jazsplaylist

[jazsplaylist]

JUNE FAVORITES

Ah shit, it’s August. 

FAVORITE SINGLES: (in no particular order)

1. Illusion - aespa

I don’t think I’ve heard of aespa before this song, but I’m slowly venturing into the world of K-pop more tentatively than before, so I’m still figuring out what I truly like. This was definitely a catchy bop I’ve enjoyed throughout all of June, so I’ll be paying more attention to this group moving forward.

2. I Like You (A Happier Song) (with Doja Cat) - Post Malone

This song is so cute! I haven’t really enjoyed any Post Malone singles (or songs, for that matter) since... I don’t know, “Wow”? They complement each other well here, and if it wasn’t for that indication that they’re going after someone taken, this would’ve been such a wholesome song. Still, it’s a great contender for song of the summer.

3. Dusjen - TØFL

Yes, I’ve included every single release they’ve put out in 2022 on this list. And what about it? I saw them live earlier this year and this song really caught my attention because of the hook. I love how forward-driven it is and the drums just make it undeniably easy to move your body to it, whether it be just bobbing your head, tapping your foot or jumping up and down. 

4. Vegas - Doja Cat

I know this is a May single, but it’s so new that I think missing a month is fine. I just forget to pay attention to things I want to pay attention to. I absolutely love the interpolation/sampling of “Hound Dog”, and I love even more that it’s Big Mama Thornton and depending on how you interpret the chorus, it also can sound a little shady towards Elvis. Which is a total boss bitch move when you’re on the soundtrack of Elvis’ biopic. Doja nailed this, yet again.

5. Move - DNCE

I love that DNCE is really back - they’re the ultimate feel-good group bringing the best vibes with their music. A great song of the summer contender as well.

Honorable mentions: No Thanks - SKIA / SOLO - ELISHIA

FAVORITE ALBUMS: (in no particular order)

1. How To Let Go - Sigrid

Also a May release, I know. I did want to check this out earlier, but I was also seeing a lot of lukewarm reviews on this album, so I kind of wanted to forget my expectations for it or others’ opinions on it before getting into it. I honestly thought it was a pretty solid album! I think it’s similar in consistency as her first album is, and sonically, it feels true to her. It probably won’t be an album I will be listening to for years to come, but for this moment, it’s just the right main pop girl vibe.

Favorite tracks: A Driver Saved My Night, Burning Bridges, It Gets Dark

2. A Business Proposal OST - Various Artists

I’m going to break the rules once again with this one and the next one, because I haven’t really been listening to albums in June and I was really getting into K-dramas… But both this and next one came out in spring 2022, so I feel like it should be acceptable? 

I’m so fascinated by the way soundtracks are used in K-dramas compared to shows I’m used to watching. They have a handful of songs that they use frequently, and I’m not used to hearing the same song over and over again in one episode or throughout the whole show (unless it’s the theme song). By the time I watched this show, I grew to like it a lot. This is also the first K-drama I watched where a main actor/actress is featured in the soundtrack. Not so strange considering Sejeong was in a girl group! I also learned pretty quickly after watching my first romcom K-drama that I really enjoy listening to their soundtracks, especially as background music or while reading fanfics (lol). It just really sets a really nice vibe, and I really love the vibe of this soundtrack. I also am so obsessed with “Love, Maybe” that I considered putting every version of it as my favourite tracks.

Favorite tracks: Love, Maybe (Acoustic Version) - KIMSEJEONG, Closer - Ha Yea Song, It’s Up To You - Moon Sujin

3. Twenty-Five Twenty-One OST - Various Artists

Because this series is set mainly in the 90s, the OST is heavily inspired by 90s sounds, which is why I like this OST. There are also a handful of songs that remind me so much of those music tap/dance games that were super popular in my childhood and it makes me so nostalgic. The OST also does a good job of capturing the essence of the show and main pairing very well, so I feel like I’m living in their world every time I listen to this. I also love that there is a song where the entire cast sings in it! More shows should do that.

Favorite tracks: With - Twenty-Five Twenty-One Cast, Starlight - TAEIL, Your Existence - Wonstein

FAVORITE DISCOVERIES: (in no particular order)

1. Después de la Playa - Bad Bunny

I don’t really care much for Bad Bunny. It’s not like I dislike his music, but it’s just not interesting enough for me to put my energy into it, if you know what I mean? Anyway, I decided to listen to his new album Un Verano Sin Ti, and while there wasn’t much that caught my attention, there was one song that did. Después de la Playa is the perfect summer vacation song that you could make a whole party around. It makes me want to get up and dance no matter where I am when listening to it.

2. I Think I Like You - The Band CAMINO

This song reminds me of songs like “Shut Up and Dance” in terms of vibe and the kind of style that was wildly popular in that era. Just a total fun, cute, uptempo band-pop love song that just puts you in a good mood.

3. Hello Hello - Trixie Mattel

I don’t know anything about the popular drag queens of current pop culture besides some of their names. I think this was on my Discover Weekly, and I wasn’t even looking at the name of the artist when I went to add this to my playlist. There’s something about this song that is very... early 2010s commercial/TV show intro music, but I strangely love that. This is my first proper encounter with Trixie Mattel and I’m not mad about it.

4. UNNATURAL - WJSN

In relation to one of my favorite albums/OSTs of the month, I had to check out Bona’s (who stars in Twenty-Five Twenty-One for those who haven’t seen it) girl group and I was not disappointed one bit. “UNNATURAL” had me sold by the first sentence of the chorus. Rhe punchy synth that follows the choppy rhythm of the topline? Incredible. What a pop treat.

[jazsplaylist]

MAY FAVORITES

To avoid having to write this at the end of June when I don’t remember what I actually listened to in May, I’m going to be smart and do what I said in my last post and start writing this one directly after posting the April favorites <3

FAVORITE SINGLES: (in no particular order)

1. That That (feat. SUGA of BTS) - PSY

Easily song of the year. EASILY. PSY has such a grip on me, and every lead single he’s put out since “Gangnam Style” keeps reminding me of that. It’s so energetic, fun and catchy, and he does all of those adjectives best in K-pop, maybe even in the pop world in general. Watch me make this my most played song of the year. 

2. SloMo (Eurovision’s Dancebreak Edit) - Chanel

Because this song came out in December, I’m going to cheat and put the Eurovision edit so that I can include this as a May release. I remember liking the song when I first heard it earlier this year, but it wasn’t until I saw her right before the Eurovision finale that I truly became blown away with this song and performance. I really rooted for her to win, and yeah, I’m just obsessed.

And for the sake of Eurovision, I might as well do a top 5 while I’m at it:

1. SloMo - Chanel (Spain)

2. Sentimentai - Monika LIU (Lithuania)

3. Fulenn (feat. Ahez) - Alvan (France)

4. Eat Your Salad - Citi Zeni

5. Give That Wolf A Banana - Subwoolfer (Norway)

I can’t believe there’s a song in my top 5 that was among the very bottom this year!! And one that didn’t even make it to the finals!! HOW DARE THEY!!!

3. 17.mai - Ramón

Releasing a song with Norway’s constitution day as the title the week before the actual day has to be simultaneously the best and worst marketing strategy for an artist. The best because people are inevitably going to stream it in the days leading up to the Constitution day and as expected, the song was the most used sound on TikTok the 17th of May in Norway. The worst because it’s only a short team solution for success. Sure, it could be a yearly thing where this song gets used for videos and streams that day or the week leading up to it, but it’s also a pop song that is specific for this age - will it age well, will it sound dated in a couple of years? We don’t know. It’s a bop, though.

4. Lykkelig uten meg - Sebastian Zalo

This song was released the week I broke up with my boyfriend, and this song is well, about breaking up with someone because you can’t be the partner they need and that they’ll one day be happy without you. SOBBING. This couldn’t have come at a better time.

5. This Hell - Rina Sawayama

Rina Sawayama global superstar when??? She is doing the absolute most, and while I have some beef with how we hold female artists to higher expectations than others, she should be recognized for it. 

Honorable mentions: Dope (feat. JID) - John Legend / Like Whoa (A&A Version) - Aly & AJ / Maybe You’re The Problem - Ava Max / If You Want Me - Röyksopp, Susanne Sundfør

FAVORITE ALBUMS: (in no particular order)

1. blue water road - Kehlani

I love love love Kehlani, but for some reason her work for the past 3 years hadn’t been quite my taste, which made me really sad because I want to support and love everything she puts out. So, imagine my relief when this album came out and brought me back again. There’s not a mid or bad song on this album and everything ties together beautifully. Probably one of the best albums of the year.

Favorite tracks: wish i never, everything, tangerine

2. Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers - Kendrick Lamar

I still have to let this album as a whole grow on me, because my first impression of it was weaker than my first impression of his previous two albums (DAMN. and To Pimp A Butterfly, heck, even the Black Panther soundtrack), but I could tell how deeply personal this was. I’m sure this project is going to continue to grow on me, and I can’t wait to discover more and let more details about this unfold.

Favorite tracks: N95, Crown, Worldwide Steppers

3. Harry’s House - Harry Styles

Without having listened too much to his previous album, Fine Line, I can’t help but think that this maybe might be his weakest album so far? I still enjoy listening to this album, and I can feel it being a grower. Some of these songs feel like a slow burn in the way that it’d probably take me six months for them to click for me. It happens, okay? The album started off really strong though, which is why all of my favorite songs are within the first.. four tracks of the album? Maybe I just have a short attention span.

Favorite tracks: Music For a Sushi Restaurant, Late Night Talking, Cinema

FAVORITE DISCOVERIES: (in no particular order)

1. Angelina - Lizzy McAlpine

Since I enjoyed her new album so much, I wanted to see if there was more I could find, and this one caught my attention. Honestly, mostly because I thought it was a sapphic song, but of course it turned out to be a song written from the perspective of a man :(

2. Médicament - BLOWSOM

I don’t know what this song is about, because I don’t know French, but this has the kind of sound and vibe that most popular indie songs that are on TikTok have, and sometimes I’m really into it! 

3. Life Was Easier When I Only Cared About Me - Bad Suns

Relatable title. This song has similar vibes to Fickle Friends’ music, which I have been into lately. It’s giving a mix of them and Young The Giant or that 2014 era of pop-alternative-rock. Good stuff!

4. She’s A Bad Mama Jama (She’s Built, She’s Stacked) - Carl Carlton

I don’t know how popular this was in its time or how its popularity has held over the years, but I had never heard of this song until recently. It has everything I like though, but I also think I like 95% of all funk/disco songs from the 70s and 80s, so.

[jazsplaylist]

APRIL FAVORITES

Once again, I wait until the end of the next month to write my monthly favorites. Might as well write the May one while I’m at it.

FAVORITE SINGLES: (in no particular order)

1. About Damn Time - Lizzo

In a minute, I’mma need a sentimental man or woman to PUMP. ME. UP.  Yup, it’s been on everyone’s minds, and mine obviously as well. Lizzo always delivers though, single wise especially. Honestly, I wasn’t that into it first listen, but it grew on me and I like how fun and playful it is, and it’s still easy to dance to even though the tempo is slightly slower (or feels slower?) than other danceable pop songs.

2. Queens - Benjamin Ingrosso

I love the Queen-sounding elements in this, and I have to assume it’s on purpose because of the title. I don’t know much about Benjamin Ingrosso - Spotify recommended me his latest album not too long ago and I was surprised by how much I liked it. And everything I’ve heard from him since has not disappointed.

3. Jugekors - Arif, Stig Brenner

Don’t know if this is a single, but it was on top of New Music Friday, so. I don’t think these two can collab and produce something bad. As two of the front figures in Norwegian pop/R&B/hip hop, they’ve perfected their sound, and they are such skilled top liners on top of it all. The melody on the pre-chorus and chorus is so pretty, and honestly, I don’t know if anyone in Norway makes better emotional melodies than them.

4. Psychopath - Tomine Harket

Tomine Harket, main pop girl when? It’s time for Tomine to be considered one of them, at least among the Norwegian pop girlies. Plus, we need more LGBTQ+ representation among Norwegian pop girls, and she’s the one for it. This song has attitude and is a total banger. 

5. up at night (feat. Justin Bieber) - Kehlani

Kehlani is BAAACK! Well, she’s never left, but she’s finally back with a new album and this song is <3<3<3 A Kehlani x Justin Bieber combination never fails. It feels similar to “Get Me”, but I think this one is better.

Honorable mentions: When You’re Gone - Shawn Mendes / That’s Hilarious - Charlie Puth / Treat Me - Chlöe / tinnsoldater - Vinni / Fair - Normani

FAVORITE ALBUMS/EPS: (in no particular order)

1. Familia - Camila Cabello

For some reason, I’ve always liked Camila’s albums just fine, but I find myself listening to a handful of the songs instead of listening to the albums as a whole. I’ve once again found myself doing the same since its release, but I think this is her most cohesive yet? Question mark is placed due to the fact that I don’t quite remember the cohesiveness of Romance. Either way, I love that she’s doing more Spanish songs, and the music feels more true to her now than it has been before. I’ll try to get better to listen to the whole album more often, but for now, I’ll stick to the one handful of songs I liked on first listen.

Favorite tracks: La Buena Vida, Lola, Don’t Go Yet

2. Candydrip - Lucky Daye

This album was released in March, I know, but I’m slow, okay? I had this in my “queue” for weeks and forgot to listen to it. But I finally did, and I love it. It’s chill, it’s groovy and his voice is so smooth I could listen to it for a whole day. The album does go on for a little too long, so I feel like some tracks kind of fall under the radar, especially if you listen to the whole album in one go. 

Favorite tracks: God Body, NWA, Feels Like

3. five seconds flat - Lizzy McAlpine

I’ve listened to Lizzy very casually prior to this, and by that, I mean like, I only knew two of her songs. I’ve grown really fond of her voice though, and I think the reason I haven’t gotten into her before is that this style of singer-songwriter is a big hit or miss for me. It’s not like I appreciate a good, calming voice and solid songwriting, but as someone driven by a groovy, upbeat bass line and a kick drum you feel in your chest, indie singer-songwriter pop can be... boring to me. Lizzy, and this album, has somehow captivated me, so I’ll be enjoying this while it lasts.

Favorite tracks: doomsday, all my ghosts, called you again

FAVORITE DISCOVERIES: (in no particular order)

1. L.O.V.E. (feat. EARTHGANG, Jon Batiste & Sherwyn) - Yung Bae

I didn’t know about Jon Batiste before he won Album of the Year at the Grammy’s, but after listening to We Are, this song totally makes sense for him to be featured in. It’s just all the right vibes, you know? Like a modern “Celebration” a la Kool & The Gang type of deal. 

2. Body Talk - Andrea

There can never be too many pop girlies in the world in my opinion. I love the early 2000s sounding rhythmic acoustic guitar - I’m such a sucker for 2000s pop sounding songs. While this song doesn’t stand out among other pop songs, it’s still a bop and a half, so you should check it out.

3. Nonante-Cinq - Angèle

I came across one of Angèle’s performances from the COLORS studios where she sang “Ta reine” and I immediately fell in love with the song and her voice. I’m obviously way too late finding out this album existed, but it’s just European pop at its best, in my opinion. She deserves the cult following that Carly Rae Jepsen has.

Favorite tracks: Bruxelles je t’aime, Libre, Plus de sens

4. sorry - UMI

If Alicia Keys were debuting in this era, this is what she’d probably sound like. It’s just really good, fresh R&B/neo-soul. It has some Ella Mai vibes to it as well, so if you’re into that, you’ll like this too.

5. Higher Ground - Polun, Gracie Ella

I have no other description of this besides that it’s funky, vibey and has that R&B/pop formula that just always works on me. It has a kick on every count, some slap bass, dreamy synths, smooth vocals... I don’t really need much else. That’s it.

[jazsplaylist]

MARCH FAVORITES

A super late and due post, and to be honest, I’ve already forgotten the month of March, but let’s see what I can manage to whip up...

FAVORITE SINGLES: (in no particular order)

1. Higher - Michael Bublé

My absolute favorite is BACK and with his possibly best originally written song to date?? This song packs a punch, has a super catchy, simple yet dramatic piano loop and his vocal delivery is full of energy. This song just screams intense dramatic paso doble vibes, so I’m hoping someone on Dancing With The Stars will pull off a really hot choreography on the show with this song (Derek Hough choreographed for the music video of this track, actually, but I’d rather watch a really good couple dance to this than a bunch of people in a music video with takes of Michael attempting to look cool every now and then). Ryan Tedder also has writing credits on this, as well as his 8-year old son, which is super super cool!

2. Another Man’s Jeans - Ashe

Ashe is just so cool and lovely, and I really like the direction she went with this. It’s country-esque and shows off her great ability to tell stories through music, and the sudden production switch for the last 10 seconds or so is really fun. 

3. Talkin - Kojey Radical ft. Kelis & Tiana Major9)

After discovering “Payback”, I was excited when I saw another release from Kojey, and this one did not disappoint either. The track is playful, and the lyrics describe Black proudness and resistance. The entire song does consist of Black greatness too, so it definitely makes the listening experience an enjoyable one. 

4. Find A Way - Daniel Leon

This song isn’t exactly perfect nor original, but I also just generally love a good funky, chill soul vibe and this song is just that. I hear a lot of potential in this guy - I just think he has to find his niche within genres/styles and stick with it. His album, Soul On Fire, is good and has a lot of good tracks, but lack a certain cohesiveness stylistically. Regardless, this is a really nice listen!

5. Attention - Omah Lay & Justin Bieber

I love how chill the vibe is without getting boring. The beat is solid and they both sound really good with this type of song. I also really appreciate Justin Bieber collabing with names people might not have heard too much about, as it’s great for both the other person and for music discovery. It’s catchy, calming but it also makes you bob your head and dance a little. 

Honorable mentions: Baby - Charli XCX / OPEN A WINDOW - Rex Orange County ft. Tyler, The Creator / Anything But Me - MUNA

FAVORITE ALBUMS/EPS: (in no particular order)

1. GHETTO GODS - EARTHGANG

I didn’t really vibe to this entire album as a whole at first, but the more I listen to it, the more I find enjoyment in the individual tracks. EARTHGANG has always been a hit or miss for me, as I can listen to entire albums and only find one or two songs I like. This definitely keeps growing on me, though. But just for the record - “LIE TO ME” is the biggest vibe.

Favorite tracks: LIE TO ME, WATERBOYZ, AMERICAN HORROR STORY

2. Multitude - Stromae

Prior to this album rollout, my only relationship to Stromae was with the song “Alors on danse”, and it was only because it was such a major hit in Europe in 2010. So, this album was such a big surprise to me in terms of how interesting of a listen it was. I’ve heard a lot of great things about Stromae before, I guess I’m just very slow when it comes to catching up to greatness. It’s a cohesive piece of work that switches it up just enough to keep it exciting without straying too much from the stylistic direction that is set from the start. I just wish I knew French, so I actually knew what he was saying.

Favorite tracks: Fils de joie, La solassitude, Invaincu

3. MOTOMAMI - ROSALÍA

MOTOMAMI is such a fun album! I didn’t have too many expectations about this, to be honest, but it is a solid listening experience. I don’t have a particular reason to lack expectations by the way, I just don’t always pay attention to ROSALÍA, and sometimes her singles are kind of a miss for me (but I do like most of them), so I just never know what to expect from a whole album. I think she shines the most when she does the more traditional folk type of singing.

Favorite tracks: SAOKO, BULERÍAS, HENTAI

4. higher - Michael Bublé 

Stylizing the title in lowercase because that’s how Michael would’ve wanted it.

To be honest, this is on the list just solely because I am a huge fan and not because this actually is the best album that came out in March. I love that he has collaborated with big pop songwriters for his originals this time around—although it’s not the first time he’s had established pop writers of the time before, as his 2016 album featured an original song written by Harry Styles and Meghan Trainor—and the results for most of them have been rewarding. Ryan Tedder is involved with “Higher”, my absolutely favorite track from this album, John Mayer with “Baby I’ll Wait” and Jon Bellion with “Mother”. His covers this time around aren’t that particularly exciting, unfortunately. “My Valentine” is probably the standout, but mainly because it’s my favorite Paul McCartney song and the fact that he produced this version makes it more special. But after 11 (?) studio albums and countless covers, I’m not sure how much more creative Bublé can get, but I accept him nonetheless.

Favorite tracks: Higher, I’ll Never Not Love You, My Valentine

FAVORITE DISCOVERIES: (in no particular order)

1. Come To Your Senses - Alexandra Shipp & Vanessa Hudgens AND the Jazmine Sullivan version

They’re the same song so it gets the same spot. I finally got around to watch tick, tick... BOOM! and this song really stood out to me. Jazmine also did a beautiful rendition of it, so it felt rude not to include her too.

2. I’m Cute - Kima Otung

A cute, fun and careless bop. That’s it.

3. Santiago - jamie minogue

This song just embodies the ultimate dance-y, chill, fun R&B-vibe. It’s perfect for any beach scenario, chilling in the sun, at a barbeque... I’ll be streaming all through summer!

4. Dark Matter - Grace Carter

This song feels so spiritual, probably because it has this quiet gospel sound to it, like someone sitting by themselves in a church praying quietly to themselves. It’s soothing and beautiful.

5. Faces - Trevi Moran

There’s something camp about this, but I can’t put my finger on it. Also lowkey sounds like it could be a Eurovision song.

[jazsplaylist]

FEBRUARY FAVORITES

It’s been a short month - an annoyingly long cold and not generally being in the mood to pay attention to new music made for an uneventful month for me. Still, I have had some songs on rotation and songs that I’ve been anticipating this month, so here are some of them!

FAVORITE SINGLES: (in no particular order)

1. Stirre inn i øyelokkå - TØFL

(Translation: Staring into the eyelids) They did it again. How can they not? The chorus is so effective, and they manage to make indie-pop so catchy without compromising their unique sound. Just *chef’s kiss*.

2. Fast Times - Sabrina Carpenter

If you read my top ten post of Sabrina Carpenter, you know that I am absolutely obsessed with Sabrina. I have pretty manageable expectations for this era--you know, not very high but not low either--but I really enjoy this song. Julia Michaels’ influence is incredibly heavy both on this and “Skinny Dipping”, and while I think they make for a great match, I do think she flourishes more with her previous songwriters, just pure stylistically. So I do wonder if Julia (and JP Saxe) have co-written more of the songs that are on her upcoming album (EP? I don’t even know), because I do want to hear something slightly different. Super catchy song though, love the track and the vibe it gives off. I do wish there was a pre-chorus to make the song more... whole, but Sabrina can rarely do anything wrong when it comes to music.

3. ok jeg lover - Ramón

This is a current trend on Norwegian Tik Tok, and a well deserved one at that. This song is absolutely beautiful, equally bittersweet and heartfelt, which makes it perfect for sentimental type of videos which everyone on social media loves nowadays. Ramón sings about the experience of falling in love again after a tough breakup - he’s pleading the new romance “I need you to tell me “ok, i promise”, I’ll be here when all falls down”. On first listen, or maybe all the listens to be fair, it does sound incredibly sad, but the hope he brings forward makes this song tug on my heartstrings in all the right ways. 

4. Bad Habits - Ed Sheeran feat. Bring Me The Horizon

I LOVE this collab. I haven’t heard Ed Sheeran in a more rock sounding setting much before, the collab with Bruno Mars and Chris Stapleton being the first taste of that, and I definitely want more of this. I think he sounds amazing with this sound. 

5. Dancing Feet - Kygo feat. DNCE

Unless you’re also a long-time Jonas Brothers fan + Norwegian, I don’t think you can fully grasp how insane this collab is to me. I also live close to Kygo, and while I am too shy to ever go up to a celeb if I see them IRL, this collab makes me want to get out of my comfort zone and tell Kygo that I am so over the moon over this song if I ever see him out and about. Will I, though? Probably not. But this means a lot to me. And it’s a bop. And it’s a DNCE reunion! Really, really rooting for a new DNCE album.

Honorable mentions: Night Owl - Scuuut (my bf released a new song!) / Naturally - Tinashe / Sol - Michelle Ullestad / ROOM FOR 2 - Benson Boone

FAVORITE ALBUMS/EPS: (in no particular order)

1. Few Good Things - Saba

I’ve only heard a few songs from CARE FOR ME (2018) and really liked his vibe, but I didn’t really expect to like this album as much as I did. The beats are really good, his flow is great and it’s just overall a really pleasant listen. Saba definitely is on my list of artists I need to dive deeper into.

Favorite tracks: Fearmonger, Survivor’s Guilt, Soldier

2. Liv - Bendik

I have only listened through this once, so I still have to give this album some time before I properly assess it. But I will say that I found the production on this album pretty interesting, far more than what I’ve heard from her before. I’ve always looked as Bendik as this quiet pop artist, always staying just below the surface of mainstream doing her thing. This album is way more electric-sounding than what I have heard before - some production elements also tapping into hyperpop. I think she’s finally showing what she’s truly capable of, because she’s always been a good songwriter, but this album really captures that she can be a full-out pop artist.

Favorite tracks: Naiv, Leve evig

3. Omar Sheriff - Karpe

How privileged the POC/generations of immigrants of Norway are that the biggest, most successful duo of any genre makes music for us. Karpe has for a long time represented the suppressed, balancing the act of being brutally political and entertaining for the masses, but they’ve always been a voice for the underrepresented. This EP also comes with a cinematic universe, which you can access in a website by paying 100 kroner (roughly $10-11) for 24 hours. You also cannot start, pause or rewind and fast forward, so I haven’t gotten around to sit down to watch it yet. I love listening to this EP, because I can just never tell when they’re being intentionally poetic and when they’re just spitting out nonsense because it sounds cool. I also love how specific it is to the experience of being a POC in a predominantly white country, and even if the guys have Egyptian and Indian roots respectively, I can still deeply relate to their experiences and stories as someone with a Vietnamese family. 

Favorite tracks: IBOPROFEN, SALMALAKS, KENYA

FAVORITE DISCOVERIES: (in no particular order)

1. Eat Your Salad - Citi Zeni

EUROVISION SZN BABY! Genuinely thought this was a full blown-out TikTok trend until I saw there were only 1200 videos with the sound... which just means I’m on European queer TikTok. Not mad about it. The sound that has supposedly gone sort of viral is the beginning where the singer says “Instead of meat, I eat veggies and pussy”. Such a bang of a start, and I find it so amusing in the best way that this song is kind of a Gen Z/late milennial way of trying to make being green and climate-friendly as cool as possible. It’s got humor, it has groove and it’s catchy - what’s not to love? Definitely in the run of being my winner at the moment. 

2. Killshot - Magdalena Bay

Not too long ago, I did a quick listen through Mercurial World (2021). It was my first time listening to Magdalena Bay ever, and I was not expecting to like them at all, but I did. For some unknown reason, I have not gone back and listened again, despite really liking the album. Sometime last month, I discovered “Killshot” through Reddit and again, I was just blown away by how much I loved this track. It’s so groovy and sensual, but in a completely different way than what I already know and love. Yeah, I’m absolutely obsessed.

3. I’m Really Hot - Missy Elliot

TikTok keeps humbling me when I cave in and add songs to my playlists that have captured my attention through the app, especially when they’re throwback songs from absolute legends like this one is. This song was used over one of the most intricate, fascinating choregraphies I’ve seen so far on TikTok, so I really have to commend the choreographer for helping me realize how sick this song is. Even if I’ve never heard this song before, it just feels so nostalgic because it sounds really familiar to Missy Elliott’s other work in the early 2000s. So, so good, but charted fairly low on the Billboard charts (peaked at #59) and is on the lower side of streams compared to her other singles, so can I say it’s underrated? It’s underrated.

4. Todo Lamento - Natalia Lacunza 

A cute, Spanish bop that landed on my Discover Weekly. It has this calming vibe to it, Natalia’s soft voice being a contributing factor, even if it’s actually pretty high tempo. Great bassline, which is a BIG plus in my book. I’m very happy with this discovery.

5. Deep End - CATTY

This song is pretty catchy and a total vibe, and CATTY shows a lot of potential to be a big pop artist. I am, however, extremely distracted by how identical this is to “good 4 u” by Olivia Rodrigo. You can practically sing it over this track. Still, it deserves to be talked about, so here I am, talking about it.

[jazsplaylist]

JANUARY FAVORITES

A little overdue, like most of my habits are, but here’s a little collection of my favorite music from January!

FAVORITE SINGLES (in no particular order)

1. Head On Fire - Sigrid & Griff

Even though I haven’t listened much to Griff before, I can recognize that this is a strong pop collab that had the potential to be extraordinary and was. “Head On Fire” is a harmonious mix between Sigrid’s and Griff’s signature sounds, and it manages to capture both something that sounds new yet timeless, as if it was released decades ago. It successfully caters to both their strengths, and made me want to listen to Griff more than I have before. 

2. Payback (feat. Knucks) - Kojey Radical

I’ve never listened to either of these guys before I came across this on a New Music Friday. The new music playlists that Friday was extremely hip-hop heavy, and most of what I went through felt extremely uninspired to me, so I was ready to give up when this started playing halfway through the list. As someone who has only really listened to hip-hop semi-actively for five years, I’m more drawn to catchy hooks and beats with something unique and something “extra”. While most mainstream hip-hop does have that to some extent, a lot can end up being very uniform and repetitive, which is why I really appreciate it when something catches my ear in a way that other songs don’t. This song is funky, catchy and it was nice to hear a new, different voice. I definitely will be checking out both Kojey and Knucks more after this.

3. all my ghosts - Lizzy McAlpine

I’m surprised that this is a song I deem worth mentioning, because it balances on the line of being too indie for my taste. It’s not like I don’t like indie music, I just often find it wildly uninteresting, and I am after all, more of a pop girl. I do, however, really enjoy both the production and the melody of this song. It’s repetitive enough that it sticks to my brain, and the way the song is built up makes it interesting enough to keep my attention. Lizzy also has an amazing, soothing voice.

4. How Long - Tove Lo

Charlie Puth outsold. Tove Lo rarely ever misses, and this hits just the spot. The BLUE LIPS (2017) sound fits the vibe of Euphoria so well, so it feels just right that she delved into that era to make this song for the show. I also have a weak spot for sad, emotional songs with an upbeat production. You know, the whole crying on the dance floor vibe? The lyrics fit a prominent storyline of the season well, the melody is so deeply melancholic and addicting, but you also just have to vibe to it because of the production? Perfection from Tove Lo, once again.

5. I’ll Never Not Love You - Michael Bublé

Is this as good of as a song as the others I’ve mentioned? No. Is it one of Michael Bublé’s better songs? Hm, maybe. Maybe not. Will I still mention it just because it’s Michael Bublé? Yes. It’s cheesy and it follows a pretty simple formula. But slap his voice on anything and I will worship it. I’m a simple girl - I see Michael Bublé, I like.

Honorable mentions: Next To Normal - Lucius (for fans of Jessie Ware, Tame Impala) / Night Call - Years & Years / Fallen Angel - Bernhoft / Tusen Tårer RifMix - Arif

FAVORITE ALBUMS: (in no particular order)

1. Dawn FM - The Weeknd

I, along with the rest of the world, have been obsessed with the sound that he brought with After Hours (2020) and honestly? I think he did it better this time around. After following the internet’s opinion on it, it seems like liking Dawn FM more than After Hours is an unpopular opinion, but I stand by it. The latter didn’t particularly stick with me, and while I highly appreciate the singles that came out of it, I didn’t care for the deep cuts, and therefore didn’t care much for the album. I have yet to revisit it since Dawn FM, and I realize that I probably have to, because I’m almost sure I’ll end up liking it a lot more because of this. Anyway. I love the transitions in this album, I love the entire run from the first track all the way to “Best Friends”, I love the radio theme and I love that it dives into that 80s and early 90s sound. I find the second half of the album a lot weaker, although “Less Than Zero” is a solid track and worthy of a single status. I have a feeling this is an album that will be hard to beat for the Album of the Year title.

Favorite tracks: How Do I Make You Love Me, Take My Breath, Sacrifice, Best Friends, Gasoline, Out of Time

2. Are We Gonna Be Alright? - Fickle Friends

I only knew of one of their songs before I listened to this album, but I was glad to find out that the rest of the songs had a similar vibe. The song I’m talking about is “Pretty Great”, a song I think was on my Discover Weekly sometime in 2020. I didn’t realize that it took them two whole years to make an album and still put this song on it, but I’m glad they did. If you like energetic, electric indie pop with a lot of electric guitar, then this is a treat for you. It has something for fans of dance-y, disco-y tracks, rock-oriented songs and indie vibe-y songs. I’m sorry that my vocabulary is so lacking that I have to add a -y to every word, but that’s just how it is. 

Favorite tracks: Glow, Pretty Great, Love You To Death, Write Me A Song

3. Fix Yourself, Not The World - The Wombats

I went into this album not expecting to really like it, mostly because I had never listened to a Wombats album before in my life. But the energetic kicker of an opening song, “Flip Me Upside Down”, hit me so hard that I became very excited going into this. Was only slightly disappointed when the rest of the album wasn’t as good as that song, but it made for a new, exciting addition to my music library. It’s not the kind of music I normally would go for, but there’s something about their energy that made this album the exception. Unfortunately, I can’t compare it to their other music as I’m not familiar with it, but if their discography is as fun as this one, I think I can call myself a fan.

Favorite tracks: Flip Me Upside Down, If You Ever Leave, I’m Coming With You, Method To The Madness, Wildfire

Honorable mention: 25 - D’Sound, a total vibe for funky soul lovers with a lot of exciting features like Macy Gray and Shontelle! The lyricism is a weak point on this album, though.

FAVORITE DISCOVERIES: (in no particular order)

Also known as: I’m stupid enough to have slept on these or was just a little too late finding out about these.

1. In The Meantime - Alessia Cara

I didn’t know Alessia Cara released an album in 2021. And I also just realized I still have her previous album in my “to-listen” list, and that came out in 2018... I was surprised how solid this album was, and I was kind of upset that I didn’t know about it until last month! Underrated artist, underrated album.

Favorite tracks: Bluebird, Lie To Me, Somebody Else

2. Raketter - TØFL

This could actually qualify to be under “favorite singles” because it was released the last week of December, so it’s not like I could include it on a December list even if I tried. Still. I don’t have a lot of success paying attention or even liking Norwegian bands, but TØFL easily became my favorite Norwegian band/group the moment I heard them. It’s even better that they’re from the same area as me, therefore sharing my dialect, which means I can sing along to their songs exactly how I talk. If you speak a language with widely different dialects, you’ll understand what a struggle this can be. Their music is so funny (yes, funny), energetic and just feel-good. It’s silly, but not goofy in a way that makes it parodic. This song is no exception of this description. They also manage to be so silly with their lyrics, yet they’re always so honest and authentic. While this particular song isn’t silly, the vibe of the production is so playful that you don’t realize that the song isn’t particularly positive at all. A few of their songs are like that, actually. 

3. Stand Up - Tierra Whack

Another December track that was completely off my radar until recently. It’s so simple and effective, and I love her flow and energy in this. Tierra Whack has been on my radar for quite a while - I keep seeing her name, and I keep thinking that I’ll check her out but somehow I never do. This song finally catching my attention is just what I need to keep my eyes and ears open.

4. MUST BE - Lou Phelps

I’m always looking for funky and groovy tracks, and I came across this when I randomly decided to listen to my Spotify-curated “Funk Mix”. I actually added this to my playlist just because I thought he said “Oslo” in this song, although in hindsight it made no sense for the song overall. Luckily, I ended up listening to this song a lot anyway, so it was worth it!

5. run away - MIXIE

A cute little bop that seems to be growing - it had 10k streams when I first found it and is at 76k right now. As this appeared on my Discover Weekly, and this is the only song by this artist on Spotify, I have absolutely no idea who they are and what the story is. But judging by this song, they have a lot of potential, and I hope there’ll be more releases soon!

[jazsplaylist]

FAVORITE SONGS OF 2021: PART IIII / LAST PART

We are wrapping up the hot mess that is my favorite songs of 2021!

These songs are purely based on how much I’ve personally enjoyed them and listened to them, not necessarily objective quality or critical acclaim. This is purely the fact that I just vibe with them.

THIS IS TOP TEN BABYYYYYYY!

#10: Billie Bossa Nova - Billie Eilish

This song is just so pretty. Billie was truly meant to sing these lounge jazzy type songs - her voice is perfect for sensual, quiet and romantic songs like this one. Is it bad that I want a full album with this vibe?

Favorite lyrics: “Nobody saw me in the lobby / Nobody saw me in your arms”

#9: Tipsy - Spotify Singles - Chloe x Halle

I feel like I sort of cheated (again). No, but I genuinely prefer this a lot over the original arrangement. The production is less noisy and cleaner, but it’s still interesting because it brings a different vibe. Their vocals are also a lot pleasant as they went for a more “pretty” approach of singing, compared to the album version where they’re singing a bit more off-pitch and “sloppily” to emphasize the “tipsy” part. I love that they can always find something new with their songs and play around with it, which is why I think this song deserves to be highlighted. Also, don’t we all just love songs about murdering men???

Favorite lyrics: “And I don't give no apologies / If you lose a life, that's not on me”

#8: Angel Baby - Troye Sivan

Even though this came out sometime during fall, I didn’t discover this until early December. But you better believe when I started listening to it, I made up for those months I lost. I can’t remember a day that has gone by where I haven’t listened to this less than five times a day. I can’t fully grasp why I got so quickly attached to it, but the initial feeling I got was that it feels like the kind of song I would bawl my eyes to at age 5. It’s very specific, but one of the things I remember about me as a young child was listening to certain songs and wanting to cry even though I didn’t know what they meant. I definitely did not understand English at that age, so I wouldn’t have understood this song if I heard it then. Whatever this song has, it makes my inner child cry.

Favorite lyrics: “Started giving up on the word "forever" / Until you gave up heaven so we could be together”

#7: Deserve You - Justin Bieber

Okay, this might be one of the best Bieber songs yet. This song is honestly close to pop perfection and I don’t understand you if you don’t agree. The drums transition to the chorus? Definitely on the list of best 2 seconds of pop music in 2021. Is it also a coincidence that the best tracks on this album are co-written by Jon Bellion? No.

Favorite lyrics: “I'm on my ten thousandth life / Nine thousand nine hundred nine and it slipped my hands / But this the one I'm not giving up”

#6: voodoo voodoo - iris & SKAAR

The best Norwegian collab of 2021, and I knew it couldn’t be topped when it came out in January. Who knew that a witchy, ethereal, spooky bop was what 2021 needed? Highly slept on song by two amazing artists - how does this song only have 200k streams? I’m mad.

Favorite lyrics: “But don't worry, I'm a good girl, really (really?) / Just playing, I'm the reason you'll need therapy, baby”

#5: Leave The Door Open - Silk Sonic

The world got a whole lot better when Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak decided to release this. I’m really happy that Bruno Mars decided to continue doing retro R&B, soul/funk type of music, but I’m happier he decided to do it with Anderson .Paak. They’re truly a golden duo meant to make music together, and I really, really hope this isn’t the first and last time we see a collaboration between them. 

Favorite lyrics: “I'm talking kissing, cuddling / Rose petals in the bathtub / Girl, let's jump in, it's bubbling”

#4: Until The Night Falls - Hedda Mae

I’m so weak for the Y2K vibe, but I’m realizing that I think I prefer songs that sound like Y2K songs and made within the past 3-4 years more than songs that actually were made in that era. This song makes me so nostalgic for the kind of music I didn’t know I was nostalgic over. It reminds me a lot of pop music we heard from Norwegian and other Scandinavian artists in the early 2000s, because there was a specific way they created melodies back then. And the chorus melody is like??? The best ever??

Favorite lyrics: “So I'm keeping my head cold / I'll be okay until night falls / But then I'll go over it again”

#3: Kiss Me More (feat. SZA) - Doja Cat

This, along with “Leave The Door Open”, was my most played song of 2021. It just hits all the spots. SZA’s verse is amazing, Doja sounds great and it’s a super fun and playful track. I don’t think I need to say anything more than that, because everyone knows how great this song is.

Favorite lyrics: “I, I feel like fuckin' somethin' / But we could be corny, fuck it”

#2: All Too Well (10 Minute Version) (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault) - Taylor Swift

Are we surprised? One of Taylor’s greatest songs, the biggest fan and critics favorite of all time, in all its glory. Do we really believe all of the added lyrics were written during that first session? Absolutely not, but every added verse, chorus and bridge is worth all the gold to make this song even greater than it once was. All Too Well 5 minutes who? I don’t know her.

Favorite lyrics: (how do i choose just one) “And then you wondered where it went to as I reached for you / But all I felt was shame and you held my lifeless frame”

AAAAAND for some honorable mentions before we get to SONG OF THE YEAR !!

Clothes - Scuuut

Fancy - Lennon Stella

Introvert - Little Simz

Rather Be - James Vickery

Voila - Barbara Pravi

AND THE SONG OF THE YEAR GOES TO.......

#1: Happier Than Ever - Billie Eilish

Like most people, I wish I had recorded my reaction to the second part of this song, because that was a very unexpected experience. While there were new elements and sides of Billie in the album before this, there’s nothing like starting a song like we always have heard her: soft, quiet singing over an acoustic instrument. You think, this is where this song is going? That’s fine, it’s a pretty song, nothing special. Then the guitar picks up and you’re like, okay interesting, nothing biggie. Then it changes to an electric guitar, and the curiosity increases, you wonder if this might go somewhere… then “and I don’t talk sh– about you” kicks in and she’s yelling and the song intensifies and distorts and ?!?!?!? I get chills listening to it every time just thinking back to the first time I experienced this. Absolutely baffled that this isn’t the album closer, because it should 100% be.

Favorite lyrics: “I could talk about every time that you showed up on time But I'd have an empty line 'cause you never did”

[jazsplaylist]

FAVORITE SONGS OF 2021: PART III

We are continuing with the hot mess that is my favorite songs of 2021, but I love them, so I don’t care <3

These songs are purely based on how much I’ve personally enjoyed them and listened to them, not necessarily objective quality or critical acclaim. This is purely the fact that I just vibe with them.

We left off at #40 in part II, so this will be covering #39-#11. Next part will be the last part with my top 10!! WOooooO, excitement.

#39: Pressure (feat. Tove Lo) - Martin Garrix

I genuinely thought this song was underrated and had flown under people’s radar until I saw it had 93 million streams... but it still feels that way? Maybe I’m just not hanging around in the right places. Anyway, stellar collab. Martin Garrix has played off Tove Lo’s vibe very well, and although I like a handful of his songs, I’ve never really had one on rotation (besides Scared of Being Lonely, maybe) like I’ve had with this one. He definitely brought his A-game with this.

Favorite lyrics: “Know your violence, violence / Hides on the tip of your tongue”

#38: chasing you - Ben Platt

I was genuinely so shocked when I heard Reverie and I vibed with the whole album from first listen. I don’t think I’ve been particularly interested in Ben Platt’s music before this, and I kind of just lumped him with other theater/Broadway people who made music not too far away from the type of songs they did on stage. But the 80s vibe this album gave off plus the songwriting really sold me. It was hard to choose which song I wanted on this list, because there are about five other tracks on this album I like just as much. I ultimately chose this one because this sounds like a really good 80s track, and I like the way he combines his theatrical voice and pop vocals here. It’s usually hard to pull off, but I think it fits just great for this song.

Favorite lyrics: “Keeping him pressure fades / Falling for all this space”

#37: Woman - Doja Cat

While Planet Her took several listens for me to appreciate it all, “Woman” was a hit from first listen. It’s just feel good vibes, danceable and shows how insanely cool Doja Cat is as an artist. It helps that there was an addictive TikTok dance trend with this song as well. 

Favorite lyrics: “And you will never know a God, without a Goddess / As honest as fuckin' honest get”

#36: Is That What You Like Now - Beren Olivia

This is probably the only song on the list where I don’t know any other songs by the artist and know absolutely nothing about the artist in general. This song is so insanely good, though. I don’t know why I have made 0 efforts to learn about Beren Olivia, but I think I have to. The high energy drums in the hook? Ugh. Perfect. Judging by the accent, I also assume she’s British? There’s something about her accent coming through, especially in the (pre-?)chorus that just makes this song extra addicting.

Favorite lyrics: “Was I just a pass time? / Or inadequate? / Guess I didn't know you like I thought I did”

#35: Burning Bridges - Sigrid

I don’t think it’s possible for Sigrid to not release a bop. Both her main singles (“Mirror” being the other) have been absolutely great tracks, but this one got a leg up because I love the strings in this so much. When’s the next album dropping? I need it now.

Favorite lyrics: “I used sorry to keep you and that was my error”

#34: Summer Rain - Majid Jordan

This song completely fell out of my radar, and the only reason I even got around to hear it was because it was on this megamix on Apple Music with hits from… I wanna say July or something. But it clicked the moment I heard it, and I’ve been obsessed with it since. It gives me Drake meets Michael Jackson meets The Weeknd and they all decided to make a chill bop. 

Favorite lyrics: “Love on the run as we watch the horizon / It's coming, it's coming up golden”

#33: INDUSTRY BABY (feat. Jack Harlow) - Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X’ run in mainstream pop/hip-hop ever since Old Town Road has been absolutely unbelievable, and I don’t even know what 2020 and 2021 would be without him and his music. He keeps nailing with every single and every release. And I don’t know who holds more creative control when it comes to the tracks and samples he uses, but they always hit so hard. As do his melodies. And Jack Harlow completely stealing the show? What? 

Favorite lyrics: *clap clap clap clap* jk “I didn't peak in high school, I'm still out here gettin' cuter“

#32: Good Ones - Charli XCX

You ever hear a song, acknowledge that it’s good, but it doesn’t leave much of a mark so you don’t think about it until you listen to it again days, weeks, maybe even months later and suddenly you love the song? Yeah, that’s what happened with this song. I honestly don’t know what was wrong with me the day I first heard it, because I swear it didn’t give me any impressions at all, but when I re-visited it, I couldn’t stop playing it. The beat is addicting, the hook is addicting, the melody–everything about this song is addicting. The hook starting off by removing the beat and bringing it back a couple of counts later is honestly one of the biggest highlights of 2021 pop music.

Favorite lyrics: “Don't want the kisses, unless they're bitter / I'm hooked on touches that leave me weaker”

#31: brutal - Olivia Rodrigo

Olivia opening up SOUR with this track was such a good choice. It caught people off guard in a positive way, and it showed that she had the ability to be surprising when she was sort of going down a predictable path. It’s also refreshing that this is one of two songs that aren’t about a break-up, yet it fits so well with the teenage angst theme of it all. 

Favorite lyrics: “And I'm so sick of 17 / Where's my fucking teenage dream?”

#30: Stop The Rain - Ed Sheeran

An Ed Sheeran song so high up on the list? It’s more likely than you think. I know a lot of people are disappointed with the evolution of Ed Sheeran’s music, or should I say lack thereof, but he still remains a solid pop songwriter. Plus, should we really underestimate the guy who has the most streamed song on Spotify by a landslide? I enjoyed = just fine - I found it to be pretty mid, but like, a good mid? If that makes sense? This song ended up being my favorite though, I just really vibe with the energy and the melody. Also, I’m weak for songs that have a kick on every beat and this chorus has it, so.

Favorite lyrics: “And bring out a poisoned tongue or plastic crown / But for me, they look the same”

#29: Ain’t Shit - Doja Cat

I can’t get over the range she has when it comes to her voice. Somehow all of her songs sound different, but also so distinctively her and I’m just so impressed. Like most of her viral songs, this one is so addicting, but this one doesn’t just have an addictive hook - the entire song is. It’s the way she delivers the verses, the ad libs, her energy and attitude. Queen of everything, that’s what she is.

Favorite lyrics: “You should have paid my rent, go get a fucking job”

#28: t r a n s p a r e n t s o u l (feat. Travis Barker) - WILLOW

I haven’t typed like the way I typed that song title since my blogging days trying to be all fancy with my headers and titles. It’s been so fascinating to see WILLOW try out different styles of music and nailing basically everything she’s done from “Whip My Hair” (it was a banger, alright?) to “Wait a Minute!” to this. She absolutely shines doing rock though, and I’m happy to see her being one of the young artists bringing this sound back to the mainstream. Also, I find it interesting how Travis Barker is a part of all of the rock projects by younger artists in 2021? It’s on the verge of being a conspiracy theory. Pretty sure he was on “la di die” as well. Not mad at it, though.

Favorite lyrics: “I don't fucking know if it's paradise or it's a trap / Yeah, they're treating me like royalty, but is it kissin' ass?”

#27: good wife - Kacey Musgraves

While the lyrics of this album were significantly weaker than what I expected from Kacey, I thought the production and melodies often made up for it–this song being an example of that. This song also has a really strong chorus, the scarce use of autotune giving it the unexpected edge. It’s also very honest and authentic, so it doesn’t really hurt that the lyrics aren’t super poetic or advanced. It makes it feel really straight-forward, so she gets the message across.

Favorite lyrics: “But without him, this house just wouldn't be a home / And I don't wanna be alone”

#26: Medieval - FINNEAS

I feel like there are two worlds out there: One where people are convinced that Billie Eilish is nothing without Finneas because he’s the one that brings her vision and creativity to life in form of the music they make together, and one where people believe that he doesn’t actually do much for Billie because his music is so “basic” and “uncharismatic” in comparison. I live in the world in between those two, or what I like to call, the real world. Because there is no proof of anything else, Billie doesn’t make the music she makes without Finneas’ help, but she is also clearly the one forefront of her sound and the storytelling. But we also know that Finneas does not share the same vision career wise and musically as her, and therefore makes different music because he can. And I think he’s doing great in the field he’s putting himself in as his own artist. He still makes interesting and fun production choices in his own music, even if it’s not edgy like it is with Billie. This song in particular has a similar songwriting style like we heard in Billie’s EP don’t smile at me (2017) and even not too far from WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? (2019). It feels like the brother, maybe cousin, of “bellyache” and “all the good girls go to hell”.

Favorite lyrics: “It feels a little medieval kissing the ring/ In a gothic cathedral”

#25: Tell It To My Heart - MEDUZA, Hozier

Hozier on an EDM kind of track is everything I never knew I wanted. And I want more. Him and Calvin Harris? It would be epic. Is there an EDM remix of “Take Me To Church” out there? I’m simply obsessed.

Favorite lyrics: “Tell it to my heart / 'Cause the sounded silence is a place we're dying”

#24: Oxytocin - Billie Eilish

My favorite feeling in the world is when you hear a song for the first time and it hits you the first second it comes on. Like, three seconds go by and you already know you’re going to like that song forever. It happened to me with “bad guy” and it happened to me with this song. It’s sensual, fun, drastic and intense. You know those strobe lights that make it look like you’re watching a video where every other frame is being cut out? I want to be on a dance floor with those strobe lights on while the outro plays. I just need to experience it.

Favorite lyrics: “If you only pray on Sunday / Could you come my way on Monday?”

#23: star-crossed - Kacey Musgraves

Yes, this is my third Kacey Musgraves song from star-crossed, what about it? The few highs on this album were very high, so I think she deserves it. I think everything about this song is magical, especially the arrangement and production. It kind of feels like I’m being transported into a mysterious portal and then she greets me calmly into this new world at the end. Beautiful.

Favorite lyrics: “'Cause we called all the angels to save us, called them by name / But I guess they got lost

#22: MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name) - Lil Nas X

Even though I’ve grown fonder of “INDUSTRY BABY” in the long run, I cannot ignore how momentous this song was for Lil Nas X and the year of 2021. There’s no denying the power he held when he released this song, even the way he promoted it. It’s so unapologetic and captures him so well. Also, how can you not love a song where someone’s saying “shoot a child in your mouth while I’m riding?” 

Favorite lyrics: “I'm not fazed, only here to sin / If Eve ain't in your garden, you know that you can / Call me when you want, call me when you need”

#21: Sentimentalist - Ylva

Yet another cover of a Sondre Lerche song from the same show I was talking about earlier (See part II under #60), this time from the Norwegian R&B princess herself. I absolutely love the way she emphasized the melody and how beautiful it really is with her cover. I’m not sure I would’ve realized just how pretty the melody really was if she hadn’t made this cover. It makes for such a haunting ballad and she simply sounds amazing.

Favorite lyrics: “On a table for eight you set for a trio”

#20: Hold On - Justin Bieber

I will forever be angry at the MLK interludes and clips because it ruins what could’ve been a pretty solid pop album from Justin. Like, what is the point of calling an album Justice, blindly use clips of MLK speeches and just make a regular schmegular pop album without addressing any of the justice we’re out in the world fighting for? Why does he have to be such a white guy? Anyway. This song is a full on bop, it’s catchy from beginning to end without being a complete earworm. Maybe one of my favorite Justin Bieber songs of all time. Maybe.

Favorite lyrics: “Painting stars up on your ceiling 'cause you wish that you could find some feeling”

#19: traitor - Olivia Rodrigo

This was my favorite song from SOUR for a really long time until another song came along and took that spot (scroll to find out which one). She sounds really emotional here, which just makes this song so impactful and raw. This is like, peak teenage Rachel Berry.

Favorite lyrics: “God, I wish that you had thought this through / Before I went and fell in love with you”

#18: Real Groove - Studio 2054 Remix - Kylie Minogue, Dua Lipa

I feel like I kind of cheated with this one, but honestly this version is so catchy and addicting. Not to say the original isn’t amazing as well–because it is–but I just vibe with this arrangement so much more. Kylie was one of them who released a really fun disco album in 2020, and I had to bring that vibe into 2021 as well. While Dua acts more like a background singer/passive duet partner in this, she sounds really good too. She’d definitely kill this song if she sang it by herself.

Favorite lyrics: “I saw you dancing with somebody / Looking like me and you”

#17: Off My Face - Justin Bieber

One of my instant favorites after first listen of Justice. I saw a video of him singing this live shortly after, and I sat there like, “is this the time where I fall in love with Bieber? I’ve made it 12 years without crushing on him, now’s not the time, please God”. I really think it’s that good. His soft, airy falsetto in this is so pretty and the melody is so swoon-worthy. Sometimes all he needs is his voice and a simple instrument.

Favorite lyrics: “Your touch blurred my vision / It's your world and I'm just in it”

#16: My Little Love - Adele

Every time I listen to this, I’m sitting up with tears welling in my eyes, trying not to cry. It’s adorable and heart-warming, but also emotional and heart-wrenching. The voice message at the end is so hard to get through, but it’s somehow so comforting at the same time. And that gasp or deep inhale while she’s breaking down at the end… I feel it deeply in my soul. Deeply.

Favorite lyrics: “Tell me, do you feel the way my past aches? / When you lay on me, can you hear the way my heart breaks?”

#15: NDA - Billie Eilish

I LIVE for Billie Eilish’s voice with autotune. LIVE. FOR. IT. I remember when they said back in 2019 or early 2020 that they used autotune for creative purposes once, but wouldn’t again because people didn’t like it, and that bummed me out so much. Then “Lo Vas A Olvidar” came out and I was like, UGH YES I NEED MORE OF THIS. The way they use autotune in this is probably my favorite out of all the times they’ve used it so far. This live performance enhances it so much more, especially when she does the higher voice the second time. CHILLS!! CHILLS!!!

Favorite lyrics: “Think I took it too far / When I sold you my heart / How'd it get so dark?”

#14: happier - Olivia Rodrigo

Lo and behold, my favorite song from SOUR. This was always one of my favorites, but maybe third or fourth favorite until I just realized it was my favorite. I’m just so drawn to the melody and the lyrics and the piano and just about everything. Also, I think it just reminds me of some of my favorite ballads like “Hopelessly Devoted To You” from Grease. It’s simple, but timeless. I understand why this is the song that made Dan Nigro want to work with her. I would work with her too… if I were a producer.

Favorite lyrics: “And I thought my heart was attached / From all the sunlight of our past”

#13: Be Alive - Beyonce

What? Beyonce in 2021? I didn’t expect it, either. This song was released the same week as Red (Taylor’s Version) and An Evening With Silk Sonic, so it kind of got lost, plus the fact that it’s a song for a soundtrack and not a Beyonce release in that sense. But this song is so good? That chorus is just so intoxicatingly cool, and I didn’t know I could get more impressed by her voice because she’s shown everything, but holy crap–she sounds incredible here. Those runs, the yodel-like head voice flips? So, so good. Please listen to this if you haven’t. I don’t know why I have to say this about a Beyonce song.

Favorite lyrics: “I got a million miles on me / They want to see how far I'll go”

#12: If It Ain’t Me - Dua Lipa

This is my 5th most played song of 2021, so I’m apparently not doing it justice by placing it below top ten. It is worthy as a top ten song though, because it slaps from beginning to end. Like, the second you hear it, you just know you’re going to have a good time listening to it all the way through. Upset that the Normani feature on this wasn’t released though, those two would have ruled the world with this song.

Favorite lyrics: “Like what if you left me here / And I fill the floor with my sequin tears?”

#11: Worth It For The Feeling - Rebecca Black

Me not putting this in the top ten is probably my worst decision yet, but you guys… It’s hard making a list like this. This song is probably the best, or at least in my opinion, song Rebecca Black has ever made. Everything is flawless, she sounds flawless. That’s all I can say.

Favorite lyrics: “Here we go again / Last time it took us down to the bitter end / I might need some more healing / But it's worth it for the feeling”

More honorable mentions:

My Girlfriends Are My Boyfriend (feat. Saweetie) - Demi Lovato

i don’t wanna talk about love - Michael Medrano

High Horse (feat. BRELAND and Blanco Brown) - Nelly

Wild Side (feat. Cardi B) - Normani

[jazsplaylist]

FAVORITE SONGS OF 2021: PART II

The 2020s started off with such a bang, so I was enthusiastic about what 2021 had to bring. Honestly, I wasn’t disappointed at all, though there weren’t as many significant highlights like last year, I still managed to make my list of favorites longer than it has ever been for other years. This year, I actually aimed for 100, but somehow ended up with 85 songs with 15 honorable mentions instead. Don’t question it, just accept the chaos that is me.

These songs are purely based on how much I’ve personally enjoyed them and listened to them, not necessarily objective quality or critical acclaim. This is purely the fact that I just vibe with them.

We left off at #65 in part I, so this will be covering #40-#64!

#64: girls girls girls - FLETCHER

FLETCHER really said, “let me take ‘I Kissed A Girl’ and make it the way it should’ve been” and did it. Also, the fact that the line “sipped her like an old-fashioned” is inspired by the fact that she saw Taylor Swift drinking/talking about the old-fashioned cocktail and thought it was hot is just the cherry on top. 

Favorite lyrics: “You move like poetry / She struck me hard like lightning / And I don't think I'll ever come back”

#63: This Is Heaven - Nick Jonas

As a Jonas Brothers stan, it hurts me to say that Spaceman didn’t make an impact on me at all, even after multiple listens. Also, thought it was extremely pointless to release a solo album while the Jonas Brothers are active and still riding on the comeback high. Not only because of those two things, but because no one even bothered to promote it and Nick barely even performs any of the singles when they’re literally touring/doing shows. Anyway, “This Is Heaven” was one of the tracks that really felt like Nick Jonas to me. It feels familiar to his other solo stuff a la “Jealous”, and I know he likes a good gospel-sounding choir behind him - so do I. The Phil Collins 80s inspired drum fills also do it for me.

Favorite lyrics: “If you told me that my fate was on your fingertips / Then I wouldn't believe it”

#62: Oh My God - Adele

The awaited 4DELE album (pretty sure no one called it that, I’m just stupid) finally arrived in November! I don’t know about you, but I was not disappointed. While there were several tracks that I enjoyed a lot, this was one of two (spoilers) that I really wanted on this list. I don’t think Adele has done this kind of song before - it feels carefree and fun at first listen, though the more you listen, the more you realize how honest and vulnerable it is. It still is a pretty light and fun track too though, and I like how she’s able to balance both sides of that. 

Favorite lyrics: “Teetering on the edge of heaven and hell is a battle I cannot fight”

#61: Getting Along - Hedda Mae

I am constantly waiting for Hedda Mae to blow up, but I’m also really liking the progress she’s made the past year. She’s stuck to one producer since the beginning, and they just have such great musical chemistry together, this song being a great example of that. And the way the beat comes in during the build-up of the outro is just so magical and epic.

Favorite lyrics: “I cannot follow all the lines that you already drew / You built yourself a wall that I cannot get through”

#60: Bad Law - Hedda Mae

This cover, originally by Sondre Lerche, came about in a Norwegian music show where six new, young artists and six well-established artists with long careers meet and the new artists make their own versions of the older artists’ songs and perform them. Cool concept, only I wish the established artists had to cover the new artists’ songs as well, so. Anyway! I was completely blown away by this version. She and her producer managed to make a whole different version without compromising the original melody and structure, while catering to the disco-inspired trend which I love and making it so typically hers. And the declining synth in the chorus!! Ahhhh!!

Favorite lyrics: “Place four of five fingers flat on a sticky plastic bat / Scan my blue bloodshot eyes for the history of my trials”

#59: Matters - Ina Wroldsen

I think Ina Wroldsen is one of the best melody writers in Norway, and I’m just in love with the melody of this song. I also really like how this song’s about stress and anxiety, but it somehow feels so calming.

Favorite lyrics: “And I am balancing all this angst with ambition / I am my own opposition”

#58: gracias a la vida - Kacey Musgraves

Horrible Spanish pronunciation aside, the production and vocals on this is magical. There are a lot of highs on this album, though a few lows as well, and this was a really solid album closer for me. I like that Kacey wanted to pay homage to this song and the original writer, although she definitely should’ve worked a lot more with the pronunciation, as it’s the only thing that’s holding this song back. 

Favorite lyrics: “Gracias a la vida que me ha dado tanto / Me ha dado la marcha de mis pies cansados / Con ellos anduve ciudades y charcos / Playas y desiertos, montañas y llanos / Y la casa tuya, tu calle y tu patio” (”Thanks to life, which has given me so much / Has given me the march of my tired feet / With them I walked cities and puddles / Beaches and deserts, mountains and plains / And your house, your street and your patio”)

#57: Name (feat. Tori Kelly) - Justin Bieber

Tori Kelly on a song can never go wrong, and this song is just so cute. Ignoring the fact that I’m not 100% into the whole “I know you’re with someone but if you even have the slightest doubt, you should come back to me xoxo” vibe, of course. The light guitar picking and the mellow, soft voices of them both just makes this song so pleasant and sweet.

Favorite lyrics: “We're only getting better at pretending we're okay / And after all this time, we feel the same”

#56: Aura - Sara & Arash

I will never forget the first time I saw and “discovered” this duo. It was at a music business festival and based on the artist bio alone, I decided to pop in their concert just to see what they were about. The stage was inside a small cafe and it was around 11 PM, so it was packed. I immediately vibed with them and their energy, and by the middle of the show I was standing on a bench, dancing along. They left such a good impression on me that I came to their show the following day, where they got a bigger stage, but earlier in the evening and only 15 people showed up. They came down after the show, hugged me and my friends who I brought, and stayed to chat. I’ve been obsessed with them since. This is from their second EP, but first project with a major label, and I just love how sinister and dark this song really is, but it doesn’t feel like it at first. It’s emotional, chaotic and unsettling, and there’s no one in Norway doing it like them.

Favorite lyrics: “Frykten æ'kke døden / Døden kommer når du gjemmer frykten din” (”Fear isn’t death / Death comes when you hide your fear”)

#55: ting som ILU - Gabrielle

Gabrielle is my favorite Norwegian songwriter. I’ve often opted out on listening to Norwegian music because I just don’t feel like the lyrics have the same impact like it does in English, or people aren’t able to get as creative with the language and words. Listening to Gabrielle, however, makes me think otherwise. The way she structures her songs, the way she uses her words... Her pen is magical. And she’s an amazing pop songwriter as well! She’s done nothing but make bops for over a decade, and she honestly gets better and better with each project. 

Favorite lyrics: “Denne stien blir for dyp av å tråkke rundt på samme sted” (”This path gets too steep by stepping around on the same place”)

#54: Hazy - Chloe x Halle

Chloe x Halle has been killing the game since Ungodly Hour (2020) was released. Even before that, but I heavily prefer the sound they’ve gone for with that album and everything that’s come after. I also love that Chloe has been more proactive with producing, so their music is truly evolving to becoming truly their own. I’m just glad they released a deluxe version in 2021, so I had an excuse to put one of their songs on this list. While their other bonus track, “80/20″, is great as well, this one was my favorite. I love the dramatic attitude they put in the chorus, and the vocal range they display in this.

Favorite lyrics: “Your smile is like the first rain out of the summertime”

#53: You Right - Doja Cat & The Weeknd

I definitely slept on this when I first listened to Planet Her, but wow, this grew on me. I love Doja’s voice in this, so soft and gentle for most of the track, but then her raspy, clear voice on the hook? Genius. The Weeknd’s verse is good as well, although the “a couple strokes, I put it in and you belong to me” is so distasteful to me, so it throws me off. 

Favorite lyrics: “You know I got so much to say / I try to hide it in my face / And it don't work, you see through”

#52: Mmm Mmm - Justine Skye

Before this album, I’ve only really heard one or two songs from Justine Skye at most, although there was one I really liked. Then I heard that Timbaland was working on her album, and I knew I had to give it a shot. I think she has a lot of potential, this song being an example of that. Her voice is great, the song is catchy and the production is a total vibe. You can tell Timbaland has put his style into it, and it’s a great match. I don’t understand why she’s still in the zone of oblivion because she has everything - the talent, the look, the connections. How do you have Timbaland as producer, Justin Timberlake as a feature and the Kardashian/Jenners on your contact list and you’re not getting these large numbers? I don’t know, but I hope she’ll get the spotlight soon.

Favorite lyrics: “Ah, babe, I see the sound / Ah, babe, high, I'm floating off the ground”  (more like favorite part of the song)

#51: Pick Up Your Feelings - Jazmine Sullivan

Jazmine Sullivan has one of my favorite vocal styles in music, period. The quality and sound of her voice and the way she riffs and runs... It’s magnificent, genius, incredible, all of the positive adjectives. While I wish Heaux Tales had a bigger impact on me, I thought this song deserved a spot on my list, because it showcases all of the things I love about Jazmine. 

Favorite lyrics: “I deserve so much more than you gave to me / So now I'm savin' me / And I made my peace”

#50: Sacrifice - Bebe Rexha

Bebe Rexha’s best song? Maybe. I love the dance club vibe this has, and it just sounds and feels so effortless. It’s a certified bop. If she does more of this kind of stuff, I might just start listening more.

Favorite lyrics: “I wanna be the air every time you breathe/ Runnin' through your veins and the spaces in between”

#49: jealousy, jealousy - Olivia Rodrigo

The breakup anthem princess of 2021 has finally made her first appearance on this list. I think a lot of people were nervous about SOUR due to the giant, record-breaking success of drivers license and just the fact that the singles that followed had the same theme. At least until “good 4 u” came out and people got wildly excited. After seeing a bunch of interviews where she often pointed out several rock artists as both inspirations and people she was a fan of, I was surprised to hear that she implemented some of it in her music. I guess it’s just not something one would expect from a 17-year old who’s fresh to the pop music scene. “jealousy, jealousy” stood out to me from the beginning, and has always been one of my favorite tracks. It feels very true to her age and the perspective from the stage in life she’s in, and I’m glad young girls have songwriters like her to relate to. And I’m only 24, so I can still also kind of relate to this.

Favorite lyrics: “Their win is not my loss / I know it's true / But I can't help gettin' caught up in it all”

#48: SHUM - Go_A

Eurovision is always so hit or miss because there’s so much that can come out of it, and you never quite know to expect. Especially with songs that don’t fit into the formulaic, standard pop song meant to hit all the Eurovision spots. But this was special from the beginning. It’s unique in all the right ways and exactly what Eurovision is and should be about. I wouldn’t be mad if they won.

Favorite lyrics: “Весняночко, паняночко, Заглянь у віконце / Заспівали співаночку / Засвітило сонце” (”Oh Spring, our Miss, look in our window / We had sang our song / And the Sun shined on”)

#47: Candy - Ruben

This is a side Ruben hasn’t shown before - it’s playful, fun and sexy, which I’m surprised he actually hasn’t done before. It’s less deep than what he usually puts out, but such a good addition to his small discography. He’s doing some amazing numbers here in Norway, but I’m honestly still waiting for his big international breakout. Maybe he needs to go viral on TikTok.

Favorite lyrics: “Tell me, have you ever been with a stranger / I know that you wanna, baby”

#46: Secret - Joshua Bassett

This might be recency bias because I could totally put this higher up, but I had to keep myself in check, so. The more I listen to it, the more I find myself just absolutely addicted to this song. The tempo, the shady lyrics, his voice, the catchy melody... I mean, it’s one of his best songs. Too soon to say? Maybe not. #TeamSpillTheTeaFromAllPerspectives!

Favorite lyrics: “When your "woe is me" stops workin', I bet your songs won't sound the same”

#45: Hot N Heavy - Jessie Ware

I was WAY too late on the Jessie Ware train, particularly the What’s Your Pleasure (2020) train. Here I am, obsessing over the return of disco and I didn’t even bother to listen to the album until beginning of this year?? Jessie Ware is definitely fulfilling all my musical dreams, and I’m so glad I was just in time for this track, along with the deluxe version that also came out this year. My disco queen, I will never underestimate you again.

Favorite lyrics: “How do I earn my hands on your perfect design?”

#44: Nothing New (feat. Phoebe Bridgers) (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault) - Taylor Swift

The worst thing about making long lists of favorite songs is that songs that you really love just gets a low spot by default. I tried to rank this as high as I could, but I also have to follow my intuition. This took me a while to really get into, though. I loved the track and the fact that Phoebe Bridgers got a proper part, but I guess it just didn’t hit me as hard because I wasn’t entirely relating to it? I kept coming back for the bridge though, because it just gives me total chills, particularly since someone pointed out that it described Olivia Rodrigo to a tee. But the vault tracks from Red (Taylor’s Version) really exceeded my expectations, so the more I kept coming back to this, the more I fell in love with it. 

Favorite lyrics: “I know someday I'm gonna meet her, it's a fever dream / The kind of radiance you only have at 17 / She'll know the way, and then she'll say she got the map from me / I'll say I'm happy for her, then I'll cry myself to sleep”

#43: Hide and Seek - Catie Turner

It’s time for Catie Turner to have the spotlight. I was once an avid watcher of American Idol and any other singing competition when I was younger, but fell out of it sometime in my late teens. So, me attempting to pay attention to American Idol when it returned was coincidental because I wasn’t really all that interested anymore. Now, I’m so glad I did because I got to watch her grow and then release music. I’ve loved absolutely everything she’s released since, and she keeps impressing my with every release. Her voice is so gentle and vulnerable, yet it’s clear and powerful, and so is her songwriting. Hide and Seek is definitely one of her best songs.

Favorite lyrics: “'Cause I'm at a loss for words, lower me down into the earth / See if you cry when I hit the dirt”

#42: Boomerang - Yebba

Obama reminded me to put this song on the list. No, seriously. I saw a clip of her singing this live on TikTok and I was like, wow, that song sounds amazing and I need to like the video so I can remember to save the song on Spotify later. Months go by and I kept forgetting to do it, though I revisited that clip often. The TikTok didn’t even have the song title in it, so I didn’t actually know what the song was called. Then Barack Obama released his list of favorite songs of the year, and I saw “Boomerang - Yebba” and I was like, “oh! that’s it!!” and that was my initiative to actually listen to the full song and it was just as good as I knew it was. So, thanks Obama!

Favorite lyrics: “Don't forget your pride / It's laying in her bed of sorrow”

#41: Fly As Me - Silk Sonic

Taylor Swift and Brendon Urie, take notes. This is how you say “spelling is fun!” without saying exactly that. This track is everything I thought and hoped the non-singles of An Evening with Silk Sonic would be. I think everyone was hyped for this kind of sound when “Leave The Door Open” came out, and while the album rollout was way too long and clashed with Red (Taylor’s Version) and 30, I think the overall vibe of the album made up for it. 

Favorite lyrics: “Float like a butterfly on every single track And the only language that I speak, girl, is facts”

#40: Enter Sandman - Rina Sawayama

Another cover on the list - this time a song originally by Metallica as a part of their... I don’t really know the story behind the releases of these covers, because I’m not really a Metallica fan. I loved Miley’s cover of “Nothing Else Matters”, although the instrumental of it was kind of messy due to the many people on it, but her voice was fantastic in it. Rina’s version of “Enter Sandman”, however, completely blew me away and after the amazing album that was SAWAYAMA (2020), I’ve been sitting around hoping to hear more from her. I thought the nu-metal and rock elements of that album was so cool, and it was so great to hear more of that side from her on this cover. Go little rockstar!

Favorite lyrics: “Something’s wrong, shut the light / Heavy thoughts tonight / And they aren't of Snow White”

Some more honorable mentions:

Psycho (feat. Rubi Rose) - Dixie

ZITTI E BUONI - Måneskin

Make You Feel Good - BJ The Chicago Kid, Lucky Daye

[jazsplaylist]

FAVORITE SONGS OF 2021: PART I

The 2020s started off with such a bang, so I was enthusiastic about what 2021 had to bring. Honestly, I wasn’t disappointed at all, though there weren’t as many significant highlights like last year, I still managed to make my list of favorites longer than it has ever been for other years. This year, I actually aimed for 100, but somehow ended up with 85 songs with 15 honorable mentions instead. Don’t question it, just accept the chaos that is me.

These songs are purely based on how much I’ve personally enjoyed them and listened to them, not necessarily objective quality or critical acclaim. This is purely the fact that I just vibe with them.

#85: Potential Breakup Song (Explicit) - Aly & AJ

I knew 2021 would be a good year when this was released at the beginning of this year. What a way to bring back a song from Disney Channel’s prime era and make it explicit as well? This was one of the best moves Aly & AJ could’ve pulled, because nostalgia sells. At least it does for me.

Favorite lyrics: “Now all I want is just my stuff back / Do you get that? Let me repeat that / I want my shit back.”

#84: Ut Av Mørket - TIX

No, I don’t mean “Fallen Angel”. I mean UT AV MØRKET. I wasn’t a huge fan of this the first time I heard this. I thought the lyrics were clunky (they still are) and basic, but the message and theme itself was good enough for me to keep an open mind about it. The more I listened to it, the more I fell in love with it. This is one of the examples that prove that lyrics aren’t always that important as long as it’s catchy, has a captive melody and a good enough production, and this song has it. Now, here comes the beef I had about this whole business. If you didn’t know, this song was Norway’s entry for Eurovision this year, and when TIX entered the Norwegian finale prior to winning, he entered it with this song--the Norwegian version. Before the Norwegian finale, he decided to translate his song to English because if he were to win, it would give him an advance in Eurovision. First of all, I think that’s a stupid move, considering a non-English song won this year. Secondly, the lyrics got worse in English. Like, much worse. And people who don’t speak Norwegian will never know. So, because of that, I grew even more fond of this specific version, as it will be known as the much better version who got away.

Favorite lyrics: “Jeg tenker fortsatt på alt jeg egentlig ville si til deg, men aldri får sagt.” (”I’m still thinking about all the things I really wanted to say to you, but never get to say.”)

#83: Why You No Love Me - John Mayer

... Listen. I know John Mayer, okay? Not like personally know, but I know him as an artist and the personality he portrays for the public. And when I listened to this album (Sob Rock) for the first time, this song was the only one that truly stood out to me. It wasn’t until I went on the Internet and found out that everybody hates this song before I was like...oh.... am I not supposed to? But eff that! This song sounds like one of those cheesy 80s rock ballads that is emotionally packed for no reason, and I’m a sucker for songs like that. So, sonically, it hits. Now, the chorus. I know he didn’t write that being 100% serious about it, and that’s why I love it. I love that he’s confident enough to put baby language in a song and make a genuine track out of it. And getting Maren Morris to back him up too? Genius. Imagine Maren Morris in the studio going “why you no love me? :(”. Absolutely amazing. Also, if you’re one of those people who think “why doesn’t he just say “why don’t you love me” instead of “why you no love me”?”, you’re missing the point. 

Favorite lyrics: “Hurt me once, I let it be / Hurt me twice, you're dead to me / Three times makes you family” (ooooooof)

(I know you’re questioning my taste so far. Bear with me.)

#82: Skin - Sabrina Carpenter

Sabrina releasing a response to “drivers license” only two weeks after its release and during its massive rise was an extremely bold choice. Likely, it was to ride on the PR that would come with it, but it devastatingly backfired. I love Sabrina, and I’ve been riding hard for her for years, so seeing her being dragged through the mud after Olivia’s breakout hit hurt me to see. Was it too harsh and too soon? Maybe. Would it do better if it was released later, like Joshua did? I don’t really think so either. As a fan, I really enjoyed this song. It gives off the exact vibe I’d expect from the role she played in the whole PR drama; the older, wiser girl who got involuntarily dragged into the fire purely for dating the guy “drivers license” was about and is just trying to be above it. I really hope that she didn’t let any of the backlash under her skin, because it took Olivia (bless her heart) way too long to address it, and some people were... vile. Sabrina Carpenter deserves the world and beyond. Also, with Joshua Bassett’s new songs coming out, it’s very interesting that both of them mention that the truth has been twisted in some way or another... The tea is scalding.

Favorite lyrics: “I just hope that one day we both can laugh about it / When it's not in our face / Won't have to dance around it.”

#81: Only a Matter of Time - Joshua Bassett

While we’re on it... Joshua has proven from time and time again that he is a solid songwriter. Is he a unique one? Not really, but he brings his own flair and his voice is easily recognizable. Unfortunately, this song also fell in the shadows of Olivia’s rocket spurt to success, but it remained on my rotation for most of this year. The song is very straight-forward - the production is minimal; his voice and some piano chords are the main attractions of the track. Initially, I wasn’t that big on him releasing yet another song which had the exact same theme and message as his first 2021 release “Lie Lie Lie”, but I ultimately found myself drawn to this simplistic, but effective ballad. Also, falsetto chorus? Sold.

Favorite lyrics: “I'm sure that you're hurting inside, but why would you make your pain mine?”

#80: family ties (with Kendrick Lamar) - Baby Keem

I’m sure this song would be higher if I hadn’t discovered this... four weeks ago. I’m only a casual hip-hop listener, so when it hits, it really hits. The beat is simply addicting and the flow is solid. This track will definitely follow with me into 2022, and I’ll even check out Baby Keem’s other stuff. If it’s anything like this, then I am on board.

Favorite lyrics: “New flows comin', be patient, brother / Show my ass and take y'all to class / I can multitask like Megan, brother”

#79: cup of tea - Paria

This song is perfectly titled because it is the music version of a cup of tea. Paria’s lovely voice with the acoustic guitar plucking in an ethereal production just makes this song so dreamy and relaxing. Surprisingly enough, I have not listened to this song while drinking tea, but remind me to do so next time.

Favorite lyrics: “I don’t have a lot to offer, a cup of tea with honey and my heart, would that be alright?”

#78: The Motto - Tiësto & Ava Max

Tiësto just makes the perfect gym songs, and this is no exception. Do you need 2 minutes and 45 seconds of not having a care in the world and feel like a bad bish? This song will do the trick. Walking down the street, hitting the treadmill, blasting it during a one-woman party (because why would you host parties in a pandemic, pls) - it elevates your confidence every single time.

Favorite lyrics: “We been up all damn summer / Makin' that bread and butter.”  (idk this song doesn’t have any lyrics that mean anything so I just picked what I think sounds cool)

#77: Reckless - Madison Beer

This song is a great example of a song that still can be great despite being unoriginal. I realize that sounds like I’m dragging Madison Beer, but I’m really not. It does use one of the most common chord progressions, however, and the melody follows the progression very closely, so it sounds like a bunch of other songs because of that. But, this chord progression--especially with the use of the minor third as the transition to the chorus (my favorite pop music trope!!)--is so magical and effective, particularly when it’s used on a song made to show vulnerability. Madison’s voice is emotional and fragile, and the lyrics are direct and compliment the melody well. 

Favorite lyrics: “Hey, this is a story I hate, but I told it to cope with the pain / I'm so sorry if you can relate.”

#76: love nwantiti (ah ah ah) - CKay

The chokehold TikTok has had on music this past year and a half has been insane. Like, imagine having one song blow up on TikTok and you’re basically set for life. Anyway, I usually don’t really get that into songs that went viral purely due to TikTok (songs by already massive, famous artists don’t count as a viral TikTok hit for me), but the more this song came up on my feed, the more I found myself really enjoying it. It has this calming effect while being danceable, two traits a song rarely can pull off. And I just found out that this song came out in 2019... but I’m going to pretend I didn’t see that.

Favorite lyrics: “Without you, I go fit lose my mind / Without you, I go fit fall and die / Without you, I go give all my life”

#75: la di die (feat. jxden) - Nessa Barrett

I wasn’t expecting to have a TikTok star’s song on my list this year (although I was this close to putting Dixie D’Amelio on the list as well... no joke), but I wasn’t expecting a TikTok star to drop a 2000s inspired emo track, either!! This song feels both nostalgic and new all at the same time, like I definitely heard this before but it doesn’t really sound like it’s an old song. Okay, maybe a little, but not really. Compared to those who actually identified as emo kids back in the day, I didn’t listen all that much to emo rock, but I’m so glad it was revived in the mainstream this year.

Favorite lyrics: “My depression and misconceptions / And all the mistakes that lead to lessons”

#74: Undo (Back To My Heart) - Tinashe, Wax Motif

This was one of the songs that just stuck immediately after first listen, and I can’t explain how much I love it when that happens. Sometimes it’s just tiring to have to listen to a song several times before you’re like, “okay, this is kinda good”, right? Definitely a standout from the album 333, X being a solid second. Unfortunately, I didn’t like the album itself that much, but I think it’s mostly because most of the songs requires several listens and with all the music I’m trying to catch up with this year, it’s been difficult. I guess it means this goes on loop instead!

Favorite lyrics: “I've been focused on all of the things that went wrong, now I don't care who's even at fault”

#73: Asystole - Hayley Williams

I saw someone say that FLOWERS for VASES / descanos was Hayley Williams’ folklore or evermore and it’s pretty accurate... except it’s better (sorry Taylor?). After Taylor released folklore and evermore, I was just convinced that it just wasn’t my type of music, but then Hayley released this album and I was like, oh, maybe it is. There’s just something about Hayley’s songwriting in this album, but this song specifically, that completely draws me in. It’s raw, vulnerable and real. She also sounds amazing with so little effort - the vocal range isn’t big in this song, but it’s right in the sweet spot of her voice. And after a decade of listening to Paramore, it is kind of nice to not hear her yell all the time too - not that it isn’t great either.

Favorite lyrics: “Revive another side of me / My eyes, to see the poisoned devotion in me”

#72: Yallah - ABIR 

Another song that was not released this year (2020), but I found it this year and therefore it makes the list. I apologize to the other songs that could’ve made this list that were released this year, but didn’t. I don’t even remember how I came across ABIR. Either it was on TikTok or Discover Weekly on Spotify... Either way, I love it when artists incorporate a part of their heritage into pop music that isn’t used much in the Americanized pop music we hear on a daily basis. The Arab music influences on this simply elevates this pop/R&B track, and it truly feels like she’s honoring what she grew up listening to, but still making it sound commercially appealing. I love love love when artists use their music to show a part of themselves like this. More ABIR in 2022, please!

Favorite lyrics: “Disruption with no caution / This love isn't common”

#71: I am not a woman, I’m a god - Halsey

I enjoyed Manic (2020) a lot, and even when I like the poppier side of Halsey, this album sonically was really interesting and fascinating to me, particularly songs like this one. This feels like Halsey in her element, both lyrically and production wise. 

Favorite lyrics: “I am not a woman, I'm a God / I am not a martyr, I'm a problem / I am not a legend, I'm a fraud”

#70: Set Me Free - Joshua Bassett

Joshua Bassett coming in clutch with the actual musical responses to SOUR! I wasn’t expecting these songs to be as good as they were. Not because his music isn’t good--I’ve yet to hear a released song by him that I dislike--but I just didn’t think he’d be direct and vulnerable enough for it to make an impact. As someone who loves gossip and drama (but also honesty and authenticity), I thought he did as well as he could. It’s very specific, so it’s undeniable what it’s about, but he still gets to tell his side without entirely shutting down the other perspectives. Lyrically, it definitely is just as good as Olivia’s work, though musically it doesn’t hit as hard. Still, I am so happy he finally put this out there, and the chorus with the layered vocals and falsetto gives me massive chills every time. So good.

Favorite lyrics: “And nothing I say will ease the pain, but why must I hurt for you to feel okay?”

#69: My Limb - Hayley Williams

Songs where Hayley uses her lower register is just *chef’s kiss*. Like I mentioned earlier, it’s just so nice to her other parts of her voice that wasn’t used as often in Paramore’s music, and she just has this amazing, rich, sultry lower voice that just makes a song so much more elite just because of it. I also just learned that a week before the album’s release, she sent a candle, a handwritten note and this song on a CD to a fan hoping they’d leak it. Like, okay miss Hayley, trying out different marketing tactics, I see you!

Favorite lyrics: “Funny, out the two of us, you always were the gentle one / Shy little rabbit, teething on a shotgun”

#68: Thot Shit - Megan Thee Stallion

Megan is just so good at making catchy bops that are super social media friendly. Tell me you don’t want to shake your booty to this in a club because I really want to and I don’t even like clubs.

Favorite lyrics: “2021, finna graduate college / Goth girl shit, I'm a real hot topic”

#67: The King - Sarah Kinsley

I remember coming across the TikTok (I think maybe the first, even) that Sarah Kinsley made to hype this song up pre-release. She was basically just showing the intro with the blossoming, classic-sounding piano with a building drum beat resolving into this cool, sharp synth and I was like, this is iconic. I also haven’t come across someone of Asian descent having this specific vibe in music, which is so cool for me as a fellow Asian to see. I’m a fan!

Favorite lyrics: “I built a time machine to see you again / To hear your phone call, your voice down the hall”

#66: University - Lido, Coltr3ne, JoJo, Santell

Whatever the opposite of gatekeeping is, I want to do that with Lido. Mostly because we’re from the same county in Norway, but also because he’s an insane producer and just as good of an artist. I’m just confused because I feel like he’s not really that popular in Norway, but not really in the US either - yet somehow he seems to be well recognized in the American music business due to his producer and songwriting credits. Either way, he needs to on everyone’s radar! And JoJo’s vocals in this? Yes, please.

Favorite lyrics: “When the rain stops, will we be in love anymore?”

#65: Till Forever Falls Apart - Ashe & FINNEAS

I think this duo absolutely nailed the creation of one of the most romantic friendship songs out there. I just love that this song is so packed with love and affection, but it’s platonic!! But it also works for a romantic connection!! Their chemistry radiates through this song, and I hope we get to see even more duets from these two in the future.

Favorite lyrics: “I guess there's nothing more romantic than dying with your friends”

Some honorable mentions:

FAIRY TALES (feat. BJ the Chicago Kid) - CHIKA (produced by Lido!)

BOYSHIT - Madison Beer

Tears In My Eyes - MICHAELA