J. Bailey Nolfe

Lucy Dacus and Hozier’s duet "Bullseye" from Forever Is a Feeling (2025) is a heartfelt exploration of love, nostalgia, and moving on.

From Billie Eilish to SZA, these albums aren’t just collections of songs — they’re cultural touchstones that have defined the decade’s musical landscape.

d4vd’s “What Are You Waiting For” navigates the delicate threshold between waiting for a sign of mutual affection and risking heartbreak. Through emotive repetition and heartfelt admissions, the track questions how much time and vulnerability one can afford to spend when the future remains unclear.

Ravyn Lenae’s viral track “Love Me Not” has taken over TikTok, but Lenae is much more than just a trend — she’s one of the most interesting voices in contemporary R&B.

It wasn’t a phase then, and it certainly isn’t now. 

Men I Trust's track "All My Candles" from their 2025 album Equus Asinus explores the dark side of nostalgia, filled with regret over past actions and a longing to return to a time and place that no longer exists.

While pop punk’s days of mainstream success with Green Day, blink-182, and Fall Out Boy may be over, the genre’s unkillable underground community is still thriving under artists like Jeff Rosenstock.

Maybe it’s a nod to the past, maybe it’s just a wild coincidence — either way, these songs from Mk.gee, Bad Bunny and more, will have you doing a double take. 

As genre-blurring artists like Yves Tumor, Jean Dawson, and Jane Remover redefine music by blending rock, hip-hop, electronic, and hyperpop, the future of music is more diverse and boundary-pushing than ever.

Frank Ocean drops a mysterious snippet of his latest track in Payton Talbott’s video at the 11:37 mark, sparking excitement and speculation about his upcoming musical release.

Mother Mother’s 'Make Believe' is a psychedelic alt-rock anthem that explores the power of imagination, rejecting rigid reality in favor of whimsical, optimistic perception—making it one of the band's most thought-provoking tracks so far.

From carving groomers with Yo La Tengo to floating through deep powder with Fred again.., the right ski and snowboard playlist can elevate your mountain experience.

In anticipation of SABLE, fABLE, explore the artists who capture Bon Iver’s sound, from Haley Heynderickx’s introspective songwriting to Angelo de Augustine’s haunting melodies.

Kyle Gordon’s hit parody song “We Will Never Die” pokes fun at early 2010s indie, but a few albums of that era — from fun.’s Some Nights to MGMT’s Oracular Spectacular — still stand the test of time.

Finn Wolfhard’s “Choose the Latter” is an introspective rock-tinged track that explores the tension between self-doubt, hope, and the difficult choices we face when feeling stuck. With imagery of “stranded on ice” and the idea of failing to “afford my dreams,” the song presents a raw confrontation with uncertainty, ultimately emphasizing the power of decisive action—even if it means choosing the riskier option.

"Beta Fish” is a vibrant and introspective track that fuses imagery of dancing, self-discovery, and playful symbolism. Through lyrics referencing everything from beta fish battling their reflections to three “little angels,” the song invites us into a realm where motion becomes the ultimate act of liberation. In this analysis, we’ll unpack the deeper meanings behind each verse and chorus, examining how the track’s core theme—finding your inner rhythm—resonates through its verses, hooks, and repeated calls to “shake just a little bit.”

Vundabar’s latest release, Surgery and Pleasure, channels a kind of frenetic cool that longtime fans will immediately recognize—but with fresh, crackling energy that feels both urgent and immersive.

Off her new album Mayhem, Lady Gaga’s 'Perfect Celebrity' dissects the dark side of fame, highlighting the pressures of perfection, the complicity of audiences, and the manufactured nature of celebrity culture.

If you’re a fan of The Strokes’ sharp riffs, laid-back vocals, and post-punk attitude, here are three emerging bands worth your attention. Each brings its own twist to indie rock—whether it's a sun-soaked L.A. approach, a driving post-punk revival, or a polished yet urgent sound.

From Strawberry Launch’s dreamy indie pop to Viagra Boys’ unhinged punk, these rising artists are set to deliver unforgettable performances at this year’s biggest festivals.

Djo’s new song, "Delete Ya," is a lyrically rich song about nostalgia, regret, and the difficulty of moving on — but is it pure artistic expression, or does it reflect real-life experiences?

“Safeword” by Halsey is a bold statement on sexual autonomy and boundary-setting. Through unapologetic lyrics and electrifying production, the track underscores the importance of mutual respect in even the most charged interactions. Fans of fearless pop anthems will find Halsey’s latest release an empowering ode to personal freedom and consent.

“Chemistry” by Gigi Perez takes listeners on a daring exploration of passion and secrecy. Woven with candid lyrics about private encounters, unspoken bonds, and the darker sides of human connection, the track highlights the visceral impact of rare chemistry.

“Crashing Down” by d4vd, featuring Kali Uchis, is an evocative portrayal of resilience in the face of life’s heaviest storms. By layering haunting melodies with intimate lyrics, the track reminds us that love—no matter how fragile it may seem—can be the anchor that steadies us when the world threatens to collapse.

Post Animal, the dynamic prog rock band from Chicago, is set to open for Djo’s Back On You world tour, and you don’t want to miss their set.

Joe Keery’s journey from Stranger Things heartthrob to psych-rock sensation Djo has been anything but ordinary—here’s how he built his music career from the Chicago scene to festival main stages.

From My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive to DIIV, Whirr, and Deafheaven, discover the evolution of shoegaze music, a genre that continues to captivate both long-time fans and new listeners alike.

From Mac Miller’s Circles to Phoebe Bridgers’ Punisher, explore iconic 2020 albums that reshaped music and inspired a new generation of artists.

Mumford & Sons' new song"Rushmere" is a return to their folk roots with a powerful meditation on nostalgia and the passage of time.

Dive into the empowering and seductive themes of “Dream Woman.” This lyric-by-lyric analysis explores desire, vulnerability, and the elusive fantasy of the perfect lover—revealing the complex emotions fueling this passionate track.

Explore Wallows’ existential themes in “Coffin Change.” This in-depth lyrical analysis delves into questions of time, the cost of life, and whether there’s more to death than mere endings.

Discover the profound themes behind Fontaines D.C.’s “It’s Amazing To Be Young.” This in-depth lyrical analysis explores how life’s burdens clash with the thrill of youth, illuminating the resilience that keeps us hopeful.

From Malcolm Todd’s viral indie hits to Yeule’s dreamy glitch pop and Sam Austins’ genre-bending indietronica, these rising artists are shaping the sound of 2025. Whether it’s ALEXSUCKS’ punk energy, Alemeda’s bold alt-pop, or Mei Semones’ bilingual jazz-infused indie, each artist brings something fresh to the scene. Dive into this must-hear list and discover your next favorite artist.

Like Lola Young, these rising female artists bring their own unique twist to alt-pop, indie, and experimental music.

Isabel LaRosa’s track “Home” delves into the emotional complexities of growing older, the push-and-pull of family ties, and the unsettling process of forging a new identity. In this lyric analysis, the verses capture a longing for self-discovery, a protective bond with her sister, and the sense of leaving a part of herself behind.

The Lumineers’ song “Asshole” is a raw and introspective track that explores themes of self-awareness, fleeting intimacy, and emotional contradictions.

Examining the deeper meaning behind Toro y Moi’s “Daria” reveals a haunting portrayal of desire, self-worth, and emotional compromise.

Through its viral trends and powerful algorithms, TikTok has revived genres from shoegaze to phonk, solidifying its influence on the music landscape.

In "Mud," Waxahatchee’s Katie Crutchfield explores the messy aftermath of toxic relationships, using vivid metaphors to convey the struggle of self-reckoning, detachment, and the difficult process of letting go.

Dive deep into the heartfelt journey of d4vd’s “One More Dance.” This comprehensive lyrical analysis uncovers themes of emotional weight, the need for connection, and the liberating power of music. Explore how d4vd’s poignant songwriting captures the essence of longing, unity, and the hope that resides within each dance step.

The "Sad Girl" era of melancholic, poetic sorrow is giving way to a more visceral, unapologetic "Mad Girl" movement, led by artists like Lola Young, Chappell Roan, and Reneé Rapp, who channel anger and raw emotion into their music. This shift reflects a broader cultural moment where female artists embrace rage and self-expression without softening their intensity, redefining emotional catharsis in indie and alternative music.

Discover five incredible artists whose music echoes the raw emotional depth and introspection of Adrianne Lenker, from Searows' confessional songwriting to Wasia Project's genre-blending artistry.

Billie Eilish, the self-proclaimed anti-pop star, has become a cultural icon who shapes mainstream music while staying true to her indie roots. In today’s fast-paced digital era, authenticity over polish is the mantra for many, and Billie’s journey from a bedroom artist with a laptop and microphone to a global sensation exemplifies that ethos.

The Dare transforms late-night neon aesthetics and raw punk energy into immersive worlds of art blending sleek glamour, rebellious passion, and unapologetic creativity.

Montell Fish’s captivates listeners with a unique fusion of faith and raw human experience creating a musical universe where pain, hope, and spirituality coexist—redefining modern music’s boundaries.

MJ Lenderman is driving folk music’s modern revival with his soulful vocals, and experimental instrumentation.

Jean Dawson’s Glimmer of God Tour packed sold-out venues, highlighting his genre-blending sound and deep connection with fans.

Johan Lenox is the groundbreaking composer and producer behind the layered soundscapes of Jean Dawson, Teezo Touchdown, and 070 Shake.

Cut the Ish Frank.

From gritty indie sleaze to sleek digital beats, explore how underground jams evolved into today's polished hits.

Through her pioneering role in bedroom pop, Clairo blends introspective lyrics with a DIY ethos to resonate with with a generation craving authenticity.

5 Emerging Artists You Need to Know in 2024

The emotional depths of 'Sailor Song' by Gigi Perez serve as a mirror to listeners' innermost desires and emotional coping mechanisms.

Follow the evolution of re6ce from his early days making bedroom pop to the success of his latest single, "brown eyes*".

Discover how innovative artists are using their iPhones to produce chart-topping music, transforming smartphones into powerful mobile music studios.

Donald Glover retires his stage name Childish Gambino with a final album that marks the end of an era and transitions into new creative endeavors.

Exclusive interview with Between Friends about their latest EP, their innovative fashion initiative "Garage Sale," and their personal and artistic growth.

With poetic lyrics and gritty beats, Fontaines D.C. has captured listener's hearts and minds

The bass phenom, Blu DeTiger is used to making waves in the music industry with her slick bass riffs.

By exploring the influences behind six prominent artists, we reveal a rich tapestry of musical heritage.

Highlighting our favorite growing artists in April 2024

5 Great Festivals to go to that are NOT Coachella

As we navigate new ethical and legal terrains, the future of AI in music promises possibilities for collaboration and new forms of musical expression.

Exploring James Blake's critique of social media's impact on artists, this article delves into the balance between creative integrity and the necessity of self-promotion in the digital era.

In a music scene buzzing with fresh sounds and innovative styles, these are our top five artists to watch in 2024.

Dive into the studio with Baird and Goldwash for a peek at how they're reshaping music's future.

We take a deep dive into Mk.gee's emotional odyssy in ‘Two Star & The Dream Police'.

Ekkstacy's Musical Evolution: Unveiling "Chicago"

Fans of Frank Ocean are sure to love these artists.

Discover Atlanta's latest indie music sensation, Ducky.

"Pink + White" is Frank Oceans first song to reach 1 Billion Stream.

Turns out, dyeing your hair really is that deep.

Artemas: Not Just Another Internet Artist

Max Fry Talks Viral Song, "Zombie"

Igwe Aka talks about his roots

All Hail King Isis