent two weeks working with various friends and new collaborators to form the skeletons of what was to become the album you hear today. Then we took these sounds on tour and tested them out in meetings around the world, honing and developing the sound on the move. Joy Anonymous is a movement where people feel included and feel safe to share expression and emotion. We have tried to capture that in the sound, process and delivery of this album,” says Joy (Anonymous).

    Jade LeMac- “Grapevines” 

    Jade LeMac lends her clever wit and strong voice to “Grapevines” before her sophomore EP, Confessions, drops. A metaphor for love and yearning, LeMac has an ability to turn any given feeling into a song. It’s fun to listen to her music, which is brutally honest in all the best ways…she’s cutting edge and “Grapevines” is just the beginning.

    “‘Grapevines’ is one of the more fun songs I’ve written. I remember being in the studio and seeing a vine, then thinking about the word ‘grapevines’ – and how cool and unique it would be to use that in a song. So I decided to base this whole song off of that one word. Naturally, it led me to think about being fed grapes (like how you used to see in the movies), and drinking wine (because that’s obviously made out of grapes), then it slowly became a metaphor for craving someone the way you would crave a glass of wine – or grapes. Sweet, a little bitter, but makes you feel happy. That’s how this song was born.”

    Mae Muller- “Nervous, But In A Good Way” 

    Mae Muller’s highly anticipated debut album, Sorry I’m Late, is welcomed with open arms. She’s every bit a talented vocalist who has hits under her belt already, and with leading singles like “I Came To Dance” and “I Wrote a Song” which garnered further excitement for her entire body of work. It’s an exciting time to be a Mae Muller fan, who tailors her music specifically to how she’s feeling and her experience…making for honest and relatable songs.

    You know Mae as the 2021 breakout star, with “Better Days” featuring NEIKED and Polo G which topped the charts and was a radio favorite. But this side of Mae Muller we’re seeing now is one of growth and confidence in her music and ability.

    Gamuel Sori, Lovespeake- “Us” 

    Gamuel Sori is here with an easy listen…calming guitar sounds immediately fill your speakers as the song opens. It’s a pleasant, relaxing song about making deep connections with people. One of my favorites on the playlist this week, you won’t want to stop listening.

    “It was a pleasure to work with Lovespeake for this one, I believe he brought the exactfeeling that I was thinking about. ‘Us’ is not just about love, but about the connections between people and how they can be very fragile.” says Gamuel Sori.

    Raphaella- “Holla At Me” 

    Sampling the iconic, badass TLC’s “No Scrubs,” Raphaella spins together a bouncy house song that makes you want to go out and dance. Raphaella empowers listeners with “Holla At Me”, something you can use to uplift yourself and gain confidence as you go on.

    “‘Holla At Me’ is an interpolation of one of my favourite 90s songs ‘No Scrubs’ by TLC. I started making the beat one afternoon and while I was trying to write the top line I couldn’t help but singing the chorus over the top; quickly became obsessed. I thought it could be really fun to turn it on its head and do a positive, empowered version from my point of view…” – Raphaella

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    I don’t know about you guys, but I’m feeling a bit lackluster this week. It may be because of the raging illness I’ve been fighting- and I know I’m not alone here…but there is truly nothing I need more than the weekend and new music.

    I’m gearing up to cover Sea.Hear.Now festival in Asbury Park, New Jersey, where I’ll be beach-side watching bands like The Killers and The Beach Boys play all weekend. Naturally, that means I need a playlist to get me through the drive to the shore, one that will hype up me and my roommates for a great weekend.

    But, let’s not be selfish here, I’m sure you also have plans (and one day, I’d love to hear about them, just not now!) Here’s the thing about me, and I’m sure someone can relate, I find it hard to listen to the same playlist week after week. Whether I’m pregaming for the bars or driving to my next destination, I will tire of the same songs when I overplay them.

    And then there’s the songs that I hyper-fixate on, listening to them on repeat until I finally scratch the itch and stop forever. Regardless, my mindset is “out with the old, in with the new” and you know what that means…

    We have a whole new week’s worth of music to celebrate! That’s right: Drake and SZA, Demi Lovato, Chris Lake and Aluna, and more will be gracing our ears this weekend. If no one else is excited for this playlist, I am…so as always, let’s get listening!

    Noah Kahan, Lizzy McAlpine- “Call Your Mom” 

    There aren’t enough sufficient words in the world to describe my love for Noah Kahan. He’s one of the busiest men in music right now- touring the world, collaborating on “Dial Drunk” with none other than Post Malone, he was just spotted recording with Zach Bryan, and now has released his collab with Lizzy McAlpine on his song “Call Your Mom.”

    While “Call Your Mom” was already touching, Lizzy McAlpine’s voice lends a different perspective to the song. When your favorite artists announces a collab, part of you is nervous because you fear the song will be ruined now…but that isn’t the case with Lizzy McAlpine, whose gentle vocals enhance Noah’s, melding perfectly into one of the best duos music can get.

    Chris Lake, Aluna- “More Baby” 

    Chris Lake and Aluna are quickly emerging as the ultimate dance duo: with Aluna’s sultry vocals and Chris Lake’s iconic production abilities, it’s no surprise that they followed up the success of “Beggin” with their new single: “More Baby.” A song perfect for your pregames, your runs, or for any time you want to get up and moving, “More Baby” is classic Chris Lake.

    It’s been a huge year for both Lake and Aluna, who have been touring and simultaneously releasing banger after banger. You can’t help but feel like this isn’t the end for a budding dynamic duo like these two, and “More Baby” just solidifies that any track can be a hit if their names are attached.

    Oliver Tree- “Fairweather Friends” 

    Ahead of his third studio album, ALONE IN A CROWD, Oliver Tree has released dynamic single “Fairweather Friends.” Oliver Tree is one-of-a-kind, blending beats and genre-bending to create music fresh to your ears. With “Fairweather Friends,” Tree gives us a glimpse into the new album, which is about how we as humans act surrounding pop culture – the good and the bad.

    “Fairweather Friends” makes for the perfect single, exciting and refreshing, introspective and self-deprecating. It’s about the friends that stick around when you’re at your highest of highs, but who are not necessarily there when you need them most. Everyone has had them, but Tree’s catchy beat and punchy lyrics make this song a thrill to listen to.

    Shay Lia- “ON THE LOW” 

    If you want a song that embodies After Hours at the club, where you’re just focusing on dancing all night…then try Shay Lia’s “ON THE LOW.” Shay Lia’s crooning voice is ideal for her R&B sound, but it’s also perfect for mixing up genres and stepping out of the norm. “ON THE LOW” is an example of how Lia can throw her voice into any genre- dance, R&B, pop, you name it- and it will work.

    Shay Lia created this track with Kaytranada, marking their 10th collaboration together over their long-time friendship. Now 10 years later, “ON THE LOW” shows that nothing has changed for the pairing: they’re still friends, they can still make a hit track, and it’s always going to work for them.

    DWLLRS- “This Heaven’s Tall” 

    DWLLRS has a way of perfectly capturing nostalgia and wrapping it up into a flawless track. Their melancholic music can feel eye-opening, beautiful, and rare all at once. Their new single, “This Heaven’s Tall”, deals with the risks and rewards of falling in love with someone new, and, as always, the California duo puts their own spin on love that listeners will appreciate.

    “This song captures a sweet ignorance of feeling close to heaven while falling in love-knowing that this love is temporary, and the fall will be devastating. Is the pain worth the thrill?”

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To

    I’m baaaack. That’s right ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, after a very brief hiatus (do you hear that, One Direction?) we are here with another weekend’s worth of new music. Every week I’m giddy to wake up to all the new releases, it feels like Christmas!

    And while you may be feeling lost on what to listen to, I for sure am not. My work email inbox floods with press releases for new songs each week when the clock strikes midnight. Screaming headlines about listening to this song or that, and I take the time to listen to each and every one of them.

    Who do I do it for, you ask? You, my dear readers…and myself. My friends look to me for new music and playlists, this isn’t a job I’ve ever taken lightly. So you should know that I’m pouring my heart and soul into these playlists every week for the love of the game.

    It’s hard to feel the end-of-summer blues when you’re finding new music to listen to every Friday. Especially since we have certified bangers from Olivia Rodrigo’s GUTS album, which was rated a perfect 100 by Rolling Stone. So of course she’s featured, but we also have a ton of other great songs on this list to get you through a traumatizing week.

    No one wants to talk about the horrors we’ve endured this workweek…so, as always, let’s get listening!

    Olivia Rodrigo- ​GUTS 

    Listening to GUTS, you can’t help but smile for Olivia Rodrigo. With the weight of the world on her shoulders, the immense pressure to follow-up a meteoric debut album, SOUR, everyone was wondering what came next. GUTS leaves no question about Olivia’s ability to follow up hit after hit, and perfectly displays her songwriting ability.

    Detailing angst, relationship woes, and self-doubt, Rodrigo pens 12 tracks that channel the pop-punk Y2K-inspired princess that she really is. Her music sounds like the beginning of your favorite early 2000s rom-com, which is exactly what this world needs. It’s drum-heavy, introspective, and a knockout sophomore album for her.

    KAMILLE- K1

    KAMILLE’s fans have been begging for her mini-album, and it’s finally here. She’s the UK’s rapidly rising name in R&B, with the ability to enrapture listeners with her unique sound and crooning tone. K1 also features killer collaborations with Nile Rodgers, Tamera, and Bellah, showing how KAMILLE’s voice can blend seamlessly with any singer’s.

    She’s won BRIT Awards for her talent, but you shouldn’t let that be the reason you become a fan. KAMILLE deserves her flowers for K1, a well-rounded mini-album that gives you the perfect taste of her music. Tracks like “Don’t Waste My Time” and “All My Love” are stand-outs you won’t want to miss.

    Morgan Saint- “It Hurts To Be Human” 


    Following up her single “Did You Lose Your Heart”, New York native Morgan Saint is blazing a path with her music. Honest, hard-hitting, ethereal, Morgan Saint has a way of making you lose yourself in her music. “It Hurts To Be Human” is a testament to her talent, showing us an intimate look into her mind.

    This won’t be the last we hear from Morgan this year, who fans are anticipating new releases from throughout the rest of this year and some of 2024. And I, personally, can’t wait.

    ZHU- “Take My Soul” 

    It’s about to be a big 2024 for ZHU, who announced today that he has his new album, GRACE, coming out in January. On top of that, we get his new single, “Take My Soul”, which gives us a peek inside his highly anticipated album. It’s one of the best introductions to ZHU, who has a big sound and catchy beats to get everyone dancing.

    But ZHU didn’t just give us one single…but three additional songs that are slated for GRACE. In the Days Before Grace preview, you’ll get a sampling of classic ZHU, making us even more excited for January.

    DJ_Dave- Intercell

    DJ_Dave is here with her debut EP, Intercell, with visualizers for every single track. It shows how dedicated DJ_Dave is to developing her sound, curating a full vision with each song that makes the music truly art. The tracks are mesmerizing, instantly

    “As my debut project, my concept for Intercell is to make an entirely self-produced and performed project that emphasizes live-coding as an essential part of the production,” says Dave. “My goal is to show how live-coding can and should fit into world of music outside of technology-specific environments. I came up with the title Intercell as a way of explaining the way my project is part of something bigger than just this project, and bigger than myself.”

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music Releases

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music Releases

    I don’t know what’s happening this week, but you may have picked up that every living, breathing artist is releasing new music. Seriously, name a heavy hitter in the industry and they’re probably dropping a new song on August 25. Miley Cyrus, Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez, and more will grace our sound systems soon enough.

    On a day that BLACKPINK, Zach Bryan, SZA, Iggy Azalea, and many, many more are releasing songs, there’s almost a guarantee that this may be my best playlist yet. The odds are, for once, in my favor and I’m confident we are pulling out a weekend playlist worthy of repeatedly listening to.

    For Ariana Grande, we are getting the 10th anniversary edition of her Yours Truly album, which was her debut. It’s been a hectic week, considering Ariana left resident evil manager Scooter Braun, who is seemingly retiring from managing in general. And while the public may be listening to “Karma” by Taylor Swift, we have a few new tracks to cover instead.

    That’s right: another weekend, another playlist. And with this much good music, we have no time to waste!

    Let’s get listening.

    Joe P- “Don’t Wanna Love U” 

    I need everyone to listen up: if there’s one song you listen to from this playlist, make it this one. Ever since I first heard it, I have replayed it at least five times daily. Stream Joe P for instant serotonin, I guess! When I interviewed him a few months ago, Joe P mentioned he was bringing his production to a studio for a bigger sound…and we got it.

    It’s a sunny, dance-y song that I bop down the street nodding my head along when listening. I’ve liked every song he’s released, but this is by far my favorite. The synth-heavy sound and tortured lyrics about not wanting to love someone who is bad for you, but loving them anyway make for a near-perfect song.

    Miley Cyrus- “Used To Be Young” 

    We’re looking forward to a potential Vol II of Miley Cyrus’ Endless Summer Vacation album just a few short months after its release. To confirm these rumors, Miley released ballad “Used To Be Young” today, and the promo has been equally exciting. With lyric posters popping up everywhere next to old lyrics from hits like “Party in the USA” and “Wrecking Ball”, everyone is referencing their different eras.

    The song itself is a hit, which is no shock when it’s from someone with the range and vocal capacity that Cyrus does. She can do any genre, any type of song, and her voice will shine through. More importantly, the song will make sense. Just like fine wine, Miley only gets better with age.

    Ariana Grande – Yours Truly

    Fans have been anticipating new music from Ariana Grande, especially since she paused for Wicked filming – a scandal studded event that dominated headlines on its own…And while we love The Good Witch, we need to hear Grande’s voice again. The Yours Truly album was Grande’s intro to music, but now she gets to put her more mature sound and production abilities into it…so big things were expected.

    We hold these singers at a high regard for a reason, it’s so easy for us to forget how hard it is to sing, songwrite, and produce. That’s why we are so harsh on the songs that aren’t so good, so when artists like Taylor Swift, Demi Lovato, and Ariana Grande rework their old albums, it’s impressive, it’s worth the listen, and it’s normally flawless.

    Selena Gomez- “Single Soon”

    Selena Gomez is making a return to music with “Single Soon”, a fun-loving, carefree track about how exciting it can be to be single. There’s been a lot of speculation about Selena’s dating life recently, which makes this song even more perfect, because it’s truly her message to us all: she’s in her IDGAF era and we’re here for it. It’s great to dance to, and just reminds me of classic Selena.

    A contrast to Miley Cyrus’ ballad, the Disney gals are showing their range. It’s good to see Selena having fun with her music, and just not listening to whatever the hell the outside world has to say.

    Zevia- “something I can’t do” 

    Zevia’s voice fills your ears like a coo, gentle and calming, beautiful and equally heartbreaking. With notes of Billie Eilish, Zevia can make a sad song feel like a hug. She makes you feel seen, putting unspoken heartache and emotion into song, “something I can’t do” is about taking away that deep depressive pain that some experience. Zevia says,

    “When someone’s been sad for a long time and bad things happen to them continuously, good things that come unexpected could be just as bad, as they’re not used to it. Sometimes depressed people pray for good, but for me even the good can be bad. I can’t allow myself peace otherwise I don’t know who I’d truly be.”

    Chloe Stroll- Pedestal 

    Our feature artist of the week, Chloe Stroll has been breaking into the music industry with her raw voice, an emphasis on the piano, and most importantly, her honest lyrics. Writing about real life experiences, “Pedestal” sums up heartbreak in any form – whether it be a friend, a significant other, or even a family member.

    A powerful follow-up to her debut single, “Run”, based on a break-in Stroll and her husband, snowboarder Scotty James, experienced. It’s a summation of Chloe Stroll: resilient in her lyrics, in the way she creates an honest track, and honest beyond measure.

    Joel Corry, Rita Ora, MK- “Drinkin” 

    Recently, I had the privilege of seeing Joel Corry live in Atlantic City. Not only does he have some of the biggest club hits right now, but he can put on an equally exciting show. Now, with a highly-anticipated debut album, Another Friday Night, is on the horizon and he’s here with yet another major collab with Rita Ora and MK.

    “Drinkin” takes the beloved sampling used in Chance the Rapper’s “Zero Problems”, and it makes you want to dance the night away. You can already hear this song shooting its way to the top of every bar playlist, it’s another soundtrack to your night out from Joel Corry. I’m convinced he’ll never disappoint, and I’m excited for the album.

    Yungblud- “Hated” 

    You can’t get much more personal than “Hated”, which is Yungblud’s recounting of being molested by a doctor as a child and dealing with internal hatred. The punk-rocker has a way of making catchy hooks and capitalizing on guitar and a hard drum that makes you release any pent-up stress and anxiety. Few times do we get to see an artist bare their entire soul into a song, and be so open and vulnerable.

    Not only is Yungblud’s song a testament for survivors of assault everywhere, he’s opening a necessary conversation about men’s mental health. It’s a mixture of anger, pain, sadness, and healing all in one.

    Audrey Nuna- “Locket”

    Audrey Nuna is a musical maverick, someone who creates larger-than-life music and it just works perfectly. For her new song, “Locket”, she is releasing a video directed by the late Valentin Petit, who tragically passed away in an aircraft accident this year. It’s the last video he ever directed, making the song that much more significant. Audrey says,

    “He was gifted in all the ways his work vividly illustrated, and with such a sense of refreshing humility towards his collaborators and crew that can often times feel rare to find in this industry. This is his final music video of this lifetime – I’m sure he’s already getting started, some place, somewhere, gathering ideas and crafting wildest and freest visions to life.”

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To This Friday

    We are officially approaching the middle of August already. How is the summer flying by that fast that it feels like every week I’m discussing a new season approaching? Taylor Swift was right, August does really slip away like a bottle of wine.

    But that’s not stopping me from coming up with a fresh batch of new tunes to get you through the weekend…and the rest of the week until we inevitably reach another Weekend Playlist article. But enough stressing about the future and the impending cold weather, let’s focus on the now.

    This week, I am feeling so excited to share this playlist with my dear, devout readers. If you’re looking for new music released on or around August 11, 2023, I’ve got you covered! We have songs from Olivia Rodrigo, Claire Rosinkranz, and much more! Let’s get listening.

    Olivia Rodrigo – “bad idea right?” 

    Queen of pop rock fusion, Olivia Rodrigo is back with the second single from her upcoming sophomore album GUTS. Starting off strong with potentially-Zack-Bia-inspired-breakup ballad, “Vampire”, fans are eager to hear the followup. “bad idea right?” will be accompanied by a Rodrigo bestie-laden video, starring Iris Apatow, Tate McRae, and Madison Hu.

    GUTS, out September 8, is Olivia’s response to the flawless, GRAMMY-award winning debut album, SOUR. We already know she has the ability to sing and songwrite, and most certainly isn’t a one hit wonder. It’s one of the most anticipated albums of the year, and “bad idea right” is just another taste.

    Claire Rosinkranz – “Pools & Palm Trees” 

    Southern California native Claire Rosinkranz shot into the public eye with her ability to make fun, heartfelt music that she creates herself, soundtracked by multiple instruments she also knows how to use. The mega-talent is now releasing “Pools & Palm Trees”, a summery, acoustic tune about missing someone. It’s the perfect song to wind down the summer with, all about yearning.

    The song is classic Claire – sunny, reminiscent of endless summer. “Pools & Palm Trees” comes ahead of Rosinkranz’ highly anticipated debut album, Just Because. With critically acclaimed singles like “Screw Time” and “Sad in Hawaii”, plus a collab with Louis The Child on “Walls”, Rosinkranz is a dynamo to watch in the music industry.

    JP Saxe – “Caught Up On You” 

    It’s a big end of the year for JP Saxe, who has created real tracks and whose voice works well alongside any collaboration. He’s looking forward to touring with John Mayer as his opener, and is building up to his sophomore album, A Grey Area, starting with this new single. “Caught Up on You” is a sign of Saxe’s growth as an artist, it’s complex and honest with catchy bridges and a soothing chorus.

    The song is quirky, not his normal heart-wrenching ballad that makes you want to sob for all the right reasons…and yet, you can tell JP Saxe stayed true to himself throughout. It’s a fun start to the playlist, and a song you’ll crave to hear again.

    “I completely turned off my filter and wrote nine of the weirdest verses I’ve ever written and picked my favorite four,” Saxe says of writing “Caught Up On You.” “It was a way to clear the pipes creatively, but I ended up being obsessed with the song. It was genuinely fun. It’s still my favorite song on the record. When you’re used to talking about heavy and emotional shit and you write a song about kinks and communism, it’s a nice little break.”

    DROELOE ft. Transviolet – “Downside Up” 

    DROELOE is gearing up to release his album The Art of Change on September 15, and with four solid singles including the most recent, “Downside Up ft. Transviolet”, you won’t want to miss it. Following his album release, there will be a headline tour and are looking forward to joining San Holo at select shows. “Downside Up” starts slow and soft, building up to high emotion and big sounds. It’s a poetic song with equal talent in production and singing.

    ‘We were very much in sync with what we wanted to say with the song, and the catharsis that we wanted to convey with it. It was an awesome experience turning that story into such a powerful poetic metaphor’

    DJ Khaled ft. Lil Baby, Future, Lil Uzi Vert – “SUPPOSED TO BE LOVED” 

    With a classic sampling and remix of Michael Jackson’s hit “P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)”, let Lil Baby, Future, and Lil Uzi tell you how you’re supposed to be loved. A fun, summertime track that just makes you want to dance on a yacht with your friends, it’s a song reminiscent of the 2016 era of music. It’s Khaled’s classic ability to produce something that can be played over and over again.

    Tracks with this level of star caliber can go one way or the other – work seamlessly, or it can force together three different sounds and sound messy. This one works.

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music Releases

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music Releases

    Here we are, another weekend playlist article where I round up the best new music released this week. And how are we literally almost through June? I’m packing my schedule with concerts and filling my playlists with throngs of new music because there’s an endless amount.

    This weekend, I’m super excited because we have a great roundup. I am heading down the shore despite there being a tropical storm, so I needed to fill a playlist full of good tunes to get me through these trying times. Plus, what will people do if I’m put on aux and play the same old 50 song mix? Like me less, for sure.

    So get your Spotify or Apple Music app ready, because this week’s weekend playlist is filled with bangers left and right. Here are my picks for songs you should be listening to:

    Surf Mesa – “Manzanita”

    Surf Mesa is the king of summer tracks. From his start with “ily (I love you baby)” to his newest single, “Manzanita,” you are automatically transported to Ibiza. It’s the perfect start to your summer weekend playlist because it embodies a summer night, so get your drinks out and play “Manzanita.”

    “’Manzanita’ is a track I’ve kept exclusively for the dance floor for a while,” says Surf Mesa. “The texture and atmosphere this song makes me envision a rainforest in the future. It resonates with me so much as I begin my next chapter of music! I’ve been playing this one live for about a year and I’m so glad to finally release it.”

    Henry Moodie – “pick up the phone”

    He’s one of the UK’s favorite rising artists right now for a reason. Listeners and fans alike find him honest, giving a clear picture of mental health struggles, relationships, love and loss like no other. “pick up the phone” is an ode to unconditional friendship and the promise of always being there for one another. He’s only been around for a year, but Henry Moodie is a name to watch for.

    His first single debuted in summer 2022, “you were there for me” was a heartfelt track that garnered 107 million streams and was recorded in his childhood bedroom. Making huge choruses with big vocals, Moodie shares “pick up the phone” at just the right time.

    Kim Petras – Feed The Beast

    You probably already know Kim Petras’ name, with her mega-popular collaboration “Unholy” with Sam Smith and other catchy pop tracks…but she’s here with her long-awaited debut album, Feed The Beast. Alongside the album, Petras announced the Feed The Beast World Tour, where she’ll play 34 shows across the globe. Feed The Beast features the hit track “King Of Hearts”, which she debuted at Governor’s Ball this year to rave reviews.

    Petras’ album draws from her personal life while giving the classic punchy beats we love. The 15 tracks show she’s not anywhere close to being finished making her mark on the music industry.

    Cautious Clay – “Another Half” 

    With new single, “Another Half,” Cautious Clay is giving us glimpses inside his new album, KARPEH, out August 18. With smooth guitar riffs by Julian Lage, we are seeing a new side of Cautious Clay through “Another Half.” It’s a song about growth and the openness of intimacy, and it’s pure easy listening. Described as an “ambitious” leap for the artist, Cautious Clay seems comfortable in “Another Half,” this new honesty sits well with the listener.

    DYLVN – Tell Them Stories

    You may have read our interview with San Clemente’s very own DYLVN, who is breaking into the hearts of listeners with his new EP Tell Them Stories. He’s become a fan favorite on TikTok and Instagram, where fans like to use his songs as the soundtrack of their own clips. Tell Them Stories consists of four tracks:

    – “Brothers”

    – “Tell Them Stories”

    – “Happier”

    – “Tip Toes”

    “This song is about living every moment to the fullest. Although there are some nights you might regret, they make for great stories and ways to grow throughout life. I wanted to stress the importance of telling people my story so when I die they tell other people for me. I can’t really go throughout a day without telling someone what’s on my mind good or bad as it relieves all my worries. Subliminally it shows who I am, and tells people not to take life so seriously, and be who YOU are, not someone else. Let loose and make some damn stories!”

    Coi Leray – Coi 

    We are finally in Coi Leray’s album era, after a sensational rise to stardom that has heads everywhere turning. If you don’t know who Coi Leray is, I’m sure you will soon. Coi is an album made by an icon, and each track makes that obvious. You’ll want to dance, scream along to the lyrics, and hit the repeat button once the songs end. It comes just in time for the heat of summer when all you want is good, catchy music.

    The 26 year old started on Soundcloud releasing her beats until she finally came out with her debut mixtape Everythingcoz in 2018. She’s become the perfect feature artist, landing a spot on the new Spider-Man track and becoming a TikTok sound queen. Coi is sure to be your go-to album this year.

    Jai Phillips

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  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music Released Today

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music Released Today

    What I love about Fridays isn’t that I get to log off work early (well, maybe a little) or that I have an excuse to attend happy hour…it’s that I’m guaranteed new music. And now that we are fully in June, artists are churning out albums and singles to get us through the summer months. This week, especially, is a hot spot for new bangers for your playlists.

    We have releases like “TUYA” by ROSALÍA, “Who Told You (feat. Drake)” by J His, “VULGAR (with Madonna)” by Sam Smith and Madonna, and “WHAT THE HELL ARE WE DYING FOR?” by Shawn Mendes, who wrote the track in 24 hours after New York City was covered in smoke from the Canadian wildfires. But that’s not all, not even close.

    EDM extraordinaire Chris Lake came out with his remix of “In The Yuma (feat. AATIG) (Four Tet Remix)”, which is sure to be a club banger. City Girls released “Piñata”, and Youngboy Never Broke Again dropped the first single from his new album, “Realize (feat. Lil Dump, Rojay MLP, NBA Big B)”.

    Since this week was filled with new music, here are a few of my picks to put on your weekend playlist:

    1. Noah Kahan – ​Stick Season (We’ll All Be Here Forever)

    Rapidly rising indie folk artist Noah Kahan has been stealing the hearts of listeners. It’s not hard to love his music, which feels like the perfect blend of The Lumineers, Mumford & Sons, and Hozier. His new album, Stick Season (We’ll All Be Here Forever), contains 21 songs that are purely Noah. The Vermont-born singer has a raw way of storytelling, with country-inspired backing from symphonies of banjos and string instruments. It’s worth the listen from top to bottom.

    2. Niall Horan – The Show

    In his first album since 2020, Niall Horan releases The Show…and wow, does this feel like the moment Horan skyrockets into superstardom alongside former band member, Harry Styles. Dare I say it’s his best? Throughout 10 songs, Niall takes you through a journey of love and positivity, it’s an album that you can already imagine bringing fans of all walks of life together. It’s a body of work that Horan has been working on for years, and it’s a special album that should be rewarded.

    3. Carter Rubin – “last time” 

    Carter Rubin may only be 17, but his voice already has a timeless quality that is beautifully exhibited in his new single, “last time.” It’s an honest track that captures how it feels to fall in love at such a young age, and perfectly shows off Carter’s strong vocal abilities that will make him a star. With qualities of a go-to summer anthem, “last time” is Carter Rubin’s submission for your Song Of The Summer.

    4. Will Linley – “Tough (The Girls Song)” 

    Fans love Will Linley because he can create a track that fully encompasses what it’s like to as a member of Gen Z, perfectly summing up how we’re all feeling constantly. The musical embodiment of “I do my own stunts,” Linley is a singer, songwriter, and can play multiple instruments…fully showcasing his impeccable talent at all times. With “Tough (The Girls Song)”, we are given an 80’s vibe that never gets old and a fun single about a long-distance relationship ending.

    5. Arctic Lake – “My Weakness” 

    Arctic Lake, the duo compiled of Emma Foster and Paul Holliman, are gearing up to release their new EP, How Do You Make It Look So Easy, with their new single, “My Weakness.” It’s traditional Arctic Lake, an open-hearted single about how, when you’re in love, it can be your greatest strength and weakness. Alongside the single, the duo dropped a video racing us down a neon-lit highway jamming along to the song.

    6. Baby Queen – “Dream Girl” 

    Proclaimed London’s biggest “anti-pop” star, Baby Queen is here with “Dream Girl”…a pop-punk fusion talking about these two polar opposite sides of her meeting as one. It’s a song about how Baby Queen fell in love with a woman who was already in a relationship with a man, and wanting something you can’t have. It’s punchy, fun, and exciting, which is the perfect ending to this New Music Friday roundup!

    Jai Phillips

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