Playlist: January finds & faves

January finds & faves playlist cover - Angela McLean

It’s been over a year since I sat down and put together a playlist of my favourite tracks to share here on my blog. That changes now! Midway through each month of 2018, I will post my ‘finds & faves’ – a playlist of my favourite new tracks of the month and some oldies that remain oh-so-goodies.

January – the start of a new year. It’s a month that brings with it new opportunities for growth, self-discovery, self-reinvention and adventure. The same opportunities are granted to our favourite artists. Example: Justin Timberlake’s release of “Filthy,” the lead single off his upcoming album that has a ‘futuristic’ sound quite different from his previous work. Some critics have called it a ‘love it or hate it’ track – I love it.

Many of my ‘finds’ this month reflect that ‘newness’ – not only because they are new releases, but because they symbolize a fresh start in the artist’s career. Not to tease, but I’m excited to share on my thoughts on “She Loves Control,” a track off of Camila Cabello’s solo debut (read more below!)

My ‘faves,’ on the other hand, are all over the map, as a quick scroll through my music library will further prove. Some share messages that are worth keeping in mind heading into 2018, while others are simply great songs that I’m vibing with this month.

Scroll down for the full playlist and some highlighted tracks.

Continue Reading

NEW MUSIC FRIDAY: Fresh Summer Sounds Combine with Sultry and Smoldering New Singles

Cruel - Snakehips feat. Zayn cover art

The music world knows how to start the weekend on a high note.

In just one Friday, our ears have been blessed with new singles from Tinashe, 5 Seconds of Summer, ZAYN, Hailee Steinfeld and more. If you’re a hardcore music fan like I am, you better be here and listening or be square because all of this new music needs to be on your playlists STAT.

Whether you’re sitting by the pool, waiting in-between acts at an awesome music festival or commuting to and from work, these 13 tracks are sure to set a good vibe. Before you leap into July’s full new music playlist, preview five tracks that are surely about to become stuck on replay.

“Hangin’ On” by ROZES

You may recognize ROZES’ voice as she was the featured vocalist on The Chainsmokers’ “Roses,” which was at the top of every radio station’s playlist earlier this year. Now, the 23-year-old American singer is shining solo with her new single. Although this song came out in mid-June, the upbeat and can’t-stop-must-dance vibes have made “Hangin’ On” a summer staple.

“Body Say” by Demi Lovato

Just as Demi Lovato embarked on her joint Future Now tour with Nick Jonas, the songstress released this sultry new song that is both stage- and summer-ready. “Body Say” is especially perfect for those more intimate summer nights…you know what I’m saying.

Continue Reading

MUSIC MONDAY: Serving Up Spring Sass

Last Dance - Dua Lipa music video screenshot

School’s wrapping up, the nice weather is returning…add some pep to your step and own your sasswalk!

To get myself through the exams that are separating me from summer freedom, I’ve pulled together some of my favourite sassy songs that get me moving, grooving and feeling on top of the world. Regardless of what you’re doing this month, let this playlist serve as your reminder to always cherish your spark, stay fabulous and kick butt. Take that, exams!

Before you listen to April’s playlist in full, preview four selections that are currently at the top of my most played list.

“Temple” (Lenno Remix) by Parson James

You may recognize his powerful yet sensual vocals from Kygo’s hit song “Stole the Show.” Now, the star of the song, American singer and songwriter Parson James, has more to give, starting with the release of his debut EP with RCA Records. The EP’s title track has a fresh EDM-infused sound thanks to an incredible remix by Finnish producer Lenno. Listen once and you’ll never go back!

“With Me” by dvsn

dvsn is an act to be watched. The Canadian alternative R&B duo, consisting of singer Daniel Daley and producer Nineteen85, just dropped their debut album ‘SEPT. 5TH’ via Drake’s OVO Sound label. With it, they have proven that they are the masters of a sound that is modern, classic and simply addictive. “With Me” is a must-listen for fans of The Weeknd, Miguel or PARTYNEXTDOOR.

Continue Reading

MUSIC MONDAY: Ones to Watch in 2016

Stressed Out - Twenty One Pilots music video screenshot

They are oozing talent, drive, passion and a sound like no other – they are the bands and artists to watch in 2016.

For this month’s playlist, I have handpicked some of my favourite artists who are ready to dominate the music world in 2016. Before you listen to it in full, preview six of my selections and get hyped for a new year filled with incredible new music.

Who Is Fancy

Who is Fancy, you ask? He is Jake Hagood, a 24-year-old pop singer and rapper hailing from Arkansas. In the past year, he has garnered the attention of Justin Bieber and Taylor Swift’s managers and released a single with Meghan Trainor and Ariana Grande. With a debut album in the works, expect to hear a lot more from Who Is Fancy in 2016!

Check out: “Boys Like You,” featuring Meghan Trainor and Ariana Grande

DNCE

It is nearly impossible to not want to get up and dance to any one of DNCE’s catchy tunes. The new music project from Joe Jonas and friends Jack Lawless, Cole Whittle and JinJoo Lee saw great success in 2015 with a debut EP, ‘SWAAY,’ and sold-out club tour. The group has already teased a full-length album and follow-up tour for 2016 and we are SO ready!

Check out: “Cake By The Ocean”

Continue Reading

MUSIC MONDAY: Songs to ‘Sleigh’ Your December

Santa Tell Me - Ariana Grande music video screenshot

*This post marks the first in my new monthly series of Spotify playlists that I will be making and featuring on my blog.

Christmas is my favourite time of the year! I love spending time with my family and friends, getting the chance to rejuvenate after a long and hard year of work and just taking in the spirit of the season. Whether you are opening presents or going on a road trip, you will definitely want some tunes to amp up the holiday vibe.

This month, I have compiled a list of some of my most-played tracks over the past few weeks and my new favourite Christmas classics. Before you listen to my full December playlist, preview some of my favourites.

“December” by Ariana Grande

Pop songstress Ariana Grande gave her fans the best surprise Christmas present ever with the release of her second Christmas-themed EP, ‘Christmas & Chill.’ In each of the six original songs on the EP, Grande sings about a winter romance that is the perfect Christmas gift all on its own. This cute and catchy track is definitely one we can “Focus” on!

“You’re Such A” by Hailee Steinfeld

We all know and love Hailee Steinfeld for her outstanding performances in films like True Grit and Pitch Perfect 2, but get ready to become obsessed with her incredible new music! “You’re Such A,” one of four catchy tracks on Steinfeld’s debut EP ‘HAIZ,’ is a sassy shout out to an ex-boyfriend who just isn’t taking the hint.

Continue Reading
1 8 9 10