Set aside the winter blues, press pause on the pandemic and refresh your playlists with these amazing new releases from Ariana Grande and Billie Eilish, plus exciting newcomers Kamille and Curtis Waters.
1. “34+35 (Remix)”, by Ariana Grande featuring Doja Cat and Megan Thee Stallion
There’s so much to love about this tune, taken from Grande’s 2020 album Positions and given a refresh by two special guests. There’s the jolly violin riff, the sparse yet speaker-shaking beat and, most of all, the lyrics that reflect on—well, you don’t need to be a maths genius to add this one up.
2. “Antidote”, by Nao featuring Adekunle Gold
Described by British singer Nao as “a song born out of lockdown” and following the birth of both her daughter and that of her Nigerian co-star, this gorgeous love letter to black girls is the uplifting anthem we all need right now.
3. “Vibez”, by Zayn
A smoochy slow jam from the new dad as he sings about his, shall we say, ardent passion for his significant other—“Don't keep me waiting, I’ve been waiting all night to get closer,” he swoons. Supermodel Gigi Hadid—his partner and presumably the subject of the lascivious lyrics—clearly approves as she posted the track on her Instagram Stories. Snuggle up to Vibez, written by Zayn, Nija, Rogét Chahayed and the Grammy-winning Scribz Riley.
4. “Antes”, by Anuel AA and Ozuna
Taken from their new collaborative album, Los Dioses, this upbeat reggaeton-based banger is the perfect celebration of partying (remember that?). The pair reflect on the joys of dancing until dawn—the return of which, post lockdown, we will all no doubt welcome with open arms.
5. "Wish You The Best", by Joy Oladokun featuring Jensen McRae
One of country music’s rising stars, Nashville-based Joy Oladokun is a rare talent who manages to dissect Christianity, queerness, race and mental wellness with a delicate yet determined touch. Her latest offering with Los Angeles singer-songwriter Jensen McRae is about putting bitterness aside to be the bigger and better person. Amen to that!
6. "Roaring 20s", by Flo Milli
Staying in the US south, emerging Alabama rapper Flo Milli smartly samples If I Were A Rich Man from Fiddler On The Roof on her sparse, drama-laden single. Comparing the political and cultural upheavals of the 2020s with the 1920s, the singer’s empowering missive positions women in their rightful place—at the centre of the world.
7. "One Shirt", by Ruger featuring Rema and D’Prince
Eye-catching newcomer Ruger describes his sound as Afro dancehall — an amalgamation of the finest sounds from Jamaica and Nigeria. The Lagos musician’s debut, produced by KukBeat, is a joy to listen to—and watch—as the eyepatch-wearing singer with pink hair reflects on his struggle to succeed.
8. "All My Girls Like To Fight", by Hope Tala
Despite having at least one very famous fan (Barack Obama included this in his tunes of 2020), Londoner Hope Tala is just starting to gain momentum with this brilliant tune. Channelling both Lily Allen and Jazmine Sullivan, AMGLTF is a sharply written, intriguing fusion of 1990s R&B and 2000s UK garage mixed with Spanish guitar. Somehow, it works really well.
9. "Black Hole", by Griff
It must be said that this song about heartbreak is quite a dark pop-bop, but we defy you not to be immediately taken by the charming chorus and the bittersweet joy that emanates from the heart and soul of this British newcomer.
10. "Lo Vas A Olvidar", by Billie Eilish and Rosalía
Rather like Black Hole, this isn’t the cheeriest of compositions, admittedly, but the joining of the two of the planet’s most talented musicians for a new, standalone episode of one of TV’s best shows—Euphoria—is reason to celebrate. This chillingly atmospheric single sees both women sing in Spanish to stunning effect.
11. "AYO!", by Kamille featuring S1mba
Songwriter to the stars (including Little Mix, Dua Lipa and Sia), this British singer is rightfully stepping into her own light with this instantly captivating piece of music, featuring breakthrough star S1mba. Press play on this Rymez-produced Afrobeats track and feel the winter blues melt away.
12. “Doodoodoo”, by Curtis Waters
Born in Nepal and now a resident of North Carolina (by way of Germany and Canada), bedroom-based pop star Waters is undeniably one of music’s biggest breakthrough acts of lockdown—and it’s thanks to compositions such as this. Taken from his debut album, Pity Party, this lead track about taking a bath is relentlessly happy and completely charming, despite (or maybe because of?) its occasionally X-rated lyrics.
