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Striking Bops from June 2026 [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Gordon Johnson, OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay]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 Lambert, ADAM [📷: More is More LLC]

2. Adam Lambert, “UNDER THE RHYTHM”

Adam Lambert, ADAM [📷: More is More LLC]

3. Ariana Grande, “hate that i made you love me”

Ariana Grande, petal [📷: Babydoll Music / Republic Records]

4. BabyChiefDoit, “Game Six”

BabyChiefDoit, Game Six [📷: Artist Partner Group, Inc.]

5. Beartooth, “Pure Ecstasy”

Beartooth, Pure Ecstasy [📷: Beartooth Band, LLC / Fearless Records]

6. Bimini, “TANK TOP BUM BOYS”

Bimini, TANK TOP BUM BOYS [📷: BRAIN ROT RECORDS]

7. BTS, “Come Over”

BTS, Come Over [📷: BIGHIT MUSIC]

8. Cain Culto, “cucuru”

Cain Culto, cucuru [📷: Hive Music]

9. Charli xcx, “SS26”

Charli xcx, SS26 [📷: Charli XCX, Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation]

10. Chris Housman, “Cowman”

Chris Housman, Dodge City [📷: Chris Housman]

11. Daley, “Lavender”

Daley, Lavender [📷: TEXX7 RECORDS / The SRG/ILS Group]

12. David Archuleta, “Love For Free”

David Archuleta, Love For Free [📷: Archie Music]

13. DVYN, “In My Face”

DVYN, In My Face [📷: DVYN]

14. Dyllón Burnside, “garden”

Dyllón Burnside, garden [📷: Quintette Entertainment]

15. ETHAN, “FAMOUS”

ETHAN, FAMOUS [📷: ETHAN]

16. Isak Danielson, “Stockholm”

Isak Danielson, Stockholm [📷: Isak Danielson]

17. kwn, “touch myself”

kwn, and all pride aside [📷: RCA Records]

18. LE SSERAFIM, ILLIT & KATSEYE, “ICONIC BY MISTAKE”

LE SSERAFIM, ILLIT & KATSEYE, ICONIC BY MISTAKE [📷: BELIFT LAB / SOURCE MUSIC / HYBE UMG LLC]

19. Lola Young, “From Down Here”

Lola Young, From Down Here [📷: Day One Music Limited / Universal Music Operations Limited]

20. Olivia Rodrigo, “the cure”

Olivia Rodrigo, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love [📷: Olivia Rodrigo / Geffen Records]

21. Pyry Laakso, “Pelkillä vanteilla”

Pyry Laakso, Pelkillä vanteilla [📷: Pommisuoja / Playground Music Oy]

22. ROLE MODEL, “High Hopes 3000”

ROLE MODEL, Chuck Timely & The Hourglass [📷: Interscope Records]

23. Ryan Beatty, “Secret Language”

Ryan Beatty, Sweet Fortune [📷: Ryan Beatty / Warner Music UK Limited]

24. Steve Lacy, “the feeling”

Steve Lacy, Oh Yeah? [📷: RCA Records / L-M Records]

25. Taylor Swift, “I Knew It, I Knew You”

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)]

26. Tinashe, “Too Easy”

Tinashe, Too Easy [📷: Nice Life Recording Company / Tinashe Music Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation]

27. Tove Lo & Stromae, “des fleurs”

Tove Lo, ESTRUS [📷: Pretty Swede Records]

28. Wynonna, “Kentucky Queen”

Wynonna, The Hard Truth [📷: Anti]

Striking Bops 2026

 


1. Adam Lambert, “EAT U ALIVE”

ADAM » More is More LLC » 2026

Adam Lambert, ADAM [📷: More is More LLC]

“Straight through the heart, baby / I’m deep in your bones.”
Oh, snap, Adam Lambert! “EAT U ALIVE” is an excellent musical offering from the big-voiced, Grammy-nominated pop star. It marks the lead single and third track from his 2026 album, ADAM. “EAT U ALIVE” was written by Lambert, Alna, Brasko, David Pramik, and Pete Nappi. Nappi and Pramik also produced it. 

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.

~ Table of Contents ~

2. Adam Lambert, “UNDER THE RHYTHM”

ADAM » More is More LLC » 2026

Adam Lambert, ADAM [📷: More is More LLC]

“Where is my mind?”
No clue, Adam Lambert! The Grammy-nominated pop singer-songwriter continues singing in the first verse of “UNDER THE RHYTHM”: “It’s somewhere inside this feeling / I wish I was high / I wish I could find the ceiling.” Word. “UNDER THE RHYTHM” is the second single and eighth track from his 2026 album, ADAM.  It was written by Lambert, Trey Campbell, Wyatt Sanders, TIGRI, Jean Castel, Pete Nappi, Alex C., Peter Könemann, Руки Вверх (Ruki Vverh), and Aleksey Potekhin. It samples “Around the World (La La La La La)” by A Touch of Class. Pete Nappi produced it.

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!

~ Table of Contents ~

3. Ariana Grande, “hate that i made you love me”

petal » Babydoll Music / Republic Records » 2026

Ariana Grande, petal [📷: Babydoll Music / Republic Records]

“Eyes lit like the sky / Turned tears into diamonds, got good at goodbyes.”
Those are some descriptive, poetic, and powerful lyrics that Ariana Grande sings in the first verse of “hate that i made you love me”, the promo single from her eighth studio album, petal. There are plenty of ear-catching, unforgettable lyrics, brought to life by the high-flying, prodigious pipes of Grande. “Hate that i made you love me” was written and produced by Grande, ILYA, and Max Martin. Once again, Ari strikes gold.

“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.

~ Table of Contents ~

4. BabyChiefDoit, “Game Six”

Rise Against My Broken Odds » Artist Partner Group, Inc. » 2026

BabyChiefDoit, Rise Against My Broken Odds [📷: Artist Partner Group, Inc.]

“I’m a fuckin’ hooligan, but I be tryna keep the peace / It ain’t shit to jump back in the field, big bro’ll pass me some cleats.”
Oh, snap! Teen Chicago rapper BabyChiefDoit comes out swinging on “Game Six”, the fifth track from his 2026 album, Rise Against My Broken Odds.  Bringing a ton of energy, he keeps it 100, entertaining in the process. He wrote “Game Six” and produced it with Questionizer.

BabyChiefDoit, Game Six [📷: Artist Partner Group, Inc.]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”.

~ Table of Contents ~

5. Beartooth, “Pure Ecstasy”

Pure Ecstasy » Beartooth Band, LLC / Fearless Records » 2026

Beartooth, Pure Ecstasy [📷: Beartooth Band, LLC / Fearless Records]

“Sick and disgusting, this aggressive disease / Never discussing what a word of it means.”
Damn, those are dark, unsettling lyrics, Caleb Shomo.  The voice and face of Beartooth, who came out as gay in 2026, knew exactly what he was doing and going for on “Pure Ecstasy”. “Pure Ecstasy” is the opener from the rock band’s sixth studio album of the same name, released in August 2026.  This gem, “Begging the reaper, ‘Will you set me free?’” was written by Shomo, Jordan Fish, and Misha “Bulb” Mansoor.  Shomo and Fish produced it.

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!

Appears in 🔻:
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6. Bimini, “TANK TOP BUM BOYS”

“TANK TOP BUM BOYS” » BRAIN ROT RECORDS » 2026

Bimini, TANK TOP BUM BOYS [📷: BRAIN ROT RECORDS]

“Fuck racists! / Fuck Reform! / Fuck TERFs!”
Ooh-wee! Bimini (they/them) said what they said! These are the first lyrics of their short but potent and unapologetic single, “TANK TOP BUM BOYS”. So, where did this infamous homophobic title originate? Why, former British prime minister Boris Johnson. Yikes! The nonbinary artist uses the offensive reference as fuel for the fire.  A prime example: “Fuck you, Boris Johnson.” Damn! “TANK TOP BUM BOYS” was written by Bimini and producer L-Vis 1990 (James Connolly).

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

BTS, Come Over [📷: BIGHIT MUSIC]

“Yeah, I’m lost; can I come over?”
Why sure, BTS! The Grammy-nominated K-pop group drops another hit with “Come Over”. “Come Over” appears on the deluxe version of their hit LP, ARIRANGCirkut, Ammo, SUGA, Jacob Kasher, Aldae, RM, j-hope, and EL CAPITXN wrote it. Cirkut, Ammo, and SUGA produced it. The song shimmers from the get-go.  Perhaps it’s the divine falsetto that graces the catchy, tuneful chorus, first performed by V and Jung Kook. Or maybe it’s the vibrant production.  The backdrop includes ear-catching synths and banging drum programming. The melodies are rhythmic and tuneful.  Even if you don’t understand Korean, the predominant language, it’s still a surefire vibe. SUGA performs the first verse, kicking things off with an English line (“Baby, don’t do me like that”) before embracing Korean. Jimin and Jin perform the second chorus, followed by a post-chorus rapped by j-hope (“Over…”), and sung by Jung Kook (“You’ll never love me like / The Way you did before”), and V (“But would you open up / If I knocked on your door?”). The post-chorus differentiates itself from the verses and chorus harmonically and melodically. A rapped second verse by RM, performed exclusively in English, adds toughness and swagger (“You act like, done with past life / Then you pass like dust in a flashlight”). After another scintillating chorus (Jimin, Jung Kook, Jin, V) and post-chorus (j-hope, Jimin, Jin), j-hope ‘brings it on home’ with the third and final verse. Mostly rapped in Korean, there are select English lyrics including his assertion that “I’m past the pain,” and, fittingly, “Can I come over, o-over, ‘cause it’s not over?” All told, “Come Over” is a fun, well-produced bonus track from ARIRANG.  All members of BTS bring personality to their performances.  Pop bop? Fo’ sho’!

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8. Cain Culto, “cucuru”

“cucuru” » Hive Music » 2026

Cain Culto, cucuru [📷: Hive Music]

“Cucurucu, rucurcu cucuru caracaraca.”
Woo! And so begins the infectious, short but sweet Latin single “cucuru” by Cain Culto (Andrew Padilla).  Padilla brings the heat on “cucuru,” which he wrote alongside Cary Singer.  Padilla, Singer, and Nate Young produced this musical goodness. “Cucuru” starts on fire with awesome percussion.  The intense Latin-infused rhythms and riffs fuel this bite-sized joint.  Adding to the incredible, vibrant production are sickening piano/keyboard riffs and robust bass.  It’s not only the instruments that catch the ears, though. Cain Culto brings it with his effects-laden vocals.  There are pitched-up vocals.  Later, the vocals are distorted, with Culto singing in his middle-lower register.  Regardless, the performance is intriguing because of the colorful sound. Oh, and his attitude:  “Never been one not to say it / Just to keep peace or to play dumb / Wise with my words I don’t waste them / I’ll be the fool let them make fun.” Woo! He goes on to say, boldly, “I don’t put up with the shit they do, uh.” Word.  The ‘chorus’ is the section to beat:

“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!

~ Table of Contents ~

9. Charli xcx, “SS26”

“SS26” » Charli XCX, Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation » 2026

Charli xcx, SS26 [📷: Charli XCX, Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation]

“Spring Summer ‘26 / When the world is gonna end, no hope for any of it.”
Well, that is pessimistic, Charli xcx.  The thing is, is she wrong on “SS26”? She continues in the chorus of the pop/rock single, “Yeah, we’re walkin’ on a runway that goes straight to hell / Nothing’s gonna save us, not music, fashion, or film.” Hmm, sounds like we are screwed! What’s not screwed is “SS26,” which gives the Grammy-winning English singer-songwriter another intriguing record. Charli xcx, A. G. Cook, and Finn Keane wrote and produced the compelling track.

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.

~ Table of Contents ~

10. Chris Housman, “Cowman”

Dodge City » Chris Housman » 2026

Chris Housman, Dodge City [📷: Chris Housman]

“Need a guy, knows how to ride / [Isn’t] his first rodeo,”
country singer, songwriter, and fiddler Chris Housman sings. Yessir! Yee-haw! Sounds good to me! The openly gay country standout continues singing in the first verse of “Cowman”, “He’ll notch his belt and stay the night / Knows how to do-si-do.” Ooh-la-la! A bold, talented artist who deserves more recognition, Housman is unafraid to capture queerness in a genre that has little of it. He compels, making ears perk up on “Cowman,” a single from his sophomore album, Dodge City. “Cowman” was written by Housman and James Droll. Jerry Fuentes produced it.

“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”.

~ Table of Contents ~

11. Daley, “Lavender”

“Lavender” » TEXX7 RECORDS / The SRG/ILS Group » 2026

Daley, Lavender [📷: TEXX7 RECORDS / The SRG/ILS Group]

“Is there any way / We could lose this crowd?”
What do you mean, Daley (Gareth Daley)? What are you getting at, my guy? “Make a getaway… / Where we can dictate the mood… / Cause lying here with you / Could feel like ecstasy.” No further explanation is needed on “Lavender”! The English R&B/soul singer-songwriter has the bedroom in mind on this purple single. “Lavender” was written by Daley, Cameron Lewis Palmer, and Thomas Ford. Daley produced it with Swindle.

“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”.

~ Table of Contents ~

12. David Archuleta, “Love For Free”

“Love For Free” » Archie Music » 2026

David Archuleta, Love For Free [📷: Archie Music]

“You can have my love / But you can’t have my love for / Free.”
Our favorite Latino hottie, David Archuleta, said what he said on his single “Love For Free”.  My boi needs I-N-T-E-N-T-I-O-N-S when it comes to that four-letter word! “Love For Free” was written by Archuleta, Jackson Chant, and Tyler Redman. LEVÉ produced it. In “Love For Free,” regarding love and relationships, David prioritizes himself – his happiness and well-being. He isn’t being selfish, either.  He ensures that he doesn’t get heartbroken, hurt, or taken advantage of. “I run expensive,” he asserts in the first verse, and continues, “I’ll give it all if I know that you can spend it.” Not money, of course, but true love and investment in him. He’s not willing to settle, per the chorus: “If you can’t keep up, it’s not for me.” Word! In the second verse, he’s sick of mind games and red flags. He even throws an ‘oh, shit!’ into the mix!  If that’s what this boy (or girl) is on, he advises them to “stay in your lane,” and that he’s “Not really tryna wait on a heartbreak / I want space, I can’t lie.” Ooh-wee. Accompanied by modern, sleek, and rhythmic production, David Archuleta sounds sensational on “Love For Free”.  As always, the voice is T-E-A!

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13. DVYN, “In My Face”

“In My Face” » DVYN » 2026

DVYN, In My Face [📷: DVYN]

“You know I hate to do this, but you keep on testing me / You know I hate to do this, but you’re getting in my face.”
  Toronto-based R&B singer-songwriter DVYN (Iguehide Divine Ebomoyi) shows off her talent on her single, “In My Face”.  Written by herself, “In My Face” was produced by Yogic, Huncho Midas, and Charlieqe.  The song begins with an enigmatic, lush intro, led by a warm piano. Soon enough, a groove, led by neo-soul-sounding drums, provides a mighty anchor.  Beyond the drums and piano, other instrumental highlights include an active, rhythmic bass line and the strings. The star of the show is DVYN, who lives up to her eclectic billing, fusing jazz, R&B, and soul. Her performance oozes with soulful vibes while barely breaking a sweat. The melodies are rhythmic, as DVYN expresses her concerns about presumably a relationship: “I run this back and forth, though I’ve been begging you to (Stop) / But you open up the door, and you put it on the floor.” Notably, the form of the song is simple: chorus, verse, pre-chorus, chorus, and an outro.  During the chorus, excerpted earlier, one of the ear-catching sounds is the low-pitched, rhythmic gang vocals.  It gives the song a striking sound.  In short, “In My Face” is a surefire vibe from an emerging talent that more folks need to be keyed into.

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14. Dyllón Burnside, “garden”

“garden” » Quintette Entertainment » 2026

Dyllón Burnside, garden [📷: Quintette Entertainment]

“Give in to the temptation / Don’t worry ‘bout your fears, just take a bite.”
According to Dyllón Burnside (he/him/his) the forbidden fruit SHOULD NOT be forbidden. Perhaps taking a bite has a negative connotation Biblically, BUT living life to the fullest without shame, judgment, and myopic, homophobic folk or being closeted is something I’m firmly on board with. “Garden” was written and produced by Burnside and Drew “Druski” Scott. It features a strong, danceable beat early on. Beyond the groove, the record thrives on its electronic R&B sound palette. The production is colorful, sleek, and vibrant to the nth degree.  The star of the show is Dyllón, who delivers buttery smooth, sexy vocals.  “Cuz everything you are / Is written on your lips / Say it, and I’ll show you how good it feels,” he asserts, and adds, “Everything you are / Is waiting for you here / Take you for a ride, bae / You don’t wanna miss.” As awesome as those lyrics are, the crème de la crème is the chorus, in all of its catchy, melodious, and memorable glory:

“(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

ETHAN, FAMOUS [📷: ETHAN]

“You’re looking my way / It’s as if I’m famous / Boy, if you just stay / Then we can dance naked.”
Two words: CLOCK IT! ETHAN (Ethan Choryin Luo) is the full package. Not only is he easy on the eyes, but he writes and performs first-rate pop songs that deserve far more attention. “FAMOUS” marks another entertaining song from the New Zealand-born, Sydney-based musician. ETHAN and klipo. (Johannes Bruun) wrote and produced it.

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

Isak Danielson, Stockholm [📷: Isak Danielson]

“Hello, I’m still so sorry when I think of what we had.”
Ah, the past tense suggests they are no more – no longer a couple.  Matters of the heart – breakups and heartbreak particularly – are always the perfect fuel for a great song. Indeed, Swedish pop singer-songwriter Isak Danielson delivers the goods on his single, “Stockholm”. He wrote it with Brad Mair. Agrin Rahmani, a Swedish producer, did just that, produced it.

“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

kwn, and all pride aside [📷: RCA Records]

“I touch myself just thinkin’ about you.”
Kwn said, rather, sang, what she said on “touch myself”, PERIODT! It is the fourth track from her 2026 album, and all pride aside. Kwn and producers FaxOnly and Zeek wrote it. “Touch myself” shines for a variety of reasons. The shine begins with the lush, sensual contemporary R&B backdrop. Early on, beyond the keys and synths, there are stormy sound effects. I love the use of pitched-down vocals, which recur within the accompaniment. Kwn delivers beautiful vocals. You can hear the authenticity and sincerity in her vocal performance. I adore her rich, low register, as well as the ad-libs and runs. Beyond her lead vocals and the pitch-shifted vocals, I love the background vocals that appear throughout the song.  The theme and lyrics encompass desire. “Oh, I’ve been fiendin’ for your body / It’s concernin’ how much I’m invested,” she sings in the first verse, and continues, “Girl, I’m yearnin’ and it’s hurtin’ / Knowin’ you not up in my bed.” Ooh-wee! In the second, she admits to being “sexually frustrated” and asks her to “Come and take a tour of this bedroom floor / On all fours.”  The chorus, excerpted earlier, is the crème de la crème. The bridge distinguishes itself from everything else.  Notably, it features a starkly different harmonic progression.  Still, the lyrics are related to everything else (“So come right on and touch me, girl / I am not, not no pillow princess / I can’t wait up no more”).  Post-bridge, the listener is treated to a timely modulation that ups the ante. All told, “touch myself” is not only a superb bedroom cut but also ranks among the best songs of 2026.

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18. LE SSERAFIM, ILLIT & KATSEYE, “ICONIC BY MISTAKE”

“ICONIC BY MISTAKE” » BELIFT LAB / SOURCE MUSIC / HYBE UMG LLC » 2026

LE SSERAFIM, ILLIT & KATSEYE, ICONIC BY MISTAKE [📷: BELIFT LAB / SOURCE MUSIC / HYBE UMG LLC]

“I-I-I-I-I-I-I am iconic by mistake.”
Woo! LE SSERAFIM, ILLIT, and KATSEYE all on the same track?! OMG! Now that’s a superstar girl-group collaboration! “ICONIC BY MISTAKE” is nothing short of iconic with all of the talent that collaborates between the three groups. The pop record was written by Sean Cook, dyvahh, Alice Longyu Gao, Kiddo A.I., Madison Love, ALYX MENDOZA, Brandon Colbein, McKay Stevens, and Justin Tranter. Cook, Stevens, and dyvahh produced it.

“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

Lola Young, From Down Here [📷: Day One Music Limited / Universal Music Operations Limited]

“I miss the high from down here / I used to fly around here.”
Noted, Lola Young. The Grammy-winning English singer-songwriter returns from the award-winning messiness and post-sex clarity! She continues singing in the chorus, the centerpiece of “From Down Here”: “Not quite alive, I’m somewhere in between / I miss the high from down here.” Lola Young wrote “From Down Here” with producers Dom Maker, James Blake, and Jameela Jamil.

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

Olivia Rodrigo, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love [📷: Olivia Rodrigo / Geffen Records]

“But it don’t matter how your love feels anymore / It’ll never be the cure.”
Olivia Rodrigo said what she said on “the cure”. “The cure” is the second single and eighth track from her third studio album, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love.  The talented pop superstar wrote “the cure” alongside producer Dan Nigro.

“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

Pyry Laakso, Pelkillä vanteilla [📷: Pommisuoja / Playground Music Oy]

“Postin luukusta kahukirjeitä läntelee / Pää alkaa pikkuhiljaa selken…”
Um, sure, Pyry Laakso, I’ll take your word for it. Laakso, who hails from Finland 🇫🇮, sings exclusively in Finnish.  The rough translation of the excerpted lyrics from Pelkillä vanteilla (Just the Rims) is “Anonymous letters are flying through the mail slot / My head is slowly clearing.” Word. “Pelkillä vanteilla” was written by Laakso (lyrics) and Pekka Rajamäki (arrangement). Even without understanding Finnish in the slightest, “Pelkillä vanteilla” is an undeniable banger.

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

ROLE MODEL, Chuck Timely & The Hourglass [📷: Interscope Records]

“Uh, I end my day the same way it started.”
And how is that, ROLE MODEL (Tucker Pillsbury)? “Alone in L.A., while I grieve the departed.” Word. And that, my friends, is one of the many stand-out lyrics/moments from “High Hopes 3000”.  “High Hopes 3000” is the high-flying lead single and second track from Pillsbury’s third studio album, Chuck Timely & The Hourglass. The memorable song was written by ROLE MODEL, Remy Moritt, Kane Ritchotte, Taylor Mackall, Mason Stoops, and Harrison Whitford. Ritchotte, Mackall, and Stoops produced it.

“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

Ryan Beatty, Sweet Fortune [📷: Ryan Beatty / Warner Music UK Limited]

“Faking the dream, the true American grit / I’ll admit, I’m a bit of a mess.”
The first step is admitting it! The handsome and talented gay pop singer-songwriter Ryan Beatty comes back strong with “Secret Language”, the promo single and fourth track from his fourth studio album, Sweet Fortune. “Secret Language” was written by Beatty and Marshall Vore. Ethan Gruska produced.

“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

Steve Lacy, Oh Yeah? [📷: RCA Records / L-M Records]

“Something’s burning, I smell fire / The devil’s working hard to keep me alone.”
That is personal, Steve Lacy.  The personal narrative is intentional on “the feeling”, the lead single and third track from his third studio album, Oh Yeah?.  He adds in the first verse, “Oh, I can’t be without you.” Oh, snap! The song was written by Lacy, Alice Smith, and Matthew Castellanos.  Lacy produced it.

“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

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)]

“I knew you through the daze of the blades of the grass in summer / Parachutes for the free fall of being younger.”
Let those poetic, thought-provoking lyrics sink in. Taylor Swift dropped a new single, which is not surprising – she’s prolific.  But what is surprising is that “I Knew It, I Knew You” is an original song for the Disney/Pixar film Toy Story 5.  Soundtrack songs are hit and miss, particularly when it comes to children’s films, but Taylor struck gold with this one. “I Knew It, I Knew You” was written and produced by Swift and Jack Antonoff.

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

Tinashe, Too Easy [📷: Nice Life Recording Company / Tinashe Music Inc. / Atlantic Recording Corporation]

“Hundred freaky girls up in the spot tonight / Tw-twist it up and drop it like it’s hot tonight.”
Ooh-wee, Tinashe! The R&B singer-songwriter comes in hot on her brief but intriguing single, “Too Easy”. The sound of this song contrasts with her past music. She’s dance-popped in the past, but this is more striking. She eats and leaves no crumbs, that’s for sure. “Too Easy” was written by Tinashe, kimj, Zack Sekoff, and Blush. Kimj and Zack Sekoff also produced it.

“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, ESTRUS [📷: Pretty Swede Records]

“(Ah) Bring me flowers / (Ah) Bring your sweat to my bed tonight / Last for hours / (Ah) Bring your sweat to my bed toni—.”
Oh, snap! Tove Lo (Ebba Tove Elsa Nilsson, she/her) collaborates with Belgian musician Stromae (Paul Van Haver) on “des fleurs” (“Flowers”). “Des fleurs” is the second single and fourth track from Tove Lo’s sixth studio album, ESTRUS.  “Des fleurs” was written by Tove Lo and Stromae. Stromae, A Strut (Ludvig Söderberg), and OZGO (Oscar Görres) produced it.

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!

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28. Wynonna, “Kentucky Queen”

The Hard Truth » Anti » 2026

Wynonna, The Hard Truth [📷: Anti]

“Well, I left my feet in the dirt too long / Wasn’t gonna wash off for days.”
Oh, really? Please, continue. “Leave me right where I was planted / Don’t miss the forest for the trees.” Ooh-wee! Do you need some real country music in your life? Look no further than “Kentucky Queen”, the marvelous single from country music royalty, Wynonna (Wynonna Judd). “Kentucky Queen” is the lead single from The Hard Truth, her first album in a decade. The high-flying song was written by Judd, Sara Siskind, Justin Weaver, and producer CACTUS MOSER.

“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!

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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]

 

Categories: EvergreenLGBTQMusicPlaylistsPop CultureYear in Review

the musical hype

The Musical Hype (he/him) has earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in music (music education and music theory/composition, respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and freelance music blogger. Music and writing are two of the most important parts of his life.

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