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

1. Alex Aiono, “Good Morning”

The Gospel at 23 • Alex Aiono • 2020

“Last night was shit / My phone was dark / The world’s a mess…” Sigh, sounds like things aren’t exactly optimal for pop musician Alex Aiono.  But, guess what? Plot Twist! Despite the problems plaguing him (or his character) on “Good Morning” – “Phone call from mom / Dad lost his job / Text from my ex / She’s moving on” – he’s not having a pity party. Instead, he thinks positively and looks at each new morning as a brand-new, fresh opportunity.

After laying out the tribulations on the highlight from The Gospel at 23, he delivers exuberant, hopeful, soulful, gospel-infused vocals. The chorus is where his bread is buttered, supported by gorgeous, grand choral background vocals:

“So, get up
Make some coffee, make some love
Take a shower, do whatever
Just get up...
Today is all we got
Tomorrow might not come
So, get up
Get up
Good morning.”

“Good Morning” is a grand way to commence The Gospel at 23 – tone setter indeed!

2. Taylor Swift, “Exile”

Ft. Bon Iver

Folklore • Taylor Swift • 2020

“I think I’ve seen this film before / And I didn’t like the ending / You’re not my homeland anymore / So what am I defending?” Folklore is the very best Taylor Swift to date– 💯.  Honestly, any of the 16 songs that appear on the album would’ve been at home on this fancy tickling list.  That said, it is “Exile” featuring Bon Iver is arguably the crowning achievement of folklore, that represents the tour de force here.

First and foremost, the musicianship truly stands out on “Exile,” with the expressive vocals of Justin Vernon complementing Swift exquisitely.  Swift never forces things from a vocal perspective, and it really pays off here.  As with the previous trio of songs – “the 1”, “cardigan”, and “the last great American dynasty” – the writing is gorgeous, both lyrically and instrumentally.  The crème de la crème? The chorus is exceptional, but maybe the nod goes to the extended outro, where we’re blessed with that incredible chemistry established between Swift and Vernon.

“...All this time
We always walked a very thin line
You didn’t even hear me out (Didn’t even hear me out)
You never gave a warning sign (I gave so many signs)
All this time...”

Fancy tickled!

3. Jonas Blue & MAX, “Naked”

“Naked” • A Positiva / Virgin • 2020

“Hourglass shape for a figure / Silhouette send me off like a trigger / Goddamn, I’m the man when I’m with her, yeah.” Sigh, Jonas Blue and MAX assemble a superb pop song in “Naked”, which is sensually charged and suggestive, yet never crosses the line.  The most offensive thing said is the aforementioned ‘goddamn’ by MAX, who never even utters the word sex!  Besides delivering perfect sexual innuendo, “Naked” shines thanks to great production (Blue), awesome vocals (MAX), and catchy, relatable songwriting.

The centerpiece, of course is the infectious, irresistible, sexy chorus:

“You only say you love me when we’re naked
When you’re bangin’ on my bedroom door
You only say you love me when you want me and we’re naked
When you’re layin’ on my bathroom floor, oh
When we do it, feel so good
I don’t stop you when I should
Do we go? We go so hard
Almost let you break my heart
You only say you love me when we’re naked
When you’re bangin’ on my bedroom door, oh.”

4. Katy Perry, “Smile”

Smile • Capitol • 2020

“Smile”, the title track from Smile, is arguably the best single that Katy Perry has released in years; it’s potent instantly.  Sampling old-school hip-hop – Naughty by Nature, “Jamboree” – the production is clearly a pro. Beyond the sunny, soulful pop sound, Perry is exuberant and upbeat, matching the vibes of the music.  Essentially, she sounds reinvigorated and ready to reclaim her place among the pop elite.

The chorus is the centerpiece, and smartly, that centerpiece appears at the top to hook the listener:

“Yeah, I’m thankful
Scratch that, baby, I’m grateful
Gotta say it’s really been a while
But now I got back that smile.”

On the verses and pre-chorus, she reflects on where she’s been, and how she managed to come up – bounce back. “But ever tear has been a lesson,” she sings, continuing, “Rejection can be God’s protection / Long hard road to get that redemption / but no shortcuts to a blessin’.”  “Smile” is just what the doctor ordered for Katy Perry and pretty sweet ear candy for the pop lovers of the world.

5. Aloe Blacc, “My Way”

All Love Everything • Aloe Blacc / BMG Rights Management • 2020

Thankfully, the talented Aloe Blacc returns in 2020, following a six-year hiatus.  Ushering in his comeback album, All Love Everything, is the marvelous single, “My Way”.  If you were all-in on “The Man” in 2014, well, you’ll feel the same about “My Way.” The sound and vibe are very similar.  First and foremost, Blacc sounds absolutely amazing with his voice sounding as elite, polished, smooth, and soulful as ever.  Next, the production manages to brilliant fuse pop, contemporary R&B, and soul.  There’s classicism, yet “My Way” never sounds anachronistic either.

The third component that makes “My Way” a bop-and-a-half? The songwriting! It’s relatable, simple yet thoughtful. The chorus is catchy and uplifting:

“I can make it through this
You can throw the world in my face
But the fear gives me life
And I swear ‘til I die
I’m gonna do it my way
Aye-aye, aye-aye, aye-aye-aye...”

My fancy has been sufficiently tickled.

6. Sufjan Stevens, “America”

The Ascension • Asthmatic Kitty • 2020

“I have loved you, I have grieved / I’m ashamed to admit I no longer believe…” “America” arrived as the promo single from Sufjan Stevens’ long-awaited solo album, The Ascension. “America” is a protest song through and through, and a lushly produced one at that.  All aspects of “America” are on-point.  As always, the music is nothing short of incredible.  Stevens has provided the audience with an incredible colorful palette that easily makes you forget you are listening to a 12-and-a-half-minute song. The music is as dynamic as the lyrics.

The lyrics shape a message of utter disappointment with the direction America has gone – clearly a nosedive – and Steven seems to be angry at God.

“I have worshiped, I have cried
I have put my hands in the wounds on your side
I have tasted of your blood
I have choked on the waters; I abated the flood...”

The lyrics are incredibly dramatic and poetic, exhibiting the emotions that Stevens feels.  There seems to be a sense that Stevens is not only losing faith in America, but perhaps his own faith is being tested with God.  Part of the allure with “America” are the numerous spiritual and specific Biblical references and allusions.  Ultimately, “America” embodies and exemplifies true art, period.

7. The Chicks, “March March”

Gaslighter • Columbia • 2020

“March, march to my own drum / Hey, hey, I’m an army of one…” “March March” marks one of the best moments from Gaslighter, the first album by The Chicks (formerly Dixie Chicks) in 14 years.  Beyond the aforementioned simplistic yet telling chorus, the lyrics on the verses of “March March” definitely speak volumes.  “Brenda’s packin’ heat ‘cause she don’t like Mondays,” references the infamous 1979 school shooter, Brenda Spencer.  The first verse references Emma Gonzalez, a Parkland survivor. On the second verse, Maines criticizes conservative stances regarding abortion, climate change, and is skeptical of Trump’s Helsinki summit with Putin.

From a production standpoint, Jack Antonoff works his magic. He gives us a dark, minimalist, contemporary country joint unlike anything else The Chicks have released. Ample cues – violin in particular – solidify its country status, yet it feels like a fresh, modern take.  The woke lyricism and spirit of protest carry the most weight, but the sound is ripe as well.  Fancy tickled!

8. Myylo, “Kissing on Your Dad”

“Kissing on Your Dad” • Myylo • 2020

“Came over to play Xbox / I didn’t think I’d meet a sexpot…” In case you are unaware, Myylo is truly a gift.  Musically, he never seems to disappoint, always having an infectious bop up his sleeve. “Kissing on Your Dad” is the absolutely laugh out loud hilarious record that we all need given the hellacious 2020 that has befallen us.

“…He came upstairs from his man cave / I had to tell myself to behave.” Per commentary and the title, Myylo takes us on a flirtatious trip. He develops a crush for a totally hot daddy who he asserts, “Oo-ee-oo-ee-oo wish that I was calling him daddy.” Of course, we get a description of the hot dad making Lewis feel some type of way – “And he’s so damn tall call him Megatron / Votes democrat with the mail-in.” Wow!  That said, can you blame him for being turned on? “I want to be the one he’s nailing” – Ha ha!  A totally fun, awesome song that should tickle everyone’s fancy.

9. Jeremy Zucker, “Supercuts”

“Supercuts” • Republic • 2020 

Love is always fuel for the fire – remember that. Jeremy Zucker knows it all too well.  He does well in his depictions of matters of the heart, even if they’re unpleasant. Once more, Zucker entertains the plight of love superbly on “Supercuts”, a single that arrived post-love is not dying (his 2020 debut album).

To reiterate, it all comes down to love on “Supercuts.” Jeremy essentially seems to talk himself out of the possibility of a relationship because of the potential negative side effects. He’s upset from the start because of a lack of control where, ultimately, he ends up being “the bad guy.” Therefore, on one the catchier choruses I’ve heard in 2020, and definitely the rare one referencing Supercuts, he lays out why love is far too risky!

“‘Cause I don’t wanna be someone who makes you happy
Then lets you down, we’ll both feel crappy
I’ll hate your friends when this shit ends
Well, alright
And I don’t wanna make your mama cry at dinner
And see her at the mall next winter
At Supercuts, she hates my guts
Well, alright.”

His hesitance towards getting serious is further confirmed on the bridge, where he sings, “Find me drowning in this bullshit again / Started something that we’re just gonna end.” It’s pessimistic pop, but hey, at least its relatable, pessimistic pop at its finest. Definitely a bop!

10. J. Cole, “The Climb Back”

Lewis Street [Single] • Dreamville / Roc Nation • 2020

On “The Climb Back”, J. Cole shows just how superb he is at his craft. He’s on autopilot on “The Climb Back,” producing the track himself with solid results.  It’s not extremely flashy sounding, but it suits his flow perfectly.  More intriguing than the backdrop is the forefront, where Cole absolutely slaughters the mic.  On this conscious rap joint, he covers a lot of ground with plenty of clever, lyrical references.  Early on, on the first verse, his wordplay is stellar as he rhymes, joint and points, and manages to use points referencing exclamation points, as well as point guard in basketball (“My n***a shoot first as if they never played the point, more two guards…”).

Of course, that particular line runs much deeper than basketball.  Basketball is fun, but this is real life, and Cole is ensuring the world is fully woke. There’s always a message and “The Climb Back” delivers, encompassing the black experience throughout.  This includes gun violence, where Cole, woke as ever, asserts on the outro:

“Everybody mentions suicide prevention
Man, they even made a hotline
To call up when there’s tension, but I got a question
What about a fuckin’ homicide
Need a number for my n***as to call
Whenever there’s a urge to get triggers involved...” 

Honestly, a full essay could be penned regarding “The Climb Back.” Ultimately, J. Cole does what he always does – absolutely kill it.  Great production, great flow, and no shortage of incredibly potent rhymes.

11. James Blake, “Are You Even Real?”

“Are You Even Real?” • Republic • 2020

“Are You Even Real?” marks one of the most gorgeous James Blake songs to date. What makes “Are You Even Real?” so awesome? First and foremost, it is the production.  Blake is known for his skill in the producer’s seat and as usual, he shows it off (Josh Stradlen is credited as well). He serves up great keyboard work and programming that comes together superbly.  Additionally, throw strings into the mix, and there’s additional color that provides quite the emotional effect.  In this particular case, it is violin that enhances the overall soundscape.

The production is one component of the awesomeness but it’s not the sole factor that makes “Are You Even Real?” the winner it is.  Blake delivers lovely, tender vocals, perfectly complementing the emotional backdrop.  He’s distinct in this regard as well, something that has made him a much sought after collaborator and featured guest.  He also has solid songwriting to work with, with a team that includes not only himself but Ali Tamposi, Brittany “Starrah” Hazzard, and Peter Lee Johnson.  This dreamy sounding record deals with a familiar topic: love.  The centerpiece is an absolutely gorgeous chorus:

“Cracking seals, guilty, no appeal
Trip down the hill, strawberry fields
Are you even real?
She said, ‘Tell me how you feel’
Are you even real?
Are you even real?”

Ultimately, “Are You Even Real?” is must-hear ear candy.

12. Ellie Goulding, “Love I’m Given”

Brightest Blue • Interscope • 2020

Following a five-year hiatus, Grammy-nominated British pop artist Ellie Goulding made a compelling comeback with her fourth studio album, Brightest Blue.  Unfortunately, folks in the United States totally slept on this totally worthwhile LP – sad! With the majority of the album tickling my fancy, the song I share with you on AWESOME SONGS THAT TICKLED MY FANCY: JULY 2020 is… “Love I’m Given.” 

“And maybe I’m praying for the things I’ve done / And maybe I’m paying for the ones I’ve hurt / But I feel a change in the love I’m given.” Describing “Love I’m Given” to Apple Music, Ellie Goulding asserts, “I think I had this moment of redemption. Or trying to rid yourself of sin. Vindication. Absolution.” It seems there’s no coincidence that the record features incredibly soulful vocals and gospel sensibilities, particularly towards the end.  While calling “Love I’m Given” a R&B/soul record may be an overstatement, it definitely ‘digs in’ more, particularly towards the end.  Triumphant by all means.

i wrote love i'm given when i was living in new york. i've always had this sense of wanting to be forgiven but I didn't know what for #BrightestBlue #EG4 https://t.co/sBH4SADyRV

— Ellie Goulding (@elliegoulding) July 17, 2020

13. Juice WRLD & Marshmello, “Come & Go”

Legends Never Die • Grade A Productions / Interscope • 2020

“I don’t wanna ruin this one / This type of love don’t always come and go.” “Come & Go” marks the second Marshmello collaboration on Legends Never Die, the posthumous album by Juice WRLD.  One of the crème de la crème moments, “Come & Go” packs punch, while also embracing the introspective vibes the rapper was well known for.  From a production standpoint, Marshmello definitely gets more of his flex on, showing his incredible abilities as a producer.  As for Juice, well, he sounds damn good – truly a beast.  What more needs to be said? RIP Juice.

“Guess I got it all wrong all along, my fault
My mistakes probably wipe all the rights I’ve done
Sayin’ goodbye to bygones, those are bygones
Head up, baby, stay strong, we gon’ live long.”

14. August Alsina, “RRR (Real Recognize Real)”

The Product III: stateofEMERGEncy • Shake the World / EMPIRE • 2020

While sadly certain “Entanglements” drew more attention than his comeback album, August Alsina had some great moments on The Product III: stateofEMERGEncy. One of the surefire bangers from his third studio album is “RRR (Real Recognize Real).”

August Alsina never loses toughness for the most part throughout his third album, but “RRR” confirms he’s truly ‘a real one’ who isn’t on any bullshit whatsoever. Adding to the glory of “RRR” is a catchy chorus and sleek production work that fits perfectly in 2020, yet also has a pinch of old-school too (it’s those guitars).

“One time for the real n***a
Two times for the dealers and the go-getters
Two strikes, but you out there on the block
Gettin’ money is the only job you got
You know real recognize real and that’s real
You know real recognize real and that’s real...”

15. Charlie Puth, “Girlfriend”

“Girlfriend” • Atlantic • 2020

Charlie Puth is adorkable, and that’s part of his charm.  Though he’s had his fair share of issues with schmaltziness in the past, he continues to show growing maturity, exemplified by the single, “Girlfriend”. “Girlfriend” features sleek production that’s led by keyboards – sweet, sticky-sounding synths.  Produced by Puth himself, he’s indeed true to self.  How so? “Girlfriend” always sounds balanced and uncluttered – perhaps even spare at times.  Never are his vocals inhibited.

Listening to the record, it sounds as if it could’ve easily launched in the 1980s.  That’s clearly the vibe that Charlie Puth is going for, and being a 80s baby myself, I admit, the sounds are pretty dope from that era. Even though it’s retro, “Girlfriend” still sounds refreshing and most importantly, fitting for Puth.  He’s definitely ‘sexy’ here, but still, sexy without crossing any lines. His falsetto is absolutely awesome, while the chorus is infectious to the nth degree.

“Baby, would you ever want to be my girlfriend?
I don’t wanna play no games
This is more than just a phase
Baby, would you ever want to be my girlfriend?
If you want it, let me know
We could make this official.”

Ultimately “Girlfriend” is a step in the right direction for Puth. Great vocals, catchy chorus, and sexy cover art (oops – did I say that?) definitely tickle my fancy.