10. 

J stands for “Just a Crush” by Grace VanderWaal

Album: Just the Beginning

Columbia

Truly, America’s Got Talent.  Grace VanderWaal, a mere kid, proved that, winning the popular television show.  The thing is, not only did she win a reality competition, she truly possesses talent. She’s got chops, which she showcases throughout the course of her full-length debut album, Just the Beginning.  “Just a Crush” is the fourth track on Just the Beginning. Within the context of the album, it follows a non-ukulele-fueled cut. Naturally, “Just a Crush” restores the ukulele-fueled sound. As a record, it’s enjoyable, well-performed, and well-produced.  Given her age, it feels like an appropriate record fitting where she is in life.

11.

K stands for “Kill Jay Z” by Jay-Z.

Album: 4:44

Roc Nation

“Kill Jay Z” commences 4:44 abruptly. It’s superbly produced, but don’t call it a banger – it’s not intended for the club.  There is no hook, only a verse, hence, heavy reliance on the bars by Jay-Z. Fueled by a sample from The Alan Parsons Project (“Don’t Let It Show”), he wastes no time.

“Kill Jay Z, they’ll never love you / You’ll never be enough, let’s just keep it real, Jay Z / Fuck Jay Z, I mean, you shot your own brother / How can we know if we can trust Jay Z?”

Reflective, the opener is representative of the personal nature that characterizes the entirety of 4:44.

12.

L stands for “Love So Soft” by Kelly Clarkson

Album: Meaning of Life

Atlantic

“Love So Soft” is a feisty, soulful pop joint that shows off mad personality. There are retro cues and vibes on this minor-key pop record, which prove to be a perfect match for Kelly Clarkson. Such cues include the punchy, boxy drums, gospel-driven backing vocals, and the horns. The repetitive, biting chorus is modern, in line with the gimmicky pop dominating the game these days. The best feature is the vocals. Clarkson’s pitch is great, her tone is ripe, and the nuances sublime. The falsetto towards the end is sick.