100 Best Songs of 2024 (So Far)

Tei Shi's light, gorgeous tone is as irresistible as ever on the opening cut from Valerie, showing that her multi-hyphenate, bilingual sound is both entrancing and engaging. — P. Ragusa

"True heaviness comes from emotional weight," guitarist and vocalist Brett Campbell says, and with that in mind, the surprisingly beautiful "Where the Light Fades" is one of the heaviest entries yet from the doom metal veterans. — Wren Graves

The truly lived-in sound of unique memories presented as a gorgeous Americana reflection of the human condition. — Ben Kaye

“Jump Cut” is an irresistibly fun and catchy song from the francophone indie rockers, where impressive guitar work ties it all together. — Sun Noor

Enriched by the sampling of Brazilian artist Elza Laranjeira's "Serenata do Adeus," the British rapper delivers the most impressive tribute to Stanley Kubrick's The Shining since The Simpsons's "Treehouse of Horror." — Liz Shannon Miller

Softcult say they've been "Spiralling out for hours" but it really sounds like the shoegaze equivalent of finally coming back to a warm, centrally-heated home after being out in the freezing snow all day. — P. Ragusa

If you're looking for lyrical miracles, "Get It Sexyy" isn't the song for you, but Sexyy Red is at her brash, confident best over another booming Tay Keith beat. — E. Fu

Get swept up in this energetic single from Suki Waterhouse, who lets loose in a way that feels rare and exciting for the singer-songwriter. — Mary Siroky

Two acts who have taken the heavy music world by storm join forces, as Knocked Loose's hardcore gets infused with Poppy's industrial metal in this absolutely intense collaboration that hits you in the head like a combat boot in a moshpit. — Spencer Kaufman

One of the most intimate songwriters of today proves just as deft at a bubbly, playful ditty — that still has a worthy point to get across. — B. Kaye

It feels like ATEEZ heard that people were crying out for someone to bring the fun back to K-pop, and they more than delivered — grab your fur coats and join the party. — M. Siroky

It's 2024 and Billy Joel — after releasing only one other new, original lyrical song since 2007 and two since 1993 — put out a quintessential Billy Joel song that proves he hasn't lost his magic. — B. Kaye

This song features one of Eilish's best vocals — "BIRDS OF A FEATHER" is devastating and beautiful. — M. Siroky

Despite a 10-year gap between their new album, Moon Healer, and its predecessor, Sun Eater, Job for a Cowboy remain one of the 21st century's premier extreme metal bands, as heard on this progressive and brutal opus. — S. Kaufman

The Swedish quartet return with a raw, scorching statement about not settling when things could be better — while daring you to find a better new rock band than them. — P. Ragusa

Ty Segall's drummer sounds more than ready for the spotlight, and "One Wish" has a bouncy hook and one of the finest guitar riffs of the year. — W. Graves

With a supremely lush beat and naturalistic flows from Erick and Westside Boogie, "Instincts" feels warm and intuitive — P. Ragusa

Look at them gooooo, those Bristol Boys making you rage at a show to a song about Joe Talbot's young daughter being his personal King Queen.— B. Kaye

MIKE and Tony Seltzer only need 82 seconds to get your ass movin’ and your gecs groovin’. — J. Krueger

Only Nia Archives could write a joyous song that will simultaneously evoke some existential vibes in the club. — S. Noor

Blade and Yung Lean don't like people, but boy, do drainers love this COLD VISIONS cut — and for good reason! — J. Krueger

Nilüfer Yanya has us instantly back under her spell with this track of warm, fuzzy guitars and hypnotic spirals about embracing the preciousness of time. — B. Kaye

Ethereal vocals and an almost throwback trip-hop vibe define the newest single from Luci — L.S. Miller

Timeless, breezy, and playful, Ravyn Lenae's "Love Me Not" is the perfect soundtrack for just about any day. — M. Siroky

“Une Autre Attente” is a rhythmic and cinematic cut from Laetitia Sadier’s Rooting for Love, the sonic equivalent to taking the scenic route home. — S. Noor

Benny sure earns his title as “the Butcher” with the way he carves up the beat on “Bron.” — J. Krueger

People love to label everything a part of the Y2K revival these days, but KISS OF LIFE show how to perfect the concept with this wildly addictive track. — M. Siroky

The slow start is designed to lull you into complacency, with ScHoolboy Q throwing up an alley-oop for Rico Nasty to dunk on our heads. — W. Graves

"Greatest Dancer" was released just as Nadine Shah kicked off her tour with Depeche Mode, a perfect time to deliver such a throbbing industrial groove that still pulses in our brains and bodies now.  — B. Kaye

Katie Crutchfield can be too nice and get "lost in a role I play," all leading to an explosion on the chorus: "I get bored!" — W. Graves

With raw, emotive vocals and vulnerable, devastating lyrics, Alicia Bognanno once more finds beauty in the pain of heartbreak. — E. Fu

Flo Milli’s quick-witted bars and unapologetic attitude on “Understand” immediately draw listeners in. — S. Noor

A lighthearted look into the abyss, "Hang Thyme" turns big questions into a fun, if anxious, time. — W. Graves

A one-minute, beautiful, soothing, life-affirming slowcore track? Thanks, Teethe! — J. Krueger

This standout track from Vince Staples’ excellent new album is an ode to overcoming hardship and New Orleans rap. — S. Noor

Warm and inviting, "Commas" is the perfect introduction to Ayra Starr's world for anyone who has yet to get into the rising Nigerian artist's music. — M. Siroky

Musgraves' vision for cosmic pop is unlike anything else in music right now, and "Cardinal" is a one-of-a-kind exploration of grief. — W. Graves

Kali Uchis seamlessly blends Latin influences together on Orquídeas and “Diosa” is an empowering pop anthem that shows off her impressive range. — S. Noor

An absolutely haunting song that gives evidence to the proverb that less is more, as this exercise in minimalism from this acclaimed Canadian experimental metal act gives us all the feels. — S. Kaufman

The former Alabama Shakes frontperson delivers real electric feels with a song all about the late stages of a dying love affair, and the power we maybe don't choose to give others over us. — L.S. Miller

All Born Screaming may be filled with hope, but the lead single's cacophonous declaration of mental anguish is still St. Vincent at her best. — B. Kaye

Compact and bluesy, "When I Was Younger" has one of 2024's great closing lines, as narrators Anaïs Mitchell and Eric D. Johnson remember how they said they'd "never look back." — W. Graves

"Treat Each Other Right" moves from dark to light in record speed, the seriousness of its three-chord groove offset by freeing, soulful samples. — P. Ragusa

Goat Girl comes through with a wonderfully dissonant, dynamic tune that blooms into a surprisingly gorgeous conclusion. — J. Krueger

Billie is confident and coy on "LUNCH," a clear standout from her sophomore album that seems likely to stand the test of time. — M. Siroky

Pittsburgh's Merce Lemon did indie rock fans quite the kindness by dropping this cathartic piece of rootsy indie rock balladry. — J. Krueger

On this track from RM's experimental sophomore solo LP, Little Simz absolutely did not lie when she said, "Simz and RM, man, it don't get bigger." — M. Siroky

Andrew Clinco's darkwave band Drab Majesty may get more attention than his acid punk act VR Sex, but the latter is quickly proving to be a force to be reckoned with itself thanks to infectious lo-fi ditties like this one about falling in love with a sex doll. — S. Kaufman

It's quintessential Ariana Grande, in all the best ways — from the incredible vocal performance to the pitch-perfect production throughout and orchestral flourishes at the conclusion, this song is the return to form we all craved from one of our reigning pop princesses. — M. Siroky

"Classical," one of the greatest Vampire Weekend tracks in years, takes their once-established sound and frays the edges, all to ask whether it's worth the energy to be cruel when history begs to differ. — P. Ragusa

Wisp is a faithful student of the splintered shoegaze and soft-sung grunge from 30 years ago, and "Luna" demonstrates her mastery of the form. — P. Ragusa

Kittie go for the jugular on their first new song in 13 years, showcasing the heaviest end of their musical spectrum as singer Morgan Lander belts out hellfire vocals on this earth-shattering track from the Canadian metal outfit. —S. Kaufman

Longtime buds Faye Webster and Lil Yachty link up for a dreamy, psychedelic ode to wanting... well, a ring made out of Legos. — P. Ragusa

This Andy Bell-led cut from Interplay is sun-streaked shoegaze bliss, hearkening back to their majestic early era while showing that they haven't lost their crystal touch. — P. Ragusa

Miss Sabrina decided to take inspiration from the habit-forming nature of the subject matter here and craft one of the most instantly addictive choruses of the year. — M. Siroky

Um, yes, I'll take intensely creative, hype-as-hell bangers from rising hip-hop-stars for 600, Alex. — J. Krueger

One part driving emo rager, one part electronic breakcore beat, Gulfer's "Too Slow" packs everything great about the band into a tight two minutes and change. — J. Krueger

"Von dutch" is the turbo-powered centerpiece of Brat, with Charli XCX blending all her most futuristic, haywire, spine-tingling impulses all at once.

Little Simz demonstrates her versatility by experimenting with a Baile funk and Jersey club-influenced production, without diverging from her signature introspective sound. —S. Noor

If Oso Oso's Jade Lilitri can do anything, it's write the catchiest little hook you ever did hear, and on "all of my love," the mad man has done it once again. — J. Krueger

The influential noise-rock pioneers return with their first new song in 26 years, and we're happy to report that frontman David Yow and company haven't lost a step from their '90s heyday, delivering a killer punk-fueled first single from their upcoming album Rack. — S. Kaufman

"Wild God" tells the story of a man in a retirement village escaping into his memories, and what starts off slow and sad builds to a frenzied bacchanal. — W. Graves

The best way to describe "Milky Max" is by pointing out that the choir of snorting pigs that start the song isn't the craziest thing you'll hear on this electro-punk barn-burner. — J. Krueger

Wishy capture the pure and nervy rush of a "will they or won't they" situation with a gorgeous, tried-and-true power pop sound. — P. Ragusa

It might have been written for the Confidenza soundtrack, but the sheer beauty and devastation of "Knife Edge" puts it among the most moving compositions Yorke has penned for any project — Radiohead included. — J. Krueger

No question, one of the best songs ever written for sitting in a bean bag chair, looking at the wall, and just vibing. — L.S. Miller

"Forever" is the type of devotional love song that Hovvdy do best, reaching gripping, earnest peaks throughout. — P. Ragusa

While the queen of darkness explores themes of rebirth and renewal throughout her latest record, "The Liminal" stands on its own as a perfect encapsulation of the cathartic process. — S. Noor

Megan Thee Stallion proved to be ahead of the curve when she carved up Drake on "Hiss," also saving some venom for Nicki Minaj by taking a thinly veiled jab at her registered sex offender husband. — E. Fu

The Portishead singer steps into a new light with “Floating on a Moment,” while maintaining her pleasantly melancholic ambiance. — S. Noor

"Rewind" is a tune that's gentle, comforting, and grand in scope, resulting in one of the most feel-good tunes of the year thus far. — J. Krueger

When it comes to producer-rapper chemistry, few duos can top the combination of Anderson .Paak oozing confidence and densely packing punchlines over a soulful beat from Knxwledge. — E. Fu

Lenker, certainly one of the best songwriters of her generation, makes "Sadness as a Gift" into a magical antidote, summarized perfectly by the line, "Every second brimming with a majesty." — P. Ragusa

SO BLACK AND BLUEEEEE... SOOO BLACK AND BLUEE! (Good luck getting it out of your head). — J. Krueger

Beyoncé leads one of her most satisfying love songs ever with warmth, intimacy, and a '70s-esque instrumental that fits like a worn-in pair of jeans. — P. Ragusa.

The personal element to Zach Bryan's music isn't new by any means, but "Pink Skies" taps into that human element that makes him easily one of the best working. —M. Siroky

Ninety percent captivating pre-chorus, "Hammer" is existential catharsis via beautifully arranged — if indefinable — turmoil. — B. Kaye

There's catchy, and then there's whatever Remi Wolf creates, which is always at least a few steps above and beyond what pop music can be — and this 2024 cut is no exception. — M. Siroky

Only Eddie Vedder could boil down an era of discontent into one perfectly belted line like, "This blame takes shape/ Still everybody else pays for someone else's mistake."— B. Kaye

Matt Pike proves once again that he's one of the modern kings of the metal riff with this all-out assault on the senses, a standout cut on High on Fire's best album in years (Cometh the Storm). — S. Kaufman

Pulling inspiration from Memphis crunk, GloRilla regained momentum with the motivational "Yeah Glo!," hyping up herself (and listeners) with reminders to not get caught up in self-doubt and petty bullshit. — E. Fu

IDLES get romantic, desperate, and a little silly on "Roy," a swampy love song that turns lopsided in its chorus. — P. Ragusa

Only Kim Gordon is cool enough to transform a mundane to-do list over distorted 808s into a banger. — S. Noor

The filthiest beat on an album full of excellent tracks from one of the top rappers in the game. — W. Graves

Impressive in its arrangement and scorching in its guitar-driven force, "Imouhar" is an energizing listen even for those who don't speak the language it's pleading to preserve. — S. Noor

The French act that pioneered the blackgaze sound deliver one of the most beautiful heavy songs you'll ever hear, with touches of '80s new wave and '90s alt-rock sprinkled throughout. — S. Kaufman

With her honeyed vocals and inimitable sense of melody, SZA manages to make an existential breakdown sound like a cosmic breakthrough. — P. Ragusa

Every aspect of "American Caveman" is so sticky that it's officially run Duck Brand Tape, Gorilla Glue, and Elmer's out of business. — J. Krueger

The Smile's Wall of Eyes is full of sprawling, linear compositions in odd time signatures that, somehow, sound incredibly easy on the ears. "Friend of a Friend," the cut that kicks off the album's second half, is one of the most remarkable examples. From the combination of the opening bass riff and gentle vocal melody to the woozy breakdowns to the orchestra-backed conclusion, the track is as intensely satisfying as it is wildly creative. Try counting along for a challenge, or simply bask in the colorful sonic world, "Friend of a Friend" works on any level you need it to. — J. Krueger

In many ways, "Jade Green" feels plucked out of time, as if Kacey's spirit travelled to the 1970s and lifted the very best lyrical qualities from the singer-songwriters who dotted the houses in Laurel Canyon. In other ways, it feels cool, witchy, and mysterious, as she yearns to "bathe in the moonlight" to come into her power. Either way, the string-heavy arrangement makes "Jade Green" a particularly haunting addition to a thoroughly mesmerizing project. — M. Siroky

This summer it seems like all of the years humanity spent building better speakers and cooler cars has been leading to one thing and one thing only: blasting "Yeern 101" with the windows down. The song opens with a sound like an engine revving while submerged under black sludge. By the time Q comes slicing across the beat with a double-time flow, you might feel your foot getting heavy on that accelerator, and when the hand claps hit, just pray the cops aren't around — for the next two minutes, there's no stopping you. — W. Graves

Chappell Roan's rise has been an unbelievable thing to witness, but this CoSign alum deserves every bit of it and more. Her only release of 2024 so far is a doozy — "Good Luck, Babe!" is an incredible showcase of her theatrical vocals, reminiscent of the best of the '80s, while the subject matter is timely and relatable. If you're planning on finding a better bridge in a pop tune this year, well...good luck, babe! — M. Siroky

Amyl and the Sniffers' latest single is equal parts defiant and comedic. Frontwoman Amy Taylor addresses snarky, misogynistic remarks about her appearance and demeanor with tongue firmly in cheek. The track is a catchy, lighthearted, serious, infectious, high-energy bops “U Should Not Be Doing That” serves as an the ultimate middle finger to the naysayers and misogynists, all without taking themselves too seriously. — S. Noor

When Beyoncé kicked off the COWBOY CARTER era with two singles, it was "16 CARRIAGES" that immediately showed how she'd be planning to leverage the country format to the fullest. Beyond offering another great vocal performance, the song is honest and personal in a way that feels refreshing for one of our most enigmatic stars; it remains one of the most impressive moments on a landmark project. Blues and gospel interweave through "16 CARRIAGES," and the effect is mournful, hopeful, and, most of all, unforgettable. — M. Siroky

If you've ever wanted to burn down your life in a cleansing fire, "run away girl" will lend you a match. "So I cut the shackles and changed my name/ And I shed my past like skin on a snake," Alice Merton sings, as '80s synths swell in glorious turmoil. Merton's voice always feels charged, whether she's quietly musing or roaring through confusion, and that bass line has some of the most danceable strut since Duran Duran. Bigger pop stars put out songs this year, but none were quite so difficult to get out of our heads. — W. Graves

Waxahatchee wrote a song backstage at Virginia's Wolf Trap before opening for Jason Isbell and Sheryl Crow, and then got MJ Lenderman to harmonize with her and had Brad Cook producing. If there were a cheat code for creating a modern classic Americana song, Katie Crutchfield found it. A soft and sweet tune about the inevitable cycle of doubt and assurance in long-running love, "Right Back to It" is romance in all forms. It's the comforting hug, the tension releasing, the warmth of just settling in. Why is Tigers Blood our favorite album of the year so far? Start here. — B. Kaye

During their beef, Kendrick Lamar rocked Drake with the massive body blow of "euphoria," then took Aubrey's best punch before quickly hitting back with the vicious "meet the grahams," leaving his opponent with jelly legs. With "Not Like Us," he landed the knockout blow by beating Drake at his own game. While exposing Drake's culture vulture tendencies and doubling down on allegations of his affinity for underage girls, Kendrick landed an unlikely No. 1 hit. Thanks to Mustard's sinister yet incredibly catchy beat, the song will be played in clubs and bar mitzvahs alike for the foreseeable future — making it an incredible capper to their feud. — E. Fu

Deep within every Fontaines D.C. song is the descent. It’s in their nervy guitars, motorik drums, and Grian Chatten’s cutting voice. But no song in their catalog captures impending doom quite like “Starburster,” an extroverted trip-hop meltdown. “Starburster” is personal; Chatten channels a panic attack he had in a crowded London tube station, gasping for air as the band pummels on. When they reach the brief reprieve in the bridge, however, Fontaines D.C. immediately turn that nightmare into something heavenly. “Starburster” may be jagged, but it hits the bloodstream like an antidote.  — P. Ragusa