[2026] Great for drives too! A roundup of the latest stylish Western music

Stateside + Zara LarssonNEW!PinkPantheress

PinkPantheress – Stateside + Zara Larsson (Official Video)

London-based singer and producer PinkPantheress has garnered attention for her skill in transforming UK garage and drum’n’bass into pop.

Her 2025 album Fancy That was well received, and this time we’re introducing Stateside, a refreshed take on a classic featuring Swedish singer Zara Larsson.

The track captures the frustration of distance and time differences with a loved one, set to a breezy beat.

With Zara’s powerful vocals, what began as an inward-looking love song evolves into a more open, liberating sound—truly exhilarating.

The music video released in January 2026 also drew plenty of buzz.

It’s a perfect fit for nights when you’re thinking of someone far away or for lifting your mood on a morning commute.

2SIDEDNEW!Arlo Parks

Arlo Parks – 2SIDED

Arlo Parks, a London-born singer-songwriter celebrated worldwide for her poetic expression—her 2021 debut album Collapsed in Sunbeams won the prestigious Mercury Prize—returns with a new track serving as the lead single from her highly anticipated third album, Ambiguous Desire, slated for release in April 2026.

Building on her introspective style, the sound here draws inspiration from nighttime club culture in cities like New York, brimming with a warm euphoria and groove.

The lyrics, centered on themes of “longing” and “tension,” vividly capture the moment when hidden desires spill out into the open—don’t miss them.

With a beat that compels you to move, it’s a perfect song for a late-night drive or when you want to feel the heat of the dance floor.

CHAMPION SOUNDNEW!Jordan Ward

Jordan Ward – CHAMPION SOUND (Official Vid)

Jordan Ward, a St.

Louis native who once made his mark as a tour dancer for major artists, is drawing attention as a rising star in the R&B scene with a vocal style that channels physical groove into expressive singing.

His single released in January 2026, “CHAMPION SOUND,” is a case in point.

The title might suggest a flashy victory anthem, but the song actually explores the inner conflicts and introspective emotions on the road to success.

Over a track woven with funk and jazz elements, his supple vocals tracing his personal growth sound incredibly cool.

Producer Lido—who played a key role on the widely acclaimed album “FORWARD”—also joins the project, making this a track that heightens anticipation for the upcoming album “BACKWARD,” due at the end of January 2026.

It’s the perfect sound for nights when you want to stoke a quiet, steady fighting spirit.

Up From Here (ft. Robert Glasper & D Smoke)NEW!MOON CHILD

Moonchild – Up From Here ft. Robert Glasper & D Smoke [Official Lyric Video]

Moonchild is a Los Angeles–based trio that brings their jazz roots to bear on exquisite neo-soul.

This work was created with two key figures of contemporary music: Robert Glasper and rapper D Smoke.

Centered on themes of bounce-back from rock bottom and self-affirmation, it beautifully blends crystalline vocals, delicate piano, and powerful lyrics.

Released in January 2026 ahead of their forthcoming album “WAVES,” which is slated for February 2026, this track offers a gentle push forward as you sink into its soothing groove.

It’s the perfect song for nights when your heart feels tired or when you want to be kind to yourself.

Too MuchNEW!Ted Park, Gun Boi Kaz

Ted Park, Gun Boi Kaz – Too Much (Official Music Video)

Ted Park, a multitalented artist who even handles video production himself, and Gun Boi Kaz, who also brings engineering chops—both have Korean roots and have built their careers with a DIY spirit.

The two teamed up for this track, “Too Much.” Its melodious flow, infused with R&B and soul elements, feels smooth and showcases a style that expresses emotion directly.

Ted Park led the lyrics, music video production, and mixing, resulting in a work packed with meticulous detail.

Released as a single in January 2026, the music video dropped the same day.

It’s a song you’ll want to play when you’re in a sentimental New Year’s mood or chilling on a nighttime drive.

Definitely check it out.

OCEAN DRIVE (Ft. SD2016)NEW!Ghostfacekush

[GHOSTFACEKUSH] OCEAN DRIVE Ft. SD2016

Rapper Ghostfacekush, who mainly operates on SoundCloud and creates music with an independent spirit, has released a new single, “OCEAN DRIVE (Ft.

SD2016),” in December 2025 with his close collaborator Smokedope2016.

As the title suggests, it’s a perfect track for a nighttime cruise along the ocean.

Though it runs just over two minutes, the mellow, floating beat crafted by Ribadoubly is irresistibly smooth and addictive—you’ll find yourself hitting repeat.

With its music video included, the project presents a unique, self-contained world.

Why not add it to your playlist as a companion for late-night drives?

4EVA (feat. Pharrell Williams)KAYTRAMINÉ

KAYTRAMINÉ – 4EVA feat. Pharrell Williams (Official Video)

Kaytranada and Amine—forming the collaborative unit Kaytraminé—are drawing attention as a Haitian-Canadian DJ/producer duo and rapper/producer pairing.

Their latest track, “4EVA,” is a gem featuring the legendary Pharrell Williams as a special guest.

Quickly gaining buzz since its release, it has already secured popularity, especially among Western pop and hip-hop fans.

The song carries a groovy yet refined sound that makes you want to hit the road, making it perfect for your driving playlist.

It’s sure to resonate pleasantly with newcomers to Western music as well.

Blending a sparkling melody with modern beats, “4EVA” is a stylish, of-the-moment track you won’t want to miss!