Popular Western Music [December 2024]

That’s So TrueGracie Abrams

Gracie Abrams – That’s So True (Official Lyric Video)

The latest song by American singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams is a wistful yet powerful pop number that portrays the complexities of romantic feelings.

It vividly expresses jealousy toward an ex and their new partner, self-reflection, and the process of growth.

Included on the deluxe edition of her second album, The Secret of Us, the track was released in October 2024 and reached No.

13 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Abrams’s first top-20 entry.

It’s a song that encapsulates her appeal, as she continues to gain attention—including serving as an opening act on Taylor Swift’s tour.

Take Me To The Beach (feat. Ado)Imagine Dragons

Imagine Dragons – Take Me To The Beach (feat. Ado) (Official Lyric Video)

Imagine Dragons, known for their sound that fuses a wide range of genres such as rock and EDM, have sparked buzz with a collaborative track with popular Japanese singer Ado.

Released in December 2024, the song is a remix version of a track from the album Loom.

Its lyrics, themed around liberation from the pressures of modern society, are striking, and the blend of English and Japanese adds a compelling, border-transcending message.

It’s a track likely to resonate with listeners seeking peace of mind.

Since their debut in 2012, Imagine Dragons have consistently topped the U.S.

charts, and their innovative musicality is on full display in this release as well.

KEHLANIJordan Adetunji

Jordan Adetunji – KEHLANI [Official Video]

Released in June 2024, the track comes from innovative Belfast-based artist Jordan Adetunji.

Created as an homage to American R&B singer Kehlani, it celebrates women’s confidence and beauty.

Built on a drill beat while skillfully blending elements of R&B, hip-hop, and alternative music, the song went viral on TikTok immediately after release and found success on charts around the world.

It reached No.

52 on the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100 and No.

15 on the UK Singles Chart, drawing global attention.

Showcasing Adetunji’s distinctive musicality and compelling vocals, this track—paired with lyrics that praise self-assured women—is a perfect pick for anyone looking to turn up the energy at parties.

Thick Of It (feat. Trippie Redd)KSI

KSI – Thick Of It (feat. Trippie Redd) [Official Music Video]

Released in October 2024, this track by UK YouTuber-turned-rapper KSI is a collaborative song with American rapper Trippie Redd.

Set to a powerful hip-hop beat, it’s characterized by confident lyrics centered on his success and his response to criticism.

The song reflects KSI’s journey from YouTube to boxing and then into music, and a portion of the lyrics previewed on TikTok sparked widespread discussion on social media, drawing both praise and criticism.

It’s become popular enough to crack the top 10 on the charts in the UK, so be sure to check it out.

squabble upKendrick Lamar

squabble up

The new track from California-born rapper Kendrick Lamar is an ambitious work that fuses West Coast styles like G-funk and hyphy.

Showcasing Lamar’s versatile vocal tones and hard-hitting lyrics, the song weaves in scathing critiques of the music industry and cultural commentary.

Released as the second track on the November 2024 album “GNX,” it also comes with a music video.

It’s a must-listen not only for West Coast hip-hop fans but also for anyone interested in socially conscious rap.

tv offKendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar – tv off (Official Audio)

This work by Kendrick Lamar from the United States sharply captures the contradictions and chaos of contemporary society.

Positioning himself as a “prophet,” Lamar delivers a powerful message as someone who can foresee the future.

The two-part structure and its shift in tone are striking, especially the aggressive rap style after the beat switch, which shakes the listener to the core.

Included on the album GNX, released in November 2024, this track vividly showcases Lamar’s musical evolution.

It reflects his willingness to confront the realities of the streets and the challenges of the music industry, making it a recommended listen for those attuned to society’s contradictions.

Love SomebodyMorgan Wallen

Morgan Wallen – Love Somebody (Lyric Video)

Morgan Wallen’s new song, known for its modern blend of country and pop, is an ambitious work that introduces fresh elements to his established style.

The rhythm, influenced by Latin music, and the ’80s-style synthesizers are striking, giving it a distinctly pop-tinged vibe.

The lyrics portray a heartfelt longing for true love, reflecting lessons learned from past relationships.

Released in October 2024, the track is a single from his fourth studio album and a notable follow-up to his previous release.

Wallen first previewed part of the song in May 2024, then gave its live debut during his tour in Sweden.

His performance in his home state of Tennessee was reportedly a major hit.