The Best Songs Released in June 2024

We’re officially approaching the halfway point of 2024 🙂 anyone have a clear favorite album of the year so far? More on that from us soon…

Noteworthy album & EP releases:

Radiosoul, Alfie Templeman
What Happened To The Heart?, Aurora
I Don’t Do Humidity, Bathe Alone
Scream from New York, NY, Been Stellar
The Heart of The Artichoke, Bloomsday
C, XOXO, Camila Cabello
HEAD RUSH, Channel Tres
BRAT, Charli XCX
Elle, DAGNY
How To Be Human, Debbii Dawson
The bird, Delilah Montagu
Moth, Fana Hues
The Secret of Us, Gracie Abrams
Jawbreaker, Henry Morris
Maine, hey, nothing
LOOM, Imagine Dragons
Metamorphosis Complete, Infinity Song
i tried to freeze light, but only remember a girl, Jahnah Camille
Wide open, horses, James Vincent McMorrow
The Sweater Club, Jelani Areyah
SEX WITH MYSELF, JORDY
CRASH, Kehlani
Downer’s Grove (Reimagined), Kevin Atwater
This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway, Lola Brooks
bathwater, Luna Shadows
MEGAN, Megan Thee Stallion
DOPAMINE, Normani
love & limerance, Olivia O’Brien
God Said No, Omar Apollo
Spinning Out, SHAED
Loveseat, Still Woozy
Heat, Tove Lo, SG Lewis

In chronological order:

“Please Please Please” – Sabrina Carpenter
Release Date – June 6

After the colossal success of Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso,” it was hard to imagine that she could immediately surpass herself – but against all odds, she surely did. “Please Please Please” manages to somehow be even catchier than anything you’ve ever heard before, but it also inexplicably gets to sound incredibly original.

With the help of pop’s godfather, Jack Antonoff, the 3-minute track is better than I think any of us expected, and it had everything and more to become a hit; a fun and invigorating production, a catchy and singable melody, relatable but extremely original lyrics, AND Sabrina even gave us a silly little music video starring her real life boyfriend, Barry Keoghan.

If these two singles aren’t enough to get everyone excited about the 25-year-old’s new album Short n’ Sweet, then I don’t know what is. So if you for some strange reason have been able to not hear this song, than I recommend that you fix that!
– Javi

“Genesis.” – RAYE
Release Date – June 7

I’ve probably spoken ad nauseam about the talent that British pop star RAYE brings to the table of contemporary music, but you’re going to have to sit through it for a few more paragraphs! But I certainly wouldn’t be mentioning her again if it wasn’t worth it, because I truly believe RAYE’s newest single, “Genesis,” a seven-minute genre-bending mind f*ck of a song, is easily one of her best releases so far.

RAYE’s 2023 album My 21st Century Blues was one of my favorites, particularly for her ability to mesh current styles of music and songwriting concepts fueled with the inspiration of artists of her past, including Lauryn Hill and Nina Simone. These concepts are blown out of the water on “Genesis,” arguably one of RAYE’s most personal releases to date, succumbing to self-esteem issues, social media addiction, suicidal ideation, and much more.

Chatting with Harper’s Bazaar, RAYE mentions the inspiration behind the song:

“This song is very clearly discussing being at that point of deeming your life unworthy of continuing to live—which is so dark, but it’s also a reality that a lot of people are facing. Then it goes on about the insecurities and pressures of social media, and these algorithms that we’re all addicted to, myself included. I really tried my best to encompass it all into one song and then have a cry at the end to be like, ‘Let’s have a little hope, and I pray that we all make it through the other side—it’s all gonna be okay.’” – Kristin

“Massachusetts” – Jensen McRae
Release Date – June 11

The first time I heard singer-songwriter Jensen McRae’s newest single, “Massachusetts,” it felt like I was returning to an old favorite I hadn’t revisited in years: a characteristic I find to be defining of a fantastic song. Whether it’s the melody of “Massachusetts” or its ability to make me feel like it’s wrapping me up in a wonderful hug, the song instantly made me think of a track that I remember my parents playing for me in the living room speakers as a kid. That track is called “Good Things,” released in 1991 by a band called BoDeans.

Now that you’ve read through that mini tangent of mine, I’ll go back to the meat and potatoes of “Massachusetts” a song that feels perfectly at home in McRae’s discography, one that tells the all too familiar trope of struggling through conflicting feelings towards an ex and still rooting for them, despite all of the turmoil your relationship put you through.

By painting a vivid picture of the smallest of details (pilgrim ashtrays, stoned fathers, and Christian Bale as Batman), McRae solidifies herself as an incredible singer-songwriter to watch in the indie space, and will surely be blowing up in popularity shortly, as she has only recently begun her leg opening up for Noah Kahan on his massive ‘We’ll All Be Here Forever’ tour. – Kristin

“June Baby” – Victoria Canal
Release Date – June 14

Back in March earlier this year, I had the chance to chat with singer-songwriter Victoria Canal about touring and upcoming projects, including the soon-to-come release “June Baby,” a song she worked on with The 1975’s Ross MacDonald. Fast forward to June, and the song finally dropped, and certainly didn’t disappoint.

Filled with lyrics describing the equally exciting and anxiety-inducing feelings of falling for someone new, Canal takes the listener through a day spent with this compelling new person, allowing herself to fall without fear of being left heartbroken in the end. Capturing the essence of warm weather, frolicking around town, and daylight lasting until the evening, “June Baby” is the perfect singalong for summertime. – Kristin

“DEVIL IS A LIE” – Tommy Richman
Release Date – June 14

Tommy Richman is back in the spotlight with his latest track “DEVIL IS A LIE,” following the viral success of “Million Dollar Baby.” Known for his unique blend of hip hop and funky, nostalgic elements, Richman continues to captivate listeners, especially on platforms like TikTok. “DEVIL IS A LIE” highlights Richman’s knack for catchy melodies and infectious beats that have become his trademark. His ability to fuse classic funk vibes with modern hip-hop sensibilities has garnered him a loyal fan base and widespread acclaim.

Tommy Richman’s ascent in music underscores his commitment to delivering music that is both timeless and current. With “DEVIL IS A LIE,” he continues to showcase his growth as an artist, solidifying his place as a rising star in the industry.

Tommy Richman’s trajectory promises further success and innovation: his ability to blend genres and create music that resonates widely ensures that he remains a notable figure in today’s ever-evolving music landscape. – Jesse

“:)” – The Japanese House
Release Date – June 18

The Japanese House, fronted by the talented Amber Bain, has unveiled a tender new track titled “:)”, offering a glimpse into a poignant personal story likely about her current partner. The song delves into the intricacies of online connection and the anticipation leading up to a first in-person meeting, encapsulated in Bain’s signature dreamy, atmospheric style. Known for her evocative songwriting and ethereal soundscapes, Bain crafts a narrative that resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities of modern romance.

Amber Bain, under her moniker The Japanese House, has garnered acclaim for her introspective lyrics and unique blend of indie pop and electronica. “:)” serves as another compelling addition to her discography, showcasing her ability to weave personal narratives into mesmerizing musical landscapes.

While it’s unclear if “:)” is part of an upcoming album or a standalone release, its heartfelt storytelling and emotive production highlight Bain’s evolution as a musician. With its evocative melodies and intimate themes, “:)” invites listeners into a world where emotions unfold in sync with the ebb and flow of digital interactions and personal connections. – Jesse

“The girl, so confusing version with lorde” – Charli xcx, Lorde
Release Date – June 21

Charli XCX surprised fans by releasing a remix of “Girl, So Confusing” featuring a poignant verse from Lorde, just a week after her highly anticipated album Brat debuted. Speculation swirled about whether the song alluded to their relationship, with lyrics mentioning a girl with similar hair and a penchant for poetry, reminiscent of Lorde herself. Interviews hinted at a casual collaboration sparked by a voice note exchange between the two artists.

Despite their simultaneous rise in the pop scene, Charli and Lorde have never had a public feud. However, their intertwined careers have invited comparisons, famously highlighted when Charli was mistaken for Lorde in interviews discussing the song “Royals.” Lorde’s verse on the remix reveals vulnerability, echoing Charli’s trademark introspection. She candidly addresses her own insecurities and admiration for Charli’s perceived coolness, culminating in a declaration of mutual support—”I ride for you, Charli”—which Charli reciprocates later in the track.

Beyond its musical allure, the remix serves as a platform for both artists to reflect on their industry experiences and complex relationship. Lorde’s introspection touches on industry pressures, while Charli’s response emphasizes mutual respect and solidarity, transcending any competitive undertones.

Their collaboration underscores an evolving friendship and artistic camaraderie, offering insight into the shared challenges and aspirations of pop stardom. By celebrating their similarities and acknowledging their differences, the remix of “Girl, So Confusing” becomes a poignant dialogue between two influential artists navigating fame’s complexities.

Ultimately, the track is more than a remix; it’s a testament to their mutual growth and understanding, resonating with fans as a symbol of solidarity and strength amidst the competitive pop landscape. – Jesse

“Timelapse” – Dora Jar
Release Date – June 28

It takes a lot for a song to be released two days before the end of the month to make my best of list, but Dora Jar’s newest single “Timelapse” is too good not to include. We’ve been following Dora for awhile now, and it’s been an exciting journey to see her vision grow, including a stint opening for Billie Eilish and The 1975 just last year. These experiences in her career have certainly influenced her music: I feel like as she continues, her sound becomes more polished, tighter, and with a clearer artistic direction.

Describing the song’s meaning on Instagram, Dora mentions it’s an “ode to NYC, the city of my BIRTH and my early adulthood , where I learned how to live the answer to the question ‘who am I’ (a constant and ever changing discovery do we agree?)”

While I’ve never lived in New York City, I can certainly resonate with the feelings of exploring your city with the ever existing questions of existentialism brewing in your head and the strong bond between those thoughts and the city that you inhabit. – Kristin

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