A Riveting Collection of R Songs | Playlist

A Riveting Collection of R Songs features songs by Amy Winehouse, Artemas, GIVĒON, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, and LISA.

Ah, R, the 18^th letter of the alphabet! Following other alphabet playlists A through Q (excluding I), R gets its time to shine on A Riveting Collection of R Songs. Each of the 21 songs that appear on A Riveting Collection of R Songs begins with an R-word.  The only exception is A or THE preceding the R-word, etc. A Riveting Collection of R Songs features songs by Amy Winehouse, Artemas, GIVĒON, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, and LISA. So, without further ado, let us all embrace the power of R on A Riveting Collection of R Songs!

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~ Table of Contents ~

1. Amy Winehouse, “Rehab”	2. GIVĒON, “RATHER BE”	3. LISA, “Rockstar”	4. GloRilla, “RAIN DOWN ON ME”
5. Biscuit Beats, “Rubbin’ One Out”	6. Muni Long, “Ruined Me”	7. Eddie Benjamin, “RUN!”	8. HAIM, “Relationships”
9. Artemas, “ride me darling”	10. Ciara, “Run It Up” (Ft. BossMan Dlow)	11. Jeffrey Chan, “Run That Mouth”	12. Gracie Abrams, “Risk”
13. Usher & Pheelz, “Ruin”	14. Gallipony, “Rather Be Lonely” (Ft. Brandon Flynn & DJ Failure)	15. Benedict Cork, “Reasons I Loved You (I Can’t Think of One)”	16. Pablo Brooks, “Risk”
17. Emi Larraud, “Religion Tonight”	18. Hoobastank, “The Reason”	19. The B-52’s, “Rock Lobster”	20. The Spinners, “Rubberband Man”
21. Gwen McCrae, “Rockin’ Chair”		The Alphabet Playlist Series 2025

 

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1. Amy Winehouse, “Rehab”

Back to Black » Universal Island Records Ltd. » 2006

It doesn’t sound right, but the late, great Amy Winehouse (1983 – 2011) was a one-hit wonder.  Say what?! Her 2006 album, Black to Black, is a masterpiece – one of the best albums of the 2000s. The retro-soul set is filled with ‘hits’ that didn’t impact the pop charts.  Surprisingly, Winehouse only charted three songs on the pop charts. “Rehab” marked her only top 40 hit. It peaked at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100.  It was certified platinum by the RIAA. “Rehab” was written by Winehouse and produced by Mark Ronson.

There are so many reasons why “Rehab” is the sugar, honey iced tea.  First and foremost, Amy Winehouse was a once-in-a-generation talent.  Her voice was distinct; she sounded throaty yet oozed with soul.  The first time you heard Amy, you knew exactly who it was. Beyond the voice, the songwriting is authentic and honest.  Her substance abuse is front-and-center from the jump, the memorable yet troubling chorus:

“They tried to make me go to rehab, but I said, ‘No, no, no’

Yes, I’ve been black, but when I come back, you’ll know, know, know

I ain’t got the time and if my daddy thinks I’m fine

He’s tried to make me go to rehab, but I won’t go, go, go.”

Those lyrics and that infectious, tuneful melody still give chills.  Also, they sadden you knowing that ultimately, Winehouse died from alcohol poisoning at just 27 years old in 2011.  Throughout, Amy cries foul regarding getting clean via rehab.  “I’d rather be home with Ray,” she sings in the first verse, and adds, “I ain’t got seventy days.” In the second verse, she asserts, “I’m gonna, I’m gonna lose my baby / So, I always keep a bottle near.” Yikes! In the third and final verse, her drinking appears to be a coping mechanism.  She refuses to show the façade or illusion of betterment (“I’m not gonna spend ten weeks / Have everyone think I’m on the mend”).  Beyond the electrifying voice and candid songwriting, the music fuels the excellence of “Rehab.”  The sounds are vintage – old-school to the nth degree.  Real instruments, not synthesized instruments, accompany Winehouse.  When “Rehab” arrived, it sounded like nothing else on the radio.  The retro-soul of “Rehab” hits different. The rhythm section cooks while the horns bite, particularly the nostalgic sounds of baritone sax holding it down. Woo! Amy Winehouse is a one-hit wonder, but it almost feels reductive to label her that way.  Regardless, this song is a classic for the ages, and also a cautionary tale.

Appears in:

Amy Winehouse, Rehab: 1 Hit WONDERful No. 20 (2025)

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2. GIVĒON, “RATHER BE”

BELOVED  » Epic / Not So Fast LLC » 2025

Eyebrow-raising lyrics, GIVĒON (Giveon Evans).  The titular lyrics aren’t easy to figure out on this one, as the Grammy-nominated R&B artist sings them a lot. “RATHER BE” is the second single from Evans’s 2025 album, BELOVED.  “RATHER BE” hearkens back to the soul of old.  The neo-soul sound suits GIVĒON perfectly.  There is a rhythm section, including organ, woodwinds, brass, and strings.  “RATHER BE” features nine songwriting credits, including the artist as well as the five producers, Matthew Burnett, Sevn Thomas, Jahaan Sweet, Maneesh Bidaye, and Jeff Gitty Gitelman.

With beautiful sounds accompanying him, it is unsurprising that GIVĒON delivers a gorgeous vocal performance.  His voice is distinct, given its depth, and he impresses with his expressiveness and tone. Although he sings with ease, he still packs a mean punch. Evans also gets a lift from radiant background vocals.  Throughout “RATHER BE,” GIVĒON reiterates his reluctance to move on. He is emotionally attached and won’t let go.  His vulnerability shines brightly in the second verse, where he sings, “Now I’m in this room / Wishin’ you would settle down or come around / I’ve been dancin’ to all the songs that you love all alone / Lost in the dark /… When I see your face in my phone, I can’t erase the memory.” My, my, my.  Ultimately, “RATHER BE” has a hypnotic quality – it sucks you in.  That is sort of what has happened to GIVĒON regarding his ex, right? This ‘old-school’ approach suits his voice well.

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3. LISA, “Rockstar”

Alter Ego » RCA » 2025

 

LISA comes in piping hot on “Rockstar”, a single from her debut album, Alter Ego. Although the Thai musician exemplifies the rockstar in the single, the sound is a mix of electronic, hip-hop, and pop.  The BLACKPINK standout raps and sings, making an engaging and satisfying listening experience. “Rockstar” features sickening synths and a hard-hitting beat. Ryan Tedder and Sam Homaee produced a fierce, badass backdrop. Likewise, LISA is badass, bringing attitude from the jump.  After setting the tone with the infectious, rapped chorus, LISA finds her pitch, singing the pre-chorus. “Been on a mission, boy, they call me catch-and-kill / I’m stealing diamonds, make them chase me for the thrill.” Word! After another iteration of the unforgettable chorus and a post-chorus (“I’m a rockstar, I’m a rockstar / It’s not hype, hype, baby, make you rock-hard”), she drops the rapped verse that goes HARD (“Dippin’ outta big cities like a ponzu / It’s a fast life, it’s an attitude”).  Running just about two minutes and 20 seconds, “Rockstar” is a BOP.  The songwriting on this musical flex isn’t game-changing, but the vocals, production, and attitude are on fire.

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4. GloRilla, “RAIN DOWN ON ME”

GLORIOUS » CMG / Interscope » 2024

Grammy-nominated, “Queen of Memphis”, GloRilla, raised eyebrows for a different reason than her profanity-laced, unapologetic rhymes: she won the Best Inspirational Award at the 2025 BET Awards 😳 😮! The gospel purists had their panties in a wad a lot to say, creating some captivating conversation.  GloRilla collaborates with gospel musicians on “RAIN DOWN ON ME”, the eighth track from her mostly 🤭 secular album, GLORIOUS.  “RAIN DOWN ON ME” features Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, and Chandler Moore.  Unsurprisingly, there are many songwriters, while NVRMIND, Major Seven, Muzikman, and Kingbnjmn are among the producers.

“RAIN DOWN ON ME” is inspirational. Lyrically and thematically, it is uplifting.  GloRilla gives praise to God in the way she knows how, you might say.  That includes maintaining her distinct cadence and flow. “Feelin’ like I’m God’s favorite, and that’s the best feeling ever / Rain down on me, Father God, I won’t use an umbrella,” she raps in the first verse, adding, “Forgive the ones who play with me, apparently, they don’t know no better / At times, I don’t know who to trust, I randomly rebuke the devil.” Near the end of the verse, she adds, “You ain’t have to do it, but You did, that’s why I thank You, Lord.”  In the first chorus, the choir, with Franklin and Chandler Moore, gospelize, petitioning the Lord to “Let the blessings /… Rain down on me.” In the bridge, a humble GloRilla characterizes herself as a sinner, but seeks God’s mercy (“And if any blessing-blockers ‘round me, help me cut them / In Jesus name”).  Kierra Sheard takes the reins in the second verse.  Sheard, of course, is a contemporary gospel artist through and through.  No controversy here, right? “Mama ain’t call you Glo for no reason (Reason) / Go on and Glo it up, girl, it’s ya season.” Well…   There is a vamp, focused on the showering of blessings, a final chorus, and unsurprisingly, an outro by you-know-who, Kirk Franklin! “Oh, you don’t have to be perfect, no / You can come with your mistakes… / That don’t disqualify you from getting a blessing / Hallelujah.”  So, what are the last words that GloRilla leaves us with in the outro? An “On the gang,” mixed in the background, affirms Franklin’s sermon. “RAIN DOWN ON ME” is inspirational, but not a gospel or inspirational performance of old.  Still, it goes out of the rapper’s bold, secular comfort zone… There isn’t a swear word in sight!

Appears in:

GloRilla, RAIN DOWN ON ME: Music Lifts No. 25 (2025)

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5. Biscuit Beats, “Rubbin’ One Out”

“Rubbin’ One Out” » Crusty » 2024 

Man, oh, man! Biscuit Beats, you AI song makers, please, tell us why she won’t oblige? “She used to hawk tuah right on my thang / But she stopped when I gave her that wedding ring.” There is the proof, folks, that marriage ruins everything, particularly oral sex… or so Biscuit Beats asserts in this ‘take it with a grain of salt’ country AI song. “Rubbin’ One Out” is outlandish to the nth degree.  That, my friends, is a big part of the charm of the song. The lyrics are absurd in this trashy country music song.  Summing it up, “Rubbin’ One Out” is a masturbation song. Because our nameless narrator can’t get any from his wife (“Nobody told me that her mouth retired”), he’s resorting to “moanin’ at the top of my lungs.” Given the excess self-pleasuring, his hand is, unsurprisingly, tired.  It also shouldn’t surprise you that this trashy country song finds him “humping the couch and the washing machine” because “No matter what I do, she won’t suck this meat.” Jesus! Honestly, “Rubbin’ One Out” doesn’t need extensive analysis. It doesn’t need any analysis… It should be taken with a grain of salt, like so many shocking AI songs.

Appears in:

Biscuit Beats, Rubbin’ One Out: Midnight Heat No. 36 (2025) 13 Outstanding O-U-T Out Songs (2025)

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6. Muni Long, “Ruined Me”

Revenge » Supergiant / Def Jam » 2024 

Uh-oh! It’s given a heaping dose of heartbreak. Muni Long (Priscilla Renae) is ruined regarding L-O-V-E on her marvelous single, “Ruined Me”.  “Ruined Me” appears on the Grammy winner’s sophomore album, Revenge (arrives August 30, 2024).  Renae penned “Ruined Me” with producers Jeff “Gitty” Gitelman and Kevin Theodore. The backdrop sounds classic, dramatic, and modern.  The soulful vibes are amplified. Throughout “Ruined Me,” Long shows off her big, commanding, and powerful voice. She sings expressively and pours her all into the song. “I won’t pretend I was perfect / Like I don’t deserve / Some of this hurt,” she asserts in the second verse, adding, “Whoever might try to love me next / Is gon’ have a time.” Oh, snap! She makes you feel her pain and the ruin! The section to beat, unsurprisingly, is the chorus.

“After you (You), I’ll probably never love again (Never love)

This kind of heartbreak don’t ever end (Baby)

Baby, you ruined me.”

“Ruined Me” is top-notch.  Strong, heartfelt vocals, honest, relatable songwriting, and sleek, characteristic R&B production make this a surefire bop.

Appears in:

Bops That Pop: August 2024 15 More Songs Focused Only on Me (2024)

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7. Eddie Benjamin, “RUN!”

HOME (EP) » Epic » 2025

Sex songs don’t have to be forever long. Australian singer/songwriter Eddie Benjamin keeps his sex song, “RUN!”, brief.  Despite the brevity, matters of the bedroom and the heart are the modus operandi.  “We’re tangled up in the sheets, but you’re drifting away,” he sings in the first verse. Oh, snap! He continues, “We keep recording to tape, and you love pushing play / Do you remember the first time you kissed me?” Word! Benjamin wrote and produced “RUN!” alongside Alex Salibian.

“RUN!” gets a sensual-sounding pop/rock backdrop. Not only do we get some sick guitar sounds, but also some ear-catching synths and a robust bass line. Eddie ‘tears it up’ with his awesome, nuanced, falsetto vocals. His voice sounds incredibly pure.  He sells those suggestive, love-oriented lyrics like a champ.  The verses feature tuneful melodies, articulated by that scintillating high tenor. Per Eddie in the second verse, “We’re drowning in our own spit, got you gasping for air / It’s psychological warfare of love.” Damn, Daniel, rather, damn, Eddie! The crowning achievement – the crème de la crème – is the chorus, also tuneful and rhythmic:

“Run, run, you run away?

When our love’s brighter than the sun

Don’t run away

From our love

Much better when you don’t

Run, run, you run away

When our love’s brighter than the sun

Don’t run away

From our love

It’s better when we’re one, yeah.”

Eddie Benjamin made two minutes and two seconds sound incredibly sweet.  “RUN!” is a sensual pop song that you won’t want to run away from!

Appears in:

Eddie Benjamin, RUN!: Midnight Heat No. 41 (2025)

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8. HAIM, “Relationships”

I quit » Haim Productions Inc. / Columbia » 2025 

Word.  Grammy-nominated alternative sister trio HAIM (Danielle Haim, Este Haim, and Alana Haim) is talking about “Relationships” in 2025.  “Relationships,” the third track from their album, I quit, is a bop from the get-go.  Beyond the spoken word intro (excerpted above), it thrives off unique production courtesy of Danielle Haim, Rostam (Rostam Batmanglij), and Buddy Ross. Among the ear-catching sounds are hip-hop scratches, a sickening groove (drum programming), a robust bass line, and a warm keyboard.  The sound is a key part of the success of “Relationships” without question.  Beyond the superb instrumental, the singing and lyrics stand out on “Relationships.”  “Relationships, oh / What’s all this talk about relationships,” Danielle asserts in the first verse.

By the memorable chorus, some salty language intensifies the sentiment:

“Baby, how can I explain

When an innocent mistake

Turns into seventeen days? Fuckin’ relationships.”

Damn… or better yet, FUCK! Speaking of ‘fuck,’ another bomb appears in the second verse: “I’ve been averse to conflict / But you really fucked with my confidence.” Oh, snap! Potty mouth aside, “Relationships” thrives off its sweet, rhythmic melodies and gorgeous upper-register vocals. Danielle’s tone is sweet. HAIM ‘put in work’ on this highly enjoyable bop, PERIOD!

Appears in:

Bops That Pop: Jan, Feb & March 2025

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9. Artemas, “ride me darling”

yustyna » Artemas » 2024

Of course, you can, Artemas (Artemas Diamandis).  It doesn’t take rocket science to figure out what the English Cypriot singer, songwriter, and producer is encouraging her to DO 😈. “Fixing these scars / Fuck away the pain in your heart,” he continues singing in the intro and eventual chorus. “Ride me darling”, the eighth track from the mixtape, yustyna, keeps things brief, running about a minute and a half in duration. Diamandis penned and produced “ride” with Kevin White. “Ride me darling” is a surefire vibe. Why? The sound of the record is a prime reason.  It is groovy.  Also, the instrumental backdrop is colorful – the beat, synths, and the bass synth. Diamandis’ vocals stand out.  They are playful and filled with effects.  Of course, what Artemas sings is enticing because it’s often sexually charged.  “You know, you got me tweaking every single night,” he sings in the verse, adding, “You got this sickness in my mind last night.” He admits to “getting nervous in myself,” asking her to “Just put your arms around it.” It, huh? Hmm 🤔.  In the outro, the theme is similar – fucking the pain away:

“Look me in the face

I’m losin’ control, mm, put your legs, ooh

Fuck away the pain in your heart.”

Albeit brief, “ride me darling” marks another fabulous moment from yustyna. Artemas conveys his emotions and his horniness 😈.

Appears in:

Artemas, ride me darling: Midnight Heat 🕛 🔥 No. 61 (2024) 15 More Songs Focused Only on Me (2024)

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10. Ciara, “Run It Up” (Ft. BossMan Dlow)

CiCi » Beauty Marks Entertainment, Inc. » 2025

Woo! Grammy-winning R&B/hip-hop artist Ciara (Ciara Harris) brings the heat on “Run It Up”.  She enlisted Florida rapper BossMan Dlow (Devante McCreary) to assist in the banger. The enjoyable song was written by Harris, McCreary, Courtlin Jabrae, and Theron Thomas. Harris, Jabrae, J. R. Rotem, and Andy D. Park produced. “Run It Up” is turned up from the beginning with the energetic instrumental intro and “ohs” sung by Ciara. Set in a minor key, it features a banging beat and malicious minor-key synths. Its rhythm is among the best features. Following the repetitive chorus highlighting the titular lyric “Run it Up,” BossMan Dlow drops the first verse.  What makes it interesting is his unique flow.  Lyrically, he doesn’t offer much depth, unless you consider the likes of, “You with a boss now, bae, let’s have sex on a yacht” to be deep.  Ciara keeps it hella agile and rhythmic during the second verse. “No matter how many points I put up on the board / Just believe me, you know they gon’ hate,” she asserts, adding, “I’m in a league of my own, I’m a wife, I’m a mom / I go pick up my kids in a Wraith.” Word.  She also drops a rad bridge: “Get back up when they knock you down /… You on a whole ‘nother level now.” “Run It Up” is a certified vibe.

Appears in:

Bops That Pop: August 2024 13 Songs That Explore It, Vol. 4 (2025)

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11. Jeffrey Chan, “Run That Mouth”

Boys Like Us (EP) » Jeffrey Chan » 2025

Of course, who wouldn’t wanna get with you, Jeffrey Chan 😍? Talking shit with you would be the shit, and we could both “Run That Mouth”. “Run That Mouth” is the fourth and penultimate track from Chan’s 2025 EP, Boys Like Us. Beyond shit-talking, mostly unpitched, mind you, Chan continues, “Yeah, you really wanna spill the tea / Love hard, make out, wanna play for keeps / Ooh, we vibin’, next min we’re tryin’ / Clothes off and smiling / Now you’re out here lying.” Ooh-wee, that talking shit elevated quick, quick, quick!

The best way to describe “Run That Mouth” is fun, fun, fun.  From the jump, this is a bop. Jeffrey Chan brings the heat, dropping the mouthy bars with attitude, confidence, and surefire fierceness. Slay 💅! While many of us boys are envious of the position of said guy cozying up to our Jeffrey 🥰, he sees through the BS. “Sweet lies, snake eyes, now it’s clear to me,” Chan asserts, adding, “One night hot, desiring / Close, then cold, not buying / Now you’re out here lying.” Damn, Jeff! He goes on to drop the centerpiece of the song, the chorus.

“I’ve been loving you long time

You talking sweet, and you looking fine

You run that mouth on my behind

Talking shit all the damn time.”

Wait a minute, can we run it back to that You run that mouth on my behind lyric?  Say what, now?! 🤭 The double entendre feels legit as you listen and read what Chan adds with the likes of blew my mind, etc. Of course, again, this man is “Talking shit all the damn time,” and it continues in the second verse. He’s all over the place! At the end, Jeffrey caps things off with, “Now boys like us talk all the time / I guess we wanna speak our mind.” Backed by an irresistible dance beat and badass, club-ready synths, Jeffrey Chan can talk all the shit he wants to. “Run That Mouth”, you handsome, talented Los Angeles-based 📍, Aussie-bred 🇦🇺 musician! Dancing is inevitable on this one! 

Appears in:

Jeffrey Chan, Run That Mouth: Beaming with Pride 🏳️‍🌈 No. 59 (2025)

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12. Gracie Abrams, “Risk”

The Secret of Us » Gracie Abrams / Interscope » 2024

Why, Gracie Abrams! She adds in the first verse of her single, “Risk”, “Know you had a girl, but it didn’t work out / Know you bought a house, but you had to move out / and I’m not proud.” So, Abrams is trying to ‘force’ the romantic issue on “Risk.” It’s a risk of making him fall for it. Where there is no risk is the makings of a captivating pop song.  Love and all the things we as humans do for love always yield an ear-catching listen.  “Risk” is the second track from Abrams’s sophomore album, The Secret of Us. Abrams penned it with Audrey Hobert and produced it with Aaron Dessner.

There are plenty of positives regarding “Risk.” The songwriting is engaging. The chorus is memorable, as to be expected in a pop song:

“God, I’m actually invested

Haven’t even met him

Watch this be the wrong thing, classic

God, I’m jumpin’ in the deep end

It’s more fun to swim in

Heard the risk is drowning, but I’m gonna take it.”

Haven’t even met him, Gracie? WTF? In the second verse, she’s “Holding my breath like I met someone / Knowing damn well that I haven’t been touched by you.” Damn! The narrative is intriguing.  The melodic lines in the verses and the chorus are strong.  The sound of the record is strong too, with driving rhythm guitars carrying the groove.  Abrams sings with an undertone initially, packing more of a punch in the chorus.  The chorus is fuller, instrumentally and vocally. The second iteration of the chorus is more pronounced than the first, with Abrams’ vocals in the forefront. Gracie makes you feel what she’s singing about on “Risk”, which is a major selling point.

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13. Usher & Pheelz, “Ruin”

Coming Home » mega / gamma. » 2024

Usher sings on “Ruin” from his ninth studio album, Coming Home. On “Ruin,” Usher is assisted by Nigerian singer, songwriter, and producer Pheelz, who produces and lends his vocals as well. “Ruin” sounds sweet to the ears thanks to its smooth sounds. The groove is chill and relaxed.  It sounds fresh yet also fits the ‘grown and sexy vibe’ for Usher, who is in his mid-40s. His vocals are as smooth as the instrumental.  He sings with incredible warmth, flaunting his radiant tone.  The lyrics capture the ruin he’s experienced thanks to her. In the chorus, he asserts:

“Wake up in the mornin’

A different girl be on my line

Constantly be callin’ every day, I still decline

See? This is exactly what you did

You ruined me for everybody.”

Notably, after the second verse, the second chorus finds Usher singing more dynamically.  After the centerpiece, the post-chorus shines too with its rhythmic nature and sensational vocal production (“Bye-bye, good riddance for the last time / So you can try, try, maybe get it right next time…”). Notably, Pheelz performs the first half of the second verse, contrasting and complementing Usher. “Ruin” is a winner.

Appears in:

Bops That Pop: February 2024 40 Best Songs of 2024 (So Far)

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14. Gallipony, “Rather Be Lonely” (Ft. Brandon Flynn & DJ Failure)

“Rather Be Lonely” » Gallipony » 2025 

Gallipony (Matt Gallipoli) asserts in his minor-key pop single, “Rather Be Lonely”.  As the title suggests, the incredibly handsome musician would rather be lonely than be with ‘him’ anymore.  Gallipoli gets a lift from gorgeous actor Brandon Flynn and DJ Failure.  Gallipony penned and produced “Rather Be Lonely” with Flynn and DJ Failure.  The results are positive despite Gallipoli’s willingness to be lonely. The sound of “Rather Be Lonely” is one of many selling points.  The synths are warm, anchored by a sickening, dance-pop groove. Gallipony serves up beautiful vocals, flaunting his lovely tone. Reiterating his handsomeness, the accompanying music video shows us the muscular, hairy specimen in all his glory. Hot! Note: the single cover art is hot too! Adding to the eye candy is Flynn, who graces the video as Gallipoli’s lover (or ex…).  Notably, he delivers a dramatic, spoken-word interlude: “And all these faggots just kept dancing / Where’s your fucking decency / What’s wrong? / You suck my dick, that’s what’s wrong.” Oh, snap! The tension between these two hotties is, well, hot! Ultimately, “Rather Be Lonely” is a fabulous, gay 🌈 dance-pop bop. Gallipony, Brandon Flynn, and DJ Failure ‘bring the heat!’ 

Appears in:

Bops from 2025 That Make You Beam with Pride

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15. Benedict Cork, “Reasons I Loved You (I Can’t Think of One)”

Notes on a Hopeless Romance » Benedict Cork » 2024 

Well, damn! English singer/songwriter Benedict Cork ‘comes out swinging’ on the marvelous “Reasons I Loved You (I Can’t Think of One)”, a single from his 2024 album, Notes on a Hopeless Romance. His lead vocals are radiant, characterized by ample expression and nuance.  In the intro – the eventual chorus – he gets a lift courtesy of locked-in background vocals.  He continues singing, “The bad came so easy, when I think of the reasons, I want ya, I can’t even think of one.” Word! The songwriting earns high marks, courtesy of Cork and Martin Luke Brown.  Driving the narrative is those pesky matters of the heart. “You were kind, and I was young, how was I supposed to know? / I thought I was a fool to let you go,” Benedict sings in the first verse, later adding, “You were cruel, manipulating, every move we made / And I took it for love, it’s such a shame / Now I feel like a fool over again.” Love will make you do some stuff.  Cork arrives at his senses, something captured superbly.  Beyond the lyrics, the melodies are tuneful in the verses and the centerpiece, the chorus.  The instrumental also earns high marks, particularly the warmth of the keys – that organ is epic! Cork produces alongside HOOST, yielding top-notch results.  Cork ‘puts his foot’ into “Reasons I Loved You (I Can’t Think of One)”. Apologies for his love pain, but many thanks for turning that pain into music that makes me/us beam with pride!

Appears in:

Benedict Cork, Reasons I Loved You (I Can’t Think of One): Beaming with Pride 🏳️‍🌈 No. 5 (2024) Bops That Pop: February 2024 Intriguing Songs Fueled by LOVE, Vol. 1 (2024)

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16. Pablo Brooks, “Risk”

“Risk” » Pablo Brooks » 2025 

Oh, snap, Pablo Brooks. It’s giving a risk-reward type of situation! What better song title than “Risk”? The handsome, talented, and free-spirited German pop musician provides additional details regarding his risks: “Scratch our initials in the bathroom / I’m gonna get a tattoo of your face / I know it might ruin my life.” Again, risk-reward… Brooks penned the optimistic “Risk” with producer Tom Oehler.

View this post on Instagram

 

“Risk” features a well-rounded, striking musical backdrop comprised of picturesque keys, guitar, bass, and an anchoring, tried-and-true pop/rock groove.  The accompaniment is fitting for this love-seeking, risk-taking pop record.  After all, “No, I don’t wanna get out of here alive / I wanna go with you when you die.” Gay monogamy? That’s refreshing, Pablo! He delivers expressive, gorgeous vocals. His tone is rich and youthful, tailor-made for the risk! Brooks sings authentically, honestly, and sincerely.  He brings the tuneful melodies and memorable lyrics to life without a hitch: “I hope they bury us together / I can’t find a way to live without you right here.” Yup, that’s 17 to the nth degree! The chorus is the section to beat:

“I, I’ve loved and lost a million times

I’d give all of my heart, say ‘I love you’

Try until the feeling eats me alive

And I, I know you could ruin my life

But even if there’s just a chance in this

All of this heartache was worth the risk.”

Ah, love, particularly from the emotional teen perspective! The bridge marks another fabulous moment from “Risk,” where, despite being “underneath the wrecks of my past love,” Pablo is willing to R-I-S-K hurt and pain.  Ultimately, the boi is fierce AF on “Risk”. He slays!

Appears in:

Pablo Brooks, Risk: Beaming with Pride No. 71 (2025)

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17. Emi Larraud, “Religion Tonight”

“Religion Tonight” » E.L. » 2024

Well, at least Emi Larraud acknowledges that believing in something is important.  It’s not God, mind you, but clearly, this person – this entity – is worth putting faith into. And, likely, more than faith… Religious beliefs aside, with “Religion Tonight”, the Gen-Z, spicy, bisexual artist, originally from Madrid, Spain, but bred in Austin, Texas, continues to release captivating music. Can I get an amen, somebody!

What makes “Religion Tonight” something to believe in? Starting with the handsome, talented fella himself, he’s working with a strong instrument.  The vocal tone is fabulous.  The depth of his lower and middle register = sweet.  Residing in the lower register more in the first verse, there’s more contrast in the second.  Furthermore, boding in Emi’s favor are the tuneful melodies in the verses and chorus.  The pacing also serves Larraud well, as “Religion Tonight” allows the instrumental to shine, too.  Speaking of the instrumental, the production is another selling point.  The groove = epic.  Danceable vibes thanks to said groove? You bet! Lovely synths? Check, check, check! All told, if you haven’t joined the Emi Larraud train, it’s time! Get you some of that Larraud “Religion Tonight”! Hallelujah!

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18. Hoobastank, “The Reason”

The Reason » UMG Recordings, Inc. » 2004

Learning is key, Douglas Robb! In 2004, the singer and his band, Hoobastank (what a name, right), scored a big hit with “The Reason”.  “The Reason” appeared as the eighth track on their double platinum sophomore album, The Reason.  How big was “The Reason?” It peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100.  It was certified multiplatinum by the RIAA.  Hoobastank was nominated for two Grammys: Best Pop Performance By A Duo Or Group With Vocal (“The Reason”) and Best Rock Album (The Reason). It’s reasonable to assert that “The Reason” was ‘kind of a big deal.’ It’s also notable that despite charting three singles on the Billboard Hot 100, “The Reason” earned Hoobastank their sole top 40 hit, hence making them a one-hit wonder.

“The Reason” is rock/pop gold, PERIOD.  Douglas Robb sings authentically, dynamically, and expressively – you buy what he’s selling.  Matters of the heart, aka love, drive the reason.  In the chorus, the centerpiece, he reveals the R-E-A-S-O-N, and it’s big:

“I’ve found a reason for me

To change who I used to be

A reason to start over new

And the reason is you.”

Once you hear the infectious, tuneful melody, there is no getting it out of your head! It is a classic, big-time pop/rock chorus.  In the second verse and pre-chorus, Robb continues to share regret – he did her wrong! “I’m sorry that I hurt you / It’s something I must live with every day.” Word! “The Reason” is not only an enjoyable pop/rock record that seems rarer in the 2020s, but it is also a song that superbly captures a life lesson.  Robb realizes the errors of his ways, and he’s taking what he’s learned to become a better person.  Yes, “The Reason” exemplifies the one-hit-wonder but man, it’s a great one! Robb and Dan Estrin penned a surefire classic!

Appears in:

Hoobastank, The Reason: 1 Hit WONDERful No. 49 (2024)

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19. The B-52’s, “Rock Lobster”

The B-52’s » Warner » 1979 

One of my favorite Panic! At The Disco songs is “Don’t Threaten Me With A Good Time”.  Besides the brilliant vocals of the handsome and talented Brendon Urie, the opening riff kicks ass and takes names.  There is a good reason for this ‘ass-kicking’ and ‘name-taking.’ Urie samples the 1979 ambitious, wacky, and weird The B-52’s classic, “Rock Lobster”.  The B-52’s – Fred Schneider (b. 1951), Ricky Wilson (1953 – 1985), Kate Pierson, Cindy Wilson, and Keith Strickland – are arguably best known for their top-10 hits that would arrive a decade after “Lobster”: “Love Shack” and “Roam”.  However, as odd as their debut single is, it impacted the pop charts, peaking at number 56 on the Billboard Hot 100 in May 1980.  The high-energy, infectious song is the fourth track from the band’s self-titled, five-star debut. All members of the band contributed to writing the song.

Oh, my! According to Fred Schneider, because his earlobe fell, a rock lobster grabbed it… Word! Beyond the electrifying opening riff, what makes “Rock Lobster” the sugar honey iced tea is its unique sound and outlandish songwriting.  Approaching fifty years later, what other song sounds like this new wave, dance-rock track? None – it is in a league of its own.  Of course, how many bands were writing and performing songs about a beach party where a crustacean is front and center? “(Ah-ah-ah-ah) Rock lobster!” The tone of the vocals on the “Eww(s)” adds to the charm.  The B-52’s fully invests in the rock lobster, who, by the third verse, “Was in a jam (Hoorah) / He’s in a giant clam (Hoorah).” Oh, snap! The wackiness doesn’t stop there, either.  “Red snappers snapping /… Mussels flexing (Hoorah) / Flippers flipping (Hoorah),” Fred sings, in the fifth verse.  The final verse provides contrasts both lyrically and musically. Among the boldest lines not related to lobsters is “Boys in bikinis / Girls in surfboards,” which is quite progressive and unexpected for the time.  The lyrics continue to be interesting with dogfish being “chased by catfish,” and “Here comes a bikini whale.” Bikini whale?  What better wacky song to listen to than “Rock Lobster”? The B-52’s ate on this one!

Appears in:

The B-52’s, Rock Lobster: Wacky Wednesday No. 2 (2025)

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20. The Spinners, “Rubberband Man”

Happiness Is Being With The Spinners » Atlantic Recording Corp. » 1976

Grammy-nominated R&B collective The Spinners struck gold (literally) with “The Rubberband Man”, the fourth track on their 1976 album, Happiness Is Being With The Spinners.  This version of the song runs nearly seven-and-a-half minutes.  The popular single edit runs just over three-and-a-half minutes.  Dynamic duo Linda Creed and Thom Bell composed this soul juggernaut.  Bell also produced it. One of seven top 10 hits on the pop charts, the beloved track peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100.

Ooh-wee! A distinct, rhythmic riff at the beginning sets the tone. Thom Bell ‘put his foot’ into the musical arrangement and production. MFSB provides the instrumentation, including the killer, funky bass line. Beyond a lit rhythm section are sickening brass and strings, which exemplify the lush, rich Philly soul sound. Philippé Wynne (1941 – 1984) tears it up on lead vocals, backed sensationally by the rest of The Spinners and some additional background vocalists. For most of his performance, Wynne sings.  He shapes the tuneful melodies in the verses and especially in the chorus.  “When I saw this short, fat guy / Stretch a band between his toes,” Wynne sings in the second verse, concluding, “Hey, I laughed so hard / ‘Cause the man got down / When it finally reached his nose.” Oh, snap! Who is this Rubberband Man? Thom Bell’s son, Mark, was a big kid nicknamed “The Fat Man” by his classmates.  The song, originally called “The Fat Man,” is about a large man who can really move.  It was intended to change the perception and stereotypes of larger people. The chorus is the crowning achievement:

“Hey, y’all, prepare yourself for the rubberband man

You’ve never heard a sound

Like the rubberband man

You’re bound to lose control

When the rubberband starts to jam.”

Ultimately, “The Rubberband Man” is a bop for the ages – one of the most entertaining songs in the soul catalog.

Appears in:

The Spinners, The Rubberband Man: Throwback Vibez  No. 209 (2024) 12 Songs That Feature Names, Vol. 5 (2025) 20 More Great Songs All About Men! (2025) 15 Mo’ Surefire Classics from the 1970s (2025)

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21. Gwen McCrae, “Rockin’ Chair”

Henry Stone’s Best Of Gwen McCrae » Henry Stone Music » 2014

Ooh-la-la, that is, dare I say, sexy.  Those memorable lyrics hail from the “Rockin’ Chair” (the chorus), the sole pop hit by the late disco, funk, R&B/soul singer Gwen McCrae (1943 – 2025).  McCrae peaked at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing her status as a one-hit wonder. “Rockin’ Chair” originally appeared on her 1975 album, Rockin’ Chair. Willie Clarke and Clarence Reid penned it, while Clarke, Reid, and Steve Alaimo produced it.  Reid released the song in 1974, a year before the McCrae hit arrived.

“Rockin’ Chair” features a funky musical backdrop comprised of a locked-in rhythm section, sweet, tender flute, and mean-sounding, articulated horns.  McCrae delivers a powerful vocal performance that’s gritty and oozing with soul.  The melody is incredibly tuneful, shaped by McCrae’s authentic, expressive approach.  Gwen shows off her attitude and personality beginning with the introduction, with its “mmm(s)” and “ah(s).”  Following the centerpiece, the chorus, she drops a pleasant first verse. She asks him to “Let your arms / Shelter me from all hurt and pain, mm / Light my heart / With your everlasting flame.” Aww 🥰! In the second verse, penned similarly, she requests him to “Rock me gently / Make me feel like a cloud in the sky / Whisper softly / Let my heart take wing and fly.” No deep analysis is necessary regarding “Rockin’ Chair”.  It is a timeless disco, funk, and soul classic that earned Gwen McCrae her most notable recognition.  Still, as talented as McCrae was, she deserved more than one pop hit.

Appears in:

Gwen McCrae, Rockin’ Chair: 1 Hit WONDERful No. 9 (2025) 15 Surefire Classics from the 1970s (2025)

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The Alphabet Playlist Series 2025 🔻
21 Randomly Curated, Amazing A Songs (2025)	A Buffet of Randomly Curated B Songs (2025)	A Collection of Randomly Curated C Songs (2025)
A Dazzling Drove of D Songs (2025)	An Epic Compendium of E Songs (2025)	A Fvckin’ Fantastic Bunch of F Songs (2025)
A Gripping Cluster of G Songs (2025)	A Heaping Dose of H Songs (2025)	Jam Out To This Jampacked List of J Songs (2025)
A Kool Kollection of K Songs (2025)	A Laudable List of L Songs (2025)	A Marvelous Sampling of M Songs (2025)
A Noteworthy Compendium of N Songs (2025)	An Outstanding Collection of O Songs (2025)	A Poppin’ Compendium of P Songs (2025)
A Quirky Collection of Q Songs (2025)	A Riveting Collection of R Songs (2025)

 

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A Riveting Collection of R Songs (2025) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Artemas, Atlantic Recording Corp., Benedict Cork, CMG, Columbia, Crusty, Def Jam, E.L., Epic, Gallipony, gamma., Gracie Abrams, Haim Productions Inc., Henry Stone Music, Interscope, Jeffrey Chan, mega, Not So Fast LLC, Pablo Brooks, RCA, Supergiant, UMG Recordings, Inc., Universal Island Records Ltd., Warner; Alex Kinkate, FlorS Q, Helena Lopes, RDNE Stock project from Pexels; AcatXIo, Natalia Lavrinenko from Pixabay]

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