Striking Bops from June 2026 features songs by Adam Lambert, Ariana Grande, kwn, Olivia Rodrigo, Steve Lacy, and Taylor Swift.
It’s time! Time for what? Why, monthly round-up time! It’s time to acknowledge the best songs of the month – the striking bops! All the songs that appear on Striking Bops from June 2026 were released as singles or album tracks in mid-to-late May 2026 or June 2026. Musicians who served up the bops from June 2026 include Adam Lambert, Ariana Grande, kwn, Olivia Rodrigo, Steve Lacy, and Taylor Swift. So, without further ado, here are those rock-solid, Striking Bops from June 2026!

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1. Adam Lambert, “EAT U ALIVE”
ADAM » More is More LLC » 2026
It commences coolly and enigmatically with rhythmic guitar accompaniment. Adam Lambert enters, singing in a relatively calm and intimate manner… initially. Triggered by a charming “Motherfucker, you’re mine,” things intensify. The chorus is dynamic, thanks to his high-flying vocals and the addition of rhythmic synths and other instruments.
“You know my love’s gonna eat you alive
Swallow you up when you come take a bite
I want you
In the night, sinkin’ teeth
Into you, into me
Eat you alive, oh.”
D-d-damn! The second verse, excerpted earlier, has more punch than the first. Adam digs in more, and the electronic components are fully integrated. While he keeps the high for most of the rest of the song, he does bring it back down, temporarily, towards the end, before building back up to a grand, anthemic pop/rock chorus. In short, “EAT U ALIVE” is another engaging and entertaining record by Adam Lambert.
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2. Adam Lambert, “UNDER THE RHYTHM”
ADAM » More is More LLC » 2026
After an enigmatic crescendo commences “UNDER THE RHYTHM,” an electrifying groove settles in. Folks, you won’t be able NOT to tap your foot, nod your head, or move your body. It screams dance floor, PERIODT! Adam Lambert is locked in, delivering a compelling, energetic, and playful vocal performance. Although he exhibits control, he still #SLAYS and brings the expected brand of theatricality. The first verse, excerpted earlier, is intriguing, while the second gives us a bomb: “Swimming in the deepest blue, but I don’t wanna drown / Gotta get the fuck up, I’m so tired of being down.” Noted. Later, Lambert delivers a third verse where “It’s easier to breathe again, the beat is in my soul” (verse three). That rhythm is potent! Speaking of potent, the chorus sho’ nuff is!
“Don’t fall (All the way), one more breath
Yeah, one more step, don’t fall
I know I look a mess, but I’m gon’ sweat it off
One more second, let my body talk
‘Cause I’ll get over it
Under the rhythm.”
Lambert also impresses on the bridge. In short, Adam delivers the goods once more on “UNDER THE RHYTHM”. He gives a fun, well-rounded vocal performance. The songwriting is memorable, the production is vibrant, and again, there’s no way you don’t dance to this one!
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3. Ariana Grande, “hate that i made you love me”
petal » Babydoll Music / Republic Records » 2026
“Hate that i made you love me” excels for many reasons. First and foremost, the gifted Ariana Grande is the lead artist. She has one of the best voices ever. She shines, once more, as she brings the tuneful melodies and memorable, thought-provoking lyrics to life. “You studied my crown and borrowed my body,” she asserts in the second verse, and adds, “Warm kissed by the sun, then cold like the wind / A bee stuck in honey.” Oh, snap! The pre-chorus is intriguing in its own right, where Ari sees through things and declares, “It’s all bad news.” The chorus, unsurprisingly, is the crème de la crème, highlighting the titular lyric.
“Yeah, I, I, I hate that I made you love me
Sorry if I made me your type
Yeah, I, I hate that I made you love me
‘Cause I barely tried, yeah, I, I, I.”
Word. Like many a great pop song, there is a sublime bridge connected to the verses and chorus, affirming Grande’s stance. Further affirming the excellence of “Hate that i made you love me” is the mellow yet vibrant musical accompaniment. I love the coolness and smoothness of the synths and keys, which suit Ari’s sophisticated pipes. While this song is a bummer thematically because of forced love, there is nothing to hate about it – it’s quality pop.
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4. BabyChiefDoit, “Game Six”
Rise Against My Broken Odds » Artist Partner Group, Inc. » 2026
From the jump, “Game Six” is a certified banger. It begins with the backdrop, which kicks ass and takes names. Set in a minor key, the sound is menacing, led by brassy, hard-nosed synths. The beat provides a mighty anchor. Backed by some of the most celestial hellishness you’ll ever hear, BabyChiefDoit does big thangs on “Game Six.” He is confident and unapologetic as fuck. “You niggas look up to me, I teach y’all everything y’all know,” he raps in the first verse, and continues, “You ain’t street, you is a bitch, and all yo’ peoples move like hoes.” Damn! He’s clever in the second verse, where he spits, “With my gang friends yelling, ‘Gang Gang’ (Gang Gang) / I’m Joe Jackson, I’m gon’ make that thing sing.” Indeed, BabyChiefDoit. Of course, the centerpiece is the chorus:
“Pockets fat, the gang lit
I’m still on that gang shit
Fourth quarter, game six
Last second, I made a hit
Quick to blow you, better not cough
Get your ho, she tryna talk
She tryna get dipped in the sauce
Fuck the bros, then meet the boss.”
Woo! All told, BabyChiefDoit brings the heat with a compelling cadence and flow throughout the surefire banger, “Game Six”.
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5. Beartooth, “Pure Ecstasy”
Pure Ecstasy » Beartooth Band, LLC / Fearless Records » 2026
Initially, Caleb Shomo performs in a breathy but eerie undertone. It doesn’t last, however. Once he screams for the first time, “Pure Ecstasy” grows louder and more intense. Shomo’s energy is matched by the badass band, which brings it with the driving, distorted guitars, robust bass holding down the low end, and pummeling drums that hit you right in the chest. Even with Shomo’s boisterous, gritty, and loud vocals, “Pure Ecstasy” has plenty of melody. In the first verse, Caleb asserts he’s “Waking the demon I was destined to be.” Damn! In the second, he sings, “Reckoning wrecking everything I adore / Pressure is building, I can’t take any more.” Woo! In the refrain, he drops one of my favorite lyrics: “I’m not the battle, I’m the fucking war.” Fittingly, the response should be a big, ole fuck yeah! The crowning achievement, however, is the chorus. The lyrics are striking, the vocals are authentic and passionate to the nth degree, while the music is dynamic.
“Should I sacrifice my life?
Face the truth or live this lie?
Let the words come out of me
Pure ecstasy
Gotta show you what’s inside
‘Cause it’s eating me alive
So I let the words come out of me
Pure ecstasy.”
Ooh-wee! All told, Caleb Shomo and Beartooth dropped a sick rock banger with “Pure Ecstasy”. Names taken and ass kicked!
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6. Bimini, “TANK TOP BUM BOYS”
“TANK TOP BUM BOYS” » BRAIN ROT RECORDS » 2026
In this boisterous protest anthem, Bimini doesn’t hold back. In the lyrics excerpted above, zero fucks are given… well, actually, there are four of them. The point is loud and clear: EQUALITY FOR EVERYONE. “I wanna live in a world where I can walk down the street in a tank top,” they talk-sing, and continue, “I wanna live in a world where everybody’s equal.” Amen! Anger is encouraged over the wrongs happening. Among the ‘progressive’ talking points are “Defund the police,” “Eat the rich,” “Stop the war,” “Free Palestine… the Congo…. Everybody in this fucking world.” Expectedly, freedom of gender expression and sexuality are encouraged: “Everybody should be trans, everybody should be gay /… Everybody is… a TANK TOP BUM BOY.” Noted. Bimini asserts, “Take it to the streets.” Word. All told, “TANK TOP BUM BOYS” is an authentic and passionate protest anthem against myopic conservatives, homophobes, and warmongers. Bimini’s prudent message is to let people live freely without judgment and not ruin their lives. There is space for everyone in this great big world.
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7. BTS, “Come Over”
“Come Over” » BIGHIT MUSIC » 2026
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8. Cain Culto, “cucuru”
“cucuru” » Hive Music » 2026
“Rolling my eyes, oh when they
Keep throwing dirt on my name
Alright, okay, what you say
OK, I’m so insane
Cucurucu, rucurcu cucuru caracaraca
Cucurucu, rucurcu cucuru caracaraca
I’m so insane
Cucurucu, rucurcu cucuru caracaraca
Cucurucu, rucurcu cucuru caracaraca.”
Ooh-wee! Short but utterly sweet, “cucuru” is the definition of a V-I-B-E. Also, shout-out to Cain Culto for being fearless and NOT putting up with sugar, honey, iced tea!
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9. Charli xcx, “SS26”
“SS26” » Charli XCX, Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation » 2026
There is a lot to like about “SS26.” It begins with the sound groove, a great anchor. The song features well-rounded production. Fittingly, the backdrop has a familiar pop-rock vibe: distorted guitar and a robust bass that holds the low end down. Beyond the instrumental, Charli xcx brings the heat with her pleasant vocals. Notably, the melodies are sweet throughout. Likewise, the lyrics are memorable, including the chorus, excerpted earlier. In many instances, the lyrics are reflective, whether it’s stopping smoking (“Cigarettes, put ‘em out / Can’t believe the things I’ve done, I don’t do ‘em now”) or reflecting on politics and heritage (“Think my politics could work as a press strategy / And my heritage could give me quite the USP”). In short, “SS26” is another enjoyable Charli XCX song with its fair share of thought-provoking moments.
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10. Chris Housman, “Cowman”
Dodge City » Chris Housman » 2026
“Cowman” begins with distinct minor-key guitar riffs. This sets the tone of this cinematic, theatrical country record. A relentless stomping groove enters, hard launching the record. Beyond its exceptional backdrop, the biggest triumph is none other than Chris Housman. He delivers a strong vocal performance that is commanding, expressive, and filled with personality. His tone is amazing. Even with his command, he sings effortlessly. Adding to the greatness is a superb vocal arrangement, with tasteful harmonized moments. The melodies Chris sings are rhythmic and memorable. The lyrics pique the ears consistently from start to finish. “Need a guy knows how to cry / Without having a cow,” he sings in the second verse, and continues, “And if he’s tall, oh-me, oh-my / I might just tie him down.” Damn straight! Of course, the chorus takes the cake:
“No, I don’t want a cowboy
I wanna cowman
Nobody give a yeehaw
Like he can
More Southern than a Georgia pecan
Don’t want a cowboy
I want a cowman.”
Ooh-wee! The stomp-clapping bridge section is also chock-full of that cowman energy (“Ain’t gotta be rough and tough / But a cowboy just ain’t man enough”). It contrasts with the rest of this high-flying country record. And while the vocals are what stand out most from Housman, his fiddling is on point, too! All told, Chris Housman brings the house down with “Cowman”.
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11. Daley, “Lavender”
“Lavender” » TEXX7 RECORDS / The SRG/ILS Group » 2026
“Lavender” commences with gorgeous, lush, orchestral strings. The strings set the romantic tone and vibe. After the strings do their thing, a soulful, contemporary R&B groove settles in. Both the beat and the bass provide a mighty anchor. The song’s form is relatively straightforward: Verse / Pre-chorus / Chorus / Verse / Chorus. Daley sounds buttery smooth, never over-singing during the first verse, excerpted earlier. The pre-chorus that follows only occurs once, where Gareth asserts, “There are new colors that appear / When you’re hear with me.” Aww! The chorus that is the crème de la crème:
“Lay down your defenses
Let go your pretenses
Give me all your senses
And I’ll make you feel
Lavender, lavender
Lavender, lavender.”
In the second verse, Daley sings with more oomph, showing off his ripe upper register. “Here in the purple light,” he sings, “We’re so much more than black and white, yeah.” Yeah, indeed! That falsetto pops something fierce. During the second chorus, his ad-libs, riffs, and runs are celestial. Ultimately, if you need a song that soundtracks the bedroom with your significant other, look no further than “Lavender”.
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12. David Archuleta, “Love For Free”
“Love For Free” » Archie Music » 2026
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13. DVYN, “In My Face”
“In My Face” » DVYN » 2026
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14. Dyllón Burnside, “garden”
“garden” » Quintette Entertainment » 2026
“(In the garden) We can getaway
(Garden) If you want to, we can get away
(Garden) I got a secret place
Let your guard down
Let your, Let your guard down…”
“Garden” is liberating, queer, and titillating! “I promise you won’t wanna leave / When you let your guard down tonight / Making love with me through the night.” Yass! In short, “garden” is a sublime, summery single, perfect for the bedroom, club, car… anywhere!
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15. ETHAN, “FAMOUS”
“FAMOUS” » ETHAN » 2026
An electrifying, clubby groove sets the tone on “FAMOUS.” Ooh-wee, that beat is sick; it’s hypnotic and mesmerizing! Heads will nod, feet will tap, and booties… they’ll shake! Beyond the sickening musical accompaniment, ETHAN’s vocals are on point. He locks in with a fierce, playful, and sassy performance from the jump. The chorus, excerpted earlier, gets down to the biz. He continues, lustily, “There’s no time to waste / Don’t want you to save it / Want it right away, want it right away?” Damn, E! Sex is the modus operandi on “FAMOUS.” Who can deny the titillation from “Run my tongue all over you / Taste the sweat from last night,” or the inspiration of “Let my voice inspire you / Got me speaking to your every desire.” Hot, hot, hot! “FAMOUS” is ready-made to ignite the gay club, PERIODT. Bop confirmed!
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16. Isak Danielson, “Stockholm”
“Stockholm” » Isak Danielson » 2026
“Stockholm” benefits from a lovely production. It begins as a piano ballad and expands to include bass, drums, and, most of all, dramatic, lush strings. Isak Danielson has a sublime backdrop to pour his heart and his sophisticated pipes onto. His instrument is delightful, particularly since he sings authentically, expressively, and with the utmost sincerity. You buy what he’s singing about: an expired relationship. “Stockholm” is easy to follow, given its straightforward form: verse/pre-chorus/chorus/verse/pre-chorus/chorus/outro. Moving to the second verse, Danielson asserts, “A goodbye is never easy.” True, true, true. He adds, “And this cut me so hard; hurt will have to be the price I paid.” Oh, snap! In the pre-chorus, he states, “Oh, it’s been a little while… / And it might take a little time…” Love and heartbreak hurt badly. The chorus is the centerpiece – the crowning achievement. Here, Danielson delivers his most inspired vocals.
“I’ve been thinking ’bout if we made it to the other side
I wonder what it feels like waking up with you
We’ve gone our separate ways, now I’m in a different place
What if I would see your face, I don’t know what I’d do
Now I’m in Stockholm.”
Although Danielson is sad, coping with the loss of a lover, “Stockholm” is brilliant. Great vocals, thoughtful songwriting, and high-flying production make the ballad a surefire bop.
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17. kwn, “touch myself”
and all pride aside » RCA Records » 2026
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18. LE SSERAFIM, ILLIT & KATSEYE, “ICONIC BY MISTAKE”
“ICONIC BY MISTAKE” » BELIFT LAB / SOURCE MUSIC / HYBE UMG LLC » 2026
“ICONIC BY MISTAKE” begins with a noisy, electronic sound effect. The tone is set, given the menacing, unsettling vibe. Soon enough, a hard-nosed, aggressive beat provides a mean anchor. Do you know who else is mean? The gals – in the best way possible! The first section heard is the chorus.
“Hating me is like all you do, breakfast to dinner
Algorithm bulletproof, b-breaking your fingers
Thank you for the comments, it’s because of all your hate
I-I-I-I-I-I-I am iconic by mistake
I-I-I-I-I-I-I am iconic by mistake.”
Throughout, various combinations of members of the three groups perform the iconic, unforgettable chorus that is chanted/rapped, not sung. The first verse maintains the fierceness and a chanted/rapped approach. Kim Chaewon memorably states, “Engrave it on my tombstone / I, I survived the fame, and I barely changed.” With the verses firmly entrenched in minor, the pre-chorus introduces major chords in contrast with the darker sound. Also, most of the vocals are pitched here instead of chanted. Sakura sings first during this section, asserting, “Your imagination got me going viral / Life’s a simulation, got me in a spiral.” Like the first verse, the second is also chanted/rapped. Wonhee and Iroha put on a façade: “I just keep on going, too beautiful to be broken.” In the third verse, Daniela gives us an f-bomb: “I’m just tryna stay me, dance a little crazy / But now I am iconic from how much you fuckin’ hate me.” The end of the verse is intriguing, where Lara asserts, “(Wait) I’m getting kinda spiritual,” and Yoonchae responds, “Been to hell and back, let ‘em judge me, crucible.” Woo! With so much firepower courtesy of three outstanding groups, “ICONIC BY MISTAKE” is nothing short of epic.
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19. Lola Young, “From Down Here”
“From Down Here” » Day One Music Limited / Universal Music Operations Limited » 2026
There is plenty to sink your teeth into regarding “From Down Here.” It starts with Young, who sings expressively, with her English accent only accentuating her performance. She brings plenty of attitude, sans f-bombs, but does manage to drop a damn: “Put on my birthday dress, it’s not for a whole damn year.” The melodies catch the ear, while the lyrics are potent. At the end of the first verse, she asserts, “Try a conversation, don’t know where to start / But it’s my favorite place, so why do I hate it here?” Word. The second verse is also a gem, with Young admitting, “I’m between a rock and the hardest place / Can I make them laugh? Can I make them stay?” Beyond two sensational verses and the chorus, the bridge makes “From Down Here” engaging as well. “Acting my age, turning the page / But what a boring book it would’ve been anyway.” Lola Young is anything but boring on “From Down Here”, another surefire winner from the unapologetic English singer-songwriter, and one of the best songs of 2026. Accompanied by a groovy, warm, and well-rounded backdrop, Lola is on fire!
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20. Olivia Rodrigo, “the cure”
you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love » Olivia Rodrigo / Geffen Records » 2026
“The cure” begins with ear-catching rhythmic guitar accompaniment. Olivia Rodrigo sings with poise initially. Her cool, calm, and collected approach sets the scene. The melodies are tuneful, while the lyrics are quite memorable. “I thought I’d done enough, but they keep moving the line / I thought I found the antidote this time,” she sings in the first verse, and tweaking the lyrics in the second, “I thought I found the antidote with you.” Oh, snap! During the chorus, the centerpiece, she digs in more, singing more overtly.
“But my head is full of poison, and my heart is full of doubt
I got toxins in my bloodstream, you tried hard to suck ‘em out
And it feels like medication, and it’s good for me, I’m sure
But it don’t matter how your love feels anymore
It’ll never be the cure
It’ll never be the cure.”
Once the third verse arrives, she brings things back down, accompanied by the faithful rhythmic guitar. There’s nothing soft about the lyrics, though: “Used to play a game in my head when I’d date a guy / Tally up the girls that he fucked ‘til I start to cry.” A refrain changes the pace, with a beautiful vocal arrangement and background vocals, on “I’m unraveled.” This precedes the centerpiece, the chorus. After the second chorus, the “I’m unraveled” returns, in all its glory. By this point, the song reaches a fever pitch, with masterful vocal layering. Not only is the singing more dynamic, but the accompaniment grows bigger, fuller, and more rhythmic. Throw in a bridge, where Rodrigo asks, “Why can’t you come stitch me up?” Among the most beautiful instrumental features are the strings, in all their emotional, lush glory. As evidenced by “the cure”, Rodrigo excels at making bops!
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21. Pyry Laakso, “Pelkillä vanteilla”
“Pelkillä vanteilla” » Pommisuoja / Playground Music Oy » 2026
Notably, “Pelkillä vanteilla” is set in a minor key. Right on! From the get-go, it features a relentless groove. Part of the reason that groove cooks is that it’s part of the Spanish/Latin music cues that make “Pelkillä vanteilla” the sugar, honey, iced tea. These cues include Mariachi horns and Spanish guitar. As awesome as the production is, Pyry Laakso is the star of the show. He has a brilliant singing voice. His upper register is incredibly impressive and quite powerful. Laakso also kills it when he dips into a ripe falsetto. With that top-notch voice, he brings the tuneful melodies to life. Again, there may be a language barrier for those who don’t speak Finnish, but the performance is still magical. Adding to the allure, Pyry also raps a bit, wowing with his agile cadence and flow while exhibiting swagger. The chorus is the crème de la crème:
“Älä koskaan rua pelkillä panteilla
Tiilipäivät katoo kalenterista
Helarit pyörii joka kuunalla
Sekin muistuttaa sinusta, kun mentiin pelkillä vanteilla.”
Woo… um, what does it mean? Depends on which translation service you ask, honestly. But, the car references recur, with “spinning wheels” and recollecting, “Even that reminds me of you, back when we drove on bare rims.” Ultimately, “Pelkillä vanteilla” slaps something fierce. You won’t understand every word, or perhaps any of the words, but the energy, musicianship, and the vibe potkii perseelle aka kicks ass!
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22. ROLE MODEL, “High Hopes 3000”
Chuck Timely & The Hourglass » Interscope Records » 2026
“High Hopes 3000” flies high from the get-go. The sound can be described as countrified, western-flavored, folk-pop; it fits ROLE MODEL to a T. An optimistic piano riff sets the tone. I love ROLE MODEL’s enthusiastic “woo” that appears in the intro. Before focusing on the star, shout out the harmonic progression. Not because it’s complex, but its simplicity, with a few wrinkles, works to perfection. Now, it’s Tucker time! He delivers well-rounded, nuanced vocals. I love his tone and the cool energy he brings. The melodies during the verses are quite tuneful. The lyrics, meanwhile, are quite memorable. “I get undressed in the arms of a stranger,” he sings in the second verse, and continues, “Then second-guess that ol’ half-sober behavior.” Noted. The chorus is a surefire vibe. Here, ROLE MODEL shows off plenty of personality. The profanity doesn’t hurt his cause either.
“I need some high hopes, Lord knows I could use ‘em
I know I’ma lose ‘em when the wheels fall off
Hey now, lend some independence
Stuck inside the fences like a goddamn dog
Long nights, heavy feelings
They say I’m unappealing when I shoot my shot
Come here, honey, show me how to do it
Does love come around, or does one come around to it?”
The listeners get even more attitude and personality from ROLE MODEL during the bridge, which features the same lyrics as the chorus with instrumental and melodic tweaks. Wrapping things up, ROLE MODEL does his big one on “High Hopes 3000”.
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23. Ryan Beatty, “Secret Language”
Sweet Fortune » Ryan Beatty / Warner Music UK Limited » 2026
“Secret Language” begins with a folksy, Americana-driven sound that suits Ryan Beatty. It’s still in the realm of pop/indie pop. Beyond standard instrumentation, there are harmonica, organ, horns, and strings. The eclectic vibes are ear-catching. As for Ryan, his performance is authentic. He sings beautifully and expressively without forcing things; it’s organic. Something I love about his approach is how cool, calm, and collected he sounds, barely breaking a sweat. Adding to the goodness of “Secret Language” are the tuneful melodies and the poetic, sincere, and thought-provoking lyrics. In the first verse, he continues singing, honestly, “‘Cause I’m fragile and tired, wounded and weak / And my words are a useless defense.” The second verse continues to showcase top-notch writing: “Arms over armor, you’re going in deep / Fell asleep with our bodies undressed.” Ooh-la-la, that’s steamy, Ryan! The chorus is the crème de la crème, where the secret language is the focal point:
“All the ways I say it in a secret language
Did you hear what my words couldn’t tell?
I love you, I say it in a secret language
Did you hear what my words couldn’t tell?
I keep it all to myself.”
My boy, Ryan, you did the damn thing on “Secret Language”! Gorgeous vocals, engrossing lyrics, and sublime production make this single the sugar, honey, iced tea, NO CAP!
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24. Steve Lacy, “the feeling”
Oh Yeah? » RCA Records / L-M Records » 2026
“The feeling” is a vibe from the jump. It features an intimate, warm, and easygoing sound. Even so, it’s also rhythmic, especially thanks to its ‘active’ groove. The production and instrument palette are fabulous. Also fabulous is Steve Lacy, who delivers expressive and nuanced vocals. His tone is incredibly pure – lovely to the nth degree. With his delightful pipes, he keeps things melodious throughout. Also, he brings it with these personal, relatable deets lyrically and thematically. “The heart wants what it wants,” he sings in the pre-chorus, and continues, “I’m not scared to bleed, you know our history.” Word. Even with increased rhythm and a more melodic rap cadence and flow during the second verse, the tunefulness remains. “Staring at your pictures, wishing that I was with you / Drunker than a bitch, sure’d be nice to kiss you,” he admits in the second verse, adding, “I can’t let you go, I’m in love with you.” In the chorus, he asks, “Am I your baby?” I felt that. Beyond Lacy’s smooth pipes leading the charge, singing these vulnerable love-driven lyrics, the vocal arrangement, with its layered background vocals, further ups the ante. In short, “the feeling” is a stellar Steve Lacy joint. Is this surprising in the least? No. Lacy has quite the knack for this music thing, and once more, he strikes gold with this mesmerizing gem.
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25. Taylor Swift, “I Knew It, I Knew You”
“I Knew It, I Knew You” » Wonderland Music Company, Inc. (BMI) / Pixar Music (BMI) / Walt Disney Music Company (ASCAP) / Pixar Talking Pictures (ASCAP) » 2026
From the beginning, “I Knew It, I Knew You” has plenty of pros. It begins with the folksy harmonica and a driving bass line (Mikey Freedom Hart). Beyond the bass, there are various stringed instruments, including acoustic and electric guitars and the banjo. The sound is a nice mix of country, folk, and pop. Other instruments that enhance the color include the organ and saxophones. The star of the show, Taylor Swift, shines as well. She delivers a respectable, easygoing vocal performance. She sounds smooth, never forcing things. The lyrics are where her bread is buttered, as excerpted earlier. The chorus, varied each iteration, is the crème de la crème:
“And I remembered I loved you
Came back when it mattered, I saw you
Standing there in the light of the window, wearing that same smile
Man, it’s been a while
But I knew it, I knew you (I knew, I knew).”
Beyond the words, the melodies are tuneful. Also, beyond her sweet lead vocals, there are sweet vocal harmonies, too. No need to overthink “I Knew It, I Knew You”. This is a catchy, well-written, well-performed, and well-produced soundtrack song. It’s also another enjoyable Taylor Swift earworm – prepare to get this one stuck in your head!
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26. Tinashe, “Too Easy”
“Too Easy” » Nice Life Recording Company / Tinashe Music Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation » 2026
“Too Easy” kicks things off with a banging beat that catches the ear the first time you hear it. Additionally, there are sickening synths. The minimalist vibes are bigger than the modest instrumentation. Beyond the sound, Tinashe is the star of the show, delivering playful, sassy vocals. She is using less pitched vocals during the verse, taking a more talked/talk-sung approach. The pre-chorus is pitched, where she asserts, “I, I feel like a celebrity / If you’re mad, then go to therapy.” CLOCK IT! The chorus is the crème de la crème, where she proclaims, “It’s too easy / It’s too easy / La-la-la-la-la-la.” Indeed. Some other positive notes include the sweet vocal harmonies (during the pre-chorus) and how overt Tinashe is on the outro, where she affirms the easiness! In short, the short “Too Easy” is absolutely and utterly sweet. Tinashe brings a big personality; the lyrics are fierce and fun, while the production slaps. This song is a surefire vibe!
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27. Tove Lo & Stromae, “des fleurs”
ESTRUS » Pretty Swede Records » 2026
Tove Lo takes the reins on “des fleurs” early on: verse one, pre-chorus, chorus (excerpted earlier), and the post-chorus. The first verse is steamy as she compliments his flirtation and adds, “Ah, make it hurt / Like nothing’s better than your strong arms.” Ooh-la-la. The pre-chorus is gimmicky with its simple, repetitive lyrics. It’s the perfect lead-in to the floral-driven chorus and the “ah” driven post-chorus. Stromae takes over lead duties in the second verse, singing in French. “Du coup, ben, tu le sais que j’aime tes formes, évidemment [So, well, you know I love your curves, obviously],” he sings, and concludes, “Mais oui, ce que j’aime, c’est qu’elles sont hors-normes, tout bonnement [But yeah, what I love is that they’re simply extraordinary] / Ça vole pas très haut, mais je n’suis qu’un homme, évidemment [It’s not exactly high-minded, but I’m only human, obviously].” Tove Lo leads the charge again on the chorus and post-chorus. The bridge (“Yeah, you’re man enough, yeah, you’re man enough”) precedes the final chorus and the outro. Stromae primarily handles the French outro, with “ah(s)” contributed by Tove Lo. Ultimately, both musicians deliver enticing vocal performances on “des fleurs”. This is an enjoyable, melodious, well-rounded, and sleekly produced pop record. The percussion, groove, rhythmic piano, and warm strings shine. Magnifique!
~ Table of Contents ~
28. Wynonna, “Kentucky Queen”
The Hard Truth » Anti » 2026
“Kentucky Queen” is ON from the get-go. The vintage, countrified sound suits Wynonna perfectly. The guitar riffs are superb. The strumming (acoustic guitar, banjo, etc.) packs a mean punch. And what about that old-school, upright bass (Dow Tomlin) holding down the low end? Fantastic. Of course, the star of the show is Wynonna, who delivers commanding, expressive, and ultra-powerful vocals. 62 years young and she’s not shy in the least. “Kentucky Queen” is incredibly melodious. The songwriting is infectious and memorable to the nth degree: “Well, I took advice from my Aunt Ramona / Watch where the devil hides / Count your blessings against your sin / And pray the blessings win.” Judd gets great support from background vocalists (The Isaacs) in both lyrical and nonlyrical capacities. The section to beat is the chorus, which is the sugar, honey, iced tea:
“‘Cause the dirt made me
The dirt made me
Like a Mama with no shame made me
The dirt made me
It gave me a name
Kentucky Queen.”
By the way, dirt, wind, and road are interchangeable in the chorus. All told, “Kentucky Queen” slaps. This is what country music should sound like, PERIOD. Get it, Wynonna!
~ Table of Contents ~
Striking Bops 2026 |
||
| January 2026 | February 2026 | March 2026 |
| April 2026 | May 2026 | |
| Bops from 2026 That Make You Beam with Pride | Best Songs of 2026 (So Far) | June 2026 |
| July 2026 | August 2026 | September 2026 |
| October 2026 | November 2026 | December 2026 |
| Best Songs of 2026 | ||

~ Table of Contents ~ » ~ intro ~
Striking Bops from June 2026 (2026) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Anti, Archie Music, Artist Partner Group, Inc., Atlantic Recording Corporation, Babydoll Music, Beartooth Band, LLC, BELIFT LAB, BIGHIT MUSIC, BRAIN ROT RECORDS, Charli XCX, Inc., Chris Housman, Day One Music Limited, DVYN, ETHAN, Fearless Records, Geffen Records, Hive Music, HYBE UMG LLC, Interscope Records, Isak Danielson, L-M Records, More is More LLC, Nice Life Recording Company, Olivia Rodrigo, Pixar Music (BMI), Pixar Talking Pictures (ASCAP), Playground Music Oy, Pommisuoja, Pretty Swede Records, Quintette Entertainment, RCA Records, Republic Records, Ryan Beatty, SOURCE MUSIC, TEXX7 RECORDS, Tinashe Music Inc., The SRG/ILS Group, Universal Music Operations Limited, Walt Disney Music Company (ASCAP), Warner Music UK Limited, Wonderland Music Company, Inc. (BMI); Gordon Johnson, OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay] |
![Adam Lambert, ADAM [📷: More is More LLC] Adam Lambert, ADAM [📷: More is More LLC]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/adam-lambert-adam.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Ariana Grande, petal [📷: Babydoll Music / Republic Records] Ariana Grande, petal [📷: Babydoll Music / Republic Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ariana-grande-petal.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![BabyChiefDoit, Game Six [📷: Artist Partner Group, Inc.] BabyChiefDoit, Game Six [📷: Artist Partner Group, Inc.]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/babychiefdoit-game-six.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Beartooth, Pure Ecstasy [📷: Beartooth Band, LLC / Fearless Records] Beartooth, Pure Ecstasy [📷: Beartooth Band, LLC / Fearless Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/beartooth-pure-ecstasy.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Bimini, TANK TOP BUM BOYS [📷: BRAIN ROT RECORDS] Bimini, TANK TOP BUM BOYS [📷: BRAIN ROT RECORDS]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/bimini-tank-top-bum-boys.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![BTS, Come Over [📷: BIGHIT MUSIC] BTS, Come Over [📷: BIGHIT MUSIC]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/bts-come-over.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Cain Culto, cucuru [📷: Hive Music] Cain Culto, cucuru [📷: Hive Music]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/cain-culto-cucuru.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Charli xcx, SS26 [📷: Charli XCX, Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation] Charli xcx, SS26 [📷: Charli XCX, Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/charli-xcx-ss26.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Chris Housman, Dodge City [📷: Chris Housman] Chris Housman, Dodge City [📷: Chris Housman]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/chris-housman-dodge-city.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Daley, Lavender [📷: TEXX7 RECORDS / The SRG/ILS Group] Daley, Lavender [📷: TEXX7 RECORDS / The SRG/ILS Group]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/daley-lavender.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![David Archuleta, Love For Free [📷: Archie Music] David Archuleta, Love For Free [📷: Archie Music]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/david-archuleta-love-for-free.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![DVYN, In My Face [📷: DVYN] DVYN, In My Face [📷: DVYN]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/dvyn-in-my-face.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Dyllón Burnside, garden [📷: Quintette Entertainment] Dyllón Burnside, garden [📷: Quintette Entertainment]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/dyllon-burnside-garden.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![ETHAN, FAMOUS [📷: ETHAN] ETHAN, FAMOUS [📷: ETHAN]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ethan-famous.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Isak Danielson, Stockholm [📷: Isak Danielson] Isak Danielson, Stockholm [📷: Isak Danielson]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/isak-danielson-stockholm.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![kwn, and all pride aside [📷: RCA Records] kwn, and all pride aside [📷: RCA Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/kwn-and-all-pride-aside.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Lola Young, From Down Here [📷: Day One Music Limited / Universal Music Operations Limited] Lola Young, From Down Here [📷: Day One Music Limited / Universal Music Operations Limited]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/lola-young-from-down-here.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Olivia Rodrigo, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love [📷: Olivia Rodrigo / Geffen Records] Olivia Rodrigo, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love [📷: Olivia Rodrigo / Geffen Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/olivia-rodrigo-you-seem-pretty-sad-for-a-girl-so-in-love.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Pyry Laakso, Pelkillä vanteilla [📷: Pommisuoja / Playground Music Oy] Pyry Laakso, Pelkillä vanteilla [📷: Pommisuoja / Playground Music Oy]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/pyry-laakso-pelkilla-vanteilla.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![ROLE MODEL, Chuck Timely & The Hourglass [📷: Interscope Records] ROLE MODEL, Chuck Timely & The Hourglass [📷: Interscope Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/role-model-chuck-timely-and-the-hourglass.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Ryan Beatty, Sweet Fortune [📷: Ryan Beatty / Warner Music UK Limited] Ryan Beatty, Sweet Fortune [📷: Ryan Beatty / Warner Music UK Limited]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ryan-beatty-sweet-fortune.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Steve Lacy, Oh Yeah? [📷: RCA Records / L-M Records] Steve Lacy, Oh Yeah? [📷: RCA Records / L-M Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/steve-lacy-oh-yeah.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Taylor Swift, I Knew It, I Knew You [📷: Wonderland Music Company, Inc. (BMI) / Pixar Music (BMI) / Walt Disney Music Company (ASCAP) / Pixar Talking Pictures (ASCAP)] Taylor Swift, I Knew It, I Knew You [📷: Wonderland Music Company, Inc. (BMI) / Pixar Music (BMI) / Walt Disney Music Company (ASCAP) / Pixar Talking Pictures (ASCAP)]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/taylor-swift-i-knew-it-i-knew-you.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Tinashe, Too Easy [📷: Nice Life Recording Company / Tinashe Music Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation] Tinashe, Too Easy [📷: Nice Life Recording Company / Tinashe Music Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/tinashe-too-easy.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Tove Lo, ESTRUS [📷: Pretty Swede Records] Tove Lo, ESTRUS [📷: Pretty Swede Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/tove-lo-estrus.jpeg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Wynonna, The Hard Truth [📷: Anti] Wynonna, The Hard Truth [📷: Anti]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/wynonna-the-hard-truth.jpg?resize=125%2C125&ssl=1)
![Adam Lambert, ADAM [📷: More is More LLC] Adam Lambert, ADAM [📷: More is More LLC]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/adam-lambert-adam.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Ariana Grande, petal [📷: Babydoll Music / Republic Records] Ariana Grande, petal [📷: Babydoll Music / Republic Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ariana-grande-petal.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![BabyChiefDoit, Rise Against My Broken Odds [📷: Artist Partner Group, Inc.] BabyChiefDoit, Rise Against My Broken Odds [📷: Artist Partner Group, Inc.]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/babychiefdoit-rise-against-my-broken-odds.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Beartooth, Pure Ecstasy [📷: Beartooth Band, LLC / Fearless Records] Beartooth, Pure Ecstasy [📷: Beartooth Band, LLC / Fearless Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/beartooth-pure-ecstasy.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Bimini, TANK TOP BUM BOYS [📷: BRAIN ROT RECORDS] Bimini, TANK TOP BUM BOYS [📷: BRAIN ROT RECORDS]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/bimini-tank-top-bum-boys.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![BTS, Come Over [📷: BIGHIT MUSIC] BTS, Come Over [📷: BIGHIT MUSIC]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/bts-come-over.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Cain Culto, cucuru [📷: Hive Music] Cain Culto, cucuru [📷: Hive Music]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/cain-culto-cucuru.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Charli xcx, SS26 [📷: Charli XCX, Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation] Charli xcx, SS26 [📷: Charli XCX, Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/charli-xcx-ss26.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Chris Housman, Dodge City [📷: Chris Housman] Chris Housman, Dodge City [📷: Chris Housman]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/chris-housman-dodge-city.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Daley, Lavender [📷: TEXX7 RECORDS / The SRG/ILS Group] Daley, Lavender [📷: TEXX7 RECORDS / The SRG/ILS Group]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/daley-lavender.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![David Archuleta, Love For Free [📷: Archie Music] David Archuleta, Love For Free [📷: Archie Music]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/david-archuleta-love-for-free.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![DVYN, In My Face [📷: DVYN] DVYN, In My Face [📷: DVYN]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/dvyn-in-my-face.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Dyllón Burnside, garden [📷: Quintette Entertainment] Dyllón Burnside, garden [📷: Quintette Entertainment]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/dyllon-burnside-garden.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![ETHAN, FAMOUS [📷: ETHAN] ETHAN, FAMOUS [📷: ETHAN]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ethan-famous.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Isak Danielson, Stockholm [📷: Isak Danielson] Isak Danielson, Stockholm [📷: Isak Danielson]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/isak-danielson-stockholm.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![kwn, and all pride aside [📷: RCA Records] kwn, and all pride aside [📷: RCA Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/kwn-and-all-pride-aside.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Lola Young, From Down Here [📷: Day One Music Limited / Universal Music Operations Limited] Lola Young, From Down Here [📷: Day One Music Limited / Universal Music Operations Limited]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/lola-young-from-down-here.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Olivia Rodrigo, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love [📷: Olivia Rodrigo / Geffen Records] Olivia Rodrigo, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love [📷: Olivia Rodrigo / Geffen Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/olivia-rodrigo-you-seem-pretty-sad-for-a-girl-so-in-love.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Pyry Laakso, Pelkillä vanteilla [📷: Pommisuoja / Playground Music Oy] Pyry Laakso, Pelkillä vanteilla [📷: Pommisuoja / Playground Music Oy]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/pyry-laakso-pelkilla-vanteilla.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![ROLE MODEL, Chuck Timely & The Hourglass [📷: Interscope Records] ROLE MODEL, Chuck Timely & The Hourglass [📷: Interscope Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/role-model-chuck-timely-and-the-hourglass.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Ryan Beatty, Sweet Fortune [📷: Ryan Beatty / Warner Music UK Limited] Ryan Beatty, Sweet Fortune [📷: Ryan Beatty / Warner Music UK Limited]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/ryan-beatty-sweet-fortune.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Steve Lacy, Oh Yeah? [📷: RCA Records / L-M Records] Steve Lacy, Oh Yeah? [📷: RCA Records / L-M Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/steve-lacy-oh-yeah.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Taylor Swift, I Knew It, I Knew You [📷: Wonderland Music Company, Inc. (BMI) / Pixar Music (BMI) / Walt Disney Music Company (ASCAP) / Pixar Talking Pictures (ASCAP)] Taylor Swift, I Knew It, I Knew You [📷: Wonderland Music Company, Inc. (BMI) / Pixar Music (BMI) / Walt Disney Music Company (ASCAP) / Pixar Talking Pictures (ASCAP)]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/taylor-swift-i-knew-it-i-knew-you.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Tinashe, Too Easy [📷: Nice Life Recording Company / Tinashe Music Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation] Tinashe, Too Easy [📷: Nice Life Recording Company / Tinashe Music Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/tinashe-too-easy.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Tove Lo, ESTRUS [📷: Pretty Swede Records] Tove Lo, ESTRUS [📷: Pretty Swede Records]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/tove-lo-estrus.jpeg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)
![Wynonna, The Hard Truth [📷: Anti] Wynonna, The Hard Truth [📷: Anti]](https://i0.wp.com/themusicalhype.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/wynonna-the-hard-truth.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1)

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