Striking Bops from March 2026 | Playlist

Striking Bops from March 2026 features songs by Artemas, Baby Rose & Leon Thomas, Harry Styles, Jonah Kagen, Noah Kahan, and RAYE.

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 March 2026 were released as singles or album tracks in mid-late February 2026 or March 2026. Musicians who served up the bops from March 2026 include Artemas, Baby Rose & Leon Thomas, Harry Styles, Jonah Kagen, Noah Kahan, and RAYE. So, without further ado, here are those rock-solid, Striking Bops from March 2026!

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1. Al Calderon, “Smoke”	2. Artemas, “myself”	3. Artemas, “psychokiller”
4. Baby Rose & Leon Thomas, “Friends Again”	5. Charlie Puth, “Home” (Ft. Hikaru Utada)	6. Harry Styles, “American Girls”
7. Jamie Foxx, “Somebody”	8. Jonah Kagen, “Talkin’ About Jesus”	9. JORDY, “GOD COMPLEX”
10. Kacey Musgraves, “Dry Spell”	11. kwn, “hopeless romantic”	12. Kyle Alessandro, “Rosary”
13. Lana Del Rey, “White Feather Hawk Tail Deer Hunter”	14. Mary J. Blige, “More Than A Lover”	15. Noah Kahan, “Porch Light”
16. Peaches, “Fuck How You Wanna Fuck”	17. Perfume Genius, “Jamie”	18. RAYE, “Click Clack Symphony.” (Ft. Has Zimmer)
19. RAYE, “Nightingale Lane.”	20. Slayyyter, “Old Technology”	Striking Bops 2026

 

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1. Al Calderon, “Smoke”

“Smoke” » Al Calderon / Create Music Group Inc. » 2026

Amen to that, Al Calderon.  Some of these men and women don’t want the smoke!  Though if it involves you, my guy, you are special: fine as hell (that face, those muscles), and incredibly talented musically (that voice). What I’m saying is, Al, give me ‘all the smoke’ you are serving upon the short but sweet single, “Smoke”. The multifaceted out Puerto Rican and Cuban American singer, songwriter, and actor wrote “Smoke” with Joseph Tilley.  Tilley and Ajax produced it.

“Smoke” shines in all facets.  The lush, R&B-infused pop production is a win. Al Calderon excels with this sort of musical accompaniment.  As decadent as the instrumental ear candy is, the vocal ear candy is incredibly sweet.  Calderon delivers smooth, expressive vocals.  His instrument is gorgeous, just like him… The verses are tuneful, with the first (excerpted earlier) performed exclusively in English.  The second verse features Spanglish.  “Yeah, Yeah / ‘Toy enamora’o de esta relación / Porque somos tóxicos,” he sings agilely, and continues, “Si tu quieres a prender un blunt / Y vamos a fumar.” The second half returns to English, confirming the toxicity of the relationship. The crème de la crème is the memorable chorus, also performed in Spanglish:

“I finally found a way
(He don’t want the smoke, He don’t want the smoke, He don’t want the-)
I’ll say it to your face
(He don’t want the smoke, He don’t want the smoke, He don’t want the-)
Yo he cambiado mucho y no me mereces
Me j**iste, má’ que cien por ciento de la veces
I’ll always find a way
(He don’t want the smoke, He don’t want the smoke, He don’t want the-).”

There is a bridge, which features some strong language from my guy, including, “I’m on some new shit (yeah),” and “I’m the best thing that you / Never fucking had.” Abso-fucking-lutely, Al! “Smoke” is another smoking hot bop from the smoking hot and talented Al Calderon.

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2. Artemas, “myself”

getting up to no good » Artemas » 2026

English singer, songwriter, and producer Artemas (Artemas Diamandis) has himself in mind on “myself”. Now that’s plain selfish! “Myself” is the 10^th track from his 2026 mixtape, getting up to no good.  Artemas wrote and produced it himself. “Myself” begins abruptly, with Artemas singing the first verse.  Once more, he gives us a minor key that amplifies the dark vibes.  The tempo is slower, with Artemas delivering an expressive, well-rounded vocal. His falsetto, which appears during the chorus, is delightful – incredibly ripe. Fittingly, he gives us the f-bombs we deserve during the chorus. Those bombs only accentuate his emotions, as he sings about wanting this girl for himself, and how he feels jealous when she fucks somebody else.

“Even if it hurts, I want you to myself

I want you to myself

I want you to myself

Even though you fucked me up, I want you to myself…

Did you know you broke my heart

When you fucked somebody else?”

… I want you to myself.”

Ooh-wee! That’s deep.  Even with the edge, the melodies are tuneful, while the lyrics are memorable. The second verse continues Artemas’ spiral: “Maybe I’ll just hook up with your best friend / She was always for the taking anyways.” Charming. All told, “Myself” marks another winning, dark pop record for Artemas.  Never change, A.D.

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3. Artemas, “psychokiller”

getting up to no good » Artemas » 2026

Oh, snap, Artemas (Artemas Diamandis)! It should come as no surprise that the English singer, songwriter, and producer was into it. “I hate you, but I want you nearer / She makes my whole damn body shiver,” he continues singing in the intro and eventual chorus of “psychokiller”. “Psychokiller” is the fourth track from his 2026 mixtape, getting up to no good. Artemas wrote and produced it himself.

“Psychokiller” begins abruptly with intense vocals by Artemas. A strong, thumping beat and a driving bass synth accompany the musician, fueling his killer fire. Set in a minor key, “psychokiller” features a great harmonic progression; it gives i, VI, ii, V for you music theory nerds.  Like many of his records, “psychokiller” is simultaneously dark, infectious, and irresistible. He admits the danger of love, asserting in the verse, “It makes you even question your religion.” Facts. The religion part has got Artemas messed up: “Now I can’t get you off my mind or shape the pain you left behind / It makes me wanna sin.” YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION, Artemas! This cut thrives thanks to its tuneful melodies and, of course, the songwriting.  The chorus, excerpted earlier, is crucial.  There is also a worthwhile bridge, where Diamandis informs us, “I swear I almost was a rockstar (Rockstar) / And then I met you, oh, I wish I had never met you.” Damn! Although it’s brief, “psychokiller” is another winner from Artemas.  This is a dark but fun surefire bop from an artist who never seems to miss the mark.

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4. Baby Rose & Leon Thomas, “Friends Again”

“Friends Again” » Secretly Canadian » 2026

What happens when you pair Baby Rose and Grammy-winning musician Leon Thomas? Sheer magic! And that magic, folks, comes in the form of the high-flying duet, “Friends Again”. Baby Rose, Leon Thomas, and Lawson penned “Friends Again.”  Thomas Brenneck and Eric Hagstrom produced it.  The results are nothing short of awesome!

“Friends Again” thrives on its ultra-soulful production work.  Early on, it’s giving neo-soul vibes with piano, bass, and the drums, outlining the compound duple meter. Baby Rose draws first blood, performing the first verse and setting the tone. Her voice is powerful, rich, and robust. From the jump, her distinctiveness shines. “I’d rather fight with the rain / With a match and kerosene,” she sings, and adds, “Bet it all on the flame / Why do I feel this way?” She also sings the first chorus, which is memorable, lyrically, and melodically tuneful:

“Will it ever be the same?

Why did we have to complicate it?

Moment of weakness we can’t explain

Will we ever be friends again?”

Leon Thomas brings it on the second verse, contrasting and complementing Baby Rose. “All of your burning desires / It’s hard to put out this fire,” he asserts, and continues, “Why try to put out these flames / When you always come back the same.” They join forces in the second chorus and the bridge.  The bridge contrasts the verses and choruses. “What about, what about, what about our friendship?” Word. Baby Rose performs most of the outro, with a few contributions from Leon Thomas (“I don’t know,” etc.).  All told, Baby Rose and Leon Thomas do their big one with “Friends Again”.

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5. Charlie Puth, “Home” (Ft. Hikaru Utada)

Whatever’s Clever! » Atlantic Records Group LLC » 2026

Noted, Charlie Puth.  The Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and producer wants her to know, “you’re the one who makes this house a…” Wait for it: “Home”.  “Home” is the seventh track from Puth’s fourth studio album, Whatever’s Clever!.  He taps Japanese American singer-songwriter Hikaru Utada for the assist. Puth, Utada, and BloodPop® composed “Home.” Puth and BloodPop® produced it.

“Home” commences with awesome drum programming that’s reminiscent of the pop and R&B of old. Beyond the colorful sound of the musical accompaniment, the harmonic progression – the musical underpinnings – is sweet. But it isn’t the nerdier elements of “Home” that draw most listeners in. It’s the vocals and lyrics. Charlie Puth draws first blood on this duet, impressing with his smooth pipes, performed in an undertone during the verse and pre-chorus. The melody is tuneful, particularly when the chorus arrives:

“Ooh, don’t you know

That you’re the one who makes this house a home? (House a home)

And so, when you go (When you go)

It feels so cold without the soul

You’re the one who makes this house a home.”

Hikaru Utada performs the second verse, singing in Japanese for most of it.  Like Puth, her voice is smooth and beautiful. I like the way she contrasts and complements Charlie.  She performs the second chorus, singing primarily in English.  Following a post-chorus, Puth and Utada perform a pre-chorus (“It ain’t a mystery / That every time you leave / That’s when I feel the most alone, oh”), before collaborating on the final chorus and outro.  Ultimately, “Home” is a pleasant, well-rounded pop duet by Puth and Utada.  Great vocals, solid songwriting, and strong production earn this single high marks.

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6. Harry Styles, “American Girls”

Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally. » Erskine Records Limited / Columbia Records » 2026

Noted, Harry Styles! By the way, “Whatta man, whatta man, whatta man, whatta mighty fine, and talented man” Mr. Styles is 😍! The Grammy-winning English pop singer-songwriter wows on “American Girls,” the second track from his fourth studio album, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally. Styles composed this ‘All-American’ pop joint with producers Kid Harpoon and Tyler Johnson.

“American Girls” begins with a noisy, distorted, oscillating sound effect. That sound effect is followed by reverb-heavy piano chords. Soon enough, a robust bass line and a drum groove provide stability. Harry Styles delivers lovely, easygoing vocals during both verses.  Interestingly, nationality is less important than marriage and relationships, and the challenges and triumphs that go along with it. “‘Cause time will show / That you should try it,” he sings in the first verse, and adds, “Those American girls / You spend your life with.” He rises to the occasion during the centerpiece, the chorus (excerpted earlier), singing with full-throated vocals in his upper register.

“‘I’ve known you for ages,’ it’s all that I’ve heard

My friends are in love with American girls

I’ve seen it in stages all over the world

My friends are in love with American girls.”

The production and sound in the briefer second verse is developed even more, with more synths and some thoughtful tweaks to the groove.  Meanwhile, the lyrics are sparer (“Her sweet eyes / Your temptations / Don’t deny / Her frustrations”). Later, I love the brief instrumental break showcasing the vibrant synths.  Of course, the big-time chorus returns, in all its glory, to conclude “American Girls.” Following “Aperture” on Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally. is a tall task.  “American Girls” was clearly up for it as Harry Styles delivered another G-E-M.

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7. Jamie Foxx, “Somebody”

“Somebody” » Foxxhole Productions, Inc. » 2026

Decorated actor and musician Jamie Foxx (b. 1967) needs “Somebody” ASAP!  That somebody needs to help him rebound after a romance that, frankly, fucked him up. “Somebody” marks his first notable, original music release in more than a decade. Foxx penned and produced “Somebody” alongside Jermaine Carter, Wade Albert Branch III, and Sam Pounds.

“Somebody” is a compelling, well-rounded ballad by Jamie Foxx. Although the tempo is slow, the record is quite engaging.  The lush musical backdrop perfectly suits Foxx, who delivers smooth, soulful, and sensual vocals. At 58, Foxx sounds like he hasn’t missed a beat. Of course, he’s in a bad way because of his ex. “Friends keep on callin’ sayin’ ooh-ooh / ‘Come out, you’re good’,” he sings in the second verse, and continues, “I ghost every party that more than you ever could / Your name in my phone, feels heavy to scroll past.” Relatable stuff. The chorus is the crème de la crème, carried by harmonized background vocals and sweet ad-libs by Foxx.

“Can somebody find somebody to

Get this somebody off my mind?

I’ve been talkin’ to the ceilin’

Like it’s gonna give me answers tonight

If healing is a number

Then mine’s stuck on your line.”

Foxx shines at the end of the second chorus, asserting, “Every time I blink my eyes, I see your face / Can I get a witness? / That’s how you know you in love / Every time you blink your eyes, you see they face, oh.” He’s not wrong! Despite being on the struggle bus with L-O-V-E, specifically H-E-A-R-T-B-R-E-A-K, Jamie Foxx eats and leaves no crumbs on “Somebody”.  Relatable theme and lyrics, superb vocals, and sublime production work make this a stellar R&B record.

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8. Jonah Kagen, “Talkin’ About Jesus”

“Talkin’ About Jesus” » Arista Records » 2026

Georgia singer-songwriter Jonah Kagen’s music goes hard, in an alternative, Americana, and folky kind of way.  On “Talkin’ About Jesus”, Kagen takes us to church – hallelujah! No, it’s not because he’s praising Jesus, but because of the top-notch vocal performance and the descriptive, honest songwriting.  Kagen wrote and produced the impressive single himself.

“Talkin’ About Jesus” commences with an enigmatic, intense drone. With the entrance of sustained chords, the rhythm increases. Eventually, it settles into an alternative record. The star of the show is Kagen, who impresses with his expressive, gritty vocals.  The coarse nature of his vocals is striking.  Something else that is striking is the honesty of the songwriting, exemplified by the excerpted lyrics from the first verse.  Jonah seems to fancy this woman… “You look so nice in this light / Yeah, you got mountains in your eyes with a sunset,” he sings in the second verse, and continues, “Yeah, God painted that / What I would give to see you again, just to paint you like a work of art.” Oh, snap! There are plenty of spiritual references, including in the crème de la crème, the chorus. The chorus is melodious and memorable including a prominent f-bomb!

“Why are we talking about Jesus?

Baby, that never helps

Yeah, love, we’re all sinners, daddy’s going to hell

I got this love in me and no one to tell

God, just fuckin’ kiss me, I don’t want no one else

I don’t want no one else.”

Why is it that holy fuck feels appropriate here? Anyway, “Talkin’ About Jesus” probably should be avoided like the plague… in church that is! But, Jonah Kagen wows, sinful ways and all! This Georgia boy has got it!

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9. JORDY, “GOD COMPLEX”

GOD COMPLEX (EP) » JORDY / EMPIRE » 2026

Are you praying, JORDY (Jordy Shulman), or are you doing something else? Listening to the next line in “GOD COMPLEX”, Shulman sings, “Asking forgiveness over something I didn’t do / Got me thinking that you’re some kind of priest / Confessing over something you know that isn’t true.” Early on, in the first verse of “GOD COMPLEX,” the religious and spiritual references run rampant.  Down on my knees, forgiveness, priest, and confessing are all key words. Shulman composed the two-and-a-half-minute song with Perrin Xthona and producer mattisnotfamous (Matthew Roy Ferree).

The second verse of “GOD COMPLEX” moves beyond religion, well, sort of.  JORDY shares his plans to become friends with his ex’s ex – an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth! In the pre-choruses, Shulman discusses losing and eventually finding himself following this shitty experience. That, my friends, leads to the Chorus, the centerpiece of the record.  “You were a bad decision, bad religion, can’t believe that I committed / To a normal guy, with a god complex,” he sings, and adds, “Rather be a sinner, pull the trigger, altogether / Couldn’t tell you why, I was so obsessed.” Once more, religious and spiritual references rear their head, with JORDY singing them like a champ.  His voice is terrific as he rocks out over the pop/rock, pop-punk-infused music accompaniment.  The theme and lyrics are entertaining and honest, while the melodies are tuneful. All in all, “GOD COMPLEX” is another bop in the hands of JORDY.  Rock on!

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10. Kacey Musgraves, “Dry Spell”

Middle of Nowhere » Kacey Musgraves / Lost Highway » 2026

Wow… Grammy-winning country singer-songwriter Kacey Musgraves is going through a legitimate “Dry Spell”.  Not musically – she’s always compelling – but sexually… She decided to share her vulnerability with us. “Dry Spell” is the promo single and second track from Musgrave’s sixth studio album, Middle of Nowhere.  Musgraves co-wrote it with Josh Osborne, Luke Laird, and Shane McAnally. Musgraves produced it with Laird, Daniel Tashian, and Ian Fitchuk.

“Dry Spell” commences with a distinct, rhythmic guitar riff.  Beyond the striking cue, the strummed rhythm of guitar stands out. Kacey Musgraves delivers smooth, easygoing, expressive vocals.  But, itis the theme of “Dry Spell” that is most intriguing. She’s horny, lonely, and in need of some action, beyond that washing machine! “It’s a drought out here / Waiting on a storm,” she sings in the second verse, and adds, “I think it’s time for / Me to take the bull by the horns.” Tuneful melodies to match the intriguing theme and lyrics. The chorus, the crème de la crème, is incredibly catchy:

“Ain’t nobody’s tool up in my shed

Ain’t nobody’s boots under my bed

Ain’t nobody’s truck up in my drive

For a late-night call, for a real good time

Ain’t no new notches on my belt

And I’m tired of keeping my hands to myself

911, it’s officially a cry for help

Y’all, I’m going through a dry spell, yep.”

All in all, Kacey Musgraves impresses.  Her voice is pure, the theme and lyrics are bold and relatable, and her chill musical aesthetic remains intact.  “Dry Spell” is a country record, but not too country.

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11. kwn, “hopeless romantic”

“hopeless romantic” » RCA Records » 2026

The first step is admitting it, kwn (Khyra Wilson).  The British musician has a knack for releasing sensual songs. “Hopeless romantic” is no exception, where love, and, unsurprisingly, sex, are part of the equation.  The passion is real early on, with kwn keeping her foot on the gas. Kwn wrote “hopeless romantic” with David Marcus, and producer, Compass. “Hopeless romantic” features a unique sound.  It’s firmly planted in R&B, but also has some 80s, Prince-like, pop/rock vibes. Sounds that catch the ear include the pummeling drums and the guitar.  It’s not only the instruments that make the ears perk up.  Kwn’s sultry vocals compel early on.  I love the lushness and sensual sound of the background vocals, performing the recurring titular lyric.  Also, the non-lyrical singing voice heard throughout, mixed in the background, is a great touch. Focusing on the star, Kwn drops the deets of this romance. “I want side-by-side chairs / Chocolate we can share,” she signs in the first verse, and continues, “Sex up on the stairs / ‘Cause we can’t make it to the bed.” Ooh-wee!  In the chorus, she asserts, “I think / I wanna fall in love with my best friend / I think / I want forever ‘cause forever never ends.” Aww! Love is universal, and kwn’s pursuit of her forever love is so, so sweet! Listening to “Hopeless romantic” makes you want to embrace your forever love or continue looking for and pursuing your life-long ride or die.

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12. Kyle Alessandro, “Rosary”

“Rosary” » Warner Music Norway AS » 2026

Norwegian pop singer-songwriter Kyle Alessandro (Kyle Alessandro Helgesen Villalobos) asserts in the pre-chorus of “Rosary”. Kyle gets all spiritual on us on “Rosary,” with bang-up results! As they say, prayer is the key of heaven.  “Rosary” is a brief but superbly written, performed, and produced song from the talented 20-year-old.  He wrote “Rosary” with Stian Gunby, Trygve Løkka Wølner, and Emilia Ora.

“Rosary” begins with a striking instrumental introduction.  The record thrives on its vibrant production, including gorgeous, lush strings, keys, synths, and programming.  Kyle Alessandro is the star of the show.  His vocals are incredibly sweet from the opening to the closing note.  Alessandro sings with ease during the verse.  Notably, spiritual references run rampant.  “Looking for salvation in the same place,” he sings in the first verse, and continues, “Counting beads by the day.” In the second verse, he asks, “Am I worthy enough? / Not sure if I deserve it / Maybe it’s all too much / Just tell me how to earn it.” He ups the ante during the chorus, the section to beat.  In the big, unforgettable chorus, Kyle shows off the robustness and power of his instrument. He matches the dynamic nature of the accompaniment.

“For what I’ve done

It’s making me bleed, yet I just keep on going ‘round

Whatever you need, whenever I please, Lord, help me out

I’m counting the beads on this rosary, forever, forever

I’m counting the beads on this rosary.”

Beyond the chorus, the post-chorus is delightful, too, showcasing how bright Alessandro’s star is (“Perdóname, perdóname [Forgive me, forgive me]”).  Adding to the magnificence of “Rosary” are the harmonic progression (the musical underpinnings), which gives off a dash of gospel.  No, this isn’t a song intended for church, but there is a hint of gospel-pop flavor.  All told, Kyle Alessandro ate and left no crumbs on this brief but high-flying, potent pop single. Slay, King!

 

Appears in:

Kyle Alessandro, Rosary: Beaming with Pride No. 24 (2026)

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13. Lana Del Rey, “White Feather Hawk Tail Deer Hunter”

“White Feather Hawk Tail Deer Hunter” » Lana Del Rey / Universal Music Operations Limited » 2026

Lana Del Rey sings in the first verse of her single, “White Feather Hawk Tail Deer Hunter”.  The Grammy-nominated alternative pop singer-songwriter continues, “Likes to push me on his green John Deere mower /I know you wish you had a man like him, it’s such a bummer.”  The lyrics read like a country song, which is the effect Del Rey is going for on her 2026 album, Stove. Del Rey co-wrote “White Feather Hawk Tail Deer Hunter” with Jason Pickens, Jeremy Dufrene, Chuck Grant, Jack Antonoff, Johnny Mercer, David Raksin, and Drew Erickson. Del Rey, Erickson, and Antonoff produced it.  Notably, it samples multiple elements of Ella Fitzgerald’s 1964 recording, “Laura”.

“White Feather Hawk Tail Deer Hunter” commences with an enigmatic orchestral intro. This sets the tone of an incredibly unique listening experience.  Following the intro, the record becomes slightly more traditional, with the appearance of a folky, acoustic guitar.  Still, the lush orchestral touches recur throughout, making this an ultra-sophisticated, arty alternative pop song.  The star of the show is Lana Del Rey, who intrigues from start to finish.  Her vocals are often breathy and performed in an undertone. At other times, her vocals are playful, matching the arrangement’s more rhythmic lines.  Beyond her stellar vocals, the theme and lyrics are captivating. “I got a nicotine patch for the summer / Yeah, I’m ghost, doesn’t mean I feel nothin’,” she sings in the second verse, and concludes, “Put it on my ass, no-tan-lines summer / I love my daddy, of course we’re still together.” Interesting… Following the pre-chorus where Del Rey admits, “I know it’s strange to see me cooking for my husband, but,” she shines on the unforgettable chorus:

“It’s positively voodoo, everything that you do

Did you know exactly how magical you are?

Whoopsie-daisy, yoo-hoo, yelling, ‘I love you,’

Out to my white feather hawk tail deer hunter.”

The bridge that precedes the final chorus is also a vibe, too (“Yeah, like maybe should’ve saved for a friend / Stick with picking daisies for Instagram”). “White Feather Hawk Tail Deer Hunter” is one of the most unique songs that Lana Del Rey has ever released. Unusual, its distinctiveness is part of its charm and ultimate success.  This one left me gagging!

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14. Mary J. Blige, “More Than A Lover”

“More Than A Lover” » Beautiful Life Productions » 2026

Mary J. Blige sings in the first verse of her love-oriented single, “More Than A Lover”.  She continues, “But he trippin’ ‘cause he feelin’ the same way.” Ooh-wee! Blige penned “More Than A Lover” alongside Camper (Darhyl Camper Jr.), Joshua Green, James Burns, and Jocelyn Donald. “More Than A Lover” commences with warm, rhythmic piano, robust bass, and a potent, soulful groove. As always, Blige delivers in the vocal department.  She sounds authentic, fabulous, and nuanced to the nth degree.  She excels singing the rhythmic melodies during both verses. “He came in and around, started rocking with me automatic,” Blige asserts in the second verse, and continues, “Chemistry did something to me / He give satisfaction, that’s his guarantee.” The pre-chorus and chorus mark the most tuneful moments. “And right now, I’m invested in the both of us,” she sings in the pre-chorus.  In the chorus, he’s her everything!

“My man, my friend, my rider, my nigga, my lover (My lover)

So tight, so real, my family, way closer than a brother (Oh)

And no matter what it is, I can come running for some comfort (Yeah, babe)

My man, my friend, my rider, my nigga

Way more way more than a lover.”

Mary J. Blige brings it on “More Than A Lover”. The love is indisputable! Post-vocals, there is an extended, ultra-classy piano solo, which gives off lounge vibes. Post-extended piano solo, there is a brief outro that further confirms the love.  All told, this is a fine R&B joint.

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15. Noah Kahan, “Porch Light”

The Great Divide » Mercury Records » 2026

Grammy-nominated Vermont singer-songwriter Noah Kahan said what he said on “Porch Light”! Colorful as always, he adds, “It is not irrelevant that you stopped taking your medicine, / But I’m giving you the benefit ‘cause it’s raining out.” Oh, snap! “Porch Light” is the second single, and the 11^th track from Kahan’s fourth studio album, The Great Divide. Kahan and Aaron Dessner composed the track.  Kahan, Dessner, and Gabe Simon produced it. Once again, Kahan delivers another triumphant music moment.

“But it’s cold, and it’s cold, and it’s cold, and it’s cold, and it’s cold

And I don’t know, I’m alone, I’m alone, I’m alone, I’m alone.”

Word. “Porch Light” commences with rhythmic guitars and hums from Noah Kahan. As the record progresses, it grows fuller, with the likes of piano, bass, and drums, and even fuller. Kahan’s voice sounds beautiful, pure, and incredibly strong. His falsetto is ripe; to die for. The vocal layering ups the ante.  “Porch Light’s” melody is fast-paced, rhythmic, and tuneful. The songwriting is as captivating as always.  Kahan is beastly with the pen.  The lyrics are honest, poetic, and vivid. “And I try to drown out all the talk, the eyeballs in the parking lots,” he sings in the third verse, and concludes, “And tell people it ain’t me you want, but I guess you’re my fault.” The chorus is the crème de la crème:

“Poison spreading to my lungs

I ain’t holdin’ breath, ain’t holdin’ any faith at all

And I’ll pray for you, be in pain for you

I’ll leave the porch light on

Heartbroken, each morning when it’s me that turns it off.”

All told, “Porch Light” marks another high-flying moment from one of the most gifted songwriters of the 2020s.

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16. Peaches, “Fuck How You Wanna Fuck”

No Lube So Rude » Kill Rock Stars » 2026

Say what, now?! Unpacking the lyrics a bit, Mifepristone is an abortion pill.  There’s no doubt about that. According to the Cleveland Clinic, Progesterone is a hormone that supports menstruation and helps maintain the early stages of a pregnancy. Beyond those two definite things, do what you will with the bone and the calzone that bisexual Canadian feminist musician, producer, director, and performance artist Peaches (Merrill Nisker, b. 1966) mentions. Could the bone being sucked be a banana? Is the calzone the vagina? I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again, Peaches never fails to bring the heat.  She remains potent to the nth degree on the bold “Fuck How You Wanna Fuck”.  “Fuck How You Wanna Fuck” is the sixth track from her 2026 comeback album, No Lube So Rude.  The song incorporates feminism, the spirit of protest, and sexual freedom/positivity. Peaches and The Squirt Deluxe composed and produced “Fuck How You Wanna Fuck.”

The lyrics, as well as the personality of Peaches, are the biggest attraction on “Fuck How You Wanna Fuck.” Nisker drops bangers early on in the first verse: “Fuck Kavanaugh, I’m a cougar / Caught in my flaw, there is no law, I need a spa / Roe versus Wade, pleather and sweat / Out of my way, slay what I say, hands off my gay.” Holy shit, Merrill!  It doesn’t stop there, with Peaches concluding, “Don’t like it, send a complaint / Straight to my taint, I am no saint.” The second verse is far more sexual, with Peaches referencing clit, dick, cum, drugs, all the while, not giving a fuck.  The chorus is fucking full of fucks (“It’s all about my fuck”), while the post-chorus is about the pelvic floor. No, Peaches isn’t eloquent in her language, but the effect is more potent because she doesn’t sugarcoat what she stands up for. In the pre-chorus preceding the final chorus, Peaches drops more NSFW gems, led by “Hairy pusstache / Tongue all up in my cabbage patch /… Golden throne, I’m fucking your dome.” Peaches doesn’t hold back at all on “Fuck How You Wanna Fuck”. She brings plenty of personality as she raps and sings.  The musical accompaniment is as bold and unapologetic as Nisker, keeping the same energy. Hard-hitting beats, noisy synths, and distorted guitar help to capture this pro-rights-driven musical experience. 

Appears in:

Peaches, Fuck How You Wanna Fuck: Spicy Tunez No. 25 (2026)

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17. Perfume Genius, “Jamie”

Glory (Extended) » Perfume Genius / Matador » 2026

Perfume Genius (Mike Hadreas) never fails to compel. “It’s a Mirror” from his 2025 album, Glory, earned a spot on my 60 Best Songs of 2025 list. “Jamie”, which appears on Glory (Extended), released in 2026, proves to be another intriguing song from Hadreas.  Perfume Genius wrote and produced it.

“Jamie” features an intense, enigmatic instrumental introduction.  The sound is quite distinct: atmospheric, nebulous, and spacey. Mike Hadreas begins singing about 47 seconds in. “Left a note for Jamie / Tucked inside his coat,” he sings in the first verse, and continues, “‘Nobody will be here / When you get back home.’” Intriguing. There are two other verses, composed thoughtfully but sparely.  “I know you have a secret / Burning you up,” Hadreas sings, and adds, “But the more you need me / The less it feels like love.” Word. Hadreas’ vocals are radiant yet mysterious, much like the musical accompaniment.  His vocals are mixed in the background and restrained.  “Jamie” features very few lyrics, with many of Hadreas’ vocal lines followed by instrumental lines.  All told, “Jamie” is another stellar song by Perfume Genius.  This is alternative/indie/singer-songwriter/art-pop at its best.

Appears in:

Perfume Genius, Jamie: Beaming with Pride No. 20 (2026)

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18. RAYE, “Click Clack Symphony.” (Ft. Has Zimmer)

THIS MUSIC MAY CONTAIN HOPE. » RAYE / Human Re Sources » 2026

Word. RAYE (Rachel Keen) has been on a musical tear. “Click Clack Symphony.”, the third single from her sophomore album, THIS MUSIC MAY CONTAIN HOPE., featuring the legendary, German Academy Award-winning film composer Hans Zimmer (b. 1957), continues the high-flying, innovative, musical excellence.  Keen wrote “Click Clack Symphony.” with Zimmer, Mike Sabath, Hendric Buenck, Russell Emanuel, and Billie Ray Fingers. Keen, Zimmer, and Sabath produced it, with multiple engineers collaborating.  Once again, Rachel Keen blows us away!

“Click Clack Symphony.” commences with a reflective introduction by RAYE. Also, there are recurrent click-clacking, marching sounds – incredibly cool and fitting! Also, the cinematic sounds (dramatic, dynamic, and rhythmic orchestra and programming) are EVERYTHING! In the fast-paced intro, RAYE laments her current state: “I eat, sleep, scroll, and work, but there has to be more than just merely existing /… And this feeling fiends for some feminine healing.” Post-intro, via the pre-chorus, Keen determines that she and the ladies are going out, which leads to the click-clacking, symphonic centerpiece, the chorus:

“Send the call out, send the call out

Calling all my baddest women, it’s about to go down

Click-click-click clack symphony, I need that

Click-click-click clack symphony, I love the sound of it…”

Oh, snap! Rather, oh, click-clack! Following the chorus, the first verse of the song arrives. Like the sections that precede it, the lyrics are quick, the melodies are rhythmic and tuneful, while RAYE delivers epic vocals.  She is cool, calm, and collected yet potent to the nth degree.  The intricate vocal arrangement and production are flawless. RAYE’s girlfriends won’t let her be down in the dumps, after all, “So, thank you Carly, for having a sixth sense / And for calling to remind me / We don’t settle for depression on a Friday night.” Beyond the reflective, vulnerable verses, the bridge distinguishes itself, beginning with spoken word and ending with legato singing. Per RAYE, “Everything is going to be alright.” Oh, the optimism! The outro provides another spoken word outro, accompanied by the meanest, most intense soundtrack you’ll ever hear! She leaves us with prudent words: “The cold never lasts, my darling / It just teaches the heart how to burn.” “Click Clack Symphony.” marks another masterpiece by RAYE, plain and simple. More could be analyzed about this extraordinary track, but the music speaks for itself.

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19. RAYE, “Nightingale Lane.”

THIS MUSIC MAY CONTAIN HOPE. » RAYE / Human Re Sources » 2026

Ooh-wee! There you have it! RAYE (Rachel Keen) introduces “Nightingale Lane.”, the 11^th track from her highly anticipated sophomore album, THIS MUSIC MAY CONTAIN HOPE. The five-minute ballad marks the second single from the project. RAYE co-wrote “Nightingale Lane.” with Tom Richards and Chris Hill. RAYE and Richards produced it.

“Nightingale Lane.” begins with a drum groove, which establishes the compound duple meter. Following RAYE’s spoken word intro (excerpted above), she dives into this moving ballad. She serves up polished, refined vocals.  She’s incredibly honest during the first verse: “Was a pain that made me colder now / After the oceans I cried, I’m made of steel.” A reminiscent pre-chorus marvelously prefaces the chorus, the song’s crowning achievement. “Nightingale Lane.” delivers a unique harmonic progression and also modulates, keeping the listener on their toes.  That modulation occurs during the chorus, where RAYE delivers powerful, rhythmic, and high-flying vocals. She oozes with soul.

“Somebody loved me once

And someday, somebody will again

Like the way you love me…

On Nightingale Lane…

Although we never made it

Strange, you showed me it’s true

I’m capable of loving someone the way I loved you…”

The second verse returns to the original key, much like the first verse. Strings add lushness.  Naturally, verse two flows better since the listener gets a clearer sense of where RAYE is going. The second chorus continues the excellence of the first, with RAYE continuing to sing her face off. The bridge is even more rhythmic, leading to a powerful outro. The sustained notes that RAYE sings here are EVERYTHING! “Nightingale Lane.” shows the incredible artistry and musicianship of RAYE. “Someone will love me / Like the way you loved me / On Nightingale Lane.” Amen!

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20. Slayyyter, “Old Technology”

WOR$T GIRL IN AMERICA » RECORDS Label LLC / Columbia Records » 2026

A bender, Slayyyter (Catherine Grace Garner)? Risky behavior, right there.  Obviously, she doesn’t care! The bold lyrics hail from “Old Technology”, the fourth track from her 2026 album, WOR$T GIRL IN AMERICA.  That album title speaks volumes 😏… Anyway, “Old Technology” is a piece of work – the definition of eyebrow-raising.  A prime example: “You copy-paste the vibe, I never chase the vibe / I hope I die, I’m doing drugs tonight / Ones that I’m not prescribed.” Yikes 😳! Slayyter wrote “Old Technology” with producer Yakob.

“Old Technology” features vibrant production. The song benefits from its hard, noisy synths. Adding to the edginess is a minor key. The edgy sound matches the unapologetic nature of its artist. Where does this old technology come into play? In the first verse, Slayyyter asserts, “You heard the song straight, straight off my iPod / Straight off the Tumblr blog.” iPod? Tumblr? Old technology, indeed! Slayyyter makes it clear that she’s living on the edge. Beyond excerpted lyrics from the verses, the chorus is the centerpiece. Here, Garner lets loose:

“I’m cranking up

Old technology, fuck your critique

Bitch, what do you want from me?

I need some peace of mind

I’m doing drugs tonight.”

Holy shit! To quote the late, great Amy Winehouse, “What kind of fuckery is this?”.  No extensive analysis is necessary regarding “Old Technology”.  This is a fun record by Slayyyter where she delivers a performance filled with personality. Adding to the allure is a captivating music video.

Appears in:

Slayyyter, Old Technology: Spicy Tunez No. 24 (2026)

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Striking Bops 2026
January 2026	February 2026	March 2026
April 2026	May 2026	June 2026
Bops from 2026 That Make You Beam with Pride	Best Songs of 2026 (So Far)
July 2026	August 2026	September 2026
October 2026	November 2026	December 2026
Best Songs of 2026

 

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Striking Bops from March 2026 (2026) [📷: Brent Faulkner / The Musical Hype; Al Calderon, Arista Records, Atlantic Records Group LLC, Beautiful Life Productions, Columbia Records, Create Music Group Inc., EMPIRE, Erskine Records Limited, Foxxhole Productions, Inc., Human Re Sources, JORDY, Kacey Musgraves, Kill Rock Stars, Lana Del Rey, Lost Highway, Matador, Mercury Records, Perfume Genius, RAYE, RCA Records, RECORDS Label LLC, Universal Music Operations Limited, Warner Music Norway AS; Gordon Johnson, OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay]

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