If there’s generally one constant we can rely on in life, it’s new music. While 2021 has barely begun, some fresh releases are already here. They’re *hopefully* only a small fraction of the killer tracks we’ll listen to for the first time this year. At the moment, we have a pop-punk track featuring Avril Lavigne. Kings of Leon has a new album on the way. Justin Bieber is still churning out passionate love songs. It’s safe to say this year looks so far so good… in terms of music, at least.
[1]
“Flames,” by Mod Sun feat. Avril Lavigne
This is the collab we didn’t know we needed! And hear me out: If Netflix’s Bridgerton was an angsty, pop-punk musical set in the early 2000s, Daphne Bridgerton and the Duke of Hastings would sing this to each other. Tell me I’m wrong.
[2]
“Anyone,” by Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber rang in 2021 with a new romantic single. In the music vid, he portrays a boxer whose deep love for his S.O.—played by Zoey Deutch—fuels him to victory. It has old-timey vibes and all of his tattoos are completely covered up in it.
[3]
“Best Friend,” by Saweetie feat. Doja Cat
Who doesn’t love a strong bestie appreciation bop? This song is the epitome of two best friends hyping each other up, and we’re here for it.
[4]
“The Bandit,” by Kings of Leon
Kings of Leon teased their upcoming eighth studio album “When You See Yourself” with the release of two songs from it: “The Bandit” and “100,000 People.” They are both an absolute mood.
[5]
“Drivers License,” by Olivia Rodrigo
Disney channel star Olivia Rodrigo’s debut single will have you missing an ex you never had. It’s full of emotion and has Taylor Swift’s stamp of approval, so you know it’s a worth a listen, at the very least.
[6]
“It’s Time to Go,” by Taylor Swift
Speaking of T-Swift, as if she hasn’t given us enough new music to obsess over, she released the deluxe edition of “Evermore” with two bonus tracks. The song “It’s Time to Go” is rumored to be about the end of her friendship with Karlie Kloss. In any case, it’s about knowing when to move on.
[7]
“Words,” by Barry Gibb feat. Dolly Parton
Co-founder of the Bee Gees Barry Gibb reimagined the music group’s 1968 classic “Words” with Dolly Parton for his new album, and the duet is truly beautiful. Not to mention Dolly Parton makes anything she’s involved in instantly better.
[8]
“Talk About Love,” by Zara Larson feat. Young Thug
Anyone who enjoys the period in a relationship before it’s strictly defined will relate to this free-spirited song. Plus, the music video features heated, mesmerizing choreography you won’t want to look away from.
[9]
“Emotion,” by Molly Burch feat. Wild Nothing
While this dreamy disco-pop track is about wanting to control strong emotion—which, you know, isn’t easy to do—it’ll make you want to get up and float around an imaginary dance floor.
[10]
“Delicious,” by Nick Jonas
When he’s not busy on The Voice or working with his famous brothers, he can be found making sick beats you can’t help but move your hips to when you’re in your at-home club.
[11]
“Obsessed,” by Addison Rae
A true surprise for her TikTok fans, this track is bound to make you think: ‘Damn, this is catchy.’ Be prepared to have this all over your future playlists, ASAP.
[12]
“Grey,” by Why Don’t We
Yes, the boyband is known for their bubble-gum pop tracks, but this song proves they’ve matured as artists. The lyrics are meaningful, the tune is more calm than we’ve known this group to sing. After hearing this, I want them on speed-dial.
[13]
“LazyBaby,” by Dove Cameron
Fully embracing the ’80s vibe! The star of the upcoming Powerpuff Girls live-action series is here to provide us with the perfect summer song—don’t knock it before you listen to it.
[14]
“Bad Ones,” by Tate McRae
If you have a knack for always finding the wrong type of partners, this song reassures you just how common that is. Thank god someone else understands!
Click here to read our exclusive interview with the star.
[15]
“Film Out,” by BTS
It was only a matter of time before the world’s biggest band would release yet another hit. This will definitely put you in your feels. Plus, the video is absolutely stunning.
[16]
“De Una Vez,” by Selena Gomez
With the release of her first Spanish EP, it’s refreshing to see the singer embrace her Latin roots. This song accentuates the subtleties of her voice, while also giving a fresh take on what type of music she can produce. And can we talk about how the heart necklace in the video is giving total Wizards of Waverly Place vibes? K thanx.
[17]
“Montero (Call Me By Your Name),” by Lil Nas X
Well, this song literally broke the internet, so it only makes sense to add it here.
[18]
“Met Him Last Night,” by Demi Lovato and Ariana Grande
Demi released this song at the same time as her YouTube series, and with the subject matter matching its visual partner, it makes sense for the singer to include another powerhouse vocalist to accompany her on this journey. The song is extremely catchy, and will definitely get stuck in your head.
[19]
“Beautiful Mistakes,” by Maroon 5 and Megan Thee Stallion
What happens when one of the most popular early-aughts bands collaborates with one of today’s biggest rappers? A pretty banging tune, that’s what. Both parties kill their parts in the song, and can we please know who did Megan Thee Stallion’s hair and makeup for the video? I need a makeup tutorial, stat.
[20]
“Leave the Door Open,” by Bruno Mars, Anderson .Paak and Silk Sonic
Is this the old-school band we all hoped for? I think so. With its smooth R&B vibe, combined with the fact that it’s Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak, this song makes me want to have a romantic night with my (imaginary) boo thang.