If I can’t hear the sound of my own thoughts, then that’s a win! Enter music. 2023 was sonically very R&B driven and/or needed to be something I could shake ass to. The variety of artists was either people I’ve loved for a decade plus, or introductions to singers that will inevitably become my whole music identity moving forward. Huge shoutout to TikTok, the algorithm might not always be in my favour especially since it’s only now figured out I’m a pisces, but most of those viral bops BOPPED.
Tummy Hurts, Renee Rapp ft. Coco Jones
I discovered this song late in the game. In fact the remix was only released in November. Something about the condemning of bloodlines paired with insane vocals really spoke to my soul. Coco and Renee have powerful voices and vocal roles that are pleasing to any ear. They’re my vote for live action Princess Tiana and Charlotte. Actually, this might have been my favourite song of the year.
You Don’t Go To Parties, 5 Seconds Of Summer
Despite being a 5SOS fan since 2013, it took me a while to get on top of their current discography. This one was an instant hit, especially after hearing it live. 5SOS are such a fantastic band, lyrically and musically. There’s something special about an artist truly playing their own music. This bop is fun and easy going, while the lyrics are telling a different story.
Heated, Beyoncé
In preparation for the Stockholm date of Beyonce’s Renaissance World Tour, I listened exclusively to Heated on my commute to work in order to memorise the ending rap. This album is one of my favourite bodies of work from Queen B and this song emulates everything I love. The sound is new for Beyonce, but it feels timeless. The energy is high and you just have to have FUN. Heated is a stand out track to me which is absolutely not a UNIQUE opinion.
My Love, Leigh-Anne
When Little Mix announced their hiatus, I sobbed. I waited eagerly in anticipation for the first solo release from one of the girls, especially Leigh-Anne as my top girl. Don’t Say Love was an instant hit in my house, but My Love cemented her as a soloist in my mind. The sound is so unique to her moving away from the group and is so special to witness as Leigh-Anne comes into her own, taking the spotlight she so deserves. This afro-beat inspired pop hit is something only she could do.
Rush, Troye Sivan
I hadn’t been keeping an eye on Troye since his YouTube days and couldn’t tell you how Rush took over my life, but IT DID. As he says, “it’s so good” and he no lies were found. This track instantly puts me in a good mood and was the perfect lead single for the rest of this insane album. Always a pleasure seeing a Perth babe in the spotlight.
On My Mama, Victoria Monet
Jaguar 2 was my favourite album of the year, hands down. Picking one song off of the album is near impossible, but the cultural impact and recognition this song is getting heading into awards season sets it apart. As the pre-chorus sets in, I’m transported. The beat forces me to move, I can’t help it. An underrated artist that made my year. More horns in music please!
For The Night, Chloe ft. Latto
One thing I’m going to do is discover songs way after they’re first released. Chloe’s debut single as a soloist got my attention and Ungodly Hour speaks volumes for her talent. For The Night showcases her fabulous vocals and feels like 90s R&B sound. I’d happily put this between “The Boy is Mine” and “Cater 2 U” for the ultimate playlist.
Is It A Crime?, No Guidnce
After my K-POP phase, I hadn’t found a boy band that caught my attention (mind you, the girl groups are always on my neck). No Guidnce came into my mainstream through Little Mix’s tv show, “The Search” and then I couldn’t escape them on my TikTok FYP. This song was heavy in my rotation the entire year. The boy bands are boy banding, if you will. Boyz 2 Men influence is clear and I’m just as obsessed. The only crime is that more people don’t know about them.
Fly Girl, FLO
FLO filled the cracks in my heart when Little Mix went on their break. Cardboard Box is one of the best debut songs from a girl group ever and they just keep getting better. Summertime will remain my summer anthem every year, but Fly Girl is a production and a half. FLO is riding the R&B comeback wave and their sound is so special in the music scene. They even got the seal of approval from THE Missy Elliott. Now that’s iconic.
Feather, Sabrina Carpenter
TikTok definitely influenced the hell out of me this year. Now, Pushing 20 etched SC into my heart, but every angle of every show of every Sabrina performance of ‘Feather’ basically was a challenge to not be obsessed with this song. It’s so catchy and pop at it’s finest. There’s a feminine feeling that feels empowering and hot. She’s a superstar on the rise!
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