Consider Iggy Azalea’s “Fancy,” Omi’s “Cheerleader” and The Chainsmokers’ “Closer.” What do all of these songs have in common? They were all summertime releases that dominated the charts in 2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively. Summer is a big season for music releases since people are looking for soundtracks to their vacations, roadtrips and other activities. As the season gets closer, here are some recent releases to help you start curating your summer playlist.
“Slow Hands” By Niall Horan
After several listens to Niall Horan’s new single, I’m still puzzled as to which genre this track falls into.
At first listen, it is obvious the track is overly produced, causing all the varying sounds to be tastelessly muddled together. With country-style guitar picking, lyrics that mirror a pop song and a constant “woo” between verses, there is no coherent sound. Add the fact Horan’s weaker vocal ability is being buried underneath this instrumental conundrum — this song is having an identity crisis.
The track itself sounds like an attempt at a more risque version of a One Direction song you have already listened to and would probably prefer.
Horan should stick to the lighter pop sound of his first single, “This Town,” rather than attempt to adopt a style that seems unnatural.
“I’m the One” By DJ Khaled
featuring Justin Bieber, Quavo, Chance The Rapper and Lil Wayne
In a time where most rap collaborations consist of subtle burns at other artists’ use of ghost writers or their lack of success (I’m looking at you Drake, Future and Meek Mill), listeners need an upbeat rap track.
And although I can’t help but cringe at the typical “We da best music, anotha one,” DJ Khaled lead in, this collaboration works.
This track features Justin Bieber, Quavo, who gained popularity in 2017 for his track “Bad and Boujee” (he’s one of three rappers in the group Migos), Chance The Rapper and Lil Wayne. Although Bieber’s chorus gets repetitive, it allows each rapper to maintain his own sound, serves as a clean transition and provides the song with a catchy beat.
“I’m the One” is the first of many releases that embody the requirements of a light summertime tune and is worth adding to your playlist.
“Stay Together” By Noah Cyrus
Every summer comes with a barrage of “YOLO” tracks aimed to mirror the carefree attitude of the season. Normally, these songs begin to blend together due to a lack of originality in the subject — that is, until Noah Cyrus released “Stay Together.”
In comparison to her first single “Make Me (Cry),” Cyrus’ new track has unedited vocals, allowing her lisp to punctuate each lyric with a natural brevity.
Listeners were first reluctant when introduced to the idea of another Cyrus releasing music, assuming she would use the success of her older sister, Miley Cyrus, to gain popularity.
However, with vocals that resemble a mix between Lana Del Rey and Florence Welch being backed by clean instrumentals in both of her releases, Noah has started making a name for herself in the music world.
Although “Stay Together” has parallels to Miley’s 2013 hit “We Can’t Stop,” Noah’s alternative sound sets her apart from her famous sibling. Her debut album “NC-17” has no scheduled release date, but it will continue to show listeners her ability as an artist.
“Lost in Your Light” By Dua Lipa featuring Miguel
Often when two strong vocalists collaborate on a track, one is either left in the background or the two don’t blend together. In the case of Dua Lipa’s collaboration with rhythm and blues artist Miguel, “Lost in Your Light” was a success.
A dance song about finding adventure in passionate love graces every summer playlist, and this track is no exception.
Even though artists like Tove Lo and Bebe Rexha have similar song styles, Lipa’s R&B-style vocals add a sultry sound to the track that compliments the upbeat tempo of the electronic-dance-music-style instrumentals.
Lipa is gaining popularity on the music scene following collaborations with electronic DJs like Martin Garrix and Major Lazer. Her next major collaboration will be with Coldplay’s Chris Martin for “Homesick” on her self-titled upcoming album, which will be out June 2.
