Taylor Swift has recently been linked to India, thanks to speculations about her attending a wedding. Many rumours on social media denote that Taylor recently performed in Jamnagar at a high-profile wedding. It has been confirmed that the performer in the videos that are going viral is reportedly Dorothy, a famous Taylor Swift doppelgänger. However, the same hasn’t stopped social media users from manifesting a Taylor Swift concert in India.
While the debate is ongoing, a throwback interview from Hindustan Times has surfaced, where Taylor Swift is appreciating her love for Indian cinema and culture. As per the interview, Taylor noted, “Indian cinema has a lot of music and dance, which excites me. I think Indians share a big passion for song and dance in the movies, which I love. It is a great way of connecting with the audience.”
She also showered appreciation on AR Rahman. During the 2014 interview, she had said, “I have heard a lot about AR Rahman. I think he is a fantastic musician. His music touches the soul. I would love to hear him live in performance once.”
Meanwhile, Taylor Swift has never performed in India. However, many fan theories state that India might be one of the stops during her next concert. But, it is officially unclear if Taylor is planning to perform in the country.
On the personal front, she recently got engaged to Travis Kelce. Sharing a post on social media, she wrote, “Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married.” Taylor had donned a black and white striped dress, while Travis was seen in a casual black shirt with white half trousers. The two seemed to be on cloud nine, as the adorable pictures flaunted their union.
With the snowpocalypse safely in our rearview mirror, it now seems that any temperatures hovering above freezing feel positively balmy. And just as more of us are venturing outside without fear of cheek frostbite, so it seems New York’s restaurant scene is emerging from hibernation as well. While the first month of the year welcomed only a few new additions to the city’s dining scene, in February, we had quite the challenge of narrowing down contenders for the buzziest openings.
Some, like Ambassadors Clubhouse, we’ve been tracking for the better part of a year (and we expect the frenzy for reservations to reflect that we weren’t alone in the sentiment). Others, like Confidant, are proven concepts that are simply moving to better digs, albeit with intriguing and tasty additions to the menu. And finally, there are more casual concepts, like Piadi La Piadineria, a behemoth in its native Italy, which opens its first U.S. location this month.
As to which one is right for your next meal out? Well, that’s one decision we can’t make for you, but we can assure you all of the options are delicious. Read on for the 11 best new restaurants to check out this February in New York City.
Women’s figure skating finally gets its time in the spotlight at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics! The individual competition starts on Tuesday, February 17 and three skaters are not only getting support from American fans, but from Taylor Swift too.
Team USA’s Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu, and Isabeau Levito, better known as the “Blade Angels,” got some love from the showgirl herself on Monday, February 16, making their individual competition even more exciting.
Amber, Alysa, and Isabeau will step on the ice at 12:45 p.m. EST on Tuesday, February 17, competing in the short program and again on Thursday, February 19 at 1:00 p.m. EST. While Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto is favored to win the gold, the Blade Angles are top contenders too.
Ahead of their much anticipated performances, here’s everything you need to know about Amber Glenn, Alysa Liu, and Isabeau Levito, and how Taylor Swift lent her support.
Amber is the only American competitor at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics with a triple axle in her routine. The 26-year-old started skating when she was just five and dreamt of competing professionally after watching Sarah Hughes win the gold medal at the 2002 Winter Olympics.
Amber is the first openly LGBTQ women’s singles skater on Team USA and has paved the way for advocating for mental health inside the sport. Outside of skating, she loves anime and Star Wars.
After stepping away from figure skating at 16, Alysa is back and skating on her own terms. The 20-year-old is from Clovis, California, born to ArthurLiu and YanQingxin. She started skating when she was a young girl, inspired by Michelle Kwan.
When Alysa was just 13, she became the youngest ever to win the U.S. women’s national championship. This is Alysa’s second Olympics – she won Bronze in the team competition in Beijing – and she could very likely win a medal in the individual competition.
While Isabeau did not perform in the team competition, she is ready to shine in the individual. The 18-year-old is from New Jersey, but is born to an Italian mother – Chiara Garberi Levito. Isabeau’s grandmother lives just a few miles from the Milano Ice Skating Arena in Milan.
Isabeau started skating when she was three and her career quickly took off. She was the first U.S. female figure skater to win the world junior championship in 14 years. Outside of skating, Isabeau loves watching Gilmore Girls and indulging in Italian cuisine.
Ahead of the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics, Alysa came up with the nickname. “I came up with a ton of different ideas – ‘Blade Angels’ was my idea. There was a vote and everybody liked it,” she told Olympics.com.
The Blade Angels are making history, not only because they could be the first three women in almost two decades to all end up on the Olympic podium, but because they are friends, something rare in the figure skating world.
“Something that [Alysa has] been saying throughout all the press conferences and stuff is… ‘Why is it so shocking that we’re being friendly, that we’re friends?’ Amber said.
“I love Isabeau’s wittiness, I’m sure everybody says this, but truly she’s the funniest person I’ve ever met,” Alysa chimed in. “And then Amber … you have a lot of love and you give a lot of love. She just radiates that.”
In a video shared by the U.S. Figure Skating Olympic team on Monday, February 16, Taylor Swift, 36, announced the Blade Angels. She started the video shared to Instagram: “Ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to introduce you to Amber, Alysa and Isabeau…three American showgirls on ice.”
The Life of a Showgirl singer went on to describe each skater. Amber, whose “superpower is embracing the fight and daring the world to test her self-belief.” Alysa and the “joy [that] fuels her.” And Isabeau who is “destiny personified.”
Fellow Team USA member, Madison Chock, commented on the post writing: “Obsessed!!! Can’t wait to see my angels shine.”
Can love beat the odds? Prediction markets are taking bets this Valentine’s Day that celebrity relationships can thrive — or break apart. By wagering money, bettors are setting the odds on the amorous relationships of high-profile figures, from Zendaya to Katy Perry.
For example, on Polymarket, an online prediction market, registered users can take a financial position on whether or not American pop star Katy Perry and former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who announced their relationship in December 2025, will be engaged by the end of 2026. As of early February, the probability of the pair committing to wed by then was 27%. To date, more than $22,800 has been wagered on the couple’s fate.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce on Nov. 6, 2025 in New York City.
Aeon/GC Images/Getty Images
Polymarket users are also betting hundreds of thousands of dollars on aspects of pop-star Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce’s engagement, including whether or not they’ll be married before June 30, or if the bride will become pregnant before she weds (unlikely, according to bettors).
A similar bet is hosted on a prediction market called Kalshi, where the site puts the probability of Swift and Kelce marrying before Jan. 1, 2027, at 70%, based on customers’ bets.
“In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, who doesn’t want to see two people find each other?” Melinda Roth, a professor at the Washington and Lee University School of Law, who researches prediction markets, told CBS News.
While she doesn’t personally wager money on prediction markets and has no skin in the game, she does have a preferred outcome.
“I’d rather bet on a love contract than a breakup contract,” she said.
Wisdom of the crowd
Polymarket, which operates globally and was forced in 2022 to shut down in the U.S., has since relaunched domestically under regulation by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, or CFTC. Kalshi is similarly regulated by the CFTC in the U.S. and also operates globally.
Experts in prediction markets say that U.S.-based users often access offshore markets on Polymarket, bypassing regulations using virtual private networks, without which Polymarket’s global sites would be off limits.
“Americans still bet on Polymarket’s non-USA platforms, but they have to go through a VPN, or call a friend or a cousin or whatever,” Prof. Roth said.
Other amorous event contracts include:
Will Kylie Cosmetics founder Kylie Jenner and Oscar nominee Timothée Chalamet become engaged this year? Kalshi’s answer: 53% chance
Will Zendaya and Tom Holland get married by December 31? Polymarket’s answer: 49% chance
Will Bill Belichick and Jordon Hudson be married before 2027? Kalshi’s answer: 27% chance
An expired market even let the public bet on whether or not Caroline Ellison, the former girlfriend of disgraced crypto entrepreneur Sam Bankman-Fried, would have a new boyfriend by the end of 2025.
Such sites rely on the “wisdom of the crowd” theory, which holds that a large, diverse group of people has superior judgment to that of a single individual. Users’ bets determine a market’s odds, which shift in real time and indicate the likelihood of each outcome.
In an interview with CBS News’ “60 Minutes” late last year, Polymarket founder and CEO Shayne Coplan characterized the platform as “the most accurate thing we have as mankind right now, until someone else creates some sort of a super crystal ball.”
Roth said there is at least some truth to Coplan’s assertion.
“One way prediction markets work really well is because people do have knowledge, and they put their money where their mouth is,” she said.
Odds of effective regulation are low
Critics of prediction markets say they allow insider trading, the illegal practice of trading a company’s stock based on nonpublic material, to fester, putting regular speculators at a significant disadvantage.
“People are using inside information to profit at the expense of people on the other side who don’t have that information,” said Ben Schiffrin, director of securities policy for Better Markets, a nonpartisan advocacy group focused on financial reform.
Kalshi prohibits anyone with material non-public information on a contract from betting on it.
As far as playing the odds on romance goes, even those who warn about the sites’ potential pitfalls encourage consumers to be optimistic about love, as long as they are aware of the betting stakes.
Rajiv Seth, a professor of economics at Barnard College, characterized betting on love as a relatively “harmless” pastime, “as long as people are aware that they may be trading against insiders, or people with better info than them.”
Roth also distinguished between trading on inside information and what she characterized as “superior knowledge.”
“Someone who knows that Justin Trudeau bought a ring would have a leg up on other bettors,” she told CBS News. “They are not using any skill or creating superior knowledge for themselves. They are taking material, nonpublic information and capitalizing on it.”
A screenshot from online prediction market Kalshi shows a bet placed on the odds of Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau getting engaged.
CBS News
By contrast, a loyal Swift fan who has read everything under the sun written about and by the artist, “might be able to put two and two together,” to make an informed guess about her wedding date, she said.
Coplan, Polymarket’s founder, doesn’t take issue with the allegation and says it’s actually a feature of the platform, rather than a liability, saying, “it’s sort of an inevitability that this will happen, and there’s a lot of benefits from it.”
Skeptics also say such markets increase access to, and encourage, gambling.
“They allow betting on pretty much anything, including celebrity relationships, and that opens up a whole other avenue to get consumers into gambling,” Schiffrin said.
Michael Selig, chairman of the CFTC, addressed prediction market regulation in recent comments, saying that while he wants the markets to flourish, he is directing the agency to draft rules governing so-called event contracts.
“For too long, the CFTC’s existing framework has proven difficult to apply and has failed our market participants. That is something I intend to fix by establishing clear standards for event contracts that provide certainty to market participants,” he said in prepared remarks at a joint CFTC and Securities and Exchange Commission event on Jan. 29.
Particularly when it comes to a matter as fickle as love, prediction markets face another challenge: connecting outcomes back to reality. That’s why they make the rules clear. For example, speculation about Chalamet and Jenner’s status would not suffice as evidence of an engagement. An official representative, or the couple, would have to make a public announcement stating their intention to marry.
“We’re engaged,” or “I said yes,” announcements would suffice for bettors who wagered money on the couple living happily ever after to cash in, according to Kalshi. But unconfirmed rumors would not.
Taylor Swift doesn’t have any Grammy nominations this year, so it’s unsurprising that the star is spending the evening out of the public eye. ELLE understands Swift will not be at tonight’s ceremony. Her fiancé, Travis Kelce, isn’t expected, either.While Swift released one of the buzziest albums of 2025, “The Life of a Showgirl,” it came out in October—after the 2026 eligibility period (Aug. 31, 2024 to Aug. 30, 2025). She can be nominated for it at the 2027 ceremony.Ahead of tonight’s show, Grammys executive producer Ben Winston addressed rumors of Swift’s attendance in an interview with Hits. “The only reason people think Taylor might be performing or coming is because Hits decided to print it this week and put it in their Hits List, and it was picked up globally,” he said. “But Hits just totally made that up. And now I am getting asked about it by you, as if it’s a real thing, when it was made up in your office! That really is a full-circle rumor!”The star attended last year’s Grammys as a presenter. She wore a glittery red Vivienne Westwood minidress that teased her upcoming “The Life of a Showgirl” era. Since releasing her “The End of an Era” docuseries in December, Swift has kept a low profile. She was photographed with Travis Kelce getting dinner in Beverly Hills on the Monday after the Golden Globes, but the couple wasn’t seen at the ceremony or any of its after-parties.On December 16, a source told “Us Weekly” that Swift “always has ideas percolating” for her music career but isn’t “locked into” doing a tour for “The Life of a Showgirl.” “There have been ideas floated, but right now she is enjoying her break.”An industry source echoed that sentiment, saying they weren’t “aware of any Showgirl tour plans,” either. “The Eras Tour was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so she’s not going to put pressure on herself to make everything that big and ambitious,” the insider added. “She’ll make sure the next one is special in its own right, but she’s also realistic about it.”Swift and Kelce are also planning their wedding together. “Taylor thinks it’s cute , and it’s something they have been bonding over,” the first source said.The singer confirmed herself that she isn’t planning to tour right now during her press tour for “The Life of a Showgirl.” She told BBC Radio 1’s Greg James that she doesn’t have the itch to go back out on the road. “I am going to be really honest with you,” she said. “I am so tired when I think about doing it again because I’d want to do it really well again.”Days later, she quickly shut down speculation that after getting married, she’d stop making music during her interview with BBC Radio 2’s Scott Mills. “That’s a shockingly offensive thing to say. It’s not why people get married, so that they can quit their jobs,” she said.She added that Kelce is extremely supportive of her career: “I love the person that I am with because he loves what I do, and he loves how much I am fulfilled by making art and making music. That’s the coolest thing about Trav: He is so passionate about what he does that me being passionate about what I do, it connects us. There’s no point in time where he’s going to be like, ‘I’m really upset that you’re still making music, the music thing that I signed up for, that I knew you loved, I thought you were going to stop doing that.’”
Taylor Swift doesn’t have any Grammy nominations this year, so it’s unsurprising that the star is spending the evening out of the public eye.
ELLE understands Swift will not be at tonight’s ceremony. Her fiancé, Travis Kelce, isn’t expected, either.
While Swift released one of the buzziest albums of 2025, “The Life of a Showgirl,” it came out in October—after the 2026 eligibility period (Aug. 31, 2024 to Aug. 30, 2025). She can be nominated for it at the 2027 ceremony.
Ahead of tonight’s show, Grammys executive producer Ben Winston addressed rumors of Swift’s attendance in an interview with Hits. “The only reason people think Taylor might be performing or coming is because Hits decided to print it this week and put it in their Hits List, and it was picked up globally,” he said. “But Hits just totally made that up. And now I am getting asked about it by you, as if it’s a real thing, when it was made up in your office! That really is a full-circle rumor!”
The star attended last year’s Grammys as a presenter. She wore a glittery red Vivienne Westwood minidress that teased her upcoming “The Life of a Showgirl” era.
On December 16, a source told “Us Weekly” that Swift “always has ideas percolating” for her music career but isn’t “locked into” doing a tour for “The Life of a Showgirl.” “There have been ideas floated, but right now she is enjoying her break.”
An industry source echoed that sentiment, saying they weren’t “aware of any Showgirl tour plans,” either. “The Eras Tour was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so she’s not going to put pressure on herself to make everything that big and ambitious,” the insider added. “She’ll make sure the next one is special in its own right, but she’s also realistic about it.”
Swift and Kelce are also planning their wedding together. “Taylor thinks it’s cute [he’s involved], and it’s something they have been bonding over,” the first source said.
The singer confirmed herself that she isn’t planning to tour right now during her press tour for “The Life of a Showgirl.” She told BBC Radio 1’s Greg James that she doesn’t have the itch to go back out on the road. “I am going to be really honest with you,” she said. “I am so tired when I think about doing it again because I’d want to do it really well again.”
Days later, she quickly shut down speculation that after getting married, she’d stop making music during her interview with BBC Radio 2’s Scott Mills. “That’s a shockingly offensive thing to say. It’s not why people get married, so that they can quit their jobs,” she said.
She added that Kelce is extremely supportive of her career: “I love the person that I am with because he loves what I do, and he loves how much I am fulfilled by making art and making music. That’s the coolest thing about Trav: He is so passionate about what he does that me being passionate about what I do, it connects us. There’s no point in time where he’s going to be like, ‘I’m really upset that you’re still making music, the music thing that I signed up for, that I knew you loved, I thought you were going to stop doing that.’”
It’s an honor just to be nominated, but winning at the Grammy Awards isn’t so bad either. Just ask Taylor Swift, she knows. Trophies are forever, but so are red-carpet photos, and looking back on what artists like Swift chose to wear over the years is something of a sartorial time capsule.
Swift, who attended her first Grammy Awards ceremony in 2008 as a 19-year-old nominee for best new artist (she was up against Ledisi, Feist, Paramore, and Amy Winehouse, who ultimately won the category), has won 14 Grammys total. She has been honored with the album-of-the-year award a record-setting four times, with her latest win in 2024, for the album Midnights, breaking the tie she’d previously held in the category with Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, and Paul Simon.
If you ever need proof that the universe has a sense of humor, look no further than the lawsuit over the movie It Ends With Us and the legal drama between Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively that simply refuses to end. The movie, an adaptation of the massively successful Colleen Hoover romance novel of the same name, was released on August 9, 2024, but the legal hullabaloo between Lively and Baldoni, who co-starred in the movie and served as producer and director, respectively, continues to drag on.
Taylor Swift, a noted pal of Lively’s (never forget that big-hair tracksuit moment at the 2024 Super Bowl), is not party to the current chapter of the lawsuit, Lively v. Wayfarer Studios LLC, a workplace harassment suit brought by Lively against Baldoni’s production arm, but where Swift is involved, even tangentially, lo, attention follows.
In June, judge Lewis J. Lymandismissed Baldoni’s $400 million defamation claim against Lively and others including Lively’s husband, Ryan Reynolds, and the New York Times. Less than two weeks later, however, Lyman ruled that texts and emails between Lively and Swift must be shared with Baldoni’s legal team for discussion of the alleged on-set sexual harassment. Swift’s rep had previously blasted a subpoena of the singer’s comms with her friend as “designed to use Taylor Swift’s name to draw public interest by creating tabloid clickbait instead of focusing on the facts of the case.”
On Tuesday, January 20, 2026, redacted copies of many of those communications were made public on the case docket, and selections from emails and texts between the two provide several (presumably therapy-informed) ready-made responses for those grasping for words when praising a pal or dissing an opponent. It’s also a reminder that you should be nice to those you love—at least in writing—because your words just may become part of a public court record someday.
Below, a helpful guide to some of the most memorable insults and words of praise contained in the Swift-Lively texts.
FILE – Taylor Swift performs during “The Eras Tour” in Nashville, Tenn., May 5, 2023. According to Spotify Wrapped, Swift was 2023’s most-streamed artist globally. (AP Photo/George Walker IV, File)
New York (AP) — Taylor Swift, Kenny Loggins and Kiss founders Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley make up the 2026 Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees.
It is no doubt an eclectic bunch of performers, spanning genre and generation.
The 2026 Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony will be held June 11 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City.
The Songwriters Hall of Fame was established in 1969 to honor those creating popular music.
A songwriter with a notable catalog of songs qualifies for induction 20 years after the first commercial release of a song.
A songwriter with a notable catalog of songs qualifies for induction 20 years after the first commercial release of a song.
Once again, Taylor Swift has been brought into the It Ends With Us legal drama between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni. New court documents have been unsealed surrounding the case, as part of Lively’s ongoing lawsuit over Baldoni’s conduct as director and star of the film. The actress alleges, among other thing, that Baldoni sexual harassed her and created a hostile work environment.
These documents include records of some texts between Lively and Swift, who has been friends with the actress for years and is the godmother of her children. In the texts, Lively refers to Baldoni as “this doofus director of my movie,” describing him as “a clown” and joking that he “thinks he’s a writer now.”
Lively also asks Swift to look over the latest draft of the It Ends With Us script before arriving at Lively’s house, where she and Baldoni were meeting at the time. (Lively’s deposition from July of last year confirms these events.) Swift texted back “I’ll do anything for you !!”
Afterwards, Lively texted Swift, “You were so epically heroic today. I recapped every moment to Ryan. I kept remembering stuff—You making s–t up about me and lenses. And referring to yourself as my doll. This clown falling for all of it. But also resisting it.” She added “You are the worlds absolute greatest friend ever.”
Elsewhere in the documents is a text from Swift, allegedly about Baldoni, saying: “I think this bitch knows something is coming because he’s gotten out his tiny violin.” It is not clear if this text is in reference to the New York Times article surrounding Baldoni and the smear campaign he attempted to mount against Lively.
Taylor Swift and It Ends With Us…
Swift’s connections to Lively, her husband Ryan Reynolds, and It Ends With Us have been a point of contention throughout this legal case. She licensed one of her songs, “my tears ricochet”, to be used in the film, but did not post about the finished film or otherwise acknowledge it publicly. Regardless of this, Swift’s name has been invoked throughout this process, to the point of there being attempts to subpoena her as a witness in the case.
Planning documents from Baldoni’s team specifically cite Swift as a figure to target in the smear campaign, saying in part: “As part of this, our team can also explore planting stories about the weaponization of feminism and how people in BL’s circle like Taylor Swift, have been accused of utilizing these tactics to ‘bully’ into getting what they want.”
All the while — especially as Swift had not spoken about the case publicly — parts of the Internet had speculated at length that Swift and Lively had a falling out over the ordeal. That theory seemed to be debunked with the October 2025 release of “CANCELLED!”, a song on Swift’s twelfth studio album, The Life of a Showgirl.
In the song’s lyrics, Swift defends her friends who society has attempted to bash or ostracize for various reasons, which many interpreted to be a subtle defense of Lively amid the legal case. It’s worth mentioning that one of the lyrics mentions bringing “a tiny violin to a knife fight”, which takes on a whole new context with the mention of Baldoni’s “tiny violin” in these texts.
Fans have jumped to their own conclusions since these texts were publicly released, ranging from accusing Swift and Lively of masterminding a campaign against Baldoni, to simply arguing that their conversation sounds like two friends privately looking out for each other. (I, personally, lean heavily towards the latter.) Either way, the fact that Swift’s fame and her years-long friendship with Lively keeps becoming a point of contention in this case — despite her basically being a third party in the whole ordeal — is frustrating to see on a legal and journalistic level.
Myra Drake (she/her) is a writer at The Mary Sue. She is probably too chronically online for her own good, but is trying her best to turn that into a superpower. She has a soft spot for Internet drama, especially when it concerns fandoms and topics that she’s only a little aware of.
“CBS Mornings” exclusively revealed the star-studded roster of 2026 inductees to the Songwriters Hall of Fame, celebrating artists whose work has left a lasting mark on music history, with some making history themselves.
At 36 years old, Taylor Swift has become the youngest woman by nearly a decade to be bestowed with the honor. Swift is joining a long list of legends in the coveted Hall of Fame.
Here are this year’s new inductees, many of whom have written the soundtrack to our lives.
2026 Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees
Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley
Christopher “Tricky” Stewart
Alanis Morissette
Terry Britten and Graham Lyle
Kenny Loggins
Walter Afanasieff
Taylor Swift
Meet the members
Leading the class of 2026 is Gene Simmonsand Paul Stanley, who came together in 1973 to form the unlikely creative partnership that became KISS.
“No, I didn’t like [Simmons] at all. There’s days he annoys me now,” joked Stanley in a 2014 interview with CBS News special correspondent Anthony Mason.
But the two Jewish New Yorkers bonded over their backgrounds and shared work ethic. With Stanley, Simmons said, “One and one is three.”
Next is Christopher “Tricky Stewart,” who co-wrote and co-produced Beyoncé’s blockbuster hit “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It).” Raised in a musical family in Markham, Illinois, Stewart was writing songs by age 12.
His big break came in 2007, with what he calls the “single most important song” he’s ever written: Rihanna’s “Umbrella.” He once told MTV about the song’s success, “When she recorded the ‘ellas,’ you knew your life was about to change if you had anything to do with that record.”
You oughta know the next artist on the list: Alanis Morissette.
Morissette’s breakup anthem, “You Oughta Know,” was written from what she described as fractured devastation. With her blistering lyrics, the Canadian singer set off a cultural earthquake. Her 1995 album, “Jagged Little Pill,” sold 33 million copies worldwide.
“When I write songs, everything that jumps to the fore – lyrically and musically – is that which I have sublimated or repressed. So, it’s all my unconscious writing,” she told “CBS Mornings” featured host Vladimir Duthiers in November.
Other Hall of Famers, Terry Britten and Graham Lyle helped lift Tina Turner from soul singer to superstar, writing many of Turner’s greatest hits, including “What’s Love Got To Do With It” and “We Don’t Need Another Hero.”
Britten also wrote many hits for Cliff Richard, like “Devil Woman.” Meanwhile, Lyle – and his bandmate Benny Gallagher – wrote “A Heart in New York,” famously performed at Simon & Garfunkel’s 1981 concert in Central Park.
Kenny Loggins’ songwriting career has had many chapters, from performing in the 70s with Jim Messina to going solo to writing with Michael McDonald. In the 80s, he became the king of soundtracks with music featured in “Caddyshack,” “Footloose” and “Top Gun.”
“There’s just a part of my brain that’s kind of scoring everything,” Loggins said in a 2022 PBS interview.
Then there’s Walter Afanasieff, who co-wrote and co-produced Mariah Carey’s No. 1 smash, “Hero.” And then again, for the holiday classic, “All I Want For Christmas is You.”
“We’d play musical ping pong,” he’s said of his more than 11-year collaboration with Carey.
Raised in San Francisco, Afanasieff played keys with Narada Michael Walden, co-writing a James Bond theme for Gladys Knight.
Last but not least, there’s Taylor Swift.
Since signing a publishing deal at 14 years old, Swift has gone on to land 69 songs in the Top 10. Thirteen of those – her favorite number – have hit No. 1 on the Billboard chart.
Swift’s newest album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” became Spotify’s most streamed album in a single day in 2025.
“It’s usually in the middle of the night. Or if I’m trying to get to sleep and I can’t and then I get an idea. And I’m, like, ‘Well, I’m not tired anyway!’ And then kind of wander over here,” she told correspondent Tracy Smith, gesturing to her piano.
Planning a wedding is a lot of work. Especially when the two people involved are big superstars at the top of their game, literally. Taylor Swift is one of the biggest singers in the world, and she just released another album. Travis Kelce has been one of the best tight ends in the NFL for years. So, finding time for wedding planning is probably not easy. But, what does that mean for their upcoming nuptials?
The couple, who were recently spotted having a quiet dinner in Beverly Hills, are reportedly getting married on June 13 of this year. But sources told Rob Shuter they aren’t in wedding planning mode yet. “They’re not even halfway through the guest list,” a source said. “Right now it’s more about enjoying time together than crunching spreadsheets.”
All of this reportedly goes back to the fact that Kelce still isn’t sure if he will retire or not. “Travis is still figuring out if he’s playing next year,” a source explained. “They don’t want to stress over a wedding when there’s so much else going on.”
Kelce said on his New Heights podcast recently, “I’m still figuring out if I’ll play next season. I want to make sure my body is ready, that I can commit fully.” So it makes sense that wedding planning hasn’t been the number one priority. “The ring’s on, but that’s about as far as it goes,” a friend said. “No big meetings, no seating charts. They’re in date-night mode, not wedding mode.”
“Taylor is usually so meticulous about every detail, but with Travis, she’s relaxed. They’re taking it slow. The wedding isn’t stressing them out yet — they’re savoring the engagement.”
The two began dating in the summer of 2023, with Kelce proposing in August 2025. But the rest will come when it comes. “They’ll get to the planning,” the source explained, “but right now, it’s all about them.”
Kelce had discussed timing for the wedding before, telling his brother Jason during their New Heights podcast. “I actually don’t know people who’ve gotten married in the fall because all the weddings I’ve been to and all my friends always do it in the summer,” Kelce said. “You gotta be willing to find a weekend where the team isn’t playing anybody good maybe.”
“Also, if you really do have a problem with that, maybe it’s in her best interest to not have it in the fall so that she knows you’re invested in the anniversary every time it comes around,” he also said. “I’ve seen weddings in f—ing February. I’ve seen weddings everywhere but the fall. So I’m not sure if the fall was a good wedding season.”
Well, reports are saying June. But if it is June, it feels like they would need to be in the thick of wedding planning right now. Sure, they are celebrities with a lot of money, and things can probably move faster for them than for more people, but they surely still need to do things like finalize the guest list.
For now, the two are still engaged, and it seems like they’re taking it slow. How long they wait and when the wedding actually takes place, we will have to wait and see.
It looks like 2026 is going to be a good one as several stars are set to tie the knot this year – but what celebrity weddings are we looking forward to?
From lavish parties to more intimate ceremonies, celebrity weddings are coming thick and fast this upcoming year.
So, read on as we break down the biggest and best weddings to look out for – from reality TV stars such as Gemma Collins and Scarlett Moffatt to global pop sensations like Adele and Taylor Swift.
Taylor and Travis are planning their wedding (Credit: YouTube)
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce
Of course, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s celebrity wedding is going to be the event of 2026. According to Page Six, it’s happening on June 13, at the sprawling Ocean House in Rhode Island.
Reportedly, she was so keen to marry on that day (we all know she loves the number 13) that she cut a cheque to the other bride who had booked their wedding for that day.
On Travis’ proposal, which quickly went viral on Instagram, Taylor told Ryan Seacrest: “I share so much of our relationship with the world that the moment that that happened, it’s like, I’ll have it forever, and that will always be mine.
“There’s so much that is shared with the world…[because] we’re both very public-facing people and both of our career paths involve entertaining people.”
Adele and Rich Paul
Will they finally tie the knot? (Credit: Splash News)
Adele and multi-millionaire Rich Paul got engaged back in 2024. In true Adele style, she announced the engagement during a concert, responding to a ‘Will you marry me?’ sign by saying: “I can’t marry you because I’m already getting married so I can’t, but I appreciate it, thank you.”
She then flashed her, frankly, huge ring to the audience.
Also that year, she announced a “big break” from music. Since then, apart from a few public appearances, we haven’t really heard much from Adele. We can only assume that she’s been spending the year planning for one of the most anticipated wedding in showbiz. After all, she’s had plenty of time…
I’m A Celeb star Kemi Rodgers and Thomas Hannett
I’m A Celebrity: Unpacked host Kemi Rodgers announced her engagement to boyfriend Thomas Hannett.
Her co-worker partner got down on one knee while they were out in Australia for the recent series that saw Angry Ginge take the crown. She revealed her sparkly new ring just before Christmas and after the 2025 season wrapped up.
Kemi revealed her romance with her co-worker back in September after they kept it hush-hush for a year.
Captioning a post on Instagram, Kemi sweetly wrote: “I said yes.”
It’s not clear if they’re hoping to make 2026 the year of the wedding. However, they became engaged a year after dating so maybe they don’t want to wait around for their nuptials!
Kelly Osbourne and Sid Wilson
In a true fairy tale, Kelly Osbourne and Sid Wilson got engaged in July 2025, having known each other since 1999. Sid popped the question backstage during Ozzy’s farewell show.
Speaking to Closer magazine about the nuptials, Kelly admitted: “I want nothing to do with it, because if it was up to me, we’d get married at the registry office and then take over a pub. But it is not up to me – I’m letting my mum plan it.”
She also confirmed that the wedding would be a destination wedding, joking: “That way, only the people who really like you will come.”
After Ozzy’s death, it has been a tough few months for the family. A 2026 celebrity wedding will definitely bring the family together, so fingers crossed it happens!
Gemma Collins wants three weddings! (Credit: Splash News and Pictures)
Gemma Collins and Rami Hawash
Ever the diva, the GC, who got engaged to Rami Hawash in 2024, isn’t just planning one celebrity wedding: she’s planning three!
Back in 2024, she told OK! “Everyone keeps asking us: ‘When is the wedding?’ but we’re not going to do it until 2026 and it’ll likely be a winter wedding. Rami turns 50 that year too, so it’ll be a huge celebration. I spoke to an astrologer and they said that is the luckiest year to get married.
“I think we’re actually going to have three weddings,” she added. “The main one will be somewhere fabulous in the UK, the second maybe abroad, and the third will be the formal one for our closest friends and family.”
Naturally, she’s planning to get three wedding dresses, with each outfit paying homage to the likes of Victoria Beckham and Lady Gaga in House of Gucci.
She continued: “We’ll have DJ Fat Tony perform a set and Jedward will obviously be there. I joked to my mum that I might have them walk me down the aisle – they are my dog’s godfathers, after all. They’re honestly like family to me, I adore them.”
Gemma has been documenting the wedding planning process in the upcoming Sky series Gemma Collins: Four Weddings and a Baby. So, it’s possible we’ll be able to see the wedding(s) on-screen, too.
Adam Collard and Laura Woods
Love Island lothario Adam Collard, 29, was tamed by fiancée Laura Woods, 38, who he proposed to in September 2024. Since then, the pair have welcomed baby Leo and moved house.
Amid all this business, Adam admitted to OK! in August that the celebrity wedding was on the “backburner” — but a 2026 wedding is definitely on the cards.
“We’d started to plan [the wedding] but now we’ve moved house we’re going to do it nearer our new place,” he said. “It’s on the back burner at the moment, but it’s going to be a 2026 wedding.”
Joking about their nine-year age gap, Adam added: “I honestly think Laura is delaying it until I turn 30 so we’re both in our thirties for it!”
Scarlett Moffatt and Scott Dobinson
Gogglebox star Scarlett Moffatt got engaged to policeman and baby daddy Scott Dobinson in 2023. In an August 2025 interview, she revealed that they were looking at venues.
When asked about a potential wedding timeframe, Scarlett said: “I’m hoping to do it next year but maybe that’s too adventurous? It takes a lot to plan a wedding, but I’ve got this in the bag.”
She later confirmed to New! magazine in October that she had set a date.
“We booked a date and I can’t tell you how excited I am!” she said. “I’ve just booked a venue for seven months’ time, I’ve been so busy filming. And now I’m like… at some point me and Scott are going to get married.”
She added: “We are going to have to plan what we want this wedding to look like! It’s going to be up north so we must have seen every venue in County Durham and the north-east in general.”
Amanda Abbington and Jonathan Goodwin
Amanda was previously in a relationship with Martin Freeman (Credit: Splash News)
Amanda and Jonathan got engaged back in 2021. The Strictly Come Dancing star and escape artist were meant to be wed in 2025. However, they were forced to delay the wedding due to “litigation” issues concerning Jonathan and Amanda’s ongoing feud with former SCD partner Giovanni Pernice.
“Last year [2024] was one of the worst years of my entire life,” Amanda said.
“I was very close to having a breakdown because of the constant barrage of abuse and hideousness. And you just think, ‘How can I refuel the positivity?’ And Jonathan was amazing. My friends were amazing. My kids were wonderful, though I was trying to shield them from it.”
James reportedly popped the question ahead of Christmas Day (Credit: ITV)
Could this be the year for James Martin?
TV chef James Martin has also asked the important question over the festive season – but before the big day.
The Saturday Kitchen star reportedly asked personal trainer partner Kim Johnson to be his bride, after previously vowing to never get married.
The 53-year-old has been dating Kim for nearly two years, and a source claims he has ‘never been happier’.
But James previously admitted that marriage didn’t ‘interest him in the slightest’ – which appears to be old news now!
He previously dated Louise Davies for 12 years before they called it quits in December 2023. James as also been linked to Bond producer Barbara Broccoli. Whereas Kim was married to Arun Nayar, Elizabeth Hurley’s ex-husband, before they parted aways in 2017.
The star hasn’t responded to the reports, so we’re not sure if this will be the year they want to walk down the aisle!
Judge Aileen Cannon denied a Florida artist’s motion to block the release of Taylor Swift’s new docuseries over alleged copyright infringement.
Cannon, who rose to national prominence when she was the judge assigned to President Donald Trump’s classified documents case, said the motion “clearly lacks a basis to grant the extraordinary relief sought” in an order on December 22.
Florida artist Kimberly Marasco had asked the court to block the release of episodes of The End of an Era, a Disney+ docuseries about Swift’s Eras Tour, containing alleged copyright infringement. Attorneys for the defendants called the request “extreme and inappropriate.”
Newsweek reached out to Marasco and a representative for Swift for comment.
Why It Matters
Marasco is suing Swift, Universal Music Group and Republic Records for alleged copyright infringement. She alleged that Swift and her co-defendants copied her poetry in lyrics and visuals from multiple albums, including Lover, Folklore, Midnights and The Tortured Poets Department.
This is Marasco’s second lawsuit against Swift. Swift was dismissed from the first case in December 2024 after Marasco failed to serve the lawsuit within the court-ordered time frame. The lawsuit also named Swift’s production company, Taylor Swift Productions, as a defendant. The case against the production company was dismissed with prejudice in September.
What To Know
Marasco said in her motion for a preliminary injunction that the release of the docuseries will cause her to suffer “irreparable harm.”
“Once the docuseries is broadcast globally, Plaintiff’s works will be irreversibly embedded in cultural products beyond Plaintiff’s reach, without any credit or acknowledgment of Plaintiff’s material,” Marasco wrote.
Attorneys representing Swift and co-defendants said Marasco “has spent the better part of two years, in two different actions, hawking harassing and frivolous copyright infringement claims against Artist and related companies,” in a filing opposing the motion.
Marasco denied any harassment in a later filing.
“On the contrary, the Plaintiff has faced significant harassment from ‘Swifties’ including attacks on social media, other websites, and even comments from co-workers in prior employment settings. This harassment escalated to threats of physical harm, causing the Plaintiff to fear leaving her home at times,” Marasco wrote.
What People Are Saying
Kimberly Marasco, in a motion for preliminary injunction: “Absent injunctive relief, Plaintiff will suffer irreparable harm that monetary damages cannot remedy. The balance of equities and public interest strongly favor protecting Plaintiff’s rights. Plaintiff therefore respectfully requests that this Court grant the motion for preliminary injunction.”
James Douglas Baldridge and Katherine Wright Morrone, attorneys for Taylor Swift and co-defendants, in opposition to the motion for a preliminary injunction: “The intellectual property interests at risk and under attack in this litigation are Defendants’, not Plaintiff’s. The public interest weighs heavily in favor of protecting against highly valuable intellectual property being locked away and restricted from public enjoyment because of baseless legal claims. It is further in the public’s interest to avoid frivolous litigation that needlessly wastes both the court’s and the public’s time and resources.”
What Happens Next
Cannon has yet to rule on the defendants’ motion to dismiss the complaint.
Do you have a story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have any questions about this story? Contact LiveNews@newsweek.com.
Winter coffee drinks return as we enter December, bringing peppermint and gingerbread treats that send people rushing to their nearest café. This winter season is the perfect time to spice up your morning coffee order. For some inspo, we at The Honey POP put together a few winter coffee drinks we’d assign your favorite pop girls!
1. Ariana Grande’s Chesnut Praline Soy Latte
Ariana Grande has said she’s one to enjoy a hot soy latte, but for the winter season, we have to put a twist on a classic. A chestnut praline brings the nutty winter flavors to a classic soy latte. She’s vegan, so of course, we have to have soy milk for Miss Grande.
Another vegan pop girl, Billie, gives off dark yet sweet vibes, making her pick from our winter coffee drinks lineup an obvious one: an oat milk peppermint mocha. The dark, rich chocolatey taste, along with the pop of wintery peppermint, makes this drink sure to hit you hard and soft.
3. Chappell Roan’s Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate
Our eccentric, queer queen Chappell Roan is not a coffee drinker, but that won’t stop us from assigning her something from our winter coffee drinks lineup. As she doesn’t like a strong one, we’ve picked out a melty, toasted marshmallow-flavored hot chocolate. Perfect for satisfying her sweet tooth and giving winter vibes.
Taylor Swift is, in essence, a fall girl. However, these spiced fall vibes carry over into the winter season as coffee shops begin serving gingerbread lattes, highlighting gingerbread’s spiced notes and sweet cinnamon. This lovely, tasty latte is sure to give you Swiftie energy this holiday season.
Miss Espresso has to have an espresso-forward drink, making a maple shaken espresso the pick from our winter coffee drinks lineup! We know Sabrina is usually a fan of a brown sugar shaken espresso, making maple a familiar yet fun twist.
And there you have it, five winter coffee drinks sure to keep you cozy and caffeinated, pop-girl style. Whether you’re like Billie and prefer it chocolaty and sweet, or like Taylor and prefer it spiced, you are sure to feel energized and elated when you try one of these drinks. We at THP! hope this roundup gives your winter morning coffee routine a fun little glow-up, pop-girl approved, of course. Will you be trying any of these tasty winter coffee drinks? Be sure to tweet us at @thehoneypop or visit us on Facebook and Instagram to let us know!
In 2025, twenty-three different albums reached number one on the Billboard 200. These ranged from industry powerhouses to debuts, from deluxe versions to older albums, and even from animated idols to real ones! From SOS on January 4th to DO IT on December 6th, here’s every Billboard 200 number one from 2025.
SOS – SZA
The first album to top the Billboard 200 in 2025 was a true chart phenomenon – SZA’sSOS. The album, which came out way back in 2022, has hit the number one spot on the Billboard 200 in three (yes, three!) separate years, and has spent over 100 weeks in the top 10. In fact, it peaked at #1 on three different occasions this year alone! What’s more, in 2025, SOS became the longest-running U.S. top 10 album by a Black artist.
WHAM – Lil Baby
DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS – Bad Bunny
Bad Bunny has had an iconic year, right?! His sixth solo studio album, DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS, is maybe his best work yet, and we’re clearly not the only ones who think so. The album spent four non-consecutive weeks at number one in 2025, and we reckon it’ll probably return to the top spot in 2026, too. See you at the Super Bowl, King!
Hurry Up Tomorrow – The Weeknd
GNX – Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar’sGNX is another album that reached the number one spot on the Billboard 200 in 2025 despite not being released this year. Surprise-dropped in November 2024, GNX was easily one of the best albums of that year, and clearly it’s not out of rotation yet!
Some Sexy Songs 4 U – PartyNextDoor & Drake
So Close to What – Tate McRae
Tate’s third album, So Close to What, was also her first to debut at number one on the Billboard 200! With singles like ‘Sports Car,’ ‘Revolving Door,’ and ‘It’s ok I’m ok,’ this album was clearly one of the most polished pop records of the year!
MAYHEM – Lady Gaga
We guarantee that, just like us, you haven’t been able to escape ‘Abracadabra’ or ‘Die with a Smile’ all year. But then again, why would you want to?! As well as giving us GRAMMY-winning hits and one of the most exciting tours of 2025, The Mayhem Ball, the album saw Lady Gaga return to her pop roots. No wonder MAYHEM became her seventh album to top the Billboard 200!
MUSIC – Playboi Carti
Eternal Sunshine – Ariana Grande
Thanks to the release of Eternal Sunshine Deluxe: Brighter Days Ahead, Ariana’s 2024 album, Eternal Sunshine, returned to the top of the Billboard 200 in 2025. Featuring new tracks: ‘twilight zone,’ ‘Hampstead,’ ‘dandelion,’ ‘warm,’ ‘past life,’ and an extended version of ‘intro (end of the world),’ these new releases are maybe some of our favorite Ari b-sides of all-time.
More Chaos – Ken Carson
Skeletá – Ghost
Ghost’s Skeletá is unlike any other album that topped the Billboard 200 in 2025! For a start, Ghost is a Swedish rock band, and this was their first-ever U.S. number one! In fact, this is only the second time, ever, that a Swedish performing artist has nabbed the top spot. The only other act to do it? Ace of Base way back in 1993.
Even In Arcadia – Sleep Token
I’m the Problem – Morgan Wallen
JackBoys 2 – JackBoys & Travis Scott
The JackBoys project is one of the most exciting in music, and we were so glad to see it return for album number two this year! JackBoys consists of Travis Scott and the signees of his record label, Cactus Jack, plus a bunch more collaborators. With the likes of Travis, Don Toliver, GloRilla, Tyla, Future, Playboi Carti, and so many more, all on one album, how could JackBoys 2 not top the charts?
DON’T TAP THE GLASS – Tyler, the Creator
KARMA – Stray Kids
Can you believe we made it all the way to September before a K-Pop album topped the chart?! Well, Stray Kids arrived to fix that, and gave us some good KARMA in the process. With all 11 tracks written by 3Racha, mostly during Stray Kids’ most recent world tour, the focus of KARMA is celebrating all of their achievements (so far)! How about adding another Billboard 200 number one to that list, lads?
Man’s Best Friend – Sabrina Carpenter
Short and Sweet is still reigning over all our playlists, but Sabrina gifted us with another album full of her quintessential wit and pop perfection. Man’s Best Friend, led by ‘Manchild’ and ‘Tears,’ debuted straight at number one.
K-Pop Demon Hunters – Various Artists
Honestly? This is the 2025 album where we’d be more surprised if it hadn’t reached Billboard 200 number one. Songs like ‘Golden,’ Soda Pop,’ ‘Takedown,’ and more have been inescapable this year! Through K-Pop Demon Hunters, we’ve loved seeing the world of K-Pop reach even bigger audiences this year.
Breach – Twenty One Pilots
Am I the Drama? – Cardi B
The Life of a Showgirl – Taylor Swift
Probably the most talked-about album in 2025 was The Life of a Showgirl. Whether or not you love this iteration of Taylor Swift, there’s no denying her continued success! From ‘Elizabeth Taylor’ to ‘Eldest Daughter,’ she always commits to the bit, and we love that about her.
DO IT – Stray Kids
Two Billboard 200 number one albums in 2025? Stray Kids were the only act to DO IT! Last, but certainly not least, one of K-Pop’s biggest groups returned in early December. DO IT is the second in their SKZ-TAPE series, following on from 2024’s HOP, which, you guessed it, also hit number one.
Phew! That’s all of them! Which Billboard 200 number one from 2025 is your favorite? Or, were you surprised not to see your AOTY on this list? Be sure to let us know by tweeting us at @thehoneypop or visiting us on Facebook and Instagram.
If you’ve been living anywhere other than under a rock this year, there’s a one hundred percent chance that you’ve heard of Sabrina Carpenter! In just a few short years, we’ve gotten to watch an artist we’ve loved for years blossom into a full-blown pop star, and 2025 was the biggest year of them all! From being on SNL, to winning big at the Grammys (and being nominated again) to releasing Man’s Best Friend, there was no stopping Sabrina Carpenter this year! When looking back at Sabrina’s list of accomplishments this year, we knew we had to break down some of the biggest and best for you!
Let’s jump in!
Man’s Best Friend
We say this with complete confidence, Man’s Best Friend is one of the best pop albums of the last decade! And we don’t even think that’s a hot take because we’ve watched the general public fall as in love with this record as we, career-long fans, have. The witty songwriting, the visual storytelling, the vocals, and the elements Sabrina continuously excels at are heightened even further here on this record. From ‘Manchild,’ which has been inescapable, to some of our favorites, ‘Go Go Juice,’ and ‘House Tour,’ there is no doubt in our mind that Man’s Best Friend will have a long, ever-evolving life with fans.
Grammy Awards
The Grammys are one of those accomplishments that artists spend their whole careers chasing, that hold meaning for their nominees, and for fans alike. At the 2025 Grammy Awards, Sabrina Carpenter took home two (!!!!) awards, and has already scored six nominations for the 2026 ceremony! That is the direct result of over a decade of hard work and dedication to mastering her craft.
Variety Hitmaker Of The Year
Much like the Grammy Awards, being named Hitmaker of the Year comes on the heels of hard work. What sets this honor apart is that being a “Hitmaker” in such a pop-saturated market takes a deep understanding of what a “pop” song entails, and how to catch lightning in a bottle time after time. From ‘Espresso’ and ‘Manchild’ to ‘Nonsense,’ Sabrina’s deep understanding of this concept just keeps growing.
Saturday Night Live
SNLis a true rite of passage for creatives throughout the entertainment industry, and Sabrina pulled off three appearances this year alone! And even more impressively, one of these appearances included the double duty of hosting and performing! These appearances reminded so many people that Sabrina is an actress! Her comedic timing is impeccable, and she also happens to have an incredible voice and is a master storyteller.
Check out more of our year-end/holiday content here!
We would love to hear from you! What was your favorite Sabrina Carpenter moment from 2025? Let us know by commenting below or by tweeting @TheHoneyPOP! We are also on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok!
2025 felt like a year where music refused to sit still. Every week brought a new sound, a new story, a new artist stepping into their moment. The team at THP HQ went through the annual ritual of debating, defending, and passionately campaigning for our faves, and it wasn’t easy narrowing this beast of a year down to just fifty albums. But we did it… just about. So grab your headphones, a snack, and maybe some tissues; here are The Honey POP’s Top 50 Albums of 2025!
That’s Showbiz, Baby! – JADE
Jade had us waiting for a hot minute for this album, but wow, was it worth it. That’s Showbiz Baby! is easily one of the most exciting pop releases we’ve had in years; it’s pure pop perfection from beginning to end. Every step of the journey has felt unmistakably and unapologetically Jade. She made an unforgettable entrance with ‘Angel Of My Dreams,’ a moment so defining it earned her first-ever BRIT Award for Pop Act earlier this year. It left everyone wondering what her sound would be after such an eclectic debut. The answer? Bold, in-your-face, and absolutely brilliant. Her debut record is stacked with standouts, from the confident, main-character strut of ‘IT Girl’ to the fiery sass of ‘FUFN.’
And just when we thought she couldn’t top it, Jade closed the year by dropping That’s Showbiz Baby! The Encore, adding eight new tracks, including the stunningly dramatic ‘Church’ and her fierce take on Madonna’s ‘Frozen.’ The deluxe edition doesn’t just elevate the album; it extends the pop excellence she’s already delivered. Jade isn’t simply following trends… she is the trend. With this record, she cements her place as the newest it girl, carving out her space in pop history. And honestly? We’re fully strapped in for the ride. – Jazmin Williams
THP’s Song Picks:‘Angel Of My Dreams,’ ‘It Girl,’ and ‘Church’
Golden Hour Pt 3: In Your Fantasy – ATEEZ
Honestly, these men really are making all our fantasies come true with every new piece of content they release. The third installment of the Golden Hour series gave us a softer yet more mature side of ATEEZ in the best way possible, showing how the group can do anything they put their minds to. From the moment we heard the R&B and hip-hop mixture of ‘Lemon Drop,’ we knew this album was going to be completely different from what we’ve seen before in the best way. Most of all, we’d say that’s reflected in the solo songs we got from each ATEEZ member, where we can see all their talent shine in their own unique styles. From Hongjoong’s hype beats in ‘NO1’ to Jongho’s stunning vocals in ‘To Be Your Light’, it’s safe to say that, in Captain’s words, they’re “getting in our heads,” with this album. – Anna Bastos
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Now This House Ain’t A Home,’ ‘Lemon Drop’ and ‘In Your Fantasy’
NO LABELS: Part 01 – YEONJUN
Yeonjun’s NO LABELS: PART 01 is easily in the running for the best debut album of 2025. Although, in line with its concept, perhaps we shouldn’t give it any titles? Regardless, across the six tracks, Yeonjun fully realizes a very succinct vision, whilst also proving that he’s capable of doing any genre or style he sets his mind to. Where he could’ve turned out a perfect pop album (which we also would’ve loved), Yeonjun defied expectations by releasing an album far grittier, bolder, and more daring than anticipated.
None of these facets of Yeonjun came as a surprise to MOAs, but they are more crystal clear than ever before. From the derisive nonchalance of ‘Do It’ to the earnest sensuality of ‘Let Me Tell You (with Daniela of KATSEYE),’ NO LABELS: PART 01 is both concise and eclectic. Is it too soon to predict NO LABELS: PART 02 will be on this list in 2026? – Anna Marie
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Coma,’ ‘Do It,’ and ‘Nothin’ ‘Bout Me’
So Close To What – Tate McRae
From a career-defining single run (seriously, probably our favorite rollout ever) to new songs that make her one of the pop princesses of the year, Tate McRae’s So Close To What has to be talked about when discussing the music that we’ve loved in 2025. This album is a masterpiece from top to bottom! Not only does it have bops that make us feel confident and let our hair loose, but it also includes some of the deepest stories that Tate has told through her tracks. So Close To What has been our favorite era with her, making it even more fun with a world tour full of amazing performances and making her even more worthy of the superstar status. It’s a perfect pop album in our books!
The deluxe, SO CLOSE TO WHAT???, is also incredible. The five songs Tate has added to her Miss Possessive universe show a lot of growth, not only in her lyrics and mission for these tracks, but also in her production. We feel like this deluxe is Tate’s best music yet. It’s so hard to choose our favorites! – María Solano
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Miss possessive,’ ‘bloodonmyhands (feat. Flo Milli), and ‘No I’m not in love’
Beautiful Chaos – KATSEYE
Is it too soon to say that KATSEYE are well on their way to being the world’s biggest girl group? Because it certainly seems like they’re heading that way! The girls had their first comeback this year, first with ‘Gnarly,’ and then with their BEAUTIFUL CHAOS EP. Each and every song on this album has had a stand-out moment, not least ‘Gabriela,’ which earned KATSEYE their first GRAMMY nomination! The most underrated is the b-side ‘Mean Girls,’ which sees KATSEYE channel their girl-power energy in a less ferocious way than is typical for them. But, speaking of ferocious, it was ‘Gnarly’ that probably brought the girls the most notoriety; it was instantly divisive upon release, but it feels pretty safe to say it’s won over even the harshest of critics now. To anyone who still isn’t on board, haven’t you considered that boba tea is ‘Gnarly?’ – Anna Marie
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Gnarly,’ ‘M.I.A,’ and ‘Gabriela’
UXLXVE – XLOV
XLOV is by far one of the most exciting up-and-coming groups around. And they lived up to that hype with UXLXVE, their first mini-album. In each of the six tracks, you get the sense that XLOV really understands their audience, a feat which many more established artists still grapple with. UXLXVE switches seamlessly between soft melodies, euphoric pop, and sensual R&B. We always love a K-Pop group that is so hands-on in the creative process, and that’s exactly what XLOV is. Their leader, Wumuti, is heavily involved in songwriting and production, and all the members contribute in one way or another, from their concept to their styling and beyond. And look, we wouldn’t admit to being totally obsessed with a song about rizz of all things if we could avoid it. But, just like Taemin got us with ‘The Rizzness,’ XLOV’s ‘Rizz’ is just that undeniably good. – Anna Marie
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Rizz,’ ‘Scent,’ and ‘Biii:-P’
TUNNEL VISION – ITZY
The debate over whether to include Girls Will Be Girls or TUNNEL VISION as one of the best albums of 2025 could go on forever. It goes to show just how many incredible songs ITZY have delivered this year. Ultimately, the concept, the experimentation, and the cohesiveness in TUNNEL VISION make it the epitome of what ITZY are capable of. Starting with an intro track as gripping as ‘FOCUS,’ we knew TUNNEL VISION would be one of those mini-albums that leave a mark in ITZY’s career. ‘TUNNEL VISION’ is confident, assertive, empowering, and speaks to ITZY’s journey and restless ambition.
But ‘TUNNEL VISION’ is far from the only standout on this release; songs like ‘DYT’ elevate ideas from previous releases, and ‘8-BEAT HEART’ showcases ITZY’s unique, cheeky, fun yet experimental side. Yet songs like ‘Nocturne’ show a sweeter, yet more profound, side, without losing the sound that makes them so special. TUNNEL VISION showcases everything we love about ITZY, takes it to a whole new level, and opens the doors even further for what they can achieve as a group – and we’re here for every part of it. – Juu Luquín
THP’s Song Picks:‘TUNNEL VISION,’ ‘DYT,’ and ‘8-BIT HEART’
Magic Man II – Jackson Wang
Magic Man II is by far one of the best albums we’ve heard this year. It’s pure, unfiltered art in the form of 11 songs that narrate the process of overcoming hard times by allowing yourself to feel your feelings and process them in a healthy way. Jackson mentioned multiple times throughout the year how taking a year off and enjoying his time with friends and family helped create all the songs present in MM II, and it shows for sure. From opening with ‘High Alone’ to closing with ‘Made Me A Man,’ we are taken on this journey of self-reflection that resonates deeply with anyone who’s been through hard moments.
Personally, we’ve listened to ‘GBAD’ more times than we’d like to admit for its message about protecting our peace even if it makes us a villain in someone else’s story, and cried listening to Jackson’s beautiful tribute to his parents in songs like ‘Dear’ and ‘Sophy Ricky.’ And we can’t finish this without mentioning how ‘Made Me A Man’ was the perfect closer to the album, reinforcing what Jackson has been saying since the beginning: everything that happens to us, good or bad, makes us who we are, we just have to accept that and make the best of it. – Anna Bastos
THP’s Song Picks: ‘GBAD,’ ‘Sophy Ricky’ and ‘Made Me A Man’
Breach – Twenty One Pilots
As a direct follow-up to their 2024 album, Clancy, Twenty One Pilots released one album to tie up the lore and storylines they had been building up for over a decade. And just like Clancy last year, Breach has unsurprisingly made it into our top albums of the year! Breach is first and foremost an album that celebrates the universe Twenty One Pilots have created with every aspect of their art: from the music, to the lyrics, to the music videos. The end of Clancy announced the comeback of Blurryface, and Breach sees how they go face-to-face with this infamous character, precisely a decade after the release of Blurryface.
Breach has even more layers than the usual Twenty One Pilots release, as it includes, in the most genius and satisfying way, references to some of their most iconic and meaningful songs. From tracks like ‘City Walls, ‘ which follow Twenty One Pilots’ signature sound, to songs like ‘Days Lie Dormant,’ which offer a new element to their discography. Even as Breach reminisces on Twenty One Pilots’ journey as artists, it also expands their horizons as musicians and brings something new and refreshing to the table. Twenty One Pilots’ entire career comes down to this album, and it is a beyond-impressive one. – Juu Luquín
THP’s Song Picks: ‘City Walls,’ ‘The Contract,’ and ‘Downstairs’
Man’s Best Friend – Sabrina Carpenter
Call men out on their cr*p and face your problems head-on, but make it cute: the recipe for success, according to Miss Sabrina Carpenter. And let’s face it, it’s working wonders for her (and us), and Man’s Best Friend is proof of it. We can’t count how many times we’ve screamed the lyrics to ‘Manchild’ in our cars or laughed while listening to ‘Nobody’s Son’ because it reminded us of someone, but that’s the magic of Sabrina’s music: it makes serious situations lighter with her cheeky lyrics and unique voice. In our opinion, it’s only further up from here for this pop princess, and we can only hope to be along for the ride with her! – Anna Bastos
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Manchild,’ ‘Nobody’s Son’ and ‘Never Getting Laid’
K-Pop Demon Hunters Soundtrack
Now, how could we write about our top 50 albums without including the soundtrack of the year? K-Pop Demon Hunters not only smashed it in terms of movie records, but its soundtrack album was quite the success, too. From the lightning-fast energy of anthems like ‘Golden’ and ‘How It’s Done’ to the sleek swagger of villain-boy-band bops like ‘Soda Pop’ and ‘Your Idol,’ the album takes you on a wild ride between hero-team high drama and devilish-charm chaos.
Then, when tracks like ‘What It Sounds Like’ drop for the stirring score, you feel that emotional weight, like battle scars made beautiful by music. Whether you’re rooting for the supernatural girl-group heroes or vibing with the darker side, the soundtrack never asks you to pick sides, it just demands you dance, feel, and get swept up. K-Pop Demon Hunters doesn’t just soundtrack a story; it gives you a full-on K-Pop fantasy world you might never want to leave. – Jazmin Williams
THP’s Song Picks:‘How It’s Done’, ‘Soda Pop’, and ‘Golden’
Wishbone – Conan Gray
Conan Gray only needs a guitar and his lyrics to create one of the best albums of the year. After the release of Found Heaven last year, a new Conan Gray album wasn’t in our bingo card for 2025. Yet, Wishbone arrived in our lives to take over all of our playlists. For this album, Conan went back to his roots and stripped the creation down to just him and a few trusted producers. The result was a raw album full of vulnerability and some of his best songwriting as he tells an introspective story of a failed love. And no one does that quite like Conan Gray.
The title says it all: Wishbone refers to the way someone always gets the biggest piece of a wishbone. Kicking off the album with ‘Actor,’ the song already announces where the story would end, and yet tracks like ‘This Song’ make us feel every ounce of love that was once there. Songs like ‘Nauseous’ are where Conan shines as a songwriter, opening up about himself through his music, being raw and vulnerable. Still, his use of imagery and metaphor reaches its peak in ‘Eleven Eleven.’ Conan has always been an incredible storyteller, and through this album, he showed even more growth as an artist, and yes, these songs will haunt us forever now. – Juu Luquín
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Actor,’ ‘Vodka Cranberry,’ and ‘Eleven Eleven’
ORDER Chaos ORDER – Calum Hood
5 Seconds of Summer has given us so much this year, but one thing that they never lack is incredible music. As we reflect on our favorite albums of 2025, we have to mention the masterpiece by our beloved Calum: ORDER chaos ORDER.
If we were to describe this album in one word, we would use vulnerability. Mr. Calum Hood has always left us speechless with the way his music is both relatable and unique, and ORDER chaos ORDER is a rollercoaster of emotions. This project is for those who love to be connected with their deepest feelings, but also for the dreamers. Our favorite thing from this incredible album is the lyricism. Calum does a lot of introspection throughout these tracks, thinking about the “what ifs” and the “what could’ve beens” while giving us the feeling of living in a permanent summer sunset.
We’re so thankful for living in the same timeline as this genius, and we are so proud of Calum for allowing us to explore this solo musical journey!
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Streetwise,’ ‘Dark Circles,’ ‘Sunsetter’
Sidequest – Michael Clifford
Speaking of 5SOS and their 10/10 run this year, we obviously have to mention the coolness of Michael Clifford! His solo album, SIDEQUEST, gives us super fun aesthetics and a taste of pop-punk blending that has sparkled in Michael’s style since he started sharing his music with us. Eclectic colors, fuzzy shapes, and video game screens are the visual standouts of this era, but he also wanted to share how mature he has become and push his producing abilities for this release. Michael wanted to combine his alternative music lover personality with his newest electronic inspirations to make SIDEQUEST as authentic as possible. And we think he has covered all of his wishes with this release!
He has collaborated with some amazing artists for some of the tracks, but SIDEQUEST is a purely Michael Clifford creation. From writing all the lyrics to mastering the record, Michael has poured his entire soul in his solo adventure. We’re so happy that our 2025 has been blessed by his great songs!
THP’s Song Picks: ‘give me a break! (feat. waterparks)’ because we will always be PARXSOS truthers, ‘cool,’ ‘enough’
Caligo Pt.1 – PLAVE
PLAVE’sCaligo Pt.1 slinks onto your playlist like moonlight on water, moody, stylish, and full of surprises. From the rock-fuelled punch of opener ‘Dash’ to the silky R&B glow of ‘Island,’ the record shows off the group’s range without ever tipping into over-ambition. Tracks like ‘Chroma Drift’ bring retro city-pop warmth with airy saxophone lines and smooth grooves, while ‘12:32 (A to T)’ offers a quiet, tender moment that feels like a whispered late-night promise.
Even the laid-back hip-hop charm of ‘RIZZ’ adds a cheeky swagger, proving PLAVE aren’t afraid to play with tone and texture. Caligo Pt. 1 is a polished, genre-hopping mini-album that shows PLAVE knows exactly how to set a mood, whether you’re craving a punch, a slow groove, or a dreamy escape. – Jazmin Williams
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Chroma Drift,’ ‘Island,’ and ‘Dash’
fe304: FORWARD – NMIXX
If there’s one group we could easily add both releases of the year to the list, it would hands down be NMIXX. With the release of Blue Valentine later in the year, they made history and established themselves as the force they were always meant to be. And while Blue Valentine is the first full-length album of a lifetime and would also deserve a place in our list, it is difficult to compete against the absolute jaw-dropping masterpiece that is their Fe304: FORWARD mini-album.
Starting the era with ‘High Horse,’ we knew NMIXX weren’t here to play, as they showcased their contemporary dancing skills and their beyond-powerful vocals. ‘High Horse’ is the most unique, special, and mind-blowing release of K-Pop, not only this year. And the best song of the year could only be followed by a show-stopping title track like ‘KNOW ABOUT ME,’ which highlighted their harmonies and synergy. It doesn’t stop there, though, because every song in Fe304: FORWARD is a unique piece that showcases NMIXX’s restless love for experimenting with music, vocals, and pushing their sound beyond any barrier, leading us to K-Pop excellence in songs like ‘Papillon.’ From track 1 with ‘High Horse’ to track 6 with ‘Ocean,’ FE304: FORWARD is a masterclass in not only what K-Pop can and should be, but also in what music is all about. – Juu Luquín
THP’s Song Picks: ‘High Horse,’ ‘KNOW ABOUT ME,’ and ‘Papillon’
People Watching – Sam Fender
Sam Fender scored a hat-trick with his third studio album, People Watching. We’ve been fans of Sam for a long time, and we’re still taken by surprise every time he releases something new, and he’s somehow managed to get even better! In People Watching, Sam, once again, delves into the personal and political. And not the kind of grand, sweeping political gesturing many celebrities make, but deeply felt, nuanced commentaries on social class, capitalism, and more. This has been a keystone in Sam’s discography from the start, but it’s rare not to see this fade away once an artist reaches the levels of success that Sam has. The intricate nature of Sam’s lyricism is only amplified by the stadium-level production he puts behind it. The duality shouldn’t work, but for the third album in a row, Sam Fender has proved he’s one of the few who can make it happen. – Anna Marie
THP’s Song Picks: ‘People Watching,’ ‘Chin Up,’ and ‘Remember My Name’
The Star Chapter: Together – TOMORROW X TOGETHER
TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s latest full-length album, The Star Chapter: TOGETHER, feels like a kaleidoscope of sounds and emotions, all tied together by the group’s unmistakable energy and ambition. From the vibrant, ‘80s-tinged synth-pop of opener ‘Upside Down Kiss’ to the soaring, yearning melodies of lead single ‘Beautiful Strangers,’ the album draws you in with lush production and hooks that linger.
The solo songs, from the carefree falsetto glide of ‘Sunday Driver’ to the raw emotional surge of ‘Take My Half,’ let each member shine in their own lane while still feeling connected to the group’s wider universe. When tracks like ‘Bird of Night’ drift in on soft piano and gentle vocals, or when ‘Dance With You’ pulses with sultry rhythm and playful groove, TXT shows they’re unafraid to explore new moods and musical corners. The Star Chapter: TOGETHER doesn’t just showcase growth, it delivers a full-on emotional ride, blending confidence, vulnerability, and that signature “we’re all in this together” spirit that makes it impossible not to hit replay. – Jazmin Williams
THP’s Song Picks:‘Beautiful Strangers,’ ‘Ghost Girl,’ and ‘Song of the Stars’
Love & Hyperbole – Alessia Cara
With the release of ‘Dead Man’ as the lead single of Alessia Cara’s new album last summer, Love & Hyperbolewas an album that had been among our most anticipated of 2025. And ten months after its release, it has remained one of the year’s most memorable albums. Songs like ‘Subside’ and ‘Fire’ find their way back into our minds constantly. Alessia Cara’s pen has never failed, but Love & Hyperbole reveals a side of her that is even more mature, profound, and introspective, while showcasing her unique, striking vocals. From ‘Dead Man,’ she dipped her toes into a more jazzy, darker side, and it set the tone for the entirety of the album.
Released on Valentine’s Day, she created a unique atmosphere in Love & Hyperbole where she explored all the different sides of love – the sense of freedom, the beauty, the heartbreak, and the aftermath. It’s smooth and relaxing, yet all the songs are filled with nuanced emotions in the most cathartic way, including some of her most beautiful songs about love and growth. Alessia has always had a way with music that sets her apart, and no album has showcased her unique vision and way with words quite like Love & Hyperbole. – Juu Luquín
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Subside,’ ‘Clearly,’ and ‘Fire.’
Übermensch – G-Dragon
The king of K-Pop returns with another album full of bangers. Truly, GD is the Übermensch of the industry. Named after Nietzsche’s concept of the new goal for humanity, translated as “beyond-man,” the album definitely reflects the notion of “an individual who transcends themselves,” as G-Dragon himself put it. After 12 years without releasing a full-length album, GD reinvented himself once again and brought us eight insane tracks that just scream “this is what K-Pop is about,” mixing genres, bringing killer collabs, and reminding us why he’s considered one of the best rappers in the industry.
If we had to choose a single lyric to highlight from this album, it would have to be, “prove ‘em all wrong, I’ve got all the receipts,” from ‘Power,’ because there’s nothing quite like feeling like you have the power to do anything, and that’s exactly the feeling this song brings out in us. Also, excuse us while we fangirl over ‘Home Sweet Home,’ where GD brings his Big Bang members, Taeyang and Daesung, along for the ride, and they make it clear that their, “golden days are still alive,” which we couldn’t be happier to hear! – Anna Bastos
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Too Bad,’ ‘Power’ and ‘Drama’
Perrie – Perrie
After years of anticipation, our girl Perrie finally dropped her debut self-titled album… and it was worth every second of the wait. From the energetic yet bittersweet debut single ‘Forget About Us’ to the sassy, confident punch of ‘If He Wanted To He Would,’ this record delivers an irresistible mix of belting choruses and catchy hooks that practically beg you to roll the windows down and scream along. When she shifts into heart-tugging ballads like ‘Miss You’ or ‘Same Place Different View,’ her voice, crisp, emotive, and rich, turns heartbreak into something beautifully cathartic.
And then there are the groove-soaked moments like ‘Sand Dancer’ and ‘Pushing Up Daisies,’ proving Perrie is just as magnetic on the dance floor as she is behind a piano ballad. Overall, Perrie plays like the ultimate pop playlist: warm, inviting, and full of personality. It marks the official arrival of a solo star whose shine isn’t going anywhere. – Jazmin Williams
THP’s song picks: ‘Sand Dancer’, ‘Miss You’, and ‘If He Wanted To He Would’
KARMA – Stray Kids
Following world-changing releases like GO LIVE, NOEASY, and 5-STAR, the stakes and expectations were high for Stray Kids’ fourth full-length album, and KARMA met them without breaking a sweat. KARMA is an album that put Stray Kids’ success as a self-produced group in the forefront – it celebrated all sides of their artistry, their journey, their passion for music, their bond as a group, and their connection to fans. Coming right off the biggest K-Pop tour of the year, KARMA is directly inspired by the energy Stray Kids brought to the stage every night, as shown through songs like ‘Half Time.’
We also had hard-hitting songs with Stray Kids’ unique energy and undeniable rap skills, like ‘BLEEP’ and ‘CREED,’ as well as new ventures into EDM with ‘Phoenix’ and pop-punk with ‘In My Head.’ ‘MESS,’ ‘Ghost’ and ‘0801’ showed more vulnerability and introspection, giving KARMA a life on its own. It only makes sense that Stray Kids’ karma would come to fruition with this album, giving them their first MAMA daesang for Album of the Year. But more than anything, KARMA was about ‘CEREMONY’ and celebrating Stray Kids’ success despite adversity and the impact of their music. They were right: that ratio did get them worldwide. – Juu Luquín
THP’s Song Picks: ‘BLEEP,’ ‘CEREMONY,’ and ‘Phoenix’
Zara Larsson getting her flowers is long overdue, but better late than never! A long-time star across Europe, the U.S. is finally starting to take notice, thanks to the virality of Midnight Sun and Zara’s stint supporting Tate McRae on tour. Zara is by far one of pop’s most down-to-earth, relatable stars, whilst still giving us all the glitz and glam we could ever ask for! With Midnight Sun, Zara shows off her duality. The album is full of Eurodance and house-influenced tracks, underneath vocals so strong that she’s nicknamed Beyoncé’s adopted daughter. In the era of TikTok music, Zara Larsson has our vote as an artist who is doing that right, with integrity, and has our recommendation as a must-follow on social media! – Anna Marie
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Girl’s Girl,’ ‘Midnight Sun,’ and ‘Blue Moon’
Idols – YUNGBLUD
YUNGBLUD is another artist who we’re thrilled to see finally getting their dues stateside! Idols kind of does what it says on the tin, full of references to the artists who inspire YUNGBLUD. From the offset of ‘Hello Heaven, Hello,’ YUNGBLUD is taking you on a journey, throughout musical styles but also seemingly through his own psyche, though YUNGBLUD himself has said this album came from the heart rather than the head. Since the very onset of his career, YUNGBLUD has toyed with genres with a very on-brand anarchic sensibility. Idols is no different, gifting us with stadium rock anthems featuring the London Philharmonic Orchestra. “Tell me, do you wanna feel alive?” Then listen to Idols. – Anna Marie
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Hello Heaven, Hello,’ ‘Zombie,’ and ‘Lovesick Lullaby’
Knees Up – Olly Murs
Olly Murs’ new album Knees Up feels like a full-on invitation to the ultimate party; cheeky, upbeat, and unmistakably him. From the high-energy opener ‘Save Me’ to the ska-tinged swagger of ‘Bonkers,’ the record bursts with big hooks, big horns, and that playful charm fans always fall for. But there’s still plenty of heart woven in. Tracks like ‘Love = Madness’ and ‘Honest’ slip effortlessly between the pop bangers, giving space to his softer, more vulnerable side without dimming the party lights.
When he slows things down, whether it’s a tender ballad or a mellow groove, his vocals shine with that signature warmth and sincerity. In fact, this might be the closest we’ve ever gotten to Olly’s true live sound. So many of these songs carry the “big band” energy his concerts are known for, and it gives the whole record that full-bodied, feel-good lift. Knees Up isn’t here to reinvent the wheel; it’s here to remind you exactly why Olly Murs became the soundtrack to summer nights and late-night drives in the first place. – Jazmin Williams
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Save Me’, ‘Run This Town,’ and ‘Honest‘
Detox – ONE OK ROCK
You can always trust that ONE OK ROCK to deliver an album that will leave its mark on our entire year. Their eleventh album, DETOX, came out back in February and has remained in our top albums of the year. After the release of Luxury Disease in 2022, ONE OK ROCK collaborated with the legendary producer Rob Cavallo to create magic once again. The main single, ‘Dystopia,’ says it all: DETOX questions the world, sees the ugliness, but also serves as a break and a necessary cathartic disconnect from the real world. While DETOX has some good pop bangers like ‘Tropical Therapy,’ it also saw ONE OK ROCK going back to their roots: it’s their heaviest album in years.
It opens with a track like ‘NASTY’ that hits hard just in the right way, and they collaborated with Paledusk and CHICO CARLITO in one of their heaviest tracks yet, ‘C.U.R.I.O.S.I.T.Y.’ And still, it has its vulnerable and beautiful moments like ‘Tiny Pieces’ and even more so ‘This Can’t Be Us’ that push their musicality and Taka’s vocals even more. DETOX is an album that manages to package everything that makes ONE OK ROCK so special and unique, all their experimentation and experience with different genres, into 11 flawless tracks. – Juu Luquín
THP’s Song Picks:‘Nasty,’ ‘Party’s Over,’ and ‘This Can’t Be Us’
Hometown – BamBam
BamBam Thai album. That’s it, that’s the tweet. Actually, it’s not, we’re gonna talk a lot about Hometown. For the first time in 14 years since his debut, BamBam released an EP fully in Thai, and the project is all we could’ve wanted and so much more! From the dreamy vibes of ‘WONDERING’ all the way to the more modern feel of ‘Dancing By Myself,’ HOMETOWN is a beautiful and heartwarming tribute to his origins, and we can definitely hear all the love and care BamBam put into every song, once again proving his talent knows no bounds. And neither do his connections in the industry, apparently, seeing as he got some of the most popular names in Thai music to feature in HOMETOWN.
Seriously, Jeff Satur in ‘More Than Friend,’ TIMETHAI in ‘Dancing By Myself’ and INK WARUNTORN in ‘Greenlight?’ Perfection! And we can’t help but mention how finishing the EP off with ‘Angel in Disguise,’ an ethereal fantasy in song form produced by Pharrell Williams, that really evokes the feeling of coming home. More than an album, HOMETOWN is an invitation into BamBam’s world, and we’re more than happy to accept it.– Anna Bastos
THP’s Song Picks: ‘WONDERING,’ ‘More Than Friend’ and ‘Angel in Disguise’
The Life Of A Showgirl – Taylor Swift
The Life of a Showgirl may have been released in October, but it became one of the most talked about albums of the year in a matter of a few hours – needless to say, that even after the Eras Tour, Taylor is still taking the world by storm. Taylor Swift mixed a new and old approach when it came to the writing of this album, going back to her most-pop era collaborator Max Martin – the mastermind behind her best and most iconic albums, such as 1989 and Reputation – but also offering a new style of writing in these songs.
Opening the album with pure Taylor pop gold with ‘The Fate of Ophelia,’ there was no escaping this song or this entire album. Catchy pop songs like ‘Opalite’ and ‘Elizabeth Taylor’ explored her newfound peace and love, while delving into some of her deeper past fears, and songs like ‘Father Figure’ explored darker sides of the industry. The final and title track of the album sums up the message of the entire release, and choosing to feature Sabrina Carpenter is nothing short of genius. The Life of a Showgirl explores the pressure of the public eye, the complex relationships within the industry, but also love and change, all in the unique style of Taylor Swift. – Juu Luquín
THP’s Song Picks: ‘The Fate of Ophelia,’ ‘Elizabeth Taylor,’ and ‘Opalite’
Echo – Jin
Jin’s new solo drop, Echo, sits somewhere between a heart-shattering breakup diary and a late-night drive soundtrack, and it is deliciously dramatic. From the gut-punch ache of the lead single ‘Don’t Say You Love Me’ to the smoky pop-rock moments that slide between piano-led introspection and guitar-fuelled alt-rock, this record finds Jin digging deeper into his feelings than ever. His voice? Still, that honey-soft velvet that somehow makes heartbreak sound golden.
Tracks like the tongue-in-cheek country-rock standout ‘Rope It’ add a playful, familiar charm, giving his more cinematic, melancholic moments even more room to breathe. And when he leans fully into that emotional storytelling, the album glows with the kind of star power only Jin can pull off: confident, tender, and unexpectedly bold all at once. Echo doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but it polishes it so well that by the time the last track fades out, you realize it’s taken you for a ride anyway. – Jazmin Williams
THP’s Top Picks: ‘Background,’ ‘With The Clouds,’ and ‘Rope It’
This Is For – TWICE
We have to talk about TWICE every year, their music is a staple for us! Our favorite girls have celebrated their tenth anniversary this year, and that shows how unstoppable they’ve been in 2025! We feel like we’ve grown with them through this decade, and their full album from this year, THIS IS FOR, is a perfect example, celebrating their evolution as well as a new chapter for the group.
TWICE reflects and shows their talent through THIS IS FOR with songs that include the whole group, as well as amazing sub-units that were amazing surprises for us! With this album, we’ve gotten to hear new combinations and new styles that we’ve never heard before, and it’s incredible how much the members want to show new sides of themselves, even after ten years of releasing some of the most iconic K-Pop tracks. They want to show us how passionate they are, as well as deliver empowering messages to their fans. THIS IS FOR is TWICE’s most mature project, and it keeps being as fun, groovy, and legendary as the rest of their discography! Our biggest 2025 wish is to keep celebrating more decades with them!
You know we love our rookie groups, and ARrC is no exception. We knew these boys were going to be big since their debut last year with AR^C, and this year’s releases only confirmed our suspicions. Their third mini-album, HOPE, released in July, brought us five absolute bangers that showcase the group’s musical versatility, going from ‘awesome,’ which takes inspiration from 2000s hip-hop, all the way to the neo-soul influences of ‘night life.’ We also can’t help but mention the messages in their lyrics.
Staying true to their name (“Always Remember the real Connection”), the group’s focus stays on positive messages about staying optimistic even in the middle of a chaotic world and staying true to yourself, and we cannot wait to see what our boys will be up to next in their career! – Anna Bastos
THP’s Song Picks: ‘awesome,’ ‘night life’ and ‘vitamin I’
Only cry in the rain – CHUU
In the post-LOONA era we unfortunately have to live in, the girls continuously make it better by giving us some of the best releases K-Pop has to offer. This year, Chuu may have been booked and busy in variety shows and having her own tour, but it didn’t stop her from giving us her best mini-album yet: Only cry in the rain. Her previous flawless mini-albums established her as a soloist, and Only cry in the rain allowed her to go even deeper, offering five extremely recognizable, unique songs that fit together like a beautiful puzzle. ‘Only cry in the rain’ has a very clear concept and message: to find hope even in the darkest times while embracing all your emotions, including the pain.
Chuu used her addictive energy and positivity to create a mini-album that brings comfort and love, and doesn’t forget to have fun like in songs like ‘Back in Town’ and the viral ‘Kiss a Kitty.’ While ‘Je t’aime’ is a beautiful love song, ‘No More’ ends the release on a high note of positivity and empowerment. All tied together by Chuu’s infectious personality and stunning vocals, Only cry in the rain became a ray of light in our lives. – Juu Luquín
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Only cry in the rain,’ ‘Je t’aime,’ and ‘No More’
Underwater – Big Ocean
2025 marked a huge turning point for Big Ocean. A year into their debut, they stepped confidently into a mature, sultry concept that completely shed any “young and innocent” expectations people once had. Their second mini album, Underwater, pulls you straight into an ocean of mystery; it’s moody, cinematic, and fully immersive. From the raw ache of PJ’s solo track ‘SINKING’ to the slick, cool allure of ‘FADE OUT,’ co-penned by Chanyeon, every song feels like a wave tugging at your heartstrings.
Then comes the title track ‘ATTENTION,’ a hypnotic surge of confidence with commanding vocals that dare you to dive deeper. And by the time ‘End of Time’ drifts in under moonlight, a love letter to PADO straight from the members’ hearts, it feels like the final piece of a fully realised concept. Underwater isn’t just a comeback; it’s a transformation. With its mermaid-inspired visuals, emotional depth, and bold tonal shift, the album proves that Big Ocean isn’t afraid to explore their shadowy depths, and they surface stronger, more expressive, and endlessly magnetic. – Jazmin Williams
THP’s Song Picks:‘Attention,’ ‘Sinking,’ and ‘End Of Time’
The Misunderstood EP – Hannah Bahng
Our Aussie girl is back once more on this list with another bahng-er (hehe) in the form of The Misunderstood EP. Vocals? On point. Lyrics? Gut-wrenchingly beautiful. Our ears? Blessed! One of our absolute faves from the EP is ‘IM ME AGAIN,’ an ethereal track that showcases both Hannah’s talent for lyricism as well as her gorgeous voice in the best way possible. We also got our hearts slightly broken while listening to ‘RIBS,’ but coming from Hannah, we’re willing to accept that. The Misunderstood EP feels like a natural evolution from her previous release, The Abysmal EP, but more mature and experienced, and we cannot wait to see what comes next for this amazing girl we love so much. – Anna Bastos
THP’s Song Picks: ‘what never lived,’ ‘IM ME AGAIN,’ and ‘RIBS’
Wait On Me – KAI
KAI’s fourth solo album was far more understated than its predecessors, but no less worthy of acclaim or a spot on our top 50! KAI’s first release since returning from the military, everyone was anticipating Wait On Me, whether you’re an EXOL or not. Wait On Me also brought KAI’s first solo tour, which THP was lucky enough to attend, basically making all our dreams come true. And no, we won’t be taking this opportunity to talk about the ‘Pressure’ choreography. The singles, ‘Adult Swim’ and ‘Wait On Me,’ didn’t have the same fanfare as the likes of ‘Rover’ or ‘Mmmh,’ but still reiterated KAI’s status as one of K-Pop’s very best. Wait On Me is rife with KAI’s sensual artistry, honey-smooth vocals, and legendary performance skills. As KAI says in ‘Flight to Paris,’ “Get away from the mundane,” and check out Wait On Me. – Anna Marie
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Flight to Paris,’ ‘Walls Don’t Talk,’ and ‘Pressure’
DESIRE : UNLEASH – ENHYPEN
We can trust ENHYPEN to always deliver incredible music, and their 2025, DESIRE: UNLEASH, is truly everything that we wanted, and more! We have already explored their sweet romantic side with ROMANCE: UNTOLD, but this year’s project was a total 180 (in the best way!). With this comeback, ENHYPEN wanted to focus more on the mysterious lust and daring side of vampires. Everything surrounding DESIRE: UNLEASH was designed to make us want more, from the amazing songs to the visuals that they keep on serving!
We believe that ENHYPEN has created one of the best K-Pop discographies ever, and the addictive tracks from this project could only have been created by this group. The title track, ‘Bad Desire (With or Without You),’ follows how the group longs and yearns for true love. It goes along with their lore so well! And, of course, their b-sides keep getting better and better, following their enigmatic sides with passion and fiery romance. We love how the group keeps adding chapters to their storytelling through music that we can’t get enough of! – María Solano
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Outside,’ ‘Helium,’ and ‘Bad Desire (With or Without You)’
Winter Heptagon – GOT7
Mature, charming, and unapologetically GOT7 at its finest… that’s how we’d describe Winter Heptagon in one sentence. We knew this year was going to be a good one when we heard Winter Heptagon for the first time in January. With nine songs total and at least one written by each member, GOT7’s 13th mini album truly shows off how versatile the group is. And it’s amazing to be able to tell which song belongs to who just by listening. We knew the R&B vibe present in ‘Remember’ was Yugyeom’s doing, and ‘SMOOTH’ has Jackson’s signature written all over it, and that goes for all of them.
We were so glad to see GOT7 back together, making music and visibly enjoying every second. Frankly, Winter Heptagon brought us some much-needed warmth, and we can’t wait to see what else our lovely, chaotic seven have in store for us in the future. – Anna Bastos
THP’s Song Picks: ‘PYTHON,’ ‘Yours Truly,’ and ‘SMOOTH’
Am I The Drama? – Cardi B
Seven years is a long time to wait for a sophomore album, but Am I The Drama? proves, once again, that Cardi B plays by her own rules and comes out on top. Across 23 songs, Cardi flexes her versatility to such an extent that even dedicated fans might’ve been surprised. From vulnerable R&B to maximalist anthems to that highly anticipated diss track, not one of these songs could be accused of being filler. Another decision Cardi made for Am I The Drama? that we love? With the exception of ‘Up’ and ‘WAP,’ Cardi didn’t add the plethora of hit singles she’s had in the interim between Invasion of Privacy and Am I The Drama?. In a music industry that’s ruled by numbers, the decision to prioritize artistry over debuting an album with an extra 2 billion streams from the get-go is one we’ll always respect. – Anna Marie
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Imaginary Playerz,’ ‘Pretty & Petty,’ and ‘Safe’
Permission to Dance On Stage: Live – BTS
2025 marked a huge moment in BTS history: the year all seven members finally returned from military service, sending ARMY into full celebration mode. Soon after their discharge, the members headed straight back into the studio to begin preparing for their highly anticipated return to music. While we’re more than happy to wait (perfection takes time, after all), they made sure we were well fed in the meantime with Permission To Dance: LIVE. Pulled from shows between 2021 and 2022, this project is BTS’s first-ever live album, and it serves as a powerful reminder of just how phenomenal they are as performers.
The album leans into nostalgia while spotlighting the strength of their live vocals, even as they tackle intense choreography. From fresh arrangements on classics like ‘FIRE’ to the rich, prominent live instrumentals, Permission To Dance: LIVE brings us one step closer to their eagerly awaited 2026 comeback and the tour that the members have been teasing. It leaves us buzzing for the day we finally see all seven of them light up a stage together again. – Jazmin Williams
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Fire,’ ‘Black Swan,’ and ‘Permission To Dance’
WRLD – The Rose
If you asked us what The Rose’s WRLDfeels like, we’d say it feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s like Woosung, Dojoon, Hajoon, and Jaehyung are telling us everything will be okay through these seven songs. And not only did they do that through the lyrics, but The Rose also gave us a stunning video on their YouTube channel where they play the songs, creating a truly immersive experience for all of us.
As huge fans of immersive visuals in songwriting that we are, of course, we’d be obsessed with ‘Nebula,’ where subtle chords mix with lyrics like, “Counting stars, I closed my eyes / Searching for answers of life…” to create a perfect atmosphere. We’re also absolutely in love with Tomorrow’ and how it brings the feeling of being hopeful for the future, after all, “Tomorrow we’ll be okay.” And now on to the closing track, ‘Ticket To The Sky,’ it honestly feels like coming home to who we love and feeling safe in their embrace. Yes, we cried a little (or a lot). Don’t judge us. – Anna Bastos
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Nebula,’ ‘Tomorrow’ and ‘Ticket To The Sky’
SWAG – Justin Bieber
2025 has been the year of unforgettable comebacks, including the rise of the iconic Justin Bieber, and bringing him back to our on-repeat playlists! Justin has released not one, but two special R&B albums, called SWAG and SWAG II. These releases show us how much this genre and his personal style are a true fit for one another. We’ve decided to focus on the first album from this duology, since it was the one that announced his big return, but we recommend listening to both to get the complete story of where Justin has been.
As Justin has been experiencing adulthood, this new music represents growth. SWAG is a collection of his feelings while dealing with adult themes such as faith, marriage, and loyalty. As enjoyers of Justin’s R&B, we fell in love with this album. All of the tracks are cohesive, and they’re perfect if you want to enjoy the production and collaboration that comes with this genre. We can’t talk about 2025 without mentioning this big comeback!
THP’s Song Picks: ‘TOO LONG,’ ‘405,’ ‘WALKING AWAY’
No Genre – BOYNEXTDOOR
Listening to BOYNEXTDOOR turns our whole day around! We can recognize their music anywhere by their energy, and 2025 has been an incredibly busy year for them. They’ve shown us how versatile they are through this year’s releases, including No Genre, a mini-album full of tracks created by the members that highlights the message of embracing your true identity.
No Genre’s songs are playful and colorful, and they are all incredibly different from one another! If this were your first taste of the group, you would’ve discovered their hunger to display their artistry. BOYNEXTDOOR was in charge of this entire comeback, including the storytelling and the lyricism of the tracks. The members are deeply connected with No Genre, and we’re so happy to see that more groups are in charge of their creative works in K-Pop. This project shows that the group is here to conquer K-Pop’s fifth gen, and we can’t wait to keep seeing what they create in their next releases!
THP’s Song Picks: ‘I Feel Good,’ ‘123-78,’ and ‘Next Mistake’
Everyone’s A Star! – 5SOS
If you’re at all familiar with The Honey POP and our origin story, you would’ve probably expected this album in our top 50, right? After three long years (the pain of which was admittedly soothed by solo releases from every member), 5SOS returned with EVERYONE’S A STAR!, and we’re toying with the notion that this might be their best album yet. This album truly encapsulates all four members’ musical tastes, their sense of humor, their fanbase, and their talents. EAS! is an album that could only be made by a band that has been in the industry as long as 5SOS has; it exists perfectly in the balance between being self-aware and realistic, without being jaded and cynical. Even more than that, EVERYONE’S A STAR! was 5SOS’s most exciting (and well-executed) album rollout yet. Move over, ’She’s Kinda Hot’ graffiti livestream! – Anna Marie
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Evolve,’ ‘Boyband,’ and ‘istillfeelthesame’
Ruby – JENNIE
If you were wondering, no, nobody does it like JENNIE! 2025 has been a huge year for the BLACKPINK members, both as a group with a new release and a world tour, and as soloists. All of them now have incredible albums under their belts! We want to highlight one of our favorites that has been appearing in all of our Spotify Wrappeds: Ruby. JENNIE has always been one of our favorite K-POP icons, but this album has made her conquer all of our hearts and our playlists!
We always associate Ruby with empowerment and owning your personal evolution. We have been craving to enjoy a full project created by JENNIE for as long as we can remember, and we wanted to hear her story from her, and only from her. We knew she was going to knock our socks out, as she has always delivered breathtaking concepts and songs that make history. This album gives us a glimpse into JENNIE’s creative mind through raw storytelling and versatility. Whether you prefer to listen to her iconic and catchy raps, her pop perfection with collaborations with amazing artists, or you love her vocals and her exploration through her growth, JENNIE does it all in Ruby. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect project to define our year! – María Solano
THP’s Song Picks: ‘with the IE (way up),’ ‘ZEN,’ ‘Filter’ (and of course, special mention to ‘like JENNIE’. Such an iconic title track!)
Back To Life – &TEAM
&TEAM’s Korean debut had been highly anticipated for three years, albeit a little confusingly, given they’ve always straddled the line between J-Pop and K-Pop, and have promoted Korean versions of most of their songs. But nonetheless, we’re so happy they’ve officially debuted, but we’re pretty sure &TEAM’s excitement superseded even the most hyped LUNÉs. The members clearly worked so hard on every aspect of this era, from the vocals to the performance to all of the extracurricular activities that come along with being a K-Pop idol.
The title track, ‘Back To Life,’ was &TEAM at their very best, with rock melodies and vocals mixed with hip-hop sensibilities and choreography. This versatility is matched (‘Mismatch-ed?!’) with the far more overtly hip-hop influenced coupling track, ‘Lunatic.’ This one-two punch of a rock anthem and a hip-hop banger has worked for &TEAM for several comebacks now, and we don’t see that changing anytime soon. Also, what on earth happened to Jo this era?! We’re still not ok. – Anna Marie
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Lunatic,’ ‘Mismatch,’ and ‘Back To Life’
Debí Tirar Más Fotos – Bad Bunny
No one does Latin pop like Bad Bunny does Latin pop. Benito chose to start the year with a bang in the form of Debí Tirar Más Fotos. The album is a love letter to his Puerto Rican upbringing, but it resonated with the entire Latin American community, to the point where most recognized the feeling behind not just the lyrics, but also the cover with the two empty chairs.
The title track, ‘DtMF,’ deserves all the praise it got (and still gets) for translating the feeling of looking back on past moments and thinking “I should’ve appreciated these things and these people more,” and how we only seem to realize that once we’re away and missing it. We also cannot help but mention ‘LO QUE LE PASÓ A HAWAii,’ where Bad Bunny directly tells the people of Puerto Rico not to let their home lose its identity in the same way much of Hawaiian culture has been lost over the years. In summary, one of the best albums of 2025, and we can’t wait to see what songs Benito will be performing during the Super Bowl halftime show next year. – Anna Bastos
THP’s Song Picks: ‘LO QUE LE PASÓ A HAWAii,’ ‘DtMF’ and ‘LA MuDANZA’
Beautiful Mind – Xdinary Heroes
Xdinary Heroes debuted in 2021, and ever since, they’ve continued to push boundaries and expectations, carving out a space in the industry meant for them and them only. Last year was already a massive year for the band as they released their first full-length album, Troublemaker, and their more experimental mini-album, LIVE and FALL. Mix those two, and you get one of the absolute best releases by Xdinary Heroes yet: Beautiful Mind. ‘Beautiful Life’ is at the forefront of the album. This rhapsody draws direct inspiration from ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ by Queen and ‘Welcome to the Black Parade’ by My Chemical Romance, adding Xdinary Heroes’ special spark to the mix and an opera-rock influence. It gave us one of the year’s most unique and unforgettable songs.
Beautiful Mind is a darker release, full of songs that push their sound to a new level while remaining true to Xdinary Heroes’ colors. From powerful ballads like ‘Supernatural’ to impactful, fun songs like ‘BBB,’ Xdinary Heroes packed some of their most unique and impressive songs in this mini-album, and created a new precedent in K-POP with Beautiful Mind. – Juu Luquín
THP’s Song Picks: ‘Beautiful Life,’ ‘Supernatural,’ and ‘George the Lobster’
DUH! – P1HARMONY
The dark horse of K-Pop struck again in 2025 with the greatest comebacks ever! P1Harmony has been, once again, one of our favorite boy groups of the year, as they’ve shown us more of their craft and their incredible music and charisma. They’re here to stay, and they will be loudly and confidently proud of how much they’ve worked to create their style. As they keep it fresh with every release, we proudly say that DUH! is one of our favorite records of the year!
DUH! is a mini-album that focuses more on the old-school hip hop style, but it also adds new genres to their iconic discography, like afrobeats and hyperpop tunes. These six tracks give us verses that leave us speechless, as well as a massive boost of energy and confidence! All of the songs from this record are playful and fun, reminding us that P1Harmony never plays about exploring new sounds and new dance moves to make their discography the most memorable of them all. This comeback is a breath of fresh air in K-Pop; they’re the only ones that can make such incredible music like this!
THP’s Song Picks: Pretty Boy,’ ‘DUH!,’ and ‘Work’
HUNTER – Key
Key’s HUNTER crashes in like a neon-soaked thriller; bold, stylish, and completely unafraid to push boundaries. From the pounding, bass-heavy swagger of the title track ‘HUNTER’ to the ‘90s-groove bounce of ‘Infatuation’ (ft. Eunho of PLAVE), the album shows off Key’s fearless flair for blending pop-house, R&B, and experimental electronics into something fresh and electrifying.
Tracks like ‘Picture Frame’ deliver dreamy synth-house that blurs the line between reality and fantasy, while the dance-floor-ready ‘GLAM’ and the edgy, off-kilter ‘Want Another’ prove Key still lives for the unexpected. And then there’s ‘Lavender Love,’ like a calm sunrise after the storm of beats. HUNTER doesn’t just revisit familiar styles; it reinvents them, crafting a sleek, cohesive sonic universe where every track stands on its own and somehow clicks together effortlessly. – Jazmin Williams
THP’s Song Picks: Hunter,’ ‘Strange,’ and ‘GLAM’
Color Outside The Lines – CORTIS
When we talk about our favorite K-Pop debuts of the year, we must talk about CORTIS. They’ve already taken the world by storm with Color Outside The Lines! CORTIS’ message is to break free from the standards with their passion for music and their vibrant fun. We felt that they would be superstars the moment we pressed play on ‘GO!’ and ‘FaSHioN!’ The group is full on creatives that want to show the world how K-Pop can mix with other genres in a modern and hip way. CORTIS wanted to showcase their personalities as much as they could with this debut, and thanks to that, they’ve created great, catchy tunes that have added a new soundtrack to the K-Pop genre this year.
We’ve never seen a debut catching so much praise and attention! Plus, all the members have collaborated in the creation of this debut in some shape or form. Every beat, lyric, dance move, and vibe from Color Outside The Lines includes their personal artistry. We feel like CORTIS is such a refreshing group! We’re so glad to be experiencing this new take on K-Pop with them. It’s been a while since we’ve heard such a perfect debut, and we can’t wait to see what they do in 2026 and beyond! – María Solano
THP’s Song Picks: ‘FaSHioN,’ ‘GO!,’ and ‘JoyRide’
And that’s your lot! What are your thoughts on our top 50 albums for 2025? Did you see your faves on this list? Let us know over on Twitter @TheHoneyPOP! You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram.
And if you want more music in your life, you’ve come to the right place…
Taylor Swift showed up to Arrowhead Stadium Thursday night to watch fiancé Travis Kelce in what could be his final home game with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Swift, wearing a red leather jacket, was shown on the Amazon Prime Video broadcast hugging a friend.
The pop star has mostly been out of the NFL spotlight after the Chiefs lost the Super Bowl to the Philadelphia Eagles in February and the two announced their engagement.
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift kiss after the AFC championship game against the Buffalo Bills in Kansas City, Mo., Jan. 26, 2025.(AP Photo/Ashley Landis, File)
But it was a special night for Kelce as he mulls his NFL future.
Amazon Prime Video aired an interview between him and Chiefs legend Tony Gonzalez before the game began.
“I think I’m still searching for those answers. I think, obviously, the way this one ended with a sour taste in my mouth, I feel motivated, but I got to make the right decision for me,” he told Gonzalez. “I’ve got to hope that, you know, if I do want to come back, the Chiefs are willing to bring me back.
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce is introduced before a game against the Denver Broncos Thursday, Dec. 25, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo.(AP Photo/Ed Zurga)
“So it’s a two-way street on that, but, at the same time, man, I am, at this point in this year, I’m just trying to finish out and give Chiefs Kingdom everything I got and go out there and do it with some of that flair that you said I play with.”
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid was asked what it meant that it could be Kelce’s last game at home.
“I don’t know if it is or not. I haven’t talked to him,” Reid said. “I think his numbers and personality and the person, I think, speak for themselves. Phenomenal person (and) great for the community. He’s everything you want from a player representing an organization.”
Bundle FOX One and FOX Nation to stream the entire FOX Nation library, plus live FOX News, Sports and Entertainment at our lowest price of the year. The offer ends on Jan. 4, 2026.(Fox One; Fox Nation)
Pop star Taylor Swift has donated $1 million to Feeding America just days before Christmas, the nonprofit said Tuesday.
Feeding America CEO Claire Babineaux-Fontenot said the organization, which oversees a network of food banks, food pantries and local meal programs, was “incredibly grateful” for the gift.
“This holiday season, (Swift’s) continued support is a powerful reminder of what is possible when we unite to end hunger,” Babineaux-Fontenot said on Instagram. “When we join together alongside people facing hunger, we can make sure families have a full table this holiday season and beyond.”
Swift has not publicly commented on the donation. Swift’s team did not immediately respond to a request for comment from CBS News.
Roughly 14% of U.S. households reported being food insecure between January and October of 2025, Purdue University researchers recently found. Babineaux-Fontenot said during an appearance on CBS News’ “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan” last month that Feeding America has been seeing more demand than it can keep up with.
“Unfortunately the lines are longer than the food that is available,” she said.
It’s not the first time Swift has made headlines for her donations. The singer-songwriter donated $100,000 to the family of a local radio host who was killed in the shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory parade in February 2024. Swift also donated $1 million to Tennessee tornado relief in 2023.
We’ve all come home wound up after a long day at work with jangled nerves. Imagine coming home and winding down after singing and dancing for three-and-a-half hours to 65,000 screaming fans. That’s what Taylor Swift had to do after every performance on her Eras Tour.
How did she manage it? As the pop icon recently explained on late night with Stephen Colbert, some of her go-to post-show de-stressing techniques are exactly what you’d imagine. She changes out of her costume and gets straight into the bath for what she calls “mermaid time.” Then she orders a ton of room service.
She also signs about 2,000 CDs. That might sound like the least relatable, most pop star thing you could possibly do to end the day. But as she talked about her post-concert ritual, I realized her technique is actually a variation of a research-backed stress-busting approach that’s recommended by psychologists for all of us non-superstars too.
How Taylor Swift winds down after a show
“After the show, you know that kind of feeling where you’re sort of like a flickering light bulb? That’s crazy,” Swift says, describing her post-concert mental state. “That’s hard to go to sleep after.”
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While few of us have completed record-breaking world tours, most of us can recognize the wired refusal of your nervous system to calm down that she describes. And many of us will sympathize with the impulse to put on some athleisure and shove french fries in our mouths as a coping mechanism.
Fewer of us would think to write our own names over and over a couple of thousand times. Signing CDs, Swift explains, isn’t a promotional requirement of pop stardom (at least that’s not all it is). It’s also a way to use simple, repetitive physical activity to calm her adrenalized brain.
“My profession,” she explains, “is coming up with ideas for stuff, so if I can turn off the ideas for a second, very exciting.” One best ways to do that on tour, she discovered, is “doing tactile hand activity” like signing CDs.
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