1. If You’re Gonna Lie – FLETCHER Wonderfully intertwines the anger and pain of losing someone with the sadness and guilt of begginging them to stay. A poppy plea that feels personal even if you can’t situationally relate.
2. ME! -Taylor Swift ft. Brendon Urie Even with the tongue and cheek spelling bit, Ms. Swift and Mr. Urie will be the sound of your summer showing you that self-love anthems always reign on top.
3. Bad -James Bay Hauntigly beautiful. Lyrics that hit close to the heart with a voice that makes the cut sting a little bit more.
4. Kids – Lennon Stella/ Joshua O’Haire Remix (MGMT cover) Covers are often hit or miss for me, but I respect anyone who will take a song they love and put their own spin on it. Lennon Stella, best known for her role on Nashville with her sister Maisy, has a voice that encapsulates you. Her recent EP “Love, me” deserves an essay of its own. Nonetheless, this song takes you back to childhood nostalgia with a tone of appreciation, melancholy, and cheer all wrapped in a calm synth remix.
5. Handmade Heaven -MARINA The first track to part one of a double album. Great introduction offering a Florence voice with a Lorde production, all while making it her own.
6. when the party’s over -Billie Eilish Stacked harmonies and a simple melody take a backseat to let the lyrics speak for themselves.
7. I’ll Never Leave You -Braison Cyrus Hear me out on this one. Yes, this is Miley Cyrus’ brother. Braison has an obvious Bob Dylan influence to his music and his tone, and it works for him. Well written lyrics and a performance that holds it’s own in the delivery of said lyrics.
8. Black As Night -Nahko and Medicine for the People A go-to song for me as a mid-week pick me up or a wonderful song to provide relaxation. Nahko constantly delivers the kind of authentic, genuine lyrics that make you feel like you can strive for greatness in your life.
9. Cellophane -FKA Twigs Another beautiful simplistic song about a troubled relationship, this one comes with a stunning visual narrative as well as that combined with the music sets an example of wonderful artistry.
10. Doubt – Mary J. Blige Great song for your difficult days, pushing you through your week on a Wednesday or celebrating your strength on a Friday. Mary J. Blige delivers a vocal anthem that empowers without overwhelming.
Some current and some old songs that I’ve been loving recently! Enjoy the week and maybe and some new songs to your commute, morning routine, or an afternoon walk!