Awesome Songs That Tickled My Fancy: February 2020 | Playlist 🎧

1. Joji, “Run”

Nectar • 88rising / 12Tone Music • 2020

After a relatively quiet year in 2019, fresh into a new decade, Joji (George Miller) returned with a fresh new single, “Run”. “Run” features production by Justin Parker, who also co-writes along with Joji and Daniel Wilson.  Rather than embracing the R&B vein he opted for on BALLADS 1 (2018), “Run” has more of an alternative pop vibe. It’s quite a compelling contrast.  Rather than rely on keyboards and synths, Miller is backed by electric guitar.

Furthermore, it’s also alluring to hear Joji sing in falsetto, flaunting his upper register on the chorus:

“I know you’re not in love, like you used to be
Guess I’m not the one, like you used to think
So, you just run
I know that I’m stuck in this misery
Guess I’m not enough, like you used to think
So, I’ll just run.”

Of course, he, doesn’t merely rely on falsetto.  He sings quite robustly (chest voice) on the both the verses.  The lyrics are emotionally charged, with matters of the heart fueling the fire. “I fell for your magic, I tasted your skin,” he sings on the first verse, continuing, “And though this is tragic, at least I found the end.”  On the second verse, he asks, “Will I pay my dues? / Your love was a mystery / Yeah, my love is a fool / And I travel the country just to get to you.”

Perhaps Joji’s lover (or ex-lover) is running away, and he is too, but you won’t want to ‘run’ away from “Run” itself – it definitely tickled my fancy! “Run” is gorgeously performed, features a memorable chorus and emotionally charged, relatable lyrics, and it is superbly produced.

2. Dua Lipa, “Physical”

Future Nostalgia • Warner • 2020 

“Common love isn’t for us / We created something phenomenal…” Ah, sugar honey iced tea! According to Grammy-winning pop superstar Dua Lipa, the love is lit AF on “Physical”, an advance single from her sophomore album, Future Nostalgia. The sensually charged “Physical” was co-written by Lipa alongside Clarence Coffee Jr., Jason Evigan, and Sarah Hudson.  The production, courtesy of Evigan, along with KOZ (Stephen Kozmeniuk), suggests, it’s going down.

Even with sex being the modus operandi, Dua Lipa opts for more tasteful fun as opposed to being outright explicit.  That’s a refreshing contrast, if I do say so myself. So many times, in contemporary music, artists are forceful and incredibly overt regarding sex. Can you have a sex song which doesn’t require ample slang and f-bombs? The answer is yes, you actually can, and arguably, it’s more effective. In this case, “Physical” is suggestive and sexy without crossing lines.  Furthermore, Lipa sounds incredible, showcasing the sheer beauty of those husky, top-rate pipes.  She’s playful on the verses, ‘bringing it on home’ on the centerpiece, the incredibly ‘physical’ chorus:

“All night, I’ll riot with you
I know you got my back and you know I got you
So come on, come on, come on
Let’s get physical
Lights out, follow the noise
Baby, keep on dancing like you ain’t got a choice
So come on, come on, come on
Let’s get physical.”

Ultimately, “Physical” is another awesome record from a truly awesome artist.  It tackles the popular topic of sex yet manages to eschew being dirty.  The power of innuendo goes a long way.  So, do those vocals! “Physical” previously appeared on the ‘no rhyme or reason’ playlist, 13 P Songs Selected with No Rhyme or Reason.

3. Bad Bunny & Sech, “Ignorantes”

YHLGMDLG • Rimas Entertainment • 2020

Puerto Rican Latin trap artist Bad Bunny proved that he was a star on his Grammy-nominated debut album, X 100PRE (it won at the Latin Grammys).  Even if you’re no Latin music enthusiast, Bad Bunny makes it quite compelling.  On the standout Urbano Latino single “Ignorantes”,  Bunny pairs with Panamanian singer Sech.

“Ignorantes” is a bop that tickled my fancy for numerous reasons.  First, the production is quite impressive.  Dimelo Flow and Soltedo Beats do a magnificent job of giving Bad Bunny and Sech a great backdrop to ‘do work’ with.  The beat packs a fair amount of punch, while the keyboards and synths are kinder and gentler in sound. Ultimately, the sound complements the performing artists.  Part of the reason why the sound of the production is so effective is because “Ignorantes” encompasses matters of the heart, specifically heartbreak and a failed relationship.

Beyond that, well, Dimelo Flow and Soltedo Beats simply give the listeners some truly beautiful, impressive ear candy.  The music sounds as if they never even had to break a sweat creating it. As for Bad Bunny and Sech, well, they capture their feelings regarding the ended relationship well.  Naturally, as they reminisce, matters of the bedroom come into play, evidenced on the chorus performed by Bad Bunny.  Translated into English, a portion of the chorus reads as follows, “Normal, I know that sometimes peleamo [we fight] / But how delicious when chingamo [fucking] / And I don’t know why we left / If you love me and I love you.”  Sech also recollects intimacy on the first verse, while on the bridge to the chorus, regrets sleeping with her, but knows it was, well, muy bueno. You don’t understand the language to dig “Ignorantes.” With some basic background, the record is quite relatable. Furthermore, shout out for the LGBTQ inclusive music video.

4. H.E.R., “Sometimes”

 “Sometimes” • RCA • 2020

Grammy-winning R&B artist H.E.R. walked out empty handed during the 62^nd Annual Grammy Awards (her second Grammys cycle with I Used to Know Her), but she debuted an awesome new single, “Sometimes”.  “I had a plan, I had it mapped out / I knew where I was going when I left out /… But now I know things change for better or worse / You say that I’m the same, but I ain’t adjusted to all the hurt…” “Sometimes” is a complete record that not only checks off the boxes for a R&B song, but also features some pop/rock elements and strong songwriting.  Dernst (DMile) Emile II, one of the co-writers, also handles the production, which is quite lush, soulful, and most of all alluring.

Focusing on H.E.R., her vocals are simply marvelous.  She delivers a lovely performance, never overreaching nor overwhelming.  Besides soulful lead vocals, she’s accompanied by lovely backing vocals who harmonize superbly with her.  Returning to the songwriting, it’s quite philosophical and thoughtful, particularly the chorus:

“Sometimes shit don’t go your way, sometimes
And sometimes you gon’ have those days, yeah
And sometimes you’ll feel out of place
You can’t promise me it’ll be the same
‘Cause sometimes change.”

The verses, (with the first excerpted above) also contribute to the philosophical message and vibe. As she sings so truthfully, “sometimes shit don’t go your way.” Ultimately, this is another fantastic record from the extremely gifted, Grammy-winning R&B artist.

5. Billie Eilish, “No Time to Die”

 “No Time to Die” – Single • Darkroom / Interscope • 2020

Things don’t seem to be slowing down for Grammy-winning alternative pop star Billie Eilish in 2020. In 2019, she had a breakout, once-in-a-lifetime album with WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO?.  Unsurprisingly, in 2020, she racked up the Grammys, sweeping the big four categories of Record of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist.  Post-Grammy domination, and post high-profile Academy Awards in memoriam performance, she returned with “No Time to Die”, which appears in the 007 film, No Time to Die.

As always, “No Time to Die” is co-written by Billie Eilish and FINNEAS, who also produces alongside Stephen Lipson.  The sound is a nice balance between that signature Eilish sound we’ve come to love – more understated, yet always chilling and haunting – and the dramatic, dark nature of the music appearing in the James Bond films.  For most of the song, the listener is mesmerized by the soft yet potent nature of Eilish’s instrument, with ample lyrical expressiveness.  But, even the oft-understated teen rises to the occasion, pushing her voice and singing dynamically to match the soaring nature of the music.  Of course, this moment occurs on the chorus:

“That I’d fallen for a lie
You were never on my side
Fool me once, fool me twice
Are you death or paradise?
Now you’ll never see me cry
There’s just no time to die.” 

Eilish continues to be the gift that keeps giving. “No Time to Die” has the makings of another potential Academy Award winning James Bond song.  Think about what Bond has done for Adele and Sam Smith – just saying.  This is a well-written, well-performed, truly gorgeous ballad that plays to her strengths.  Fancy tickled!

6. Cheat Codes, “No Service in the Hills”

Ft. Trippie Redd, Blackbear & PRINCE$$ ROSIE

“No Service in the Hills” • Too Easy / 300 Entertainment • 2020

Los Angeles, California production team Cheat Codes (Trevor Dahl, Kevin Ford, and Matthew Russell) definitely know how to assemble a B-O-P.  Post-Level 2 (their 2019 EP), the DJ trio returned with “another one” to quote DJ Khaled, with their first bop of 2020, “No Service in the Hills”. “No Service in the Hills” features a star-studded cast that includes Trippie Redd, Blackbear, and PRINCE$$ ROSIE.

“No Service in the Hills” may be short (two-and-half-minutes), but there’s plenty to like about this single.  The production (Jonas Jeberg and Trevor Dahl) is certainly on point.  The next big win for Cheat Codes is the chorus, performed mostly by blackbear, with some ad-lib’s courtesy of Trippie Redd.  Honestly, this is the best part of “No Service in the Hills.” Blackbear’s unique vocals are perfect to carry this infectious, totally memorable section of the record:

“It’s no service in the hills
I can’t hit you back, you gon’ have to chill
Tryna make another mil’
I just can’t relax, I might take a pill
I’ve been way up, got my bread up
Talkin’ like you hungry, bitch, I’m fed up, yeah
It’s no service in the hills
I can’t hit you back, you gon’ have to chill.”

Other notable happenings include the #WOKE first verse by PRINCEE$$ ROSIE, who references Tom Ford, Tom Cruise, and Henny.  Trippie Redd, meanwhile, gets his biggest contributions on the second verse, making mention of spending time “With a bad bitch, flirting in the hills,” threatening to “Commit murder in the hills,” and honestly, all things about – wait for it – THE HILLS. If you need of a great pop record to get you going, “No Service in the Hills” is definitely worth considering.

7. Phony Ppl, “Fkn Around”

Ft. Megan Thee Stallion

“Fkn Around” • 300 Entertainment • 2020

For the “fearless five-man band” Phony Ppl, “Liberation is both the modus operandi and main ingredient,” reads their site bio.  Essentially, the collective is quite eclectic, not the least bit constricted by genre.  Following their 2018 album, mō’zā-ik., and a couple of singles, the colorful collective returned with their infectious first single of 2020, “Fkn Around”, featuring Megan Thee Stallion.

The four-minute-plus bop “Fkn Around” is a prime example of the liberation that characterizes Phony Ppl.  In this case, they embrace the rhythmic, sleek funk of old-school, while maintaining freshness with, well, profanity among other things. How many 70s funk songs dare include an abbreviation of the f-bomb in its song title, let alone repeat it liberally? Even if there’s a serious case of potty mouth going on, “Fkn Around” is quite infectious, particular the chorus:

“You’ve got a man, but you fuckin’ around
Risking it all baby just to get down
You’ve got a man, but you fuckin’ around
Risking it all baby just to get down.”

Vocalist Elbee Thrie sounds absolutely amazing – expressive, nuanced, and quite soulful. Beyond the stellar chorus, he brings the heat on first and third verses.  Thrie details this woman’s ways, asserting at the end of the first verse, “Independent woman, I won’t tell you how to act / But you and I both know we could be gone before he’s back…” Megan Thee Stallion arrives for the second verse, playing off of his descriptions, essentially.  She raps about her MANY men:

“I got a European papi out in Italy
And he like to model but he always love to picture me
… I keep a man in Texas, that where the best is
Down south daddy and he’s cool never stress me.” 

Phony Ppl come up big on “Fkn Around,” period: Excellent vocals, a confident rap verse from Megan Thee Stallion, incredible production, and a kick ass, totally infectious chorus.  Yeah, you definitely want to “fk around” with this joint.

8. Madison Beer, “Good in Goodbye”

“Good in Goodbye” • Epic • 2020

“You’re killing my vibe / In ways words cannot describe / But I’ll try, I’ll try.” Word! Madison Beer is part of the new guard – one of many up and coming pop artists.  Entering her 21^st year, Beer released her debut EP, As She Pleases, back in 2018.  Trace her roots back even further, and her debut single, “Melodies”, arrived in 2013, when she was 14 years old.  Beer is back with her first new single the new decade, “Good in Goodbye”.

Although it’s not even two-and-a-half-minutes long, there’s plenty to like about “Good in Goodbye.” The first thing that stands out are Beer’s vocals.  Those pipes are quite husky, a quality I adore in a pop vocalist.  The sound of her lower register, on the verse in particular, is quite sultry – she has a gorgeous tone. She also shows off her upper register, particularly when the vocal harmonies come into play.

In addition to her lead vocals, Beer also has attitude, exhibiting personality.  It’s not merely the cuss words that accomplish this for her (“People started to notice all the shit you couldn’t see”), but overall, there’s confidence, sass, and fun songwriting. The chorus is a prime example, further amplified by the sleek, colorful production work by Beer, Leroy Clampitt, and One Love:

“You put the ‘over’ in ‘lover,’ put the ‘ex’ in ‘next’
Ain’t no ‘I’ in ‘trouble,’ just the ‘U’ since we met
‘Cause you’re toxic, boy, I ain’t even gotta try to find the
G-O-O-D in goodbye.”

“Good in Goodbye” is a certified bop – a pop song you definitely need to add to your listening rotation.

9. Meek Mill, “Believe”

Ft. Justin Timberlake

“Believe” • Atlantic • 2020

Despite the fact that he wasn’t victorious at the 62^nd Annual Grammy Awards, Meek Mill did manage to earn his first Grammy nomination, for Best Rap Album (Championships, 2018).  After releasing the single “Letter to Nipsey” (featuring Roddy Ricch), he returned with another terrific single, “Believe”, featuring Justin Timberlake.

The positive results start with the production. Timberlake co-produces alongside Rob Knox.  Despite the fact that “Believe” is set in a minor key (B-flat minor, precisely), there’s still a sense of optimism, conveyed by the keyboards and synths.  Adding to the grandeur are the strings, arranged and conducted by Larry Gold.  Going back to that sense of optimism, Timberlake confirms the uplifting vibes of “Believe” on the soulful centerpiece, the chorus:

“You know I still believe, still believe in you and me
‘Cause every night I go to sleep, go to sleep
I can see it like a movie in my dreams
Put my face in the dirt on the ground
Still, I raise up to take back the crown, yes
You can break my body
But you can’t lock the soul of a man down.”

Meek Mill is naturally on fire on both of the verses – AUTOPILOT.  On the first verse, early on, he urges the audience to “Follow your dreams, not your addictions.” He speaks about adversity and his come-up and being relentless.  On the second verse, he thoughtfully spits:

“Play your part, got some brains like the scarecrow
Let’s play it smart, ‘cause we ain’t playin’ checkers, this is chess, play your pawns
Sit back like a king, when they move, make your mark
And never ever let your competition take your heart.”

“Believe” is definitely a record that anyone who hears it can totally BELIEVE in. The messaging is on-point.

10. Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, “Be Afraid”

Reunions • Southeastern • 2020

After a three-year hiatus, Grammy-winning rock/Americana collective Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit is back with a brand-new album, Reunions.  Reunions (May 15, 2020) is led by the must-hear single, “Be Afraid”. First and foremost, cutting straight to the chase, “Be Afraid” is quite successful. One of the reasons “Be Afraid” is successful is because Jason Isbell is incredibly authentic and relevant.  He speaks on the importance of using the artistic platform properly – conveying what’s happening in the world and ultimately being courageous in sharing your voice, even if it’s scary.

Isbell urges, “Be afraid, be very afraid / But do it anyway / Do it anyway.” Beyond the chorus, there are some other lyrical gems. He brings personal aspects in, such as his daughter, who he’s mentioned in the past.  Also, he embraces musicians being activists in a number of instances.  “We don’t take requests / We won’t shut up and sing,” he sings, adding, “Tell the truth enough you’ll find it rhymes with everything.” Perhaps my personal favorite comes later:

“And if the words add up to nothing then you’re making a choice
To sing a cover when you need a battle cry.”

Never failing to impress, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit shine brightly on “Be Afraid.” He makes it clear musicians have a responsibility to stand up for right, share their beliefs, and be authentic as opposed to fake. That, my friends, is the exemplification of awesomeness.

11. Sam Smith, “To Die For”

Love Goes • Capitol • 2020 

Grammy-winning pop musician Sam Smith has gone through some big changes.  Between releasing The Thrill of it All (2017), and announcing his third studio album, To Die For (May 1, 2020) Love Goes, the openly gay Smith has been embracing THEIR identity, opting for non-binary pronouns they and them: “I’ve decided I am changing my pronouns to THEY/THEM after a lifetime of being at war with my gender I’ve decided to embrace myself for who I am, inside and out.” After numerous advance singles (“Dancing with a Stranger”, “How Do You Sleep?”, “I Feel Love”, and “Fire on Fire”) Smith returned with his first newbie of 2020, the forthcoming album’s title track, “To Die For”.

As with most Sam Smith songs, there are ample selling points.  First and foremost, on “To Die For,” their voice sounds magical.  They spoil us with rich, robust falsetto.  Throughout this pop ballad, Smith sounds expressive, even with vocal effects added to the mix.  Beyond the voice, Stargate (Mikkel S. Eriksen and Tor Hermansen) and Jimmy Napes provide them a gorgeous canvas to paint upon vocally.  It’s nothing too far-fetched or the least bit wild, but it suits the vocalist – the beat, and keyboards/programming, including the dramatic, warm strings.

Last but not least is the theme.  Sam Smith doesn’t want to be alone – understandable.  Like everybody else in the world, “I just want somebody to die for,” they sing throughout the chorus and bridge of the song.  It’s especially relatable on the centerpiece, the chorus:

“Pink lemonade sippin’ on a Sunday
Couples holding hands on a runway
They’re all posing in a picture frame
Whilst my world’s crashing down
Solo shadow on a sidewalk
Just want somebody to die for
Sunshine livin’ on a perfect day
While my world’s crashing down
I just want somebody to die for.”

The lyrics and theme are relatable to anybody, regardless of sexual orientation, race, or otherwise.  Vocally, Smith remains elite.  Furthermore, Stargate and Jimmy Napes hook them up with strong production.  All in all, “To Die For” is quite enjoyable – sound by all means.

12. Lil Mosey, “Blueberry Faygo”

“Blueberry Faygo” • Interscope • 2020

Pacific Northwest artist Lil Mosey is one of many teen rappers making a name for himself.  Rappers are getting younger and younger these days, so it’s not surprising to see ‘the kids’ working towards that highly coveted ‘come up.’  Mosey, whose really name is Lathan Moses Echols, hails from Seattle, Washington.  He’s had some moderate chart success, and if the catchiness of single “Blueberry Faygo” is any indication, he’s bound to have even bigger chart success sooner than later.

There’s plenty of pros that make the relatively short “Blueberry Faygo” worth your while.  One of the first reasons why “Blueberry Faygo” earns ‘bop status’ is thanks to the production by Callan.  It’s quite lush, further fueled by a Johnny Gill sample (“My, My, My”).  This is the perfect backdrop for Lil Mosey to drop his agile, easygoing flow. No, Mosey doesn’t have the most ‘lyrical’ approach – No one’s about to say “Three more hoes, pull up, I’m fucking shit” is poetic – but for whatever reason, there’s a clear draw to this youngster, who confidently brags throughout.

While the lyrics are shallow (‘hoes’ are part of the rap script, so that’s not new), Lil Mosey gets in some memorable lines.  Naturally, any references to Blueberry Faygo itself isn’t merely soda (duh), so there’s that (“Poured up a four, now that blueberry Faygo”). But there’s also that moment he plays on ‘hardness’ during the first verse: “This not my dick, lil bitch, my Glock hard.” We gotcha kiddo, we gotcha.  Of course, the crème de la crème is the chorus:

“One bad bitch and she do what I say so
Two big .40s and a big ass Draco
Three more millions when you ask how my day go
Poured up a four, now that blueberry Faygo
One false move and we straight to shootin’ shit
Two small bands just to take you out real quick
Three more hoes, pull up, I’m fucking shit
That’s how it go, big bands, I’m thumbin’ shit.”

“Blueberry Faygo” may not be game changing, but it is a catchy, if shallow rap record by the up-and-coming teen rapper. An awesome song that tickled my fancy? Definitely!

13. Greyson Chance, “Dancing Next to Me”

“Dancing Next to Me” • GCM / Arista • 2020

“Twenty-two, he doesn’t drink but he needs to let loose / He doesn’t know what he wants, but I do / And I give into the moment…” Ooh la la! Greyson Chance made a fierce comeback in 2019 with the album, Portraits.  The gay musician definitely opened up more than, say, Hold On ‘Til the Night, released back when he was a kid.  Post-Portraits, Chance also released a fierce single, “Boots” – a must hear if you haven’t indulged yet.  Chance returned in 2020, tackling matters of the heart – from a gay perspective – on “Dancing Next to Me”. Of course, regardless of your sexuality, “Dancing Next to Me” is quite relatable, particularly, after a temporary love connection…

“Hold tight, says he wants to come over / And I’ll try, I’ll try to keep my composure…” Greyson Chance has a superb team of songwriters on “Dancing Next to Me,” including Teddy Geiger, who also produces.  The result? A fun, lustful, danceable pop record that’s a perfect fit for the 22-year old standout. On the verses, he sings in commanding fashion, robustly in his lower-mid register.  He contrasts on the pre-chorus and into the chorus section, showcasing a potent, ripe falsetto.

“...But I know that you felt it
And I felt it when you were there, you were there
You were dancing next to me.”

Things are sexier on the second verse, but the listener also begins to see the ‘unhappy ending’ (“‘Slow down,’ those aren’t the words that I wanted / From hour mouth / From our lips that I just kissed…”). The bridge is arguably the most important section of “Dancing Next to Me,” bringing in elements of fear, and perhaps, internalized homophobia:

“I was yours for the weekend
Come sunrise, it’s time for you to dodge your feelings
Call your girl to deny
We know is the truth
You were who you wanted to be
When you were there, you were there
You were dancing next to me.”

“Dancing Next to Me” is pretty sweet and quite jam-packed.  Chance experiences a temporary high, only to be disappointed, ultimately.  It happens, but from the gay perspective, it’s still gaining traction as a song topic.  All in all, “Dancing Next to Me” is a bop. Awesomeness!

14. Alec Benjamin, “Oh My God”

These Two Windows • Alec Benjamin • 2020

“Oh My God” (These Two Windows) continues the sheer excellence that Alec Benjamin has exhibited throughout the 10s into the 20s.  First and foremost, his voice is absolutely gorgeous.  He has a truly distinct sound, with a youthful, boyish quality that sounds quite innocent and sweet.  Sure, he’s in his mid-twenties, but that youthful sound is quite alluring.  Even if he sounds younger than he is, his songwriting continues to be mature, authentic, and quite relatable.  On “On My God,” he co-writes with Julie Frost and Nolan Lambroza with positive results.  Lambroza (Sir Nolan) also co-produces along with Johan Lenox, giving Benjamin a superb, balanced music backdrop that complements his voice.

The voice is magnificent.  The writing and production are also huge selling points.  Elaborating on the writing and theme a bit more, Benjamin examines himself – how he’s forgotten who he was and changed essentially. “I’m running out of oxygen,” he sings on the pre-chorus, continuing, “I’ll never be the same again now.” The centerpiece is the chorus:

“Oh my god, I can’t remember
Who I was just last December?
What have I done; how did I get here?
What have I done?
Oh, my god, look in the mirror
I was young, nothing to fear once
What have I done; how did I get here?
What have I done?”

Again, as I listen to Alec Benjamin, I get angrier and angrier that ANYBODY dropped him from a major label – what a talented guy.  “Oh My God” is another moment where he continues to flex his muscles – well, his musical abilities rather.  Great voice, great songwriting, and well-rounded production makes “Oh My God” is surefire winner.  The record previously appeared on the playlist, OMG! 11 Totally Oh My God Songs.

15. Sevdaliza, “Oh My God”

Shabrang • Twisted Elegance • 2020

“I’ve been through a lot in life / I live distant from it all / I view myself from above…” Definitely telling lyrics, if I do say so myself, Sevdaliza.  If you’ve never taken the time to check her out, well, you’re totally missing out?  Who is Sevdaliza, you ask? Well, she’s an Iranian-Dutch singer, songwriter, and producer who can be characterized as an electronic artist, incorporating other styles as well.  She released her debut album, Ison, in 2017.  She returned at the tail-end of January 2020 with a colorful bop of a single, “Oh My God”, which was a  perfect fit for the OMG! 11 Totally Oh My God Songs playlist, not to mention AWESOME SONGS THAT TICKLED MY FANCY: FEBRUARY 2020!

“Oh My God” is accompanied by a contemporary, hip-hop beat, giving it some, dare I say, swagger – get it Sevdaliza! For the most part, it’s a minimalist cut, that relies on her vocals and the various effects surrounding them, coupled with some unique production cues.  Besides herself, who helps her to stitch up this electronic gem? That’s Reynard Bargmann, better known as Mucky, who also appears as the co-writer. The catchiest section of the song is the chorus, the most dominant section of the record by all means:

“Oh my God
Who should I be?
What is it you want when you come for me?
Every time, you’re another evil
Waiting for an angel that you bring to hell.”

“Oh My God” may seem simplistic to a certain degree, but actually transcends superficiality by all means.  Sevdaliza reflects on the hardships of her life (fleeing from her native Iran for example), as well as exploring the connotation of the titular phrase.  Ultimately, this is one pretty rad record if I do say so myself.

16. Black Atlass, “Lie to Me”

Dream Awake • XO / Republic • 2020

In 2018, Canadian-bred, LA-based musician Alex Fleming, better known as Black Atlass, released his sophomore album, Pain & Pleasure.  Signed with XO, a subsidiary of Republic co-founded by The Weeknd, unsurprisingly, Fleming possesses many vocal similarities to him. After a two-year hiatus, Fleming returned with a compelling new single, “Lie to Me”.

“Lie to Me” has no shortage of pros.  First of all, the production is superb, courtesy of DANNYBOYSTYLES and Oligee.  They give Black Atlass a mighty backdrop to paint his colorful, expressive, and sexy vocal upon.  That mighty backdrop includes lush keyboards, synths, and anchoring beat.  Throw in a minor-key, and the vibe is absolutely electrifying on “Lie to Me.”

The production is awesome but so is Black Atlass. As aforementioned, he paints those stellar vocals atop the superb production work. He continues to showcase vocal similarities to The Weeknd, including a flawless falsetto that’s ripe AF.  The listener is most blessed on the chorus, where “lie to me” features that epic, falsetto treatment:

“So, lie to me
Lie to me
Lie to me babe
I’m feeling all that I can take
Lie to me
Lie to me
Lie to me babe
And my heart will never break.”

Besides the chorus, of course, there’s plenty of alluring moments in regard to songwriting.  Basically, Black Atlass is experiencing heartbreak, and as he sees his ex, well, he doesn’t want to know about her current relationship.  Therefore, she should – wait for it – LIE.  Clearly, he’s still in love with her. Fleming admits he is the blame for their break-up on the second verse, admitting “I fucked this up / You know I can be brave / I can be kind / I can be yours / Just give me time…”

It may have been two years since hearing from Black Atlass, but he returns with a bang on “Lie to Me.” His voice is absolutely amazing.  The songwriting and theme of the record are relatable, perfectly tailor to his strengths artistically.  Not enough people were listening to Alex Fleming in 2018.  More should tune in for his return in 2020.

17. Powfu, “death bed (coffee for your head)”

Ft. beabadoobee

Poems of the Past (EP) • Columbia • 2020

Canadian rapper Powfu raps about his “death bed (coffee for your head)”, getting a mighty assist from indie-pop singer/songwriter, beabadoobee. Beabadoobee plays a big role on “death bed,” thanks to a sample of her song, “Coffee” fueling the fire.  Even so, Otterpop does a nice job producing this chill yet potent and thoughtful record.

Powfu rides the beat easily, seemingly never breaking a sweat.  He reflects on love, life, and God.  “I been praying for forgiveness, you’ve been praying for my health,” he raps on the first verse, continuing, “When I leave this earth, hopin’ you’ll find someone else…”  The second verse is shorter but offers much of the same. He’s so happy she’s with him, he recollects the memories, but also, on a sad note, tells her, “Soon you’ll be alone, sorry that you have to lose me.” Of course, the centerpiece is the chorus, with beabadoobee doing work.  Of course, Powfu joins her in certain instances.  The mix is quite pleasant.

“Don’t stay awake for too long, don’t go to bed
I’ll make a cup of coffee for your head
It’ll get you up and going out of bed.”

All in all, Powfu delivers a sweet gem with “death bed.” He’s poetic, reflective, and incredibly thoughtful.  The authenticity and sincerity may be the biggest selling point of this record.

18. Declan McKenna, “Beautiful Faces”

Zeros • Tomplicated • 2020

Declan McKenna exemplifies the term wunderkind.  The British singer/songwriter wrote some amazing music, beyond his then teenage years, on his full-length debut album, What Do You Think About the Car?.  A couple of songs reprised on his debut album appeared on his 2016 EP, Liar, including standouts “Brazil”, “Bethlehem”, and “Paracetamol”. McKenna, is “on to the next one” with Zeros (May 15, 2020).  Leading the charge for the 21-year-old’s sophomore album is the single, “Beautiful Faces”.

“Beautiful Faces” is another well-written song by McKenna, period.  He personally describes the anthem to NME as “a brave new anthem for doomed youth.” Producer Jay Joyce helps craft a compelling backdrop for McKenna.  That backdrop is comprised of energetic guitars, punchy drums, a robust bass line, and some bright, energetic synths (via keyboards).  Vocally, McKenna is potent, particularly on the catchy chorus:

“Beautiful faces smiling over us
Lift your hands up and lead us back home
Beautiful people won’t remember you, honey
I bet you can’t get enough.”

Of course, it’s not just the chorus that’s electrifying.  The verses feature the usual ‘woke’ lyrics from the British standout.  “Tonight, I must demand a raise so I can grab, let’s say,” he sings on the second verse, “Some part replacements and strawberry laces, no spaces.” Definitely not your typical lyrics, right? Then there’s also my personal favorite verse, verse three:

“Tonight, I’m good staying inside
But I’ll be dancing for sure
Going to the stores, pulling socks out of the drawers
Of the people who you don’t love anymore.”

Ah, so colorful Declan, so colorful! McKenna is a beast, and not enough folks are aware of his sheer excellence.  He’s a capable songwriter, a compelling singer, and honestly, awesome AF.  “Beautiful Faces” is truly beautiful!

19. The Weeknd, “After Hours”

After Hours • Republic • 2020

After more than a three-year-hiatus between full-length projects, three-time, Grammy-winning R&B artist The Weeknd returns with his fourth studio album, After Hours.  Between releasing Starboy (November 2016) and After Hours (March 2020), Abel Tesfaye released the six-song EP, My Dear Melancholy, (March 2018).  Prior to the announcement of After Hours, he’d released two compelling singles in the aggressive “Heartless” and the more pop-driven “Blinding Lights”.  Now, with After Hours set to bow, he releases the third single from the project, fitting the title track itself.

“After Hours” is definitely a throwback for The Weekend; it sounds like his ultra-moody music of the past.  At over six-minutes in length, it definitely runs long, but the vibe, vocal performance, and the production definitely compensate.  The dark, moody, minor production hails courtesy of Tesfaye alongside Illangelo, Jason “DaHeala” Quenneville, and Mario Winans (the “I Don’t Wanna Know” hitmaker).  Making the production so satisfying are the cutting-edge synths and the infectious groove.  Of course, it’s that potent falsetto atop the backdrop that seals the deal.

Beyond the sound and those accomplished vocals, it’s the theme encompassing matters of the heart that adds to the excellence.  The Weeknd thrives on heartbreak, asserting on the second verse, “My darkest hours / Girl, I felt so alone inside of this crowded room / Different girls on the floor, distractin’ my thoughts of you / I turned into the man I used to be, to be.”  The crème de la crème – the crowning achievement – is the chorus which may be cliché but definitely effective:

“Oh, baby
Where are you now when I need you the most?
I’d give it all just to hold you close
Sorry that I broke your heart, your heart
I said, baby
I’ll treat you better than I did before
I’ll hold you down and not let you go
This time, I won’t break your heart, your heart, yeah.” 

Sure, “After Hours” is a long record, but there’s more than enough pros to make you forget you’ve been listening for six-minutes-plus.  Abel Tesfaye is in his zone here, and that’s always a winning formula.

20. Isaac Dunbar, “Makeup Drawer”

Isaac’s Insects (EP) • RCA • 2020

“Insects wish the worst for me / And they befriend my enemy / And it shocks me / Oh, how it shocks me.” Sigh, the young but hella talented Isaac Dunbar already impressed in 2020 with the single “Isaac’s Insects”.  It was so much of a bop, I included it on the best-of playlist, Awesome Songs That Tickled My Fancy: January 2020. Continuing his ascent as a teen alternative pop artist signed to RCA (!), Dunbar releases his second single of 2020, “Makeup Drawer”, set to appear on his forthcoming, major label project.

“And I know where you’ll be / You locked the door to my makeup drawer / And you know where I’ll be / Rummage galore through my makeup drawer.” “Makeup Drawer” finds Isaac Dunbar being more honest and more revealing.  Besides opening up to the audience, he also opens up to himself you might say.  “I shattered mirrors to cope / You made me hate what I saw,” he sings on the second verse, continuing, “Ooh la la la / Oh / It’s such a pity.”  Per his Instagram, Dunbar asserts:

“This song is about the struggle I had my whole life with internalized homophobia.  My sexuality was outed by someone I thought I could trust most. I hated myself because I was not surrounded by the right support system at the time.”

Wow! The bridge seems to really focus on both Dunbar’s internalized homophobia and the person who outed him:

“I just don’t know
And just don’t care
You chew my skull
I watch and star
Make sure you’re fine
Expose my life
I hope you have a real fun time.”

As I said regarding “Isaac’s Insects,” don’t ever underestimate the young. Isaac Dunbar is a teenager, but an extremely talented, totally ‘woke’ one.  Once more he’s on-point in every aspect of “Makeup Drawer” from the songwriting (particularly the theme), production, and the vocals.

21. All Time Low, “Sleeping In”

Wake Up, Sunshine • Fueled by Ramen • 2020 

Alex Gaskarth, the front man of All Time Low, is 32 years old. The once youthful alternative rock collective has certainly aged.  That said, even though ATL has matured from their pop-punk heyday (Last Young Renegade being a prime example), they still possess an edge and energy. “Some Kind of Disaster”, the promo single from Wake Up, Sunshine, was a prime example of a band who’s still got it. So is the follow-up, “Sleeping In”.

From the jump, “Sleeping In” cooks.  Alex Gaskarth is locked-in, singing ab out his desires to, well, sleep in with his babe. “Can we stay all day? Lay low in our lazy luxury,” he sings on the first verse, continuing, “Sex in a rosé daze / All day, it’s a real good thing.”  The lighthearted lyrics continue onto the pre-chorus (“There you go, making it hard to stay on track / Got shit to do, you got work…), and shine brightest on the infectious, double-time chorus:

“If I said I want your body, would you hold it against me?
Seven in the morning, wanna listen to Britney
Everything you wanna, baby, that’s okay with me now
(We don’t sleep, but we like sleeping in)
Closing up the curtains while you call out of work now
Turning off my phone while you take off your shirt now
Waste another day, ‘nother night, ‘nother weekend
We don’t sleep, but we like sleeping in.”

Sigh, pretty damn sexy, right? So much for ‘maturity’ from All Time Low! Adding to the excellence is an energetic backdrop comprised of rhythmic guitars, punchy drums, and a robust, sliding bass line. 

Toss out the comments made about maturity – All Time Low still wanna have some fun! In this case, it’s hot, electrifying sex.  The bed is calling, just no sleeping is going down. Also, worth mentioning, the music video incorporates animals, which help ‘mend heartbreak’, not to mention being in partnership with North Shore Animal League America (NSALA).