Every New Music Friday, I’m reminded of how much new music is out there — especially from artists I’ve yet to discover! Join me as I broaden my horizons and my music library with monthly playlists capturing new releases from every genre.
We’re starting off the new year right with new releases from the likes of Justin Bieber, ZAYN, Ariana Grande, Vance Joy and JoJo. Check out more than four hours of the best new music you may have missed from January in the Spotify playlist below, then scroll down to listen to a few highlights.
* Anyone by Justin Bieber *
Justin Bieber gave his fans a sweet holiday treat dropping a new single, “Anyone,” on Jan. 1. What a way to ring in the New Year!
Wondering what’s ahead for JB in 2021? This is Justin’s fourth song release since last year’s uber-successful ‘Changes’ album and it’s already confirmed these new tracks are part of the path to JB6. ‘Changes’ was released on Valentine’s Day 2020 and, looking at the calendar, it definitely seems like we may need to keep our eyes peeled to Justin’s socials throughout February. 👀
* Vibez by ZAYN *
ZAYN released his long-awaited new album ‘Nobody Is Listening’ this month and its lead single “Vibez” is 100% the vibe. If you’re just checking out the album, the album’s two collaborations, “When Love’s Around” featuring Syd and “Windowsill” featuring Devlin, are real standouts. That said, it’s truly an album to be enjoyed and experienced from start to finish, so go listen and thank me later. 😊
* Talk You Down by Charlotte Lawrence *
If there’s anything more impressive than Charlotte Lawrence’s never-ending string of infectious singles (“Slow Motion” was everything), it’s her beautifully choreographed music videos — and her latest for “Talk You Down” was filmed after just one rehearsal.
Like this song? You won’t have to wait much longer for more. ‘Charlotte’ the EP is set for release March 5.
* Lento (Brabo Remix) by Lauren Jauregui feat. Pabllo Vittar *
If you thought you loved former Fifth Harmony member Lauren Jauregui’s Latin bop “Lento,” wait until you hear this new remix with Brazilian star Pabllo Vittar. It’s still a smoking hot dance moment but with new flavour for the new year. Yes, yes, yes. 🔥
* New Love by Silk City feat. Ellie Goulding *
Megastar producers Diplo and Mark Ronson have *finally* reunited to reignite the flame on their joint project Silk City and I guarantee you will have new love for the new track. As the follow-up single to 2018’s smash hit “Electricity” with Dua Lipa, “New Love” featuring Ellie Goulding is the must-have song on your playlist if you love fun, shimmery pop tunes, a catchy chorus, and a beat that makes you want to dance around your kitchen like no one’s watching (guilty!).
Speaking of comebacks, I’m super excited to see what other musicians will make a big return to the charts in 2021. Fingers crossed Adele and Lorde are on that list. 😉
* Don’t Judge Me by FKA twigs, Headie One and Fred again.. *
FKA twigs’ new single is a beautiful song with a powerful reflection on our very politically-charged 2020. British rapper Headie One has several particularly impactful lines in his verse: “There’s been a million speeches / No justice, no peace, ’cause we in pieces / Officer, am I allowed to breathe here?” (The latter is unfortunately still too common a question.)
* Could This Be Love by Elliphant *
On her new single “Could This Be Love,” Swedish alt-pop singer Elliphant questions a dying love, navigating an internal debate on whether tension, sadness and hours of watching “every YouTube clip I find on cute puppies” are normal in a real romance. While I don’t have the answer for Elliphant, there’s certainly no questioning my love for this song. (See what I did there?)
Album of the Month: #7DJ (7 Días En Jamaica) by Maluma
When it’s cold and dark outside, I love listening to upbeat, tropical music to bring back memories of summer and warmth. Colombian artist Maluma must agree because his new album (and first release of 2021) is inspired by a week-long trip to Jamaica pre-pandemic. This is the perfect easy, cohesive listen to satisfy your dancehall/reggaeton-pop craving!
New Artist of the Month: Arlo Parks
British retro-soul artist Arlo Parks built up a following in 2020 thanks to incredible singles like “Eugene” and “Tangerine,” a collaboration with Glass Animals. But it was ultimately Arlo’s gentle yet intriguing voice combined with introspective, diaristic lyrics that earned her critical acclaim and several “one to watch” honours.
Arlo’s newly-released debut album ‘Collapsed In Sunbeams’ supersedes the hype, presenting an artist who, at age 20, is just starting to face the rollercoaster of life but remains confident in herself, her sound and her intentions. It’s a beautiful thing to hear and a light in these dark times. I’m already looking forward to more!
