A Vivid Collection of V Songs

Reading Time: 25 min read

A Vivid Collection of V Songs features songs by Charli XCX, Conan Gray, Ivan Cornejo, Jimi Hendrix, Madonna, and Rick Glam.

BBe prepared to spotlight the letter V! After dropping alphabet-themed playlists in 2025 (A through S), The Alphabet Playlist Series continues in the year of our Lord, 2026! V gets its time to shine on A Vivid Collection of V Songs. Each of the 20 songs that appear on A Vivid Collection of V Songs begins with a V-word. The only exception is A or THE preceding the V-word, etc. A Vivid Collection of V Songs features songs by Charli XCX, Conan Gray, Ivan Cornejo, Jimi Hendrix, Madonna, and Rick Glam. So, without further ado, let us all embrace the power of V on A Vivid Collection of V Songs!

~ Table of Contents ~

1. Conan Gray, “Vodka Cranberry”	2. Charli XCX, “Von Dutch”	3. Jimi Hendrix, “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)”
4. Lady Gaga, “Vanish Into You”	5. Artemas, “vanish”	6. HAAi, “Voices (We Live to Celebrate)”
7. Luke Markinson, “Vitamin D”	8. Panic! At The Disco, “Viva Las Vengeance”	9. Ivan Cornejo, “Vuelve”
10. Miley Cyrus, “Violet Chemistry”	11. Moses Sumney, “Vintage”	12. Olivia Rodrigo, “vampire”
13. Rick Glam, “VAMPIRE”	14. sedgwick, “Vices”	15. Don McLean, “Vincent”
16. EGOVERT, “VENEZUELA!”	17. Binoy, “Villain Arc”	18. The Police, “Voices Inside My Head”
19. Madonna, “Vogue”	20. The Buggles, “Video Killed the Radio Star”	The Alphabet Playlist Series 2025-26

1. Conan Gray, “Vodka Cranberry”

Wishbone » Conan Gray / Republic » 2025

“You say we’re fine, but your brown eyes / Are green this time, so you’ve been crying.”

Uh-oh… those pesky matters of the heart are in play, and it’s giving sad vibes! From the beginning, the gorgeous “Vodka Cranberry” is emotional and heart-wrenching. It marks the second single from Conan Gray’s fourth studio album, Wishbone. Following the queer romantic narrative of the fabulous promo single, “This Song”, “Vodka” sadly sees this relationship fall apart. “It’s in the way you say my name / So quick, so straight, it sounds the same.” The straightness of Gray’s partner, portrayed by Corey Fogelmanis in the music video, plays a sizable role. Gray co-wrote “Vodka Cranberry” with Grammy-winning singer/songwriter/producer Dan Nigro, who also produced it. Once again, one of pop’s more underrated artists delivers a musical home run.

“Vodka Cranberry” is four minutes of musical excellence. Sound-wise, there is a mix of alternative and folk-pop cues. The rhythmic acoustic guitar, as well as the strings, are key instruments shaping the backdrop. The handsome, talented Conan Gray is the focal point – the cherry on top. As always, he delivers gorgeous, nuanced vocals. You can sense the emotion he expresses as we see an all too common narrative where love should be love, but it’s complicated by internal homophobia and heteronormativity. I love the playfulness of the melody Gray sings during the pre-chorus as he shares their compromised love status (“‘Cause I know what you’re too scared to say, oh-oh-oh”). He sounds particularly exceptional during the chorus as he gives an unfortunate ultimatum:

“Speak up, I know you hate me

Looked at your picture and cried like a baby

Speak up, don’t leave me waiting

Got way too drunk off a vodka cranberry

Called you up in the middle of the night

Wailing like an imbecile

If you won’t end things, then I will.”

Upping the ante on “Vodka” is the bridge, which contrasts the verses and chorus while still emphasizing taking action to end things. That sustained high note at the end of the bridge is insane! “Vodka Cranberry” is sublime. Elite vocals, thoughtful songwriting, and stellar musical accompaniment and production. I love Conan Gray, and this song (and music video) only confirms it more!

Appears in:

~ Table of Contents ~

2. Charli XCX, “Von Dutch”

Brat » Atlantic » 2024

According to Charli XCX, “I’m just living that life / Von Dutch, cult classic, but I still pop.” “Von dutch” is the promo single and sixth track from the tour de force, Brat. It references the clothing brand, yet it’s not really about the brand. This electro- / hyperpop banger was written by Charli and produced by EASYFUN, who puts his foot into this one. From the jump, it’s groovy, the synths picturesque, and the overall vibe giving #DANCEFLOOR. Besides the banging instrumental, the biggest reason for the success of this banger is Charli. She has no shortage of personality, pointing fingers at the haters early on. Before “living that life / Von Dutch,” she asserts in the verse, “It’s okay just to admit that you’re jealous of me / Yeah, I heard you talk about me, that’s the word on the street.” Essentially, she reads this person something fierce, adding, “You’re obsessing, just confess it, put your hands up / It’s obvious I’m your number one.” Woo! Continuing with the chorus, excerpted earlier, XCX keeps the Von Dutch vibes going: “Von Dutch, cult classic in your eardrums / Why you lying? You won’t fuck unless he’s famous / Do that little dance, without it, you’d be nameless / It’s so obvious I’m your number one.” What more is there to say? Charli XCX sounds fierce on this infectious, attitude-laden pop single.

Appears in:

~ Table of Contents ~

3. Jimi Hendrix, “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)”

Electric Ladyland » Experience Hendrix L.L.C. / Sony Music Entertainment » 1968

“Because I’m a voodoo child / Lord knows I’m a voodoo child, baby.” Jimi Hendrix (1942 – 1970) was a musical genius. He was one of the most influential guitarists to walk the face of the earth. “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” marks one of the best and most important songs. He wrote and produced the 16^th track from his 1968 album, Electric Ladyland. Beyond his own contributions on guitar and vocals, Noel Redding holds it down on bass, while Mitch Mitchell handles drum and percussion duties.

“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” is a masterclass on musicianship, particularly when it comes to Jimi Hendrix’s otherworldly guitar skills. Early on, Hendrix enthralls with his bluesy, distorted guitar riffs, about 10 seconds in. Of course, with a sickening performance, Jimi ‘does the damn thing’ on the guitar throughout, which is the expectation. All of the solos stand out, particularly the one that occurs after the first verse (c. 1:55), and the equally nasty gem that begins at 3:38. Guitarists nerd out about the equipment Hendrix used to create his signature, bluesy, psychedelic rock sound. Of course, Hendrix’s supporting cast is phenomenal, too. Mitch Mitchell locks in on the drums, providing ample fuel for the fire, particularly those pummeling runs. Noel Redding provides a firm foundation on the bass with his rhythmic lines that give “Voodoo Child” even more bite.

Beyond the high-flying instrumental, Jimi Hendrix also delivers great vocals, filled with expression and passion. The lyrics are entertaining and thought-provoking. “Well, I stand up next to a mountain / And I chop it down with the edge of my hand,” Hendrix sings in the first verse, and adds, “Well, I pick up all the pieces and make an island / Might even raise a little sand.” Ooh-wee, Jimi! The second verse is a surefire vibe, too. “I didn’t mean to take up all your sweet time / I’ll give it right back to you one of these days,” Hendrix sings, and adds, “If I don’t meet you no more in this world / I’ll meet you in the next one, and don’t be late.” The best way to describe Hendrix’s performance on the unforgettable “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” is wild and free. This highly influential rock classic never grows old. It is a testament to the musician that Jimi Hendrix was. A true legend.

Appears in:

Jimi Hendrix, Voodoo Child (Slight Return): Throwback Vibez No. 3 (2026)

~ Table of Contents ~

4. Lady Gaga, “Vanish Into You”

MAYHEM » Interscope » 2025

“Saw your face and mine / In a picture by our bedside / It was cold in the summertime.”

Noted, Lady Gaga (Stefani Germanotta). “Vanish Into You” is the fifth track from the decorated musician and actress’s 2025 Grammy-nominated album, MAYHEM. Lady Gaga penned “Vanish” with her fiancé, Michael Polansky, as well as watt (Andrew Watt) and Cirkut (Henry Walter). She also produced alongside watt and Cirkut. “Vanish” features an ultra-sleek musical accompaniment intact with a danceable beat, colorful keys and synths, guitar, and bass.

Beyond the instrumental, tuneful melodies grace the verses, particularly during the centerpiece, the chorus. Beyond the tuneful melody of the chorus, the lyrics are infectious. “We were happy just to be alive / Can I vanish into you?” Lady Gaga sings in the back half of the chorus, shining with her powerful vocals. Beyond her compelling lead, the background vocals supporting her are strong, too. There are some compelling lyrics from the verses, too, including “Once in a blue moon, I forget you / And once in your life, you’ll be mine” (verse one), and “Into the night, we fly / Sirens blow by our heads” (verse two). On the outgoing chorus, Lady Gaga continues her impressive performance with high-flying, powerful vocals. “Vanish Into You” is another winner from Stefani.

~ Table of Contents ~

5. Artemas, “vanish”

LOVERCORE » Artemas » 2025

“I do not want his love, I only want sex.”

Oh, snap! “Vanish”, the third track on LOVERCORE, the 2025 mixtape by Artemas (Artemas Diamandis), commences with the excerpted, intriguing spoken intro/skit by a female. The intro perfectly sets the tone of another sexually charged record by the English singer, songwriter, and producer. Artemas penned and produced “Vanish” with Daintree (Toby Daintree) and Kevin White. Solidly created, the striking musical accompaniment features a thudding beat, colorful synths, and keys.

Artemas sings with sexy vocals in an undertone. There is a nice use of vocal effects with the vocal production, marking another selling point of the song. In the spirit of the quote from the intro, he sings in the unforgettable chorus, “You don’t have to be the one / Just put your hands on me / And if you want me to be gone / Then I’ll just vanish, vanish.” Ooh-wee! There are other notable moments, including the verse (“Now tell me what’s your fantasy? / You can test it on me”), the eager pre-chorus (“Snap your fingers, babe / And I’ll be on my way”), and the bridge, which contrasts with the other sections and has matrimony on the mind (“If you wanted more, then I’ll, I’ll give you more / Yes, I, I’ll be writin’ my vows”). “Vanish” marks another great, edgy song from an alluring, fresh-voiced musician.

Appears in:

Artemas, vanish: Spicy Tunez No. 9 (2026)

~ Table of Contents ~

6. HAAi, “Voices (We Live to Celebrate)”

HUMANiSE » HAAi / Mute Artists Ltd. » 2025

“We live to celebrate / Roll the dice inside of my hand / To the voices inside of my head / Pass the people outside of our house.”

Queer, Australian-born, London-based producer and DJ HAAi (Teneil Throssell) dropped a surefire electronic banger with “Voices (We Live to Celebrate)”. “Voices,” the full-length extended version, is the eighth track from HAAi’s 2025 album, HUMANiSE. The single version, parenthesized, runs two minutes shorter. Throssell and Pat Alvarez penned “Voices.” Throssell, Alvarez, and Jon Hopkins produced it.

Expectedly, “Voices (We Live to Celebrate)” is sleekly produced. The sound palette is rich with polychromatic synths, pads, and programming. Beyond the striking musical accompaniment, there are also voices. Fitting, right? Right! “Voices (We Live to Celebrate)” features one verse, a pair of builds, and a pair of drops. There are plenty of repeated lyrics, unsurprising within the electronic genre. Even with repetition, there are plenty of meaningful moments that complement the exceptional, colorful, and rhythmic backdrop. “As we try to celebrate / Don’t lean into regrets,” the vocalist sings, and adds, “From the voices inside of my head / To the people outside of our house.” Word. More intriguing lyrics occur during the drop: “Between these talking walls / Lay the lessons that only I felt / Were written inside of my head and inside of my heart / Outside of our house.” All in all, “Voices (We Live to Celebrate)” is 100% worth celebrating. It thrives on epic production, pleasant vocals, memorable lyrics, and tuneful melodies. This is a surefire vibe!

Appears in:

HAAi, Voices (We Live to Celebrate): Wacky Wednesday No. 3 (2026)

~ Table of Contents ~

7. Luke Markinson, “Vitamin D”

“Vitamin D” » Luke Markinson » 2024

“Dizzy and I’m weak, goddamn, my sugar’s low,”

Luke Markinson sings, sharing his illness, later adding in the first verse, “Fuck the diagnosis, I already know…” He already knows? Is he diabetic since his sugar is low? He shouldn’t play around with low blood sugar, so I’m giving the pop singer/songwriter the side-eye with that fuck the diagnosis lyric… He adds some context though: “It’s an emergency, the doctor’s calling me / He tells me that I need / To get some more, a taste of your…” wait for it – “Vitamin D”! Per the Mayo Clinic, ‘Vitamin D is a nutrient your body needs for building and maintaining healthy bones.’ The Vitamin D Markinson needs is phallic – he needs to get some! He sings in the chorus, “Vitamin D, come on and give it to me / I know what my body needs / I’ll get down on my knees and savor all your…” Ooh-wee! Throughout this fun record, he excels in delivering naughty, innuendo-laden lyrics. The crown jewel is the chorus, where the listener gathers his needs are purely sexual. During the verses, the production is ‘seedy sounding,’ matching the naughty nature of the lyrics. The backdrop grows robust with a pounding beat and sharp synths in the chorus. “Vitamin D” is F-U-N!

Appears in:

~ Table of Contents ~

8. Panic! At The Disco, “Viva Las Vengeance”

Viva Las Vengeance » Fueled By Ramen » 2022

“Someone did me wrong, stole my favorite song, yes, it really hurt (Really hurt) / Stepped on every chord, fell on every sword, yes, Excalibur (Excalibur).”

Woo – what a trip! Grammy-nominated alternative rock band Panic! At the Disco kicks off Viva Las Vengeance with a vengeance via “Viva Las Vengeance”. Ultimately, this Jake Sinclair-produced joint is another welcome addition to the P!ATD collection. Vocally, Brendon Urie is a gift we are so blessed to have. Besides his prodigious instrument and the sound/distinct production (those heavenly vocal harmonies) on “Viva Las Vengeance,” the lyrics stand out. There is no shortage of unique happenings and references to be unpacked. Urie penned “Viva Las Vengeance” himself, surprising considering how many songwriters have appeared in the band’s previous work. Some of those references include the plight of fame and perhaps the slippery nature of the music business. Notably, in the first pre-chorus, his desires are simple: “On a sofa with Sativa / Living the dream.” Interestingly, in the memorable chorus, we get the titular lyric, which seems metaphorical, all told. All told, “Viva Las Vengeance” is stellar. Even at 35, when this song was released, his voice only seems to get riper with age.

~ Table of Contents ~

9. Ivan Cornejo, “Vuelve”

MIRADA » Zaragoza Records, LLC / Interscope » 2024

“Vuelve / Que sin ti la depre’ siempre vuelve / Dime que jamás te vas a enamorar de alguien más / Me acelero como un perro al verte llegar.”

!Ah, esos problemáticos asuntos del corazón¡ Translated into English, it reads something like this:

“Come back

Because without you, the depression always returns

Tell me you’ll never fall in love with anyone else

I get excited like a dog when I see you arrive.”

Ah, those pesky [troublesome] matters of the heart. Mexican American, Música Mexicana singer-songwriter Ivan Cornejo (b. 2004) delivered a musical gem with “Vuelve” (“Come back”). “Vuelve” is the fifth track from his third studio album, MIRADA, released in 2024. He penned “Vuelve” with Frank Rio, Édgar Barrera, and Juan Carlos Corral Félix. Cornejo and Rio produced it.

“Vuelve” features great rhythmic guitar accompaniment. I like the edgy sounds of the strummed strings. Beyond the guitar, the hard-plucked bass adds bite. Ivan Cornejo delivers an expressive vocal performance. He sings authentically, with incredible sincerity. His tone is beautiful and rich with nuance. He has truly gorgeous melodies to work with. Even if you don’t understand the Spanish lyrics sans translation, it’s hard to deny how radiant a song that “Vuelve” is. The songwriting is emotional. “Tú muy mal / Eso de cortar conmigo fue fatal / Me dejaste como un traste sin lavar,” he sings in the intro, which translates as, “You were so wrong / Breaking up with me was terrible / You left me like [an unwashed] a dirty dish.” Ooh-wee, Ivan! Later, he asserts, “Todo es artificial hasta mi felicidad / Si esto es una matrix, ¿dónde encuentro mi alma?” which translates as “Everything is artificial, even my happiness / If this is a matrix, where do I find my soul?” All told, “Vuelve” is an emotional, superbly penned, produced, and performed Música Mexicana ballad by Ivan Cornejo. Ivan, you did your big one on this one!

Appears in:

Ivan Cornejo, Vuelve: Bangerz N Bopz No. 5 (2026)

~ Table of Contents ~

10. Miley Cyrus, “Violet Chemistry”

Endless Summer Vacation » Smiley Miley, Inc. / Columbia » 2023

“When the floor is wet / And the lights come on, but you don’t wanna leave / And your phone is lost / But the car’s outside waitin’ out on the street.”

Ooh-wee! “Violet Chemistry” appears on the back half of Endless Summer Vacation, the 2023 album by Grammy winner, Miley Cyrus. “Violet Chemistry” commences with hazy sounding synths at the onset, setting an enigmatic tone. Soon enough, the beat kicks in, with Cyrus singing a rhythmic, ear-catching melody, with the above-mentioned lyrics. Even with clear stability, during the verses, this violet chemistry still leaves us with musical questions. The harmonic scheme is starkly different from the chorus, expectedly, the most accessible section. With successive listens, more of the magic – more of the chemistry – shines in the verses. “Stay awhile, stay awhile with me,” Cyrus sings, continuing, “Stay awhile, don’t deny the violet chemistry.” Fo’ sho’. Throughout, the production (Mike WiLL Made-It, Jesse Shatkin, Maxx Morando, and Max Taylor-Sheppard) is slick – synths, beats, and vocal effects/production. The bridge marks another contrast, separating itself from the chorus and verses. There’s a kickass beat switch, and a robust bass line, not to mention the unique tune and lyrics Cyrus serves up (“Fingers start to dance along the figures and the shapes / Mixing all the colors like we’re making a Monet”). The chemistry – love and sex – is legit on “Violet Chemistry”.

Appears in:

~ Table of Contents ~

11. Moses Sumney, “Vintage”

“Vintage” » TUNTUM » 2024

In 2024, the aromantic, handsome, and talented Moses Sumney returned with “Vintage”. He, Elliot Cleverdon, and Graham Johnson (quickly, quickly) penned the song. Sumney produced it with Johnson. The results are sweet. First and foremost, Moses sings superbly. His voice is expressive and gorgeous from the beginning. He excels at a calm, cool, and collected approach. He also impresses with his ripe, utterly sickening falsetto. Secondly, the songwriting is captivating. Given the vintage nature, Sumney ‘takes us back,’ singing in the first verse, “I wanna walk it back like Michael,” aka the famous moonwalk by the King of Pop. In the refrain, he asserts, “I remember how you nectar sweet / Now you got your specter hanging over me / I’ma take it back to 1993 / When I get my fingers on a time machine.” Oh, snap! The titular lyric is also uttered, in the chorus: “Can we turn vintage? / Can we put the afro-sheen on it? / It’s alright, it’s alright, I feed on it.” Besides a bevy of unique lyrics, the accompaniment – the backdrop – is sweet too. The sound is soulful, and, wait for it – “Vintage”! All told, Moses Sumney shines on this fabulous comeback track.

Appears in:

Bops That Pop: June 2024

~ Table of Contents ~

12. Olivia Rodrigo, “vampire”

GUTS » Olivia Rodrigo / Geffen » 2023

“As you sunk your teeth into me, oh / Bloodsucker, fame fucker / Bleedin’ me dry like a goddamn vampire.”

WOO! Grammy-winning pop superstar Olivia Rodrigo returns in a big way with “Vampire”, the ambitious lead single from her highly anticipated sophomore LP, GUTS. Olivia doesn’t mince her words.  A couple of f-bombs always adds pizzaz, don’t they? Rodrigo penned “Vampire” alongside Dan Nigro, who also produces. Early on, Rodrigo makes it crystal clear that she is not happy with her ex. “Six months of torture you sold as some forbidden paradise,” she asserts in the first verse, adding, “I loved you truly / You gotta laugh at the stupidity.” Day-um! “Vampire” fittingly commences as a piano ballad, adding instrumentation in the first chorus, where the intensity increases. Rodrigo shows off mad pipes during the chorus, capped off by the epic “bloodsucker, fame fucker…” lyric. By the second verse, also dramatic, drums enter the mix, adding even more intensity, establishing this toxic experience. At one point, she states, “Oh, what a mesmerizing, paralyzing, fucked up little thrill / Can’t figure out just how you do it, and God knows I never will.” As excerpted earlier, the centerpiece is the chorus, in all its vampirical thrills: “You only come out at night / I used to think I was smart / But you made me look so naïve.” As bad as the experience was for Rodrigo, she lets it all out on this thrilling gem.

Appears in:

~ Table of Contents ~

13. Rick Glam, “VAMPIRE”

VAMPIRE (EP) » Rick Glam » 2025

“Only a vampire can suck you like I do.” Oh, snap, Rick Glam (Paulo Silva, b. 1998)! “VAMPIRE” is fittingly the name of the song, which is the opener of VAMPIRE (EP). Yes, the blood should be noted, but the Brazilian electronic musician has oral sex in mind. He produced this vampirical, gay sex record with Brenozy. “VAMPIRE” commences with a J.S. Bach interpolation (Toccata and Fugue), a piece of music associated with horror. This is fitting given its vampirical nature and the fact that the EP was released in October 2025. Beyond Bach, “VAMPIRE” features sleek production work. The electronic palette is on point thanks to the rhythmic synths and a sickening beat. The sound is big, but the straw that stirs the drink is Rick Glam. His vocals are playful, naughty, and sensual. Dirty-minded and sex positive to the nth degree, he doesn’t shy away from lust. “Creature of the night, dirty mind, no limitations,” he sings in the first verse, and adds, “I’m walking till sunrise, maybe I’ll give in to temptation / Blood is rushing through my body, I don’t need salvation.” Notably, he alludes to how members of the LGBTQ+ community are viewed as more erotic, promiscuous, and sexual, etc. In the second verse, he references Transylvania: “Transylvania life, I’m Dracula, you’re my wife.” The infectious chorus takes the cake with its repetitive, sucking lyrics (excerpted earlier). There are also plenty of repetitive lyrics elsewhere, including the bridge and the extended outro. “VAMPIRE” is erotic, gay, and nothing short of intriguing.

Appears in:

Rick Glam, VAMPIRE: Beaming with Pride No. 88 (2025)

~ Table of Contents ~

14. sedgwick, “Vices”

“Vices” » sedgwick » 2024

“And I broke the chain of freedom / But still, I’m on my knees / And my demons are too strong for me to beat them / So, I reach for something else to find relief.”

Oh, the vices! Edmonton, Canada pop artist sedgwick (Sean Daniel Sedgwick) ‘brings the heat’ with his earworm, “Vices”. From the beginning, “Vices” has the ‘it’ fact. Sedgwick is ‘going through some things’ but, it’s sweet music to the ears. Why is “Vices” the sugar honey iced tea? It begins with none other than sedgwick. He can sing his butt off, PERIOD! His vocals are expressive. He’s commanding and energetic without ‘doing too much.’ Specifically, his riffs, runs, and ad-libs are utterly sublime. Toward the end, he ups the ante digging in more. Sedgwick has a hand in the next reason that “Vices” is awesome: the songwriting. The lyrics are catchy, particularly the recurrent chorus:

“The vices aren’t working

So, I think I need a better solution

I’m wasting my time

Always searching for the perfect delusion

Oh, and if the drugs don’t work,

And the liquor don’t work,

And the lights don’t work,

And the music don’t work,

What’s a guy gotta do?

Just to keep a little of the illusion.”

The melodies are memorable too. Also, I love the pacing of this track which never gets hurried. The use of space between lyrics is a selling point and quite musical. Finally, the production is scintillating. The ear is blessed with picturesque keys and colorful synths, anchored by an infectious, danceable beat. The groove, well, it’s grooving! “Vices” is a hypnotic, mesmerizing track that sucks you in from the opening tip. Bravo!

Appears in:

Bops That Pop: June 2024

~ Table of Contents ~

15. Don McLean, “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)”

American Pie » EMI Catalog / Capitol » 1971

“Starry, starry night / Paint your palette blue and grey / Look out on a summer’s day / With eyes that know the darkness in my soul.”

Those are legendary lyrics penned and performed by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Don McLean (b. 1945). “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)” is the third track from McLean’s beloved 1971 multiplatinum album, American Pie. A hit on the pop charts, it peaked at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. Beyond its tenure on the charts, “Vincent” was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America in 2024. McLean penned it while Ed Freeman produced it.

“Vincent” begins with Don McLean singing abruptly (lyrics excerpted earlier). He sings with ease but also showcases ample expressiveness. The song is characterized by its instantly memorable melodies and poetic, superbly penned lyrics. The lyrics are like a painting… Notably, the song was written about the renowned Dutch Post-Impressionist painter, Vincent Van Gogh (1853 – 1890). “Starry, starry night / Flaming flowers that brightly blaze,” McLean sings in the second verse, and adds, “Swirling clouds in violet haze / Reflect in Vincent’s eyes of China blue.” In the chorus, McLean references Van Gogh’s mental health issues:

“Now I understand

What you tried to say to me

And how you suffered for your sanity

And how you tried to set them free

They would not listen; they did not know how

Perhaps they’ll listen now.”

In the bridge, McLean acknowledges Van Gogh’s demise: “On that starry, starry night / You took your life, as lovers often do /…This world was never meant for one / As beautiful as you.” Beyond the high-flying penmanship, the musicianship, instrumentally, is striking. McLean’s guitar is the primary instrument within the accompaniment. Beyond the guitar, the instrumentation includes marimba, performed by Mike Mainieri (b. 1938), and strings. Adding to the musicianship are the musical underpinnings, specifically a fine harmonic progression. All told, “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)” is an impressive, once-in-a-lifetime classic by Don McLean. He truly put his foot into this biographical ballad.

Appears in:

Don McLean, Vincent (Starry, Starry Night): Throwback Vibez No. 5 (2026)

~ Table of Contents ~

16. EGOVERT, “VENEZUELA!”

VENDETTA » EGOVERT » 2023

“Got a bad bitch from Venezuela / Fuck her to this beat, then I say, ‘see ya later, BYE!’”

Well, that’s shallow, EGOVERT (Sidharth Gopakumar). The rapper is cocky and confident AF on “VENEZUELA!”, the third track from his brief, 2023 project, VENDETTA. Backed by colorful production courtesy of Cyfal & Fuego, Gopakumar talks this sugar honey iced tea. While money and drip get nods, it is his sexed-up bars that raise most eyebrows and turn up the midnight heat. Of course, sometimes he combines it all: “All my hoes bad and my shoes 👞 alligator 🐊.”

There’s no shortage of sex. At one point, EGOVERT asserts, “She eat my dick like it’s an hor d’oeuvre.” WOO! He also states, “My new bitch is Portuguese / And her ass so fat she ripped up her jeans” [slightly tough to decipher, but peach and jeans are involved]. Furthermore, what about his “new little baby from Delhi / She takin’ dick in her belly,” and the filthiest, “Nut on her face it look like some dressing.” TMI! All told, “VENEZUELA!” is shallow AF. Take it with a grain of salt.

Appears in:

EGOVERT, VENEZUELA!: Midnight Heat No. 97 (2023)

~ Table of Contents ~

17. Binoy, “Villain Arc”

The Great Alone » Binoy Zachariah » 2024

“Got the bad taste of heartache in my mouth / Want to act out / I look so good, wow.”

WOW, indeed! Binoy (Binoy Zachariah) makes sickening music, PERIOD. Born and raised in Kenya, and embracing his Indian roots, Zachariah’s brand of pop has no boundaries. Once more, the handsome, talented musician wows with distinct, striking songs. On “Villain Arc”, the seventh track from his 2024 debut album, The Great Alone, his ambition and innovative music spirit shine bright as a beacon. What makes it special? The sound and production (Binoy) play a sizable role. The synths sound mean, embracing an international favor. Furthermore, the beat bangs. Besides the instrumental, the vocals are unique too. Binoy gives us a mix of traditional and pitch-shifted vocals. A nonstandard pop track, its nonconformity is part of its charm! Binoy is aggressive throughout – to be expected, given the title and embracing a villainous arc. Honestly, he seems to be flexing, despite inopportune happenings, particularly when it comes to those matters of the heart. He’s confident AF (“Bitch, I move like art, Rakakaka / In my villain arc / I am at one with my body”), profane, and of course, violent and villainous. “Bang, bang, bang / Three white twinks in a ditch / I am that bitch / Itching for violence,” he asserts during the production switch, later adding, “And I don’t give a / And I don’t give a fuck.” Ooh-wee! I suppose those white twinks rubbed him the wrong way! Zachariah penned the fierce, spirited “Villain Arc” alongside Arthur Besnainou. This Kenyan, LGBTQ standout slays!

Appears in:

Bops That Pop: February 2024

~ Table of Contents ~

18. The Police, “Voices Inside My Head”

Zenyatta Mondatta » A&M » 1980

“Jump, jump, jump!”

“Voices Inside My Head” appears as the fifth track of Zenyatta Mondatta, the 1980 album by iconic rock band, The Police. Zenyatta Mondatta is one of multiple, multiplatinum albums by the collective. A non-single, the aesthetic of “Voices Inside My Head” is a huge selling point. It features an electrifying, infectious groove. Simply put, there is NO WAY you’ll be able to resist body movement. The rhythm section is firmly in the pocket: drums, rhythm guitar, and a super athletic bass line 💪.

Some additional notes regarding those voices inside Sting’s head. Sting gives a great vocal performance, serving up unique vocals. Beyond his voice, the vocal production is well-rounded. Regarding the songwriting, “Voices Inside My Head” keeps the lyrics simple and repetitive: “Voices inside my head / Echoes of things that you said.” Yep, that’s about the size of it! Even with Sting singing uncomplicated text, those lyrics are a vibe. A sick gem from the 1980s, “Voices Inside My Head” never gets in a rush, giving off cool but incredibly potent energy.

Appears in:

~ Table of Contents ~

19. Madonna, “Vogue”

I’m Breathless **(Music from and Inspired by the Film Dick Tracy) » Sire Records Company » 1990**

“Strike a pose / Strike a pose / Vogue (vogue, vogue) / Vogue (vogue, vogue).”

When you think gay anthem, one of the first songs that comes to mind is “Vogue” by Madonna (b. 1958). Although she is not a member of the LGBTQ+ community, the iconic, Grammy-winning musician secured her status as a gay icon with “Vogue,” PERIOD. Why is this a gay anthem? It is fueled by voguing, which developed in the 1980s and evolved from the New York City ballroom scene. The song masterfully captures the spirit of the gay club scene and takes it to the pop charts! Woo! “Vogue” appears on Madge’s 1990 album, I’m Breathless (Music from and Inspired by the Film Dick Tracy), as well as the compilation, The Immaculate Collection. Among her biggest and greatest hits, it also graces her marvelous, two-disc greatest hits compilation, Celebration, released in 2009.

Madonna wrote and produced “Vogue” with producer Shep Pettibone (b. 1959). It samples “Ooh, I Love It (Love Break)” by The Salsoul Orchestra. That is one of the many distinct sounds that make the musical backdrop sublime. The opening texture of the song is smooth, establishing an incredible ambiance. An ear-catching, hyper-rhythmic percussive groove evolves with natural, unhurried pacing. The rhythmic layers are impressive – a key part of the record. I live for the synths, sound effects, and clever music cues.

Supported by a sumptuous backdrop, Madonna shows ample personality on this infectious dance cut. She brings the unforgettable melodies to life. “When all else fails and you long to be / Something better than you are today,” she sings in the first verse, continuing, “I know a place where you can get away / It’s called a dance floor / And here’s what it’s for, so.” Oh, the escapism is glorious! The verses are terrific, but there are two sections to beat. The first is the chorus:

“Come on, vogue (vogue, vogue)

Let your body groove to the music (Groove to the music)

Hey, hey, hey

Come on, vogue (vogue, vogue)

Let your body go with the flow (Go with the flow)

You know you can do it.”

The second section that solidifies the excellence of this dance gem is the third verse, which is chanted/rapped. “Greta Garbo, and Monroe / Dietrich and DiMaggio / Marlon Brando, Jimmy Dean / On the cover of a magazine,” she asserts, famously adding, “They had style, they had grace / Rita Hayworth gave good face…” You also can’t mention “Vogue” without shouting out the music video, another key part of its iconic nature. A worldwide hit, “Vogue” spent three weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. In 2024, “Vogue” was certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, which is impressive for a song that predated streaming. Enduring and timeless to the nth degree, “Vogue” is a #CLASSIC!

Appears in:

Madonna, Vogue: Bangerz N Bopz No. 55 (2025)

~ Table of Contents ~

20. The Buggles, “Video Killed the Radio Star”

The Age of Plastic » The Island Def Jam Music Group » 1980

“Oh-a oh-a.”

Sigh, that’s an iconic moment from an iconic song! The song is “Video Killed the Radio Star”, the sole hit by The Buggles in the United States.  Of course, such fun, but silly lyrics aren’t the sole reason this 1979 record earned the English new wave band notoriety.  This record reflects on technological advancements, particularly how such advancements have had a negative impact.  “They took credit for your second symphony,” Trevor Horn sings in the first verse, continuing, “Rewritten by a machine on new technology / And now I understand the problems you could see.” Does a machine really need to rewrite a masterpiece such as a symphony? Food for thought.

Even though “Video Killed the Radio Star” arrived in 1979, eventually appearing on The Buggles’ 1980 album, The Age of Plastic, is what the band sings about dated at this point? No, because technology doesn’t stop, and new technology consistently replaces old.  In a musical context, look at how music is consumed these days. sure, “Video killed the radio star / Pictures came and broke your heart” back in the 80s but look at how music is consumed now. Streaming has surpassed physical sales of music, for example.  Trevor Horn, assisted by Debi Doss and Linda Jardim continues to talk about the changes in the second verse: “And now we meet in an abandoned studio / We hear the playback, and it seems so long ago.” Besides thought-provoking lyrics, tongue-in-cheek vocals, and respectable lead vocals by Horn, the music on this Horn, Bruce Woolery, and Geoff Downes-penned track is exuberant – totally rad 🤘. One hit The Buggles may have had, but “Video Killed the Radio Star” is an awesome one that never gets old 💯!

Appears in:

~ Table of Contents ~

The Alphabet Playlist Series 2025-26 🔻
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)	A Spectacular Compendium of S Songs (2025)
A Terrific Collection of T Songs (2026)	An Unbelievable Compendium of U Songs (2026)	A Vivid Collection of V Songs (2026)

~ Table of Contents ~ » ~ intro ~

A Vivid Collection of V Songs (2026) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; A&M, Artemas, Capitol, Columbia, Conan Gray, EGOVERT, EMI Catalog, Experience Hendrix L.L.C., Fueled By Ramen, Geffen, HAAi, Interscope, Mute Artists Ltd., Olivia Rodrigo, Republic, Rick Glam, sedgwick, Sire Records Company, Smiley Miley, Inc., Sony Music Entertainment, The Island Def Jam Music Group, TUNTUM, Zaragoza Records, LLC; CatsWithGlasses, Clker-Free-Vector-Images, Gordon Johnson, Olena, René from Pixabay]

A Vivid Collection of V Songs | Playlist

Published by the musical hype on February 6, 2026February 6, 2026