A Poppin’ Compendium of P Songs

Reading Time: 26 min read

A Poppin’ Compendium of P Songs features songs by Chappell Roan, Connie Francis, Def Leppard, Grant & Ash, Olly Alexander, and Sabrina Carpenter.

Ah, P, the 16^th letter of the alphabet! Following other alphabet playlists A through O (excluding I), A gets its time to shine on A Poppin’ Compendium of P Songs. Each of the 20 songs that appear on A Poppin’ Compendium of P Songs begins with a P-word. The only exception is A or THE preceding the P-word, etc. A Poppin’ Compendium of P Songs features songs by Chappell Roan (twice), Connie Francis, Def Leppard, Grant & Ash, Olly Alexander, and Sabrina Carpenter. So, without further ado, let us all embrace the power of P on A Poppin’ Compendium of P Songs!

The Alphabet Playlist Series 2025 🔻

21 Randomly Curated, Amazing A Songs (2025)

A Dazzling Drove of D Songs (2025)

A Gripping Cluster of G Songs (2025)

A Kool Kollection of K Songs (2025)

A Noteworthy Compendium of N Songs (2025)

A Buffet of Randomly Curated B Songs (2025)

An Epic Compendium of E Songs (2025)

A Heaping Dose of H Songs (2025)

A Laudable List of L Songs (2025)

An Outstanding Collection of O Songs (2025)

A Collection of Randomly Curated C Songs (2025)

A Fvckin’ Fantastic Bunch of F Songs (2025)

Jam Out To This Jampacked List of J Songs (2025)

A Marvelous Sampling of M Songs (2025)

A Poppin’ Compendium of P Songs (2025)

~ Table of Contents ~

1. Chappell Roan, “Pink Pony Club”	2. Maroon 5, “Priceless” (Ft. LISA)	3. Kim Petras, “Polo”	4. DeathbyRomy & Palaye Royale, “PRAY TO ME”
5. Sam Fender, “People Watching”	6. LU KALA, “Pretty Girl Era”	7. Grant & Ash, “Panera”	8. Rose Gray, “Party People”
9. Olly Alexander, “Polari”	10. Nessa Barrett, “PORNSTAR”	11. Lil Peep, “Praying to the Sky”	12. Sabrina Carpenter, “Please Please Please”
13. Perfume Genius, “Put Your Back N2 It”	14. Chappell Roan, “Picture You”	15. Natasha Bedingfield, “Pocketful of Sunshine”	*16. NSYNC, “Pop”**
17. Marvin Sapp, “Perfect Peace”	18. Def Leppard, “Pour Some Sugar On Me”	19. Eddie Murphy, “Party All The Time”	20. Connie Francis, “Pretty Little Baby”

1. Chappell Roan, “Pink Pony Club”

The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess » KRA International Inc. / Island / UMG Recordings, Inc. » 2023

“I know you wanted me to stay / But I can’t ignore the crazy visions of me in L.A.”

Understandable, considering Los Angeles is much more progressive than the South and much of the Midwest. Grammy-winning Pop singer/songwriter Chappell Roan (Kayleigh Rose Amstutz) continues singing in the first verse of “Pink Pony Club”, “And I heard that there’s a special place / Where boys and girls can all be queens every single day.” Yaasss, Queen 👸! The lesbian musician performed “Pink Pony Club,” the superb 11^th track from her Grammy-nominated debut LP, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, at the 67^th Annual GRAMMY Awards. “Pink Pony Club” dates back to 2020. Amstutz and producer Dan Nigro penned the gem, which reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100.

So, does this Pink Pony Club exist in real life? No, but the fictionalized gay bar is based on a gay bar where Chappell Roan visited in Santa Monica (The Abbey). In this escapist song, the protagonist wants to (and does) leave the South (Tennessee, specifically) for Santa Monica. But her aspirations won’t be well-received by Mama… The South is different (I know from experience). Despite what Mama thinks, Roan asserts, “Oh, Mama / I’m just having fun / On the stage in my heels, it’s where I belong.” That leads to the centerpiece, the chorus:

“Down at the

Pink Pony Club, I’m gonna keep dancing at the

Pink Pony Club, I’m gonna keep on dancing down in

West Hollywood, I’m gonna keep on dancing at the

Pink Pony Club, Pink Pony Club.”

West Hollywood is a prominent LGBTQ+ area 🏳️‍🌈. In the second verse, Roan’s character’s confidence is ‘through the roof.” She feels more comfortable, memorably asserting, “Every night’s another reason why I left it all.” Still, she has not forgotten where she came from: “Still love you [Mama] and Tennessee, you’re always on my mind.” Chappell Roan sings beautifully, bringing the memorable melodies to life. The production and sound of “Pink Pony Club” is awesome as well (keys, synths, groove, and a guitar solo). It is not surprising that this pop record caught the ears of the world.

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2. Maroon 5, “Priceless” (Ft. LISA)

Love Is Like » Interscope / 222 » 2025

Once upon a time, Maroon 5 was the shit. And by the shit, not only was the music poppin’, but so were the albums and singles on the charts. In 2025, Adam Levine and company returned with a new album, Love Is Like, to little fanfare. It debuted tepidly at number 36 on the Billboard 200. Eww! Gross for a band who, again, was the shit. The fifth track from Love Is Like, and the promo single “Priceless”, featuring Thai rapper and singer LISA, also made little noise on the pop charts, to the tune of peaking modestly at number 76 on the Billboard Hot 100. Not priceless with eight songwriters (including Levine and LISA), Federico Vindver, and Jacob Kasher produced it.

The sound of “Priceless” is sweet. The rhythmic guitar is a big part of the identity of the production. The drum groove is groovy! Also, adding to the allure are strings. Levine is the first voice heard. Following a brief intro, he introduces us to the chorus first, then sings the first verse. The chorus is tuneful: “Your body / I never seen anything like it / So take my money, don’t want it, no / It’s all I wanna do, yeah.” Um, sure! In the first verse, he fittingly asserts, “And if you break my heart / Then, baby, it was worth it still.” Priceless! LISA enters the mix in the second verse, initially rapping / talk-singing. The second half of her verse is pitched. She sings, “When you see me you’ll be like, ‘uh-huh’ (Uh-huh) / Turn around and you’ll be like, ‘Uh-huh’ (Uh-huh) / Baby, if I stay / Wanna hear you say…” “Baby, you’re priceless,” of course! Is “Priceless” by Maroon 5 and LISA priceless? It’s an enjoyable pop record with good vibes, but it doesn’t necessarily move the needle. Hard to see Maroon 5 reinvigorate things this far into their career, honestly.

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3. Kim Petras, “Polo”

“Polo” » Amigo / Republic » 2025

“I got them alligators left and right, uh / My Ralph Lauren, tight and teeny, let’s go.”

Lacoste? The polo is a key part of Kim Petras’ brief but fun song, “Polo”. The Grammy-winner co-wrote “Polo” with atlgrandma, Madison Love, and Nightfeelings (Nick Weiss). She co-produced alongside Margo XS and Nightfeelings. Lyrically, Petras has no shortage of striking moments. Beyond the first verse (excerpted earlier,” she drops a pair of gems in the second. “You wanna pull it with your teeth / Chow-chow,” she sings, adding, “Sweat dripping down my upper thigh (Polo) / You wanna hit it with that polo stick (Right).” Polo stick, eh? The chorus is the crème de la crème – the section to beat:

“You wanna get me out my polo shirt (uh-uh)

… My polo and my mini skirt (Uh-uh)

Titties poppin’ out my bra (Like wow)

You wanna throw that to the floor (Right now)

Slap that logo on my ass (Uh-uh)

Make that pony come in first (Right now).”

Petras exhibits plenty of attitude and personality as she sings about sex. As intriguing as her vocals are, the production slaps, too! Ambitious, sleek, and soaked in the hyperpop aesthetic, the instrumental is prime fuel for Petras’ fire. The beat and the malicious, sharp synths are everything! Kim puts her foot into “Polo”.

Appears in:

13 Rad Fitting, Clothing-Related Songs (2025)

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4. DeathbyRomy & Palaye Royale, “PRAY TO ME”

HOLLYWOOD FOREVER » DeathbyRomy » 2025

“Pray to me like Jesus / Worship me forever / When you’re at your weakest / I can be your savior.”

Ooh-wee, it’s giving heresy, DeathbyRomy (Romy Flores), and Palaye Royale! The singer and rock band collaborate on “PRAY TO ME”, the religious imagery-laden single and penultimate track from Romy’s 2025 album, HOLLYWOOD FOREVER. Flores co-wrote the heavy, minor-key cut with Ally Duesbury and AWAY (Dan Alm). AWAY, Midoca, and Omri are credited as producers. The sound of “PRAY TO ME” is one of its best attributes, blending traditional rock sounds with a sleek electronic palette. The love is dark in the hands of Romy and Palaye Royale vocalist Remington Leith.

DeathbyRomy performs the initial chorus (excerpted above), first verse, pre-chorus, and following chorus. With her powerful and expressive vocals and bold lyrics, she is unapologetic, setting the blasphemous tone. “Crucifix, three six, I’m a misfit / Blasphemous, plagued bitch with the sickness,” she sings in the first verse, adding, “Heaven’s Gate Kool-Aid when I’m mixin’.” In the pre-chorus, she asserts, “I’m your pain and I’m your pleasure / I’m the ode to your disaster.” Oh, snap! Palaye Royale (Remington) performs the second verse, continuing the blasphemy: “I bow down like a good disciple / Repent before me, I’ll show you the Bible.” They join forces in the pre-chorus, later singing collaboratively in the bridge (“Take my wings and tear them off / Tie my hands to the edge of the cross…”) and the epic final chorus, the first not sung exclusively by DeathbyRomy. An undisputed, hard-rocking bop, “PRAY TO ME” thrives thanks to strong vocal performances, hellish songwriting, tuneful melodies, and stellar production. Does repenting mean anything if you can’t resist listening to something blasphemous over and over? Haha.

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5. Sam Fender, “People Watching”

People Watching » Sam Fender / Universal Music Operations Limited » 2025

“I people-watch on the way back home / Envious of the glimmer of hope / Gives me a break from feeling alone / Gives me a moment out of the ego.”

Word, Sam Fender. The talented English singer/songwriter released “People Watching” ahead of his third studio album, People Watching. “People Watching” runs north of five minutes. Fender wrote the track, producing alongside Adam Granduciel, Joe Atkinson, and Dean Thompson.

The excerpted lyrics from the first verse speak to the quality of the songwriting. Sam remembers his ‘surrogate mother,’ a person who passed away, who meant a lot to him. The second verse, with its descriptive, poetic lyrics, speaks to the experience of the end of her life. “The poor nurse was around the clock / And the beauty of youth had left my breaking heart,” he sings, continuing, “But it wasn’t hard when you love someone / Oh, I stayed all night till you left this life ‘cause that’s just love.” Sam’s honesty and heart-on-sleeve approach to songwriting is admirable. Unsurprisingly, the chorus shines, even if it is the lyrics in the verses and bridge (“Kittywakes etched your initials in the sky”) that are most ear-catching. The chorus is high-energy. Fender sings authentically and beautifully. The driving pop/rock production perfectly suits this sincere remembrance track. The backdrop reminds me of Bruce Springsteen, one of his influences. The saxophone playing by Johnny “Blue Hat” Davis is fire! “People Watching” is a marvelous opening track from People Watching.

Appears in:

11 More Riveting Songs About People (2025)

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6. LU KALA, “Pretty Girl Era”

No Tears On This Ride » LVK / Amigo » 2025

“Yeah, I’m in my P.G.E., baby / Oh, yeah, oh, yeah / So glamorous.”

Congolese Canadian 🇨🇬🇨🇦 singer LU KALA is in her “Pretty Girl Era”! Exhibit A, the confident, pretty, and unforgettable chorus: “I don’t care, I’m in my pretty girl era / I’ma stare when I see myself in the mirror, oh-oh / ‘Tis the season, it’s that hottie time of the year / I don’t care, I’m in my pretty girl era / I don’t care.” Damn right she doesn’t care! “Pretty Girl Era” is the fifth track from her brief 2025 album, No Tears On This Ride. LU KALA co-wrote “Pretty” with Madison Love, Lukasz Gottwald (Dr. Luke), and Rocco Valdes.

“Pretty Girl Era” features a fabulous, danceable beat, fitting for a pretty girl! Overall, this pop cut is well-produced with Dr. Luke working behind the boards. The sound isn’t brand-new (Luke has been doing Luke things for a while), but it is highly effective with its sunny-sounding vibes. LU KALA sings confidently and brings plenty of personality to the track. She shines in the rhythmic, tuneful melodies during the verses. “Wake up gorgeous every morning / I’ma put a ring on it,” she sings in the first verse, adding, “Fourteen karats, horse and carriage / Cinderella, I’m that bitch.” Woo! In the second, she confidently asserts, “Giving sassy, giving body / Wanna give myself a bow,” adding, “Drippin’ head to toe / Sexy, yeah I know.” The chorus, highlighted earlier, is fabulous. Ultimately, “Pretty Girl Era” is a two-and-a-half-minute, surefire vibe. Yes, LU KALA is feeling herself, but in an empowering, positive way. There is nothing wrong with loving and uplifting yourself, particularly those of us ridden with self-esteem issues. Speak that pretty girl or pretty boy era into existence 🙌!

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7. Grant & Ash, “Panera”

A Twink and a Redhead (EP) » ATAARH » 2024

“Panera, Panera, got fucked in Panera.”

Say what, now?! “Panera, Panera, found love in Panera / Panera, Panera, gave birth in Panera / You pick two, but I pick you!” Oh, snap! Grant & Ash – Grant Gibbs and Ashley Gill – said it best themselves: “Name a more iconic duo than / A twink and a redhead”. The multifaceted duo is incredibly entertaining, highlighted by their brief, NSFW single, “Panera”. Panera isn’t the first spot that ‘comes’ to mind regarding sex, but, in the hands of Grant & Ash, they turn the delicious eatery into something even more delicious 🤤. Gibbs, Gill, and producer Drew Louis penned this far more risqué version of our beloved Panera Bread. “Panera” is the third track from the duo’s 2024 EP, A Twink and a Redhead.

Leading the charge is our favorite twink, Grant. Fittingly, he mentions a signature menu item, Broccoli cheddar soup in a bread bowl. Of course, Gibbs cares more about pleasure: “The man at the register asked me, ‘How’s your day?’ / I said pretty good, but I’m feeling kinda gay!” Uh-oh! Rather than a pick two, Grant tells him, “… I pick you.” From there, love is made somewhere in Panera… gay love at that! No worries, though – Ashley gets her lovin’ in, too! “Chicken Caesar salad, come and toss it, okay!” Holy shit! Like Grant, Ashley is asked questions: “The man at the table went and asked me, how’s it taste / I said pretty good, wanna come and lick my plate?” Come, huh? Lick my plate, huh? Do you remember when Ariana Grande sang those naughty lyrics in “Sweetener”, “I like the way you lick the bowl?” Ash is giving the same vibes 😈. Grant & Ash forever changed the perspective on the menu at Panera Bread. The most outlandish lyric on the bridge: “The longest baguette, give it to me faggot.” “Panera” is short, but this is a fierce, fun, and unapologetic sex song from Gibbs and Gill.

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8. Rose Gray, “Party People”

Louder Please » Play It Again Sam » 2025

“Party people love, and party people love / Party people always bring the best of us.”

East London singer Rose Gray ‘brings the heat’ with her electrifying “Party People”. She penned the fifth single and sixth track from her debut album, Louder, Please with Sur Back, and producer Sega Bodega. It commences with warm, rich, gooey pads that provide enticing ear candy – sugary sweet! During the intro, effects during the intro; they are pitch-shifted, setting the tone. Sega Bodega ‘puts in work’ behind the boards, crafting a sleek backdrop for Gray to sing upon.

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In the verse, we hear Rose’s natural voice… technically, there are still effects in play but no pitch shift. Gray expresses her desire for this person: “In the city of strangers, you’re the only one that I want, I want.” In the second verse, she outlines her yearning: “Take me back, take the love, take me tonight /… Trace my body like a work of art, let go and breathe.” Beyond her desire, the music mesmerizes and moves her, per the first verse: “I hear the 808 drums inside my mind as they hum.” The melody is tuneful during the verse –a sweet melodic contour at work. The chorus is the section to beat. Like the verses, it’s tuneful, with catching lyrics including a naughty but charming f-bomb:

“Party people live and party people love

Party people give and party people fuck

Party people always bring the best of us

Met you on a dance floor, what a metaphor.”

“Party People” is three-and-a-quarter minutes of fun. Rose Gray ‘brings the heat.’ Better yet, she brings the party!

Appears in:

11 More Riveting Songs About People (2025)

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9. Olly Alexander, “Polari”

Polari » Universal Music Operations Limited » 2025

“Tell me something / Say what you gotta say / Tell me something / Talk to me / Polari.”

Woo! Um, what you mean though, Olly Alexander (Years & Years)? Polari is described as the ‘lost language of gay men’. Understanding the meaning gives some context to the brief but intriguing single, “Polari”. Gay slang is the stuff, and Olly gives it a unique shout-out via song. Notably, David Bowie used Polari on “Girl Loves Me”, the fifth track from his final studio album, Blackstar. “Polari” is the opener from his 2025 album, Polari. Alexander penned “Polari” alongside producer Danny L Harle. The musical accompaniment is bright and ear-catching (Harle plays the instruments). Oh, the beauty of synthesizers!

The chorus, excerpted above, is the main attraction of “Polari.” As always, Olly Alexander sings beautifully with the voice of an angel. Beyond the chorus, there is a verse that provides a bit more insight. Insight might be an overstatement, but that wildness of the lyrics seems unpredictable intentionally:

“Everyone’s saying something

Like saying something is saying something

But they’re saying nothing ‘cause they got nothing

They’re just taking my time and taking my space.”

Word… I think! The big takeaway from the engaging “Polari”: S-P-E-A-K, and don’t let them take away your shine, time, or space! Three cheers for Polari!

Appears in:

Olly Alexander, Polari: Beaming with Pride No. 85 (2024)

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10. Nessa Barrett, “PORNSTAR”

AFTERCARE » Warner » 2024

“I wanna know what you’d do to me / I wanna put you on the tape.”

Damn, Nessa Barrett! There is an emphasis on D-O as in F-U-C-K! The sex-positivity is lit on “PORNSTAR”, the second track from her 2024 album, AFTERCARE. Barrett wants her partner to perform fiercely, to say the least. Characterizing them as a star, in the pre-chorus, she asserts, “Fuck me all night /… Show me who you are.” Yes, the sex is ‘kind of a big deal’ but Nessa hints at desiring more than physical pleasure. Still, when the chorus emphasizes a prolonged pronunciation of pornstar, the sexual desire is undeniable. Barrett, Jackson Lee Morgan, CJ Baran, Arthur Besna, and Madi Yanofsky penned “PORNSTAR.” Baran and Besna produced.

The songwriting isn’t deep – an understatement. In the second verse, Barrett sings, “I wanna hear you talking dirty / I wanna see it on your face / I wanna feel you put the work in / I wanna watch you entertain.” Sounds like moaning and an intense O-face to me. Audio and visuals are key! Even as invested as Barrett is regarding desire and intimacy, she sings coolly, barely breaking a sweat. Fittingly, Baran and Besna’s production encourages a highly sensual experience. The instrumental, like Barrett’s vocals, is coolly energetic. The rhythmic bass line is one of the best instrumental features. There have been far more risqué sex songs than “PORNSTAR”, but Barrett gets her point across ‘loud and clear.’

Appears in:

Nessa Barrett, PORNSTAR: Midnight Heat No. 95 (2024)

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11. Lil Peep, “Praying to the Sky”

Lil Peep; Part One » Death Note Music, LLC / AWAL Recordings America, Inc. » 2024

“You know it’s fucked when the pain feel nice.”

True, Lil Peep (Gustav Åhr, 1996 – 2017) – that is indeed, fucked. The intriguing rapper and singer was a talent gone too soon 😢. In 2015, Åhr self-released his first mixtape, Lil Peep; Part One. In 2024, it was re-released posthumously. Lil Peep; Part One begins with a superb, four-minute-long track, “Praying to the Sky”. Åhr admitted, “I was on acid when I made ‘Praying to the sky.’” At the time “Praying to the Sky” was originally released in 2015, Lil Peep was 18, shy of his 19^th birthday. He co-wrote “Praying to the Sky” with Eric Howden and producer, GREAF.

“Praying to the Sky” features a chill, enigmatic, yet moody instrumental. This backdrop perfectly complements Lil Peep’s musical approach and style. “Praying” radiates with cool energy. Peep delivers a captivating cadence and flow. It begins with the lengthy chorus, excerpted above. In this major section, he has plenty to say. “I’m tryna get you out my head tonight (Tonight) / I’m tryna get you out my fuckin’ life (Fuckin’ life, fight),” he raps, continuing, “Then we fucked, then she sucked me off twice / Then I left that bitch alone like I was right, fuckin’ right (Wrong).” Matters of the heart affect him, as does mental health and substance use (“I hear voices in my head, they tellin’ me to call it quit / I found some Xanax in my bed, I took that shit, went back to sleep”). There is a verse sandwiched between the two jam-packed choruses. His depression is troubling as he references cutting (“No, washin’ the blood from my wrist on the floor”), mortality (“Play this shit when they put me in a hole / For eternity, so they can reap what they sow”), and low self-esteem (“No, I don’t know what she be fuckin’ me for / Oh, I don’t know why you in love with me, ho”). An equally beautiful and depressing song, “Praying to the Sky” captures the giftedness and tragedy of a young artist who died as his career had just begun. “They gon’ miss me when I’m dead, I lay my head and rest in peace / I’m prayin’ to the sky, I don’t even know why, ayy.”

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12. Sabrina Carpenter, “Please Please Please”

Short n’ Sweet » Island » 2024

“I beg you, don’t embarrass me, motherfucker, oh / Please, please, please.”

Sabrina Carpenter followed up her surefire bop “Espresso” with the groovy, vibe-heavy song, “Please Please Please”, from her album, Short n’ Sweet (arrives August 23, 2024). “Please³” was written by Carpenter, Amy Allen, and Jack Antonoff. Besides his writing credit, Antonoff produced the bright, major-key cut featuring acoustic and electronic instruments/music cues. She drops the mf-bomb in the chorus, but otherwise keeps things clean. What is the premise of the song, and why does she call him a motherfucker? He’s sus! The ‘sus-ness’ occurs early on as Carpenter cites her belief in her judgment regarding men though others disagree. Also, she urges her then-boyfriend, an actor (*cough* Barry Keoghan), to “act like a stand-up guy / Whatever devil’s inside you, don’t let him out tonight.” How much of a liability is he? “Well, I have a fun idea, babe, maybe just stay inside,” she asserts in the second verse, adding, “And we could live so happily if no one knows that you’re with me.” Houston – rather, Sabrina – we have a problem! The chorus is the crème de la crème, with that ear-catching ‘mf’ line, continuing to encourage him to be on his best behavior. “Please Please Please” is pleasing to the ears because of great vocals by Carpenter, fabulous Antonoff production, tuneful melodies, and memorable songwriting.

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13. Perfume Genius, “Put Your Back N2 It”

Put Your Back N 2 It » Perfume Genius / Matador » 2012

“Put your back into it / There is still grace in this.”

What is there still grace in Perfume Genius (Mike Hadreas)? Intimacy and sex… as a gay man. Hadreas keeps the lyrics minimal but meaningful on “Put Your Back N2 It”. “Put Your Back N2 It” is the 10^th track from Perfume Genius’ 2012 album, also titled Put Your Back N 2 It. Of the album, Christina Lee penned in an article in The Fanzine in 2012:

Put Your Back insists that there’s grace in gay sex, and that his love, boiled down to its essence, is no different from anyone else’s love.

Eloquently stated. The out-and-proud musician approaches this song therapeutically, asserting there should NOT be shame regarding sexuality. He’s damn right.

The song title might be misleading. Without hearing the song or examining the lyrics, it suggests an aggressive sexual experience. Furthermore, when it comes to gay sex, it carries a negative connotation. It’s considered dirty, filthy, unnatural, etc. Perfume Genius paints a much different picture with his radiant pipes and the undeniable authenticity and sincerity of his performance. In the second verse, Hadreas asserts, “There is love with no hiding / Nothing you show me – I will never leave you.” Aww! The chorus, like the verses, is brief but potent: “Let me be the one to turn you on.” The musical accompaniment shimmers, led by the synthesizer of his partner, Alan Wyffels. “Put Your Back N2 It” is one of the most refined and gorgeous songs about intimacy you’ll ever hear. Homophobes be damned!

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14. Chappell Roan, “Picture You”

The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess » KRA International Inc. / Island » 2023

“Draw the blinds / Light every candle / Slip off my pretty dress down my chest.”

Ooh-la-la, Chappell Roan (Kayleigh Rose Amstutz) – it’s getting hot 🥵 in here! Amstutz released her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, in September 2023. The critically acclaimed LP ‘blew up’ thanks to bops like “HOT TO GO!” and “Pink Pony Club”. “Picture You”, the ninth track, is one of many bops from The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess. Amstutz and producer Dan Nigro penned the fabulous, sexy, retro-pop, compound duple ballad.

“Counting lipstick stains where you should be,” Chappell concludes the first verse memorably. The pre-chorus is even more memorable because it raises eyebrows: “Oh, I need you around / I’m getting close now.” Use your imagination 😈. Anyways, “Picture You” thrives off of tuneful melodies during the verses. The melody is most tuneful during the memorable, high-flying chorus where she asks:

“Do you picture me like I picture you?

Am I in the frame from your point of view?

Do you feel the same? I’m too scared to say

Half of the things I do when I picture you.”

Hmm, things she does, huh? Men are more notorious for it, but women do it too 😉 😈. The songwriting is engaging from the opening tip to the closing note. In the second verse, Chappell wants to know “all your perversions.” Spicy! Beyond strong lead vocals and memorable lyrics, Amstutz gets a lift from background vocals and a classy, refined musical backdrop. “Picture You” is sexy, ‘self-indulgent,’ and utterly sweet.

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15. Natasha Bedingfield, “Pocketful of Sunshine”

Pocketful of Sunshine » Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited » 2007

“I got a pocket, got a pocketful of sunshine / I got a love and I know that it’s all mine, oh, oh-oh.”

Indeed, Natasha Bedingfield, indeed. The British singer, who carved out success in the U.S. in the 2000s scored her second top-10 hit with “Pocketful of Sunshine”. It reached no. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, matching the peak of “Unwritten”. In the sunny first verse, Bedingfield continues singing, “Do what you want, but you’re never gonna break me / Sticks and stones are never gonna shake me, oh, oh-oh.” The positive vibes are lit 🔥! “Pocketful of Sunshine” was penned by Bedingfield, Danielle Brisebois, and producer John Shanks.

“Take me away (Take me away)

A secret place (A secret place)

A sweet escape (A sweet escape)

Take me away (Take me away).”

Ah, the beauty of escapism from toxicity is exemplified by the chorus. Fuego 🔥! The second verse of “Pocketful of Sunshine” is like the first, with Natasha asserting, “Wish that you could, but you ain’t gonna own me / Do anything you can to control me… / You can’t control me.” In the bridge, she describes her escape… wherever it is … Ultimately, Natasha Bedingfield slayed on this groovy, infectious pop joint. It’s not surprising that “Pocketful of Sunshine” was certified multiplatinum by the RIAA.

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**16. *NSYNC, “Pop”**

Celebrity » Zomba Recording LLC » 2001

“Dirty POP!”

Indeed, Justin Timberlake! “Pop” serves as the opening track from Celebrity, the 2001 studio album by boy band extraordinaire, *NSYNC. It commences Celebrity with a surefire bang. From start to finish, “Pop” is ear-catching, featuring gimmicky music cues and colorful sounds. Notably, it samples “Smartbomb” by BT, who produced it. Justin Timberlake and Wade Robson composed this pop song, which exhibited ample innovative spirit thanks to the variety of sounds and ideas utilized. *NSYNC had bigger hits, but “Pop” earned them another top-20, reaching number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100. Thematically, Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, and company asserted they’re more than the ‘pop life’ they are criticized for. “Sick and tired of hearin’ all these people talk about / ‘What’s the deal with this pop life / And when is it gonna fade out?’ Timberlake sings in the first verse, adding, “That thing you got to realize what we’re doing is not a trend.” In the chorus, *NSYNC further touts their craft:

“Do you ever wonder why

This music gets you high?

It takes you on a ride

Feel it when your body starts to rock.”

Chasez performs the second verse, keeping the same energy as his fellow hot, and talented bandmate (“Tired of feelin’ all around me animosity”). Ultimately, *NSYNC makes their point compellingly. While the collective faded, Timberlake has endured well beyond the ‘fad.’ “Pop” shines thanks to infectious, playful lyrics, fun vocal ad-libs, lovely vocal harmonies, and a beatboxing Timberlake at the end. A bop, a bop, a B-O-P!

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17. Marvin Sapp, “Perfect Peace”

Be Exalted » Zomba Recording LLC » 2000

“I will keep you in (Perfect Peace) / Perfect Peace / All who’s mind (Stayed on Me).”

Amen, Marvin Sapp, amen! The ‘I’ that the Grammy-nominated, Michigan-based gospel singer touts is God – The Most High! “Perfect Peace” is one of the most moving songs from Sapp’s inspirational catalog. The soulful gospel gem is the sixth track from his 2000 album, Be Exalted. “Perfect Peace” was written by Rudolph Stanfield, Jr.. Lushly produced (rhythm section, horns, and strings) with an ear-catching harmonic progression, this song provides musical and spiritual nourishment.

“Don’t you know that / (God will) / God will / (Make a way out of no way) / Out of no way.” Marvin Sapp shows off the sheer power and versatility vocally on “Perfect Peace.” He speaks to giving all the honor and glory to ‘Him,’ who provides that ‘perfect peace.’ “Stayed on Me / Remember the Earth is the Lord’s,” he sings, continuing, “And the fullness thereof / The whole world and thing that dwell therein.” Hallelujah! Assisted by beautiful choral vocals, Sapp and company sing:

“(He’s lifted all of my burdens

(All away) All away

Said He is

(He is the keeper of my soul)

The keeper, He is the keeper

Of my soul.”

A spirited Sapp ministers, “He’ll open doors no man can shut / He’ll be with you through the thick and thin / Yes He will.” “Perfect Peace” never grows old – it endures, endures, endures! Notably, Sapp performed this classic sensationally at his 2025 NPR Tiny Desk Concert.

Appears in:

Marvin Sapp, Perfect Peace: Music Lifts No. 9 (2025)

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18. Def Leppard, “Pour Some Sugar On Me”

Hysteria » Bludgeon Riffola Limited / Mercury » 1987

“Step inside / Walk this way / You and me, babe / Hey, hey!”

Hey, hey, indeed! English rock band Def Leppard dropped a surefire rock juggernaut with “Pour Some Sugar On Me”. “Pour Some Sugar On Me” is the fifth track from the band’s massively popular, diamond-certified, fourth studio album, Hysteria, released in 1987. “Sugar,” of course, ranks among Def Leppard’s most beloved and renowned songs. It peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100. That’s not kind of a big deal, that IS a big deal! In 2025, the single was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America. Hell yeah, rock on 🤘! Def Leppard (Joe Elliott, Phil Collen, Steve Clark, Richard Savage, and Rick Allen) penned “Sugar” alongside producer Robert John Lange.

“Pour Some Sugar on Me” features a distinct, personality-laden spoken introduction, excerpted earlier. The tone is set! Beyond the stirring intro, Joe Elliott delivers plenty of assertive, playful lead vocals. “Love is like a bomb, baby, come, get it on,” he sings in the first verse, adding the likes of, “Livin’ like a lover with a radar phone,” “Demolition woman, can I be your man?”, and “Sometime, anytime, sugar me sweet / Little miss innocent sugar me, yeah.” Oh, snap! The vibes are similar in the second verse are sweet, too! “Sweet dream, saccharine, loosen up.” Word. Of course, the centerpiece is the big, anthemic, stadium chorus:

“Pour some sugar on me

Ooh, in the name of love

Pour some sugar on me

Come on, fire me up

Pour your sugar on me

Oh, I can’t get enough.”

Joe doesn’t stop there, either. In the post-chorus, he’s “hot, stick sweet,” while in the bridge, he naughtily states, “You got the peaches, I got the cream,” later asking, “Do you take sugar? / One lump or two.” Woo!

Interestingly, the verses are based on the key of C#, which is the relative minor key of E, on which the chorus is based. However, something that makes “Pour Some Sugar On Me” distinct is the fact that Def Leppard plays with C# major, which makes the switch to E major in the chorus feel unexpected. Beyond the powerful singing, unforgettable lyrics, and thought-provoking harmonic scheme/music theory 🤓, “Pour Some Sugar On Me” shines instrumentally. Rick Allen serves up mammoth-like drums that hit you right in the chest. Phil Collen and Steve Clark bring it with their mean-sounding, souped-up guitars. The riffs kick ass and take names. “Pour Some Sugar On Me” is a classic through and through. It’s a crowd-pleasing rock joint that never grows old or stale. Hard to believe that a band as iconic as Def Leppard has never received a Grammy nomination 👀. Let that sink in…

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19. Eddie Murphy, “Party All The Time”

How Could It Be » Sony Music Entertainment Inc. » 1985

“Girl, I can’t understand it, why you want to hurt me / After all of the things I’ve done for you.”

Oh, snap, Eddie Murphy! The actor and comedian had a short-lived musical career as shocking as that sounds. “And still, you hang out all night / What am I to do?” he asks on his most successful single, “Party All the Time”. “Party All the Time” is the fifth track from his 1985, gold-certified, ‘musical’ debut album, How Could It Be Us. “Party” peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100. It was certified platinum by the RIAA. Notably, the late, great Rick James (1956 – 2004) wrote and produced the biggest hit of Murphy’s short-lived musical career. James also contributes vocally.

There are elements of “Party All the Time” that are awesome. It benefits from its infectious groove, pulsating bass line, and bright, ear-catching synths. The sound is idiomatic of the 1980s. After an extended intro, Murphy begins singing 45 seconds in. He sounds respectable but his voice isn’t particularly distinct per se. Arguably, Murphy sounds stronger singing in his Academy Award-nominated role as James “Thunder” Early in Dreamgirls. Regardless of the strength of his vocals on “Party,” the chorus is the section to beat:

“My girl wants to party all the time

Party all the time

Party all the time.”

Classic. “Party All the Time” isn’t a song that necessitates deep analysis – it is what it is. Interestingly, it has received its fair share of criticism. It’s not far-fetched to characterize the song as cringeworthy. But “Party All the Time” is endearing, fun cringe, if you will. Just missing the number one spot on the pop charts is no fluke.

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20. Connie Francis, “Pretty Little Baby”

Connie Francis Sings Second Hand Love & Other Hits » UMG Recordings Inc. » 1962

“Pretty little baby, you say that maybe / You’ll be thinkin’ of me and try to love me.”

Amazingly, “Pretty Little Baby” became an unexpected hit 63 years after its release in 1962. Although this beloved Connie Francis (1937 – 2025) gem wasn’t released as a single, it experienced a significant resurgence thanks to TikTok. Francis learned about the virality of her single before she passed away on July 17, 2025, making its newfound popularity even more special. “Pretty Little Baby” appeared on her 1962 album, Connie Francis Sings Second Hand Love & Other Hits. The song was written by Bill Nauman and Don Stirling and produced by Jim Vienneau and Norro Wilson.

“Pretty Little Baby” is charming because of its innocence and simplicity. The instrumental is clean and uncluttered yet potent, fueling Connie’s vocal fire. She delivers a cool and relaxed performance with nuanced and playful vocals. The lyrics are memorable, while the melodies are tuneful from start to finish. Both easily get stuck in your head. In the verse, Connie sings, “You can ask for flowers, I sit for hours,” and continues, “Tellin’ all the bluebirds, the bill and coo birds / Pretty little baby, I’m so in love with you.” Exceptional background vocals support her lead, further amplifying the listening experience. Beyond the verse, the chorus is exceedingly pretty, too: “Don’t you know it’s much more fun to love / While the heart is young and gay?” Gay in this context, in the early ‘60s, meant happy. “Pretty Little Baby” doesn’t require extensive analysis. This vibe-laden classic speaks volumes without needing verbose commentary.