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Tag: new music releases

  • Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To Friday

    Your Weekend Playlist: New Music To Listen To Friday

    How is it already October? As I get older, I swear time is moving faster. So now it’s hard for me to even comprehend how we’re essentially at the end of the 2024 already.

    And maybe it’s because we’re all back in the full swing of work…no more summer vacations to focus on, the sun is setting earlier (chills.), or maybe it’s because I’m generally more bored in the colder months…but I am listening to more music than ever.

    This week especially has felt a billion years long, so I’m looking forward to making a bunch of playlists to get me through my impending bout of seasonal depression. And just because the summer may be over, that doesn’t mean music stops.

    In fact, each week there are fresh songs to be found. Artists are constantly churning out new tracks and albums every Friday, which is great news for those addicted to music like me. Luckily for you, I compile a playlist of the best new releases from the week.

    Whether it’s an anticipated release like Sabrina Carpenter’s Short n’ Sweet or a more indie artist, we’re checking out every new song that comes our way. That way, you get the best playlist with the best new music…and I get to brag that I’m great on aux.

    Anyways, if you’re looking for new music to get you through the weekend…no matter what your plans are, I’ve got you covered. Without wasting any more time, let’s get listening!

    Nate Smith, Avril Lavigne- “Can You Die From A Broken Heart” 


    In “Can You Die From a Broken Heart,” you get everything you need from a hard-hitting power ballad collaboration. With Nate Smith and Avril Lavigne’s vocals belting out the chorus, this is the breakup anthem you needed. It’s a healing song you can scream along to in your car.

    One of my favorites from this week’s playlist…and doesn’t everyone need a good song to cry to?

    JoJo- “Porcelain” 


    JoJo was the voice of our childhood. A pop princess who just understood the assignment every time…and now she’s back with new music to get us through the fall.

    “Porcelain” has an R&B pop fusion sound that exhibits JoJo’s vocals while making you want to dance at the same time. If you’ve been missing JoJo’s music for some time, she hasn’t missed a beat.

    FINNEAS- “Lotus Eater” 

    FINNEAS, one of the best singer-songwriter-producers in the game right now, makes music that feels like art. With his new album, listeners will be graced with his prowess for music and rewarded with great tracks, good vibes, and all around fun. “Lotus Eater” is your perfect introduction to FINNEAS.

    It’s almost melancholic, with an alternative indie sound that is perfect for this time of year. “Lotus Eater” is a must listen on this playlist thanks to its flawless production, making it an easy listen.

    Joe Jonas- “What This Could Be” 

    We know Joe Jonas can cover just about any genre and do it well. It’s a sign of how long he’s been around in the industry, and just his sheer talent overall. With this new single, “What This Could Be,” you get a raw, honest Joe Jonas that hones in on his dynamic vocals and songwriting ability.

    It’s not what you’d necessarily expect from him, but it works nonetheless. “What This Could Be” is both relaxing and reassuring, an introspective song that takes you on a journey with Jonas.

    Perrie- “You Go Your Way” 

    Perrie Edwards has always had the starpower and vocal ability to catapult her into popstardom. Whether she’s in a group or doing solo work, her voice will shine through no matter what. And it’s not her fault, some people are just born with that certain It Factor.

    With “You Go Your Way,” you get a taste of that pop princess within Perrie. It’s independent, uplifting, and strong, a song that builds from the beginning and doesn’t stop until it’s over. It seems like she knows who she is as a solo artist, and the music falls into place.

    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 Friday, everyone! Not gonna lie, this week felt about a billion years long — and as I’m looking forward to Sea.Hear.Now, I’m ready to listen to a bunch of music. The good news: each week a ton of artists release new music each Friday…so we have a lot to look forward to.

    This week, like every week, I made a fresh playlist filled with fresher new tracks for you to show your friends. Now that we’ve all settled in for the fall, there’s nothing better than new music to listen to while you hang out and watch football with you friends and family, or while you’re getting ready to go to brunch with the girls, or really any plans you have.

    Every week, I search through every playlist, press release, and email alike to find the best new music released. That way, you don’t have to struggle to find a good playlist when your friends put you on aux duty. And, it won’t be the same old playlist you listen to every weekend…because everything on this one is brand new!

    If you’re as excited as I am to hear what we have in store for this weekend’s playlist…let’s get listening!

    MEDUZA, HAYLA- “Another World”

    HAYLA is quickly emerging as one of the biggest voices in house music right now. With tracks alongside John Summit like “Where You Are” and “Shiver,” and now this collab with MEDUZA, she’s established her vocal prowess and shown the world she’s a force to be reckoned with.

    “Another World” has all the makings of the perfect dance track: a great, catchy beat by MEDUZA and a dance-worthy hook and chorus from HAYLA. “Another World” was definitely made to be performed live, for audiences and crowds coming together and having the time of their lives.

    Dayglow- “Mindless Creatures” 

    Dayglow has released his “debut” album, DAYGLOW, and with it comes lead single “Mindless Creatures.” The song itself captures Dayglow as an artist perfectly: with elements of surf rock, indie touches, and captivating choruses. “Mindless Creatures” is saturated in fun, a true sign that Dayglow knows who he is as a singer-songwriter-producer extraordinaire.

    The album itself deserves its own listen, but “Mindless Creatures” is a great start for those who want to get to know Dayglow. It’s feel good, introspective, and nostalgic music. A great response to his mega-hits like “Can I Call You Tonight” and “Hot Rod.”

    INJI, Nile Rodgers- “SEXY 4EVER”

    Breakout star INJI is here to make hit songs that combine pop and dance with her sassy lyricism and hard-hitting vocals. Her real vocal power is like her secret weapon to those who may not know she can belt it out with the best of them. In her new EP, WE GOOD, INJI produces five flawless records that build off her success from TikTok viral hit, “GASLIGHT.”

    Not only does “SEXY 4EVER” highlight how important it is to let loose no matter what your age is, icon Nile Rodgers hopped on the track to work with INJI. From current icon Rodgers to budding icon INJI, “SEXY 4EVER” shows INJI is ready to take a step into superstardom.

    Tate McRae- “It’s ok I’m ok”

    If you were missing old school pop princess vibes, then Tate McRae is here to save you. Think Danity Kane, The Pussycat Dolls, Britney Spears…that’s what we’re talking: big dance numbers, Y2K nostalgia, and sexy lyrics. It’s about female empowerment, ear-wormy radio hits that will continue to catapult McRae into the popstar category she so deserves.

    Whether it’s her viral live performances, insane dance routines, or pure pop songs, Tate McRae is at the forefront of our minds for a reason. She may have been snubbed by the Grammy’s, but she will get her flowers soon enough. Especially with “It’s ok I’m ok” and it’s already viral accompanying video.

    Suki Waterhouse- “Model, Actress, Whatever”


    One of my favorite crooning indie artists out there is actually well-known model, actress, whatever Suki Waterhouse. She perfectly embodies the moody, yearning, pining starlet we all need in the music industry. Similar to what Lana Del Rey provides, Suki Waterhouse is equally serving.

    In new album, Memoir of a Sparklemuffin, her single “Model, Actress, Whatever” is a commentary on her life right now. As a new mother alongside Robert Pattinson, a talented actress, model, and singer, Waterhouse seems to have it all going on. But she warns you to F*** what you heard.

    Cloonee, Andruss- “Pegao”

    Collaborators Andruss and Cloonee hit the mark with “Pegao,” a high energy, exciting track that stays dynamic throughout its entirety. Rising star Andruss is keeping the momentum strong with another single with the potential to be a major club hit…and of course, Cloonee, with his signature ability to make any track of his an EDM hit.

    The pair make sense while working together: with Andruss’ explosive vocals and lyricism, and Cloonee’s solidified approach to making a banger. “Pegao” just continues another big year for both Andruss and Cloonee alike.

    JVKE, Nick Jonas- “this is what forever feels like”  

    The playlist needed an ethereal love song to end it on a strong note. Who better than unlikely pairing, JVKE and Nick Jonas, to deliver just what we needed? A passionate devotion to their loved ones that they want to love them for the rest of their lives.

    The production is what launches this song from just another love song to something entirely unique. A strong backing and two voices who perfectly meld together, “this is what forever feels like” transcends you into a different planet…one of love and futuristic vibes.

    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

    And we’re back with another Weekend Playlist! Sometimes I wonder if I’ll ever grow tired of making cute little playlists for everyone to enjoy, but truly it never gets old. Especially when each week there’s new music released by artists everywhere.

    Instead of searching through countless Spotify and Apple Music New Music Friday playlists and checking social media for the hottest new tracks, I collect the best of the best to make it easy on you. Yes, I do all the hard work and you just sit back and enjoy.

    As we soak up the last few weeks of sunshine and Summer Fridays, there’s nothing you need more than new music to get you through. And, as promised, we have a whole playlist’s worth of new music released today, August 16.

    So, if you’re ready for the weekend already like I am…here’s a new playlist filled with new music! As always, let’s get listening.

    Hozier- “Nobody’s Soldier” 

    There isn’t much to say about Hozier’s angelic vocals that hasn’t been said already. He’s lyrically complex, weaving tales and transcendentalism into his music with every new single. Now, he’s here with a trilogy of singles and each is more delicious than the next. My personal favorite, however, is “Nobody’s Soldier.”

    Almost gospel, Hozier builds this dynamic track into a crescendo of vocals, heightening beats, and an orchestral backing that makes this perfect. It’s equal parts stomp-and-holler and indie folk, everything you love about Hozier…but refined, mature, and a little bit rock ‘n’ roll.

    Tiesto, AFROJACK, MC Ambush- “Light It Up” 


    We needed a huge EDM song for the playlist this week, and a few major names in house music stepped up for us. “Light It Up” is high energy from the very start, perfect for your pregames or when you need to get amped up. Seriously, this song is made for the club.

    Tiesto and AFROJACK are two of the biggest DJ’s out there right now, which is why this collaboration is all the more exciting. They know what they’re doing, and it shows with this track.

    Duke Dumont, Clemintine Douglas- “Ain’t Giving Up” 

    High energy and house driven, Duke Dumont has always made bangers. However, by adding Clemintine Douglas’ strong, electrifying vocals makes this track all the better. It’s great for clubs or intense workouts, getting your heart pumping as Douglas reiterates that she isn’t giving up on her lover.

    Duke Dumont is a titan in the electronic dance industry for a reason, and they’ve remained relevant by creating refreshing, yet consistent music. “Ain’t Giving Up” reminds us the summer isn’t truly over, and we can’t get enough of this track already.

    Post Malone, Jelly Roll- “Losers” 

    And so the summer of country music continues with Post Malone’s F-1 Trillion album out today. He’s got collabs with major country hitters on this album like Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs, and more. But specifically, we’re here to talk about “Losers” featuring Jelly Roll.

    A feel good song, “Losers” blends the voices of the two and melds them into one silky song. It’s reminiscent of slow summer days spent with friends and family, and the perfect addition to this playlist.

    Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars- “Die With A Smile” 


    They’re baaaaaack. Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars are household names when it comes to music, we’ve basically grown up listening to them. Any song they have is guaranteed to be a hit, so when they come together…it’s magic. “Die With A Smile” is a sign of the times for the duo…both a culmination of their vocal power and ability to write a hit track no matter what.

    Expect this one to be a radio favorite, as both musicians are giving us all they have. It’s a mellow, yet hard-hitting ballad that brings out the best in both of them. It’s ethereal the way they can work with each other’s voices so well, but that’s what you get when you’ve conquered your respective sides of the industry.

    Elle Darlington- “summer crush” 

    Fun-loving, an easy listen, bubblegum bedroom pop. That’s what Elle Darlington delivers with “summer crush”- it’s a catchy song about a summer fling…and every time I hear an Elle Darlington song, I’m reminded we’re in good hands when it comes to pop music. Darlington is like a breath of fresh air, and “summer crush” is reminiscent of a young Ariana Grande.

    You’ll find yourself easily dancing along to “summer crush”, singing “I don’t wanna be alone” over and over with her. Again, summer isn’t over until we say it is. This song was made for the sunshine and good vibes.

    Foster the People- “Paradise State of Mind” 

    In their first album in three years, Foster the People hasn’t missed a beat (literally.) “Paradise State of Mind” leans heavy on the synthy, indie sound that we know and love, while transporting us throughout a groovy, well-produced track. It’s one of my favorites on the album for a reason.

    The eponymous track is a statement: they’re back and they’re better than ever. It’s a mixture of 70’s sounds with extremely modern twists. A thrilling listen til the very end.

    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

    How is it already August? As we enter the final month of the summer, we’re gearing up for even more new music to come our way. It’s the month of new albums from stars like Sabrina Carpenter, Post Malone, A$AP Rocky, and more…which means singles will be left and right.

    But that’s not all, we’re shifting into the fall releases for new music…and fans are speculating that a certain Taylor Swift will re-release Reputation (Taylor’s Version) very soon. So, there’s a lot to look forward to with the quickest summer ever coming to an end.

    And while we’re still in the middle of a heat wave, I’m looking forward to heading to the beach and getting some much-needed vitamin D…but that means I’m going to need a good playlist filled with new music released this week. Luckily for everyone involved, I create a weekly playlist filled with just that!

    I find the best of the best when it comes to new songs. I listen to new albums, read through every press release, and search every Spotify playlist for what’s actually worth listening to. Plus, the playlists aren’t terribly lengthy…so it’s a really manageable listen too!

    We’ve already wasted enough time here, so I want to get to the point. To enjoy a nice weekend, you need a weekend playlist. Let’s get listening!

    Charli XCX, Billie Eilish- “Guess (Remix)”

    If there’s one thing for certain, it’s that Charli XCX’s BRAT album inspired our summer. You may have heard about having a BRAT Summer, which includes partying as much as humanly possible and living your life…but Charli isn’t finished teaching us how to be a BRAT. Now, she’s partnered up with an unexpected collab: Billie Eilish.

    The remix is sure to be a hit. “Guess” on its own was enough to send Charli into the mainstream, but adding Billie’s flirtatious lyricism to the mix makes it a surefire radio play. It’s both pop and house, which is super timely considering a few popstars are heading to house music. BRAT summer continues, Billie style.

    Jessie Murph ft. Teddy Swims- “Dirty” 

    Two powerhouse vocalists join to create a soulful, cutting breakup anthem about a partner who has cheated on you. It’s every bit as vengeful and catchy as you’d imagine. It fully sums up when you’re done with a partner who’s treated you wrong while showcasing the vocal prowess of Jessie Murph and Teddy Swims.

    With two big names in the music industry whose star power continues to grow exponentially, “Dirty” is an exciting development from the pair. Ahead of Jessie Murph’s debut album, this is just the beginning for two rising stars in the industry.

    Gryffin- PULSE

    With new album, PULSE, Gryffin goes back to his house roots. He gears up with heavy hitter collaborations like John Newman, Rita Ora, Whethan, and more, all while creating catchy dance tracks that fit perfectly with the summer. An album made to be played on the dancefloor while surrounded by friends and music lovers alike, there’s not one song that’s a skip.

    PULSE is a great listen for those who need to start a pregame off the right way. With lots of synths, great beat drops, and strong lyricism, Gryffin continues to blaze his own path in creating pure EDM with his own, fun twist.

    Maren Morris- “Intermission” 

    Maren Morris has a cathartic, lilting voice that carries through her EP, Intermission. Surprisingly honest, a delight to listen to throughout its entirety…Intermission is a loving, honest submission into Morris’ catalogue. She’s impressive, but we already knew that. And that’s what makes her music so easy to listen to. About the EP, Morris states,

    “Here’s my heart journey and gamut of emotions packaged into 5 songs. Covering loss, catharsis, sexuality and gratitude, I hope you hear the light coming back to me in them and somewhere perhaps see it mirrored in you.

    RUFUS DU SOL- “Lately” 

    “Lately” is the first track from legendary EDM group, RUFUS DU SOL, since 2021 when they released “Music is Better.” Now, three years later, they’re here to remind us what makes them an essential group in music. Their sounds are light, sending you straight to a rooftop in the city somewhere.

    A borderline transcendental experience, “Lately” is both calming and upbeat at the same time. Soft in all the right places and explosive in others. If you needed a lesson on how the band can create magic in a song, listen to “Lately.”

    Carlita, SG Lewis- “The Moment” 

    Carlita is on the verge of her big moment. With her debut album coming in November, Sentimental, and a subsequent leading single with SG Lewis to showcase it, there’s no stopping her. “The Moment” is a thrill from the very start, combining every little skill Carlita has learned along the way of her already illustrious career with SG Lewis’ ability to make any song a hit.

    If this gives us a taste of the new album, then we’re in good hands. “The Moment” is everything we’ve been wanting in a song so far.

    David Guetta, AFROJACK- “Raving”

    Two titans in the industry: David Guetta and AFROJACK have united to release their highly anticipated new single, “Raving.” The song title is a little self-explanatory, but it makes you want to go rave. It’s fun, and specifically in time for BRAT Summer. We’re loving the hard house music lately, and this track is made by some of the best in the EDM industry.

    “Raving” is what we needed to close out the summer: an electric single that gets you moving. It’s a fun track that just keeps getting better as time goes on.

    Sonny Fodera, Jazzy, D.O.D- “Somedays” 

    Sonny Fodera has already made many hits, but this song proves he can do it time and time again. It’s no shock that his production is borderline seamless and his collaborative efforts are always a success. “Somedays” is no different. It’s fun-filled and captivating, replay worthy even.

    Alongside Jazzy and D.O.D, Sonny Fodera pairs vocal talent with bass-heavy beats. A summer anthem without a doubt, “Somedays” will be a great addition to any playlist.

    Jai Phillips

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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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  • All About Ashton: Ashton Irwin On His Solo Career, His New Double Album, & More

    All About Ashton: Ashton Irwin On His Solo Career, His New Double Album, & More

    Ashton Irwin bursts into our scheduled Zoom meeting like a ray of light. You can tell he’s every bit as happy-go-lucky as he seems, simply introducing himself in a lighthearted manner, “Hi, I’m Ashton!”

    Of course I already know who he is…I’m interviewing him today for his single, “Straight To Your Heart”, and subsequently his new double album, Blood On The Drums, out July 17. Not only that, but he’s the drummer for the ultra-successful band, 5 Seconds of Summer, who has hits like “Youngblood” and “She Looks So Perfect”. I had seen 5SOS when they opened for One Direction at Hershey Park (yes, I was that lucky) and couldn’t help but share this with him.

    Immediately, he remembers the scent of burnt cocoa wafting through the air that floats throughout Hershey Park thanks to the factory. He tells me I sent him back and laughs as he says, “Really crazy scent associations so thanks for that. Good times,” But, we aren’t here to reminisce…not really. We’re here to talk about his solo work, the new single, and much more. So we dive in.

    “Straight To Your Heart” is heavy on the synth, reminiscent of the 80’s where dance pop and electronic music became heavily popular. Funnily enough, when I ask Ashton of the inspiration behind the song…he confirms this. He’s been listening to a lot of “moody 80s, new wave dance classics” from artists like Echo and the Bunnymen, INXS, and, of course, The Smiths.

    But particularly, Ashton shouts out an Australian band, The Church, and their song “Under The Milky Way” that inspired the birth of his own, “Straight To Your Heart.” “Under The Milky Way” was the first song he learned how to play on the guitar, and when working with John Feldman, it helped lay the groundwork for the entirety of the album.

    While many artists go for an overall “vibe” or sound throughout their albums, “Straight To Your Heart” isn’t indicative of the rest of Blood On The Drums. In fact, Ashton reveals to me that he doesn’t like to keep the same sound throughout. He tells me,

    “I try not to make too many songs that sound like each other. Cause as a listener, I would get bored of that. So what I try to do these days is diversity and musical diversity is power, you know, like you need to look over your whole sphere of influence and get really creative with where you’re pulling from and try not to do the same thing over and over,”

    That’s exactly what Blood of the Drums is. A symphony of different sounds, with Ashton singing, contributing to guitar, and drums. He’s brimming with talent, and this album is his most cohesive body of work to date. It’s like he’s taken all of the prowess over his already illustrious career and bundled it into an almost sonically perfect album.

    Ashton IrwinRyan Fleming

    Plus, working with longtime producer and collaborators like John Feldman and Matthew Pauling helped tremendously. But Ashton’s dedication to switching things up and pulling from different creative areas paid off. Blood On The Drums consists of two installments: The Thorns, out now, and The Roses, out July 17, that reflect two different stages of life we all go through.

    From starting his career at around 18, Ashton shares that he stays inspired by pushing his limits. Whether it’s in the recording studio, or trying out new instruments, he’s not scared to dip his toes into new waters. But he’s also constantly traveling- he refers to his life as almost nomadic…bouncing from one place to another for touring, for living, for travel.

    “I love to walk into the studio and feel like it’s a new day. It’s a different day. And I’m not anchored or attached to yesterday…or whatever I made yesterday is already done, you know? So I keep inspired that way by creating diverse albums.”

    Conceptually, the two parts of the album are polar opposites. The Thorns is almost self-explanatory, a bit edgier and drum heavy. The Roses takes on a more folk sound, softer and more delicate than its counterpart. Again, something done totally on purpose thanks to Irwin.

    “You know, there’s a lyric on my album in a song called “Wild Things” and it says ‘I know your thorns protect your roses’ and I guess the thorns are the things and the concepts that protect me from failing, or they protect me from being too hard on myself, or they protect me…They help me have resilience in this world, and they help me as a creator and an artist.”

    I nod in agreement as he says this. The thorns in question are his defense mechanisms. To this, he wholeheartedly agrees with me. “Exactly.” He emphasizes. “The beautiful parts of ourselves need protecting. Not left unguarded.”

    And it’s within these two parts that the album becomes whole. You need one to have the other, just like you have good days and bad. The topic of his seniority in the music industry resurfaces, how each time he creates music it gets harder to create something new, something that feels different. “Blood On The Drums is really a testimony to continuing to create.” He muses.

    The albums cover a span of genres- effortlessly moving from pure rock and roll to dreamy art-pop tracks that get you dancing. Spanning heartbreak, love, loss, happiness, and more, Irwin pours his soul into both sides of Blood on the Drums. You can listen to The Thorns here:

    The time goes by quickly, and soon enough I’m warning Ashton that we don’t have much time left. I finish up with his three essential songs from the album, a tougher question than I thought:

    “Oh my gosh, okay, just, there’s so many but I’ll just give it to you like this: I think “Rebel at Heart”, “The Canyon”, “Breakup.””

    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

    How are we halfway through June already? It actually seems illegal how fast the summer passes by, there’s so much I want to accomplish in no time whatsoever. But enough about me, the main point here is that we’re looking at the weekend once again.

    Whether this was the best or worst week of your life, there’s one thing we can all agree on: music will help any situation. Yes, there’s a song out there that will make you forget about everything else in life while it’s playing…you just have to find it.

    And you may be wondering: yeah, but why do you care? Well, dear reader, you’ve actually stumbled upon the place for new music released today. Every Friday, hundreds of new songs are released…and sure, you can comb through every New Music Friday playlist curated on your Spotify or Apple Music. But wouldn’t it be easier if one place made a playlist with the best-of-the-best on it?

    Yes. It would. And that’s why we’re all here: I make a weekly playlist with the best new songs released so you don’t have to do all that aimless searching and listening on your own. It’s okay to be lazy when you’re listening to my Weekend Playlists!

    This week, we have a bunch of fresh new tracks that can easily get you through the weekend. Without further ado, let’s get listening!

    R3HAB, Don Diablo, NEEKA- “Disco Marathon” 

    Welcome back to the 70’s…because it’s a disco summer! The EDM/house world is fully leaning into the club disco track, which is why R3HAB, Don Diablo, and NEEKA teamed up for “Disco Marathon.” If you want a feel good track that gets you and your friends dancing, this is a great start to your playlist.

    “Disco Marathon” is captivating from the very start- a sonic shift for both R3HAB and Don Diablo that blends their sounds perfectly.

    Ashton Irwin- “Straight To Your Heart” 

    We recently got the chance to sit down with Ashton ahead of his sophomore solo album release, Blood on the Drums. After speaking a bit about “Straight To Your Heart” I learned that Ashton was really inspired by the bands of the 80’s who leaned heavily into synths. Now, as he releases the first part of Blood on the Drums, “Straight To Your Heart” is here for the world.

    It’s a testament to his prowess as a songwriter and singer, a multi-instrumentalist who has years’ experience under his belt. “Straight To Your Heart” is pure fun all the way through.

    Jelly Roll- “I Am Not Okay” 

    Just in time for Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, Jelly Roll releases “I Am Not Okay”- an introspective track about needing help but not wanting to talk about it. With lyrics like “I woke up today/I almost stayed in bed/Had the devil on my back”, it’s a prevalent reminder that although we all have our dark moments, have have to keep going.

    Jelly Roll has been a longtime advocate for mental health awareness through his music, and his mission continues by spreading the word in “I Am Not Okay.”

    Benjamin Ingrosso- “Look Who’s Laughing Now”

    Benjamin Ingrosso’s vocal ability shines through in his new single, “Look Who’s Laughing Now.” The song almost was made for live performances, with big sounds building to a crescendo throughout the entire song. It’s an easy listen, both uplifting and confident all in one. Ingrosso says,

    “Look who’s laughing now is about announcing to yourself and the world you can be whoever you want to be in all of your imperfections and still have the best time of your life and come out winning.”

    Tove Lo, SG Lewis- “HEAT”

    What makes a collaboration successful is the ability for both artists to blend their sounds in a way that makes sense, that makes people want to hear more from them. It doesn’t work every time, but with Tove Lo and SG Lewis, the four tracks that make their EP, HEAT, it works tremendously. The energy is palpable throughout each and every song, and you never want it to end.

    The four tracks- title track “HEAT”, “Let me go OH OH”, “Busy Girl”, and “Desire”- are equally exciting across the board. They find a way to combine sex appeal with synths and bass, and then you add in Tove Lo’s crooning vocals and you have yourself a hit collection of songs.

    Listen to our 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

    We’re all in the same spot: working all week, wondering if the weekend will ever present itself, and dreaming of the possibilities of a day or two without work. You spend all week making plans with friends and family, and now that Summer Fridays have begun…the world is your oyster.

    Summer is the best time not only because the weather’s finally warm enough that you can tolerate the outdoors…but it’s one of the hottest times for new music. Live performances are abundant, your favorite artists are all in contention for Song of the Summer.

    With Gov Ball happening this weekend, I couldn’t be more excited to listen to some new tracks…especially since I’ll be hearing some of them being performed live for the first time. Whether you’re preparing for a weekend filled with fun with your friends, or live in the NYC area and are one of the thousands attending Gov Ball, you need a good playlist to get you ready.

    And that’s where I come in. If you’re new here, I make a Weekend Playlist filled with fresh releases hot off the press. It’s the best-of-the-best, so you don’t have to comb through every New Music playlist and search excessively for actual good music released this week.

    Since I have you all excited now, there’s no more time to waste. Let’s get listening!

    Sabrina Carpenter- “Please, Please, Please” 

    Oh, Sabrina Carpenter, how you amaze me. With the announcement of her new album, Short ‘N Sweet, coming August 23 and hot off the success of viral hit “Espresso”…you’d think she’d rest. But no, we’re here with another certified banger: “Please, Please, Please.”

    In the song, Carpenter begs for her lover not to make her cry when her makeup looks so nice. It’s a struggle we’ve all experienced…but of course, Sabrina conveys another message with the song: she’s the next Big Thing in pop music, ushering in the new era of popstars that we so desperately needed.

    Dom Dolla- girl$


    Dom Dolla is one of the hottest DJ’s in house music right now. He’s fresh off a few massive Coachella performances, where he played for the likes of Ice Spice, Taylor Swift, and Travis Kelce. His breakout year – 2023 – gave us singles like “Saving Up” and “Eat Your Man (with Nelly Furtado).” And he’s not slowing down any time soon.

    No, Dom Dolla is not even close to reaching the height of his illustrious career…but “girl$” is just another stepping stone to becoming one of the top DJ’s in the world. Fun, sexy, and just enough bass, this house track will be a staple for any pregame playlist of yours.

    ASHRR- “Different Kind Of Life” 

    Supergroup ASHRR delivers a groovy, vibe-heavy song questioning why we’re all searching for some different sort of life…when we’re living the one we’ve got? It’s a message for us to stop looking to others for happiness when we have all the tools on our own.

    “DKOL is about the expression of samsara, the cycle of never being pleased with what you have, but always wanting more or something else. When we went to write this song which started out with the bass line and polyrhythmic drums, we eventually mixed up our love of Afrobeat rhythms from the late 70’s with the post -punk soul dance floor anthems that Frankie Knuckles would be playing at Paradise Garage on a Saturday night.” -ASHRR

    Glass Animals- “A Tear In Space (Airlock)”

    An exploration into the mind and soul lead band member, Dave Bayley, Glass Animals’ newest single is both introspective and otherworldly. Certainly a risk, “A Tear In Space (Airlock)” is unlike your usual Glass Animals sound…however, it works because that’s completely the point.

    Writing and producing their next album after having a breakdown over their newfound success following “Heat Waves”, “A Tear In Space (Airlock)” shows an ethereal side to their music we’ve never seen before.

    SALEKA- “RELEASE”

    SALEKA is quite literally a triple threat. She’s starring in the upcoming M. Night Shyamalan’s newest film, TRAP, a concert thriller following a girl and her father’s nightmare concert experience. Not only that, but she’s releasing a song, “RELEASE”, that’s being featured in the film as well.

    The song is brooding and powerful, a piano-driven ballad that builds with suspense and crescendos into SALEKA’s powerful vibrato.

    ROSIE- “Rock Bottom”

    ROSIE’s music is always empowering in some way- whether that be through lyrics emphasizing self love or moving vocals that make you want to replay her songs over and over. Now, with “Rock Bottom”, she shares a point in her life where she felt like she wasn’t going to make it through…but this song is a reminder that there’s light. She says,

    “‘Rock Bottom,’ explains why I am the person I am today. I’ve overcome many hardships over the years, from grieving the loss of a dear friend, to battling anxiety and depression, and this record recounts it all. More than anything, this song is about finding light within the darkness or as I say in the song, realizing that ‘nothing looks bad when you’ve seen rock bottom.’”

    Listen To Our 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

    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

    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

    It feels like it’s been a minute since the last Weekend Playlist…hasn’t it? I hope everyone enjoyed their holidays and maybe took some much needed time off work and socials. Unfortunately, we are in the dead of winter, which means I’m losing steam quickly.

    Call it seasonal depression, winter blues, you name it…I have it. But the one thing that keeps me going day after day is new music. I’ve been going through my Spotify Daylist lately- which continuously keeps calling me a writer, and I’m wondering how it knows – and wracking through old songs that are new to my ears. The good news? It’s Friday.

    I’m sure absence has made the heart grow vastly fonder, which is why I’m back with another week’s work of music. New music releases make the world go round. The one constant in life is that every Friday, someone somewhere is releasing some sort of music.

    This week is no different…so as always, let’s get listening!

    Noah Kahan, Sam Fender- “Homesick” 

    If this were the Avengers, Noah Kahan would be Thanos- except his Infinity Stones are ultimate collaborations on his album and the goal were giving listeners music they deserve. This time, he hits a home run with Sam Fender, who puts his own spin on what it means for him to feel homesick. It’s both the yearning to leave and the need to go back that holds us hostage to our hometowns, and they nail it with this duet. About the collab, Fender says,

    “I was told Noah wanted us to work together, and I’d heard the tune ‘Homesick’and thought it was a lush song. We then spoke on the phone and immediately hit it off. I lovedthe idea of the song being a transatlantic call-and-response between two young kids desperateto escape their hometowns. The ‘running away’ theme has been done to death by myself, andmany other artists over the last 50 years, but it’s relatable.”

    Becky Hill, Sonny Fodera- “Never Be Alone” 

    I spoke to Becky Hill a few months ago about her upcoming music, which she promised to be your essential club vibe that pays homage to the beats you love partying to. Now, here we are with her newest single, “Never Be Alone”, and it’s a certified banger. If you want a song that makes you want to drink, dance, and be merry with your friends…let me introduce you to Becky.

    She’s someone who’s always understood the assignment: be true to your music, to the sound that drives you and made you fall in love with the art, and deliver your twist on it. “Never Be Alone” sets up the Year of Becky Hill: a soloist in her own right, whose vocal power eclipses the production beat behind it.

    Bleachers- “Tiny Moves” 

    Jack Antonoff and Mikey Freedom Hart’s band, Bleachers, is known for their indie-beach rock sound. Both relaxing and introspective, Bleachers constantly gives us an alternative sound that scratches an itch we didn’t know we had. With an ethereal, coming-of-age sound, “Tiny Moves” is a love song that feels straight out of a movie.

    Bleachers sings about that feeling when every move your partner makes feels special and ground-shattering, how your love for them can feel all-consuming. It’s an all-encompassing song: chill in the right places, melancholic and lovesick in others.

    David Kushner- “Skin and Bones” 

    The next Hozier, David Kushner has perfected the soulful, gospel-esque dark academia vibe that is quintessential winter. His voice is haunting, with echos that make it sound as if he were singing just to you- “Skin and Bones” takes everything you love about David Kushner’s sound and transforms it into a religious experience.

    “Skin and Bones” continues to prove to us that the pop-folk genre made popular by names like The Lumineers and Bon Iver has room to expand and can be taken to new heights everyday.

    Pharrell, Mumford & Sons- “Good People” 

    Soulful, stomp-and-holler, a collaboration you didn’t know we needed…Mumford & Sons and ultimate producer-singer-songwriter Pharrell have your classic soulful tune. “Good People” welcomes you to the revelation with your ultimate blend of rock, folk, and a harmonious concoction of vocals and callbacks that make you want to simply stomp your feet and holler along.

    There truly is nothing in the world like a Mumford & Sons harmony behind a strong Pharrell sound…which is why “Good People” is one of the best songs on the playlist today.

    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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  • 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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