This weekend’s new music playlist is packed with tracks about navigating volatile relationships and showcases the maturity artists can find through their music. A few of Friday’s releases come from singers not heard from in a while, providing the makings of an emotional weekend.
Khalid’s first release of 2022, “Last Call,” blesses the eardrums with soothing vocals and comforting beats. If you are a fan of Khalid’s previous work, it’s likely this single will make your list of his best tracks. He pays tribute to his previous work as he enters a new musical era. “The first few steps of another chapter of myself,” the artist wrote in the caption of an Instagram post announcing the release of the song and accompanying music video. “Last Call” focuses on romance and what the future may bring not only for a relationship, but for Khalid’s career.
“Euphoria” breakout star Fike released “Elliot’s Song” on all major streaming platforms Friday. Written by Zendaya and Labrinth, the track premiered in the eighth episode of “Euphoria’s” second season, when Fike’s character Elliot sings to Zendaya’s character Rue while playing the guitar. The song’s lyrics are emotional but necessary to shed meaningful light on the two characters’ complex relationship.
Pop rock band 5 Seconds of Summer is back with the lead single from its upcoming fifth studio album, set to be released later this year. “COMPLETE MESS” dropped Wednesday alongside a music video. It is the first track written and produced entirely by the band. The song balances uplifting pop beats with lyrics pondering whether a relationship is worth fighting for. The song illustrates the more mature sound the band is capable of, and I hope its next album will be just as satisfying as this release.
American rapper Kodak Black released his fourth studio album, “Back For Everything,” Friday. The album reflects on the artist’s goals since his release from prison in January 2021. The album’s tracks show a lot of personal and musical growth, taking listeners on an emotional ride of Black’s self-awareness. Although Black’s personal controversies have made him a controversial figure, he makes it clear with this album that his past does not define him.
The unlikely duo of Camila Cabello and Ed Sheeran collaborated to produce “Bam Bam.” The emotional yet upbeat single is a breakup song for Cabello, who is moving on from her 2021 split with Sean Mendes. Along with the single’s drop, Cabello announced her new album, “Familia,” set for release April 8.
Rappers NBA YoungBoy and DaBaby collaborated on the album “Better Than You.” The duo is one that works, and the artists complement each other both lyrically and vocally. The album takes a serious tone, addressing heavy issues such as gun violence. While the artists usually rely on different rap styles, the pair made it work for a few songs on this album with an explosive and unique blend.
Singer Hylan Starr released his newest single, “Don’t Make Me Beg” featuring Lil Baby. The R&B track is unusual territory for Lil Baby, but the artist does a good job incorporating revived early-2000s sounds, while the song’s lyrics navigate Starr’s relationship with a girl.
Including everything from breakup anthems to reflections on real-world violence, this weekend’s new release playlist is sure to take listeners for an emotional ride. And between albums from artists that have not released music in years to singles from prolific droppers, it likely has something for everyone.