13 More Dazzling NEVER Songs | Playlist

13 More Dazzling NEVER Songs features music courtesy of Conan Gray, Kehlani, Lou Rawls, Labrinth, Niall Horan, and P!nk.

NEVER has there been more dazzling inspiration for a playlist! The keyword is none other than NEVER – duh! It wouldn’t be the first time that never and never-ness have fueled the fire for a musical compendium on The Musical Hype.  Prior to the arrival of 13 More Dazzling NEVER Songs, two previous NEVER lists were produced: 15 Gems from One Never-ending ‘Never’ List of Songs (2018) and 20 Dazzling NEVER Songs (2021). Notably, 13 More Dazzling NEVER Songs features songs NEVER used on previous NEVER playlists.  Musicians appearing on this N-E-V-E-R driven affair include Conan Gray, Kehlani,   Labrinth,   Lou Rawls, Niall Horan, and P!nk among others. So, without further ado, let’s embrace this kick-a$$, musical NEVER-ness, shall we?!

via GIPHY

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1. Niall Horan, “Never Grow Up”

The Show • Neon Haze Music Ltd. / Niall Horan / UMG Recordings, Inc. • 2023

Niall Horan has firmly planted himself one of the most successful former One Direction members.  His third studio album, The Show debuted at no. 2 on the Billboard 200 and was the top-selling album its debut week.  What a way to kick ass and take names, Niall ! One of the cutest, most dedicated moments of The Show comes with the song, “Never Grow Up”.  Here, love is innocent and sweet, sigh. “I hope we still dance like we’re fallin’ in love,” Niall sings in the chorus, continuing, “Hope we still drink like we’re back in the pub / Hope we grow old, but we never grow up.” Oh, the feels! Niall wants things to remain fresh and youthful, sans those un-fun aspects of adulting. Sigh, If we could all just NEVER grow up!

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2. P!nk, “Never Gonna Not Dance Again”

TRUSTFALL • RCA • 2023 

If you need a feel-good anthem in your playlist and more importantly, your life, look no further than  “Never Gonna Not Dance Again.” “Never Gonna Not Dance Again” served as the uplifting promo single from TRUSTFALL, the ninth studio album by Grammy-winning pop superstar, P!nk (Alecia Moore). From the start, “Never Gonna Not Dance Again” is a surefire vibe.  Produced by the talented team of Max Martin and Shellback, P!nk gets a hella exuberant, groovy backdrop that is perfect fuel for the fire.  The message, along with an assertive, inspired vocal performance, is what truly sells this joint. Even if things are bad AF, Moore refuses to quite dancing – she’s going to persevere on! In typical P!nk fashion, she’s lit when she drops the bomb: “I want my life to be a Whitney Houston song (I wanna dance) / I got all good luck and zero fucks, don’t care if I belong, no.” Woo! #Never Gonna Not Dance Again!  

 

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3. Conan Gray, “Never Ending Song”  

“Never Ending Song” • Republic • 2023  

“Tried to turn the page, but our story wasn’t stoppin’.” Oh Conan Gray! The handsome, incredibly talented gift that keeps on giving.  Post- Superache, the pop musician returned with a brief but potent single, “Never Ending Song”. Following the intro featuring crescendoing pummeling drums, “Never Ending Song” settles into 80s styled production which embraces New Wave and synthpop cues. Notably, Gray works with producers  ILYA and Max Martin.  The result: a match made in heaven .  Gray serves up awesome lead vocals. Furthermore, the melody is incredibly tuneful in the verses. The verses are brief, but the personality that Gray exhibits is #GIVING.  Of course, the centerpiece is the simple, catchy chorus: “And it goes on, and on, and on / Like a never ending song.” While the chorus, and the production that accompany it, are arguably the crème de la crème of “Never Ending Song,” the bridge is a vibe too. During the bridge, there is nice contrast served up – “Can you make us stay forever? / Are we done? Can you make it play.” I love how Gray ascends into his upper register at the end of it, prior to returning to familiar territory with the chorus.  His performance is a bit freer post-bridge, incorporating some more ambitious vocal ad-libs. Gray can do no wrong! Short but sweet, “Never Ending Song” marks another winner for Conan.     

  

Appears in : 

• 13 More Songs Where the Keyword is SONG (2023)
• Best Songs of 2023 (So Far)

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4. Gloria Gaynor, “Never Can Say Goodbye” 

Never Could Say Goodbye • UMG Recordings, Inc. • 1975  

It should go without saying that the record, “Never Can Say Goodbye,” was kind of a big deal in the 1970s.  The Jackson 5 that first brought the Clifton Davis-penned number to the top of the pop charts (no. 2). After The Jacksons compelled with the youthful, pop-crossover, Isaac Hayes would impress with a more mature, lengthier version from his Black Moses album, which also impacted the pop charts (no. 22).  Grammy-winning artist Gloria Gaynor also joined the “Never Can Say Goodbye” train. The Gaynor take is starkly different from the Jacksons and Hayes. How so? Well, Gaynor embraced D-I-S-C-O, which was king by the time her Never Could Say Goodbye album arrived in 1975.  In Gaynor’s hands, the classic gets a slick, disco makeover, which is readymade for the dance floor.  The tempo is quick, and Gaynor is assertive, bright, and on autopilot.   Sure, matters of the heart bring down the mood, but you can’t tell in this spirited rendition, which is one of disco’s essentials. Notably, Gaynor’s “Never Can Say Goodbye” topped the Billboard Dance/Disco chart.  Her more danceable rendition would outpace the Hayes interpretation, peaking at no. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100.  

Appears in :

• The Jackson 5 vs. Isaac Hayes vs. Gloria Gaynor: Head 2 Head 42 (2022)

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5. Steel Panther, “Never Too Late (To Get Some Pussy Tonight)” 

On the Prowl • Steel Panther • 2023  

“1am on a Saturday night / Looking for some gash, preferably tight / Open up the Tinder, I got no matches / But there’s plenty of fish in the sea with plenty of snatches.” Oh, boy! It’s important to NEVER take glam rock/metal collective Steel Panther seriously .  The veteran band built anticipation to their sixth studio album, On the Prowl (2023), with the raunchy, unapologetic single, “Never Too Late (To Get Some Pussy Tonight)”.  Musically, the non-serious collective shines.  The production is bright and exuberant characterized by sparkling synths during the intro and assertive, roaring guitars that appear consistently throughout the majority of the record. As the song progresses, there’s an impressive guitar solo, hearkening back to the 1980s when hair metal ruled.  Besides impressive instrumental lines, the harmonic scheme is sweet, particularly during the contrasting bridge section. Of course, the lead vocals by Michael Starr (Ralph Saenz) ‘kick ass and take names’ – he’s incredibly aggressive! The big draw, however, are those comical, raw, and unapologetic lyrics.  In the second verse, Saenz sings about his encounter with a girl missing a leg… yikes! In the pre-chorus that follows, he asserts, “Gonna find a girl with both her legs / Steel Panther’s gonna fertilize her eggs.” HOLY F#CKING MOLY! Of course, the centerpiece is the chorus, which features those head-shakable titular lyrics: “Cause it’s never too late to get some pussy tonight / No, it’s never too late to get some pussy tonight.” For a song of such little substance, “Never Too Late (To Get Some Pussy Tonight)” is enjoyable.  Make of it what you will.   

Appears in :  

• Late: 5ive Songs No. 70 (2022)
• 13 Late, Lately, or Later Songs (2023)

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6. Leith Ross, “We’ll Never Have Sex” 

“We’ll Never Have Sex” • Republic • 2022

“Oh, you kissed me just to kiss me / Not too make me cry.” With a song title like “We’ll Never Have Sex,” our minds are programmed to think that there is an unquenched thirst that will remain unquenched.  Honestly, that’s not the case in the least.  If anything, Canadian singer/songwriter Leith Ross is more fulfilled than ever.  They are more fulfilled thanks to a legitimate, healthy relationship that’s not built on sex.  “We’ll Never Have Sex” might sound like it’s going to be negative before listening to it, but check out the lyrics and listen, and the reward is far greater than the perceived lack of pleasure.  Leith Ross has found healing on this short but potent ballad. Their new lover is authentic, something that’s been missing in the past.  “Depollute me, pretty baby / Suck the rot right out of my bloodstream,” Ross sings in the first verse.  In the second, Ross addresses the lack of sex, highlighting how authentic and real this person is: “If I said you could never touch me / You’d come over and say I looked lovely.” That’s awesome!  In the final verse, Ross invites them to “Come and kiss me, pretty baby / Like we’ll never have sex.” The song is incredibly sweet, thoughtful to the n^th degree.  

Appears in :   

• 13 Amazing, Must HAVE Songs (2022)
• Incredible LGBTQ Songs, Young & Old, Vol. 1 (2022)
• 15 Compelling Songs About WE (2022)

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7. Labrinth, “Never Felt So Alone”

Ends & Begins • Columbia • 2023 

“And I never felt so alone, felt so alone, na-na.” “Never Felt So Alone” served as an advance single, and the seventh track from Ends & Begins, the 2023 studio album by singer, songwriter, and producer, Labrinth. “Never Felt So Alone” is a distinct, intriguing alternative pop cut.  Notably, it commences with unique vocal effects/sounds which set the tone. Labrinth’s vocals are consistently alluring, even when various vocal/gimmicky effects are employed (“‘What if (Woah) / You and this (Whoa) never existed?’”).  He gets quite the assist from Grammy winner Billie Eilish, who fills out vocal harmonies, collaborates with him in the chorus, and performs the second verse.  Notably, Eilish’s vocals are much more powerful in the second verse than we are accustomed to hearing (“Who knew you were just out to get me? / My whole world just fell apart”). It shouldn’t be surprising that her brother, FINNEAS, produces alongside Labrinth, as well as Fred again.., David Jones, and Alex Elliot.

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8. TGT, “Sex Never Felt Better”

Three Kings • Atlantic • 2013

“What’s happening, baby? What’s good tonight?” Ginuwine sings at the beginning of the first verse of “Sex Never Felt Better”, continuing, “I’d rather show you than tell you what’s on my mind.” Yeah, I bet you would!  He’s not the only member of TGT that feels the way. Ginuwine, of course is the ‘G’ in TGT, filled out by two Ts: Tank and Tyrese.  This trio released the album Three Kings in 2013, which debuted at no. 3 on the Billboard 200, and earned a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Album.  “Sex Never Felt Better” marks one of the best songs from the LP. “Let’s make a movie, you steal the show / You can be my leading lady, baby anything goes,” Tyrese sings in the second verse, adding, “Let the bed be the set, ‘cause I know you on some freak shit…” Ooh-la-la! Can’t leave out Tank – Mr. “When We” – who sings in the third verse, “Hard for me to leave, once you start to ride on / That was made for me, let me keep the light on.” So, does “Sex Never Felt Better” need any further explanation? Nope – it’s self-explanatory! Shout out to the production ( B.A.M. and The Underdogs).  Furthermore, shout out the pre-chorus, and most of all, the centerpiece, the chorus!  

“Sex ain’t never felt better 

I wanna swim in it all night 

Girl your body belongs to me, belongs to me 

I’ll be your sex slave 

Sex ain’t never felt better, babe.” 

Appears in :

• TGT, “Sex Never Felt Better”: After Dark 57 (2022)

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9. Kehlani, “wish I never” 

blue water road • Atlantic • 2022  

“Never got into your Lambo / Let you shoot it up like Rambo / Now you made me an example / Caught me slippin’, I’m so over this / I wish I never.” Woo, Kehlani! Pop Wansel and Rogét Chahayed produce one of the hottest tracks off of blue water road (that beat is straight , YOOO).  Sadly, the 2022 album by Grammy-nominated R&B standout ended up being ‘under the radar’ and debuted modestly at no. 13 on the Billboard 200.  Regardless, it’s an enjoyable LP and the song at hand, “wish I never,” is a surefire bop. One of the reasons it shines is the energy that Kehlani brings.  She not only sings beautifully and expressively but the rhythmic, tuneful melody carries ample weight.  Furthermore, she brings that attitude – plenty of personality to the table.  The verses and the pre-chorus are great, but it’s the lengthy, infectious chorus that puts “wish I never” over the top.  Couple that with those hip-hop soul vibes that remind you of, say, the 1990s or early 00s Mary J. Blige, and “wish I never” is a bop you won’t be able to stop spinning repeatedly.   

“…Had to take it back to play in my favor 

It’s all love when I see you and your bitch smilin’ 

Put the gas on it, but I kept the mileage 

Seen the bullet comin’, but I didn’t dodge it quick enough 

I wish I never did it 

From the bathroom to the kitchen 

Wish I woulda kept it pimpin’ 

Shoulda never took that mission…”

Appears in :

• 14 Enjoyable & Remarkable Wish Songs (2022)

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10. Alex Exists, “Never Christmas Without You”

“Never Christmas Without You” • The Confidence Emperors • 2022 

Alex Exists (Alexander Pulec) totally rocks – kicking ass and taking names rocks ! During the holiday season of 2022, he impressed with his single,   “Never Christmas  Without You”.  According to The Nursery front man, “‘Never Christmas Without You’ is for anyone that feels crestfallen during the holiday season.” The music and high level of musicianship carry plenty of weight. “Never Christmas Without You” commences enigmatically, setting the tone for the picturesque record to come.  The palette consists of big, colorful sounds which include keys and gritty, distorted guitars, sigh. Even with those superb pop/rock cues, there are tried-and-true holiday sounds – the bells, in particular. Still, those rocking elements, from cool riffs, and unison bass/guitar lines, are part of the allure.  Another big selling point: the vocals. Alex possesses a distinct voice that’s raspy and alluring – there’s something charming and endearing about it.  The chorus is the centerpiece; it’s incredibly tuneful, featuring memorable, expressively performed lyrics.  The songwriting, much like the music, is commendable, further showcasing Alex Exists’ sheer talent.  Notably, shout out the use of repetition lyrically at the end extending the awesomeness of this track. 

 

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11. Lil Durk, “Never Again”

Almost Healed • Alamo / Sony • 2023 

“I went Travis Barker, tatted the neck up.” That’s a very specific lyric there, Lil Durk! The Chicago rapper delivers several ear-catching lyrics on “Never Again,” the fourth track from Almost Healed.  Although this minor-key rap joint runs just two minutes and change, Durk has plenty to say – well – at least those interesting lines. The production of Chopsquad DJ helps to fuel the fire . As always, he serves up a tough-minded, melodic performance with an agile flow.  At times, his second verse, while still melodic, but has a bit more bite. The chorus, as you might expect, is memorable: “Think I’ma help ‘em, won’t help ‘em again.” Woo! Also, it’s worth noting that Almost Healed features a second NEVER song: “Never Imagined” featuring Future.

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12. Anthony Hamilton, “Never Give Up”

Southern Comfort • Tappy Whyte’s Music / Merovingian Music Ltd. • 2007

“Our Father / Who are in heaven / Hear my cry / Hear my cry / Now.” Anthony Hamilton commences “Never Give Up” with a petition to God.  When you can’t talk to anybody else about adversity, trials, and tribulations, there is one person who is always there, who’ll hear your cry.  Throughout the verses of this highlight from Hamilton’s 2007 compilation album, Southern Comfort, he paints a bleak picture. Clearly things are bad. He commences the first verse, singing, “Been touched again , rain on me / Down on my luck, got chains on me,” continuing, “I lost a job to gain a child / The road is long, but I’m losing time.” Life can be tough, something Anthony illustrates vividly on “Never Give Up.”  

There is more misfortune throughout “Never Give Up.” In the second verse, Hamilton sings, “Baby June is off to war / While his little girl’s just turned four / No birthday cakes, no candles lit / Just a photo of his family in his wallet.” Despite the hardships and pain, on behalf of the characters in the scenarios he sings about, Hamilton looks to the Hills in the chorus, the centerpiece:  

“Never let me give up 

I can’t stop trying 

I can’t stop crying  

To water the flowers to make me smile 

Never let me give up 

‘Cause I’ve got a family 

And with all the strength in me 

It won’t let me give up.”  

To reiterate, life is hard – it can break you down. Still, it is important not to give up despite adversity, even when it feels like it might be easier to give up.  It is important to stay strong and, like Anthony Hamilton on “Never Give Up”, stay prayed up . The Grammy winner and Cedric Solomon (co-writer and producer) nailed it on this soulful joint! 

via GIPHY

Appears in :

• Anthony Hamilton, “Never Give Up”: Music Lifts 30 (2023)

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13. Lou Rawls, “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine”

All Things In Time • Sony Music Entertainment • 1976 

Back in the day, everything that songwriter/production team Kenneth Gamble and Leon Huff touched turned into gold.  These Philly soul proponents are responsible for some of the very best R&B music of all-time.  In 1976, they linked up with the versatile, Grammy-winning baritone, Lou Rawls (1933 – 2006) for a timeless classic, “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine”. “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” appears as the second track off Rawls’ album, All Things In Time.  Silky smooth, natural, and totally unforced, “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” earned Rawls his sole top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. In fact, the record peaked at no. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, spending a total of 21 weeks on the chart.  

The theme of the song is straightforward – pretty simple.  She will NOT find a better, more caring, more dedicated lover than Lou Rawls, PERIOD! “Whoa, I’m not braggin’ on myself, baby,” he asserts in the pre-chorus, “But I’m the one who loves you / And there’s no one else!” Throughout the verses, he reminds her of specifics she won’t find with someone other than himself.  In the second verse, he sings, “You’ll never find the rhythm, the rhyme / All the magic we shared, just us two.” The centerpiece, of course, is the chorus, where the key lyric is, “You’re gonna miss my lovin’.” A lush backdrop, memorable songwriting, and sophisticated, nuanced vocals make the gold-certified “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine” truly epic.  Furthermore, the parent album earned a platinum plaque .  

Appears in :

• Lou Rawls, “You’ll Never Find Another Love Like Mine”: Throwback Vibez 63 (2023)

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13 More Dazzling NEVER Songs [: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Alamo, Atlantic, Columbia, RCA, Republic, Sony Music Entertainment, Steel Panther, Tappy Whyte’s Music / Merovingian Music Ltd., UMG Recordings; Daria Liudnaya from Pexels]

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