Time to Read: 14 minutes (whole post)
It’s one of my favourite times of the year—time to celebrate and share some of my favourite releases from 2024 with you!
As always, there’s a strong focus on Pop music, with a sprinkling of other genres for good measure.
I genuinely think this year has been brilliant for Pop Music, especially for women in the genre. I don’t say that purely to be inclusive – the Pop girlies deserve to be celebrated this year. From Beyoncé to Dua Lipa, Ariana Grande to Sabrina Carpenter (our new Pop Princess), we’ve been spoiled with phenomenal albums.
Below you can read:
My Top 12 songs of 2024 (single releases)
My Top 10 favourite Album Tracks of 2024
My favourite albums and EPs of 2024.
Thank you so much for your support this year. I know my Pop nerdiness isn’t for everyone, but whether you’ve popped by for a quick look, read every post, or discovered something new, I truly appreciate it. Getting this blog back up and running has been a joy, and I’m excited to keep it going!
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and peaceful New Year,
Marc
(The Music Box)
Top 12 Single Releases of 2024 (ranked in order)
12 Charli XCX – 360
I never really “got” Charli until this year. Yeah, yeah, ‘Brat Summer‘ and all that—great marketing—but her main strength lies in having her own distinct style and sticking to it. This song is quintessential Charli: a hyper-pop track with minimalist production, featuring little more than beats and synths, almost deadpan delivery of the lyrics, and her signature frank, witty writing.
11 Billie Eilish – Birds of a Feather
I wasn’t expecting this from Billie this year. I’ve always found her intriguing as an artist and have enjoyed parts of her discography, but this is the first time I’ve truly loved one of her songs (other than ‘My Future‘). Essentially a new wave track with hints of dream pop, it explores themes of deep love and connection. She swaps the industrial, minimalist sound and meticulous production of her earlier work for a warmer, more conventional pop sound. Soft guitar strums and an irresistible riff underpin the entire song. Billie truly shines here, particularly in her belting at the end.
10 The Jammin’ Kid, Majestic and Celine Dion – Set My Heart on Fire
I love mashups, especially when they’re THIS GOOD! This song became a viral sensation this year on TikTok when The Jammin’ Kid paired Celine Dion’s 2002 hit ‘I’m Alive‘ with The Whispers’ 1979 post-disco smash ‘And The Beat Goes On‘. Its reception was so phenomenal that English producer Majestic released it officially with Dion’s approval, introducing her to a new generation of fans.
9 Addison Rae – Diet Pepsi
A gloriously dreamy and intoxicating synth-pop ballad with jittery synths, heavenly breathy vocals, and a romantic teen 1970s vibe. Utterly irresistible. The switch-up with the key change and slower tempo at 2:14 is pure magic.
8 Ariana Grande – the boy is mine
This song was a grower for me. I liked it when I first heard it on Ari’s album, but it’s one I kept revisiting. I love songs like that. Returning to her signature R&B sound from her early days, this sultry and self-assured track borrows themes from Brandy and Monica’s 1998 smash hit of the same name. In a stroke of genius, Brandy and Monica appeared in the music video as newsreaders and later recorded a remix with Grande, making it even more heavenly. The song’s success lies in its throwback sound to the late 90s/early 00s while still feeling fresh.
7 Muni Long – Made for Me
Technically, this song was released in 2023, but it blew up this year on TikTok, so I think I can justify including it here! This is an absolutely stunning piano-led R&B ballad featuring little more than gorgeous piano work, a drum machine, bass, and Priscilla Renea’s (aka Muni Long) captivating vocals. It’s received such a warm reception thanks to its catchy and irresistible “Twin, where have you been?” bridge and because we’re lacking R&B songs of this calibre. It feels like early 2000s R&B at its best and is produced by the iconic R&B producer Jermaine Dupri.
6 Another Sky – The Pain
I still remember the first time I heard this on my drive to work one morning on BBC Radio 1 (thanks, Greg!), with the volume turned all the way UP. The first thing that grabbed my attention was singer Catrin Vincent’s rich, full-bodied, and almost androgynous vocals. Lyrically, the song explores the naivety of youth and the wisdom that comes with age. Its brilliance lies in how it builds from low-key, softer verses with gentle guitar strums to a heavy rock break midway through. It transforms into a full-on indie rock explosion, complete with Foo Fighters-esque guitar work and crashing drums. Simply amazing.
5 Calvin Harris and Rag’n’Bone Man – Lovers in a Past Life
‘Giant’ (their previous collaboration) was, of course, massive, and rightly so. It was a stellar pop-house track, with Rag’n’Bone Man’s rich, gravelly voice perfectly complementing Harris’ thumping instrumental. However, for me, this track is far superior and has been on repeat all year. Feeling more like one of Rag’n’Bone Man’s songs transformed into a moody house anthem, it deals with regret over a past relationship. It begins with atmospheric piano chords and Rag’n’Bone Man’s incredible voice before launching into a brooding summer EDM track with an irresistible synth drop.
4 Rita Ora – Ask and You Shall Receive
Rita can be hit and miss for me. She can be a great artist when she can be arsed but chooses to spend most of her time doing anything BUT singing. This song deserved SO much better. A Raye and David Guetta collab which got shelved, Rita shines on this sleek, fun and joyful pop house smash. Dismissed by many (albeit unfairly) as “just a subpar Raye reject,” this track deserved more promotion and appreciation. Sure, it’s not groundbreaking, but it’s fun, fresh, and funky. It always uplifts me, and isn’t that what music should do?
3 Post Malone – What Don’t Belong To Me
I really do love Post Malone, and his transition into country-pop was long overdue. I fell instantly in love with this track after hearing it on BBC Radio 1, and I’ve listened to it almost daily ever since. Combining classic country hallmarks—lyrics brimming with sincerity, warm acoustic guitar strums, and hazy slide guitar—with Malone’s signature raspy vocal, it’s flawless country pop. The highlight? Malone’s raspy growls of “What don’t belong to me” from 2:48 onwards. Sheer power!
2 Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe!
I genuinely think this might be one of the best pop songs of all time. It was a slow burner for me, but one I’ve grown to appreciate and love in equal measure. Written by Roan alongside pop hitmaker Justin Tranter and Dan Nigro, it’s a synth-pop track with elements of baroque pop (a big part of its appeal) and feels simultaneously nostalgic and contemporary. Lyrically, it addresses compulsory heterosexuality and a woman trying to deny her feelings for her partner. Reportedly “a nightmare to write,” the flawless, dramatic bridge apparently only took Roan two minutes. The track highlights her impressive vocal range, and the way the song slows in its final moments to reflect “Don’t have to stop the world just to stop the feeling” is pure genius.
1 Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso
THE song of 2024. Love it or loathe it, there’s no denying this is a stellar pop song packed with charm. Everything from its looped sample splice paired with a bouncy, reggae-inspired rhythm to Sabrina’s breathy vocals and tongue-in-cheek, self-assured lyrics is perfectly executed. It’s undeniably summery and remains a triumph even after all its exposure this year.
Here’s the playlist in full:
Wanna see what else I enjoyed single-wise but didn’t include here? The full playlist is below!
Top 10 Album Tracks of 2024 (in no particular order)
1. Sabrina Carpenter – Juno
Sabrina Carpenter is unapologetically horny, wanting a man’s child on this 1980s-inspired disco pop bop. Lyrically, it’s bold—perhaps even a bit uncomfortable at times—as Carpenter openly expresses her attraction, declaring, “I’m so f***ing horny” in the middle eight. Despite this, with Sheryl Crow-like country-pop elements layered over a backing track reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac’s chord progressions, ‘Juno‘ is an undeniable triumph and the ‘You make me wanna make you fall in love’ hook in the bridge is irresistibly catchy.
2. Mk.gee – DNM
This track is the highlight of Mk.gee’s brilliant EP, diving into New Jack Swing territory with style reminiscent of Bobby Brown and Janet Jackson in the late ’80s. Packed with industrial beats, quirky electronic effects, and hazy, distorted vocals that echo against its precarious rhythm, DNM feels edgy, experimental, and endlessly intriguing.
3. Usher – I LOVE U
Usher proves he’s still a master of R&B with this standout track from his latest album, ‘Coming Home‘. Featuring slap bass, syrupy-smooth vocals, and drum machine grooves, the song is a glorious nod to 1980s soul and ’90s R&B. Usher’s signature layered harmonies elevate the track, which carries shades of Michael Jackson and Prince. Funky, fresh, and completely irresistible.
4. Dua Lipa – End of an Era
This track perfectly sets the tone for Dua Lipa’s neo-psychedelic album, ‘Radical Optimism‘. With bouncy piano riffs, funky basslines, and driving beats, ‘End of an Era‘ is a fun, upbeat exploration of new love. Its hopeful energy is infectious, making it an instant favourite.
5. Omar Apollo – Done With You
Omar Apollo shines on this velvety-smooth R&B track that feels like a nod to the soulful sounds of Michael Jackson’s Off the Wall and the modern influences of Maxwell and D’Angelo. Over slick guitar strums, understated R&B beats, and occasional brass flourishes, Omar reflects on a failed relationship, singing, “Sometimes love don’t make it right.” With chilled yet optimistic vibes, gorgeous harmonies, and a stunning outro, this track is a masterpiece.
6. Ariana Grande and Troye Sivan – Supernatural
A highlight from Ariana Grande’s ‘Eternal Sunshine‘ album, the duet version of Supernatural featuring Troye Sivan (from the deluxe edition) is a dreamy synthwave masterpiece. While Troye’s addition to the second verse doesn’t drastically change the song, both versions are equally brilliant. With a subtle R&B beat and 1980s-inspired production, the track uses metaphors and layered harmonies to explore the excitement of new love. It’s lush, atmospheric, and simply beautiful.
7. Griff – Astronaut
This track is nothing short of stunning. Built around Chris Martin’s emotive piano work, sparse electronic elements, and Griff’s raw, heartfelt vocals, ‘Astronaut‘ is a testament to the power of simplicity. The lyrics cleverly use the astronaut metaphor to explore the challenges of needing space in a relationship. At Martin’s suggestion, Griff stripped the song back to its bare essentials, resulting in a track that feels hauntingly intimate and gorgeously layered.
8. Coldplay and Ayra Starr – Good Feelings
The standout track from Coldplay’s ‘Moon Music’, ‘Good Feelings’ revisits the funk-pop brilliance of Adventure of a Lifetime. Initially conceived with The Chainsmokers for their ‘Music of the Spheres‘ album, the track was later reimagined for Moon Music with disco God Nile Rodgers and African artist Ayra Starr contributing to its funky guitar rhythms, buoyant beats, and anthemic melodies. A joyful, infectious celebration of sound.
9. Zayn – Ignorance Aint Bliss (Demo)
Zayn ventures into singer-songwriter territory on this stripped-back bonus track from his latest album. Although rough around the edges, ‘Ignorance Ain’t Bliss’ leans into an Arctic Monkeys-esque vibe while retaining a pop sensibility. With moody guitar riffs, live drums, and Zayn’s smoky, soulful vocals, the track showcases a more authentic, mature sound. It’s raw, understated, and utterly brilliant.
10. Zedd and John Mayer – Automatic Yes
This unexpected collaboration was a late discovery for me this year, but it immediately won me over. John Mayer’s bluesy, pop-leaning melodies and impeccable guitar work blend seamlessly with Zedd’s electronic production. The result is a powerful anthem about rekindling a past relationship, complete with soaring hooks and undeniable chemistry between the two artists.
You can listen to the playlist below:
If you’re interested in other album tracks I have devoured this year, you can see the longlist below:
Top 5 Albums of 2024
It’s been a fantastic year for albums, in my opinion. Plenty of high-profile artists have released records, and they’ve been nothing short of brilliant.
Here are my top five albums from this year (ranked)
5. Ariana Grande – Eternal Sunshine
Ariana has explored various sounds throughout her career, but R&B has always felt like her most natural fit. She embraces that style wholeheartedly on this record, occasionally veering into her other strength: dance-pop. Highlights include the self-assured ballroom anthem “Yes, and?” and the Robin-esque “We Can’t Be Friends (Wait for Your Love).” The album is consistently excellent—well-sequenced, true to Grande’s sound, yet experimental enough to avoid predictability. Lyrically, it’s quintessential Ariana, delving into themes of breakups, self-confidence, and empowerment. Vocally, she’s immaculate throughout.
4 Mk.gee – Two Star & The Dream Police
I discovered Mk.gee through one of my idols, John Mayer. Pinning down his sound is no easy task, which is a big part of his appeal. It’s murky and almost underground—an intriguing blend of alternative pop and lo-fi with hints of Bon Iver’s warmth and quirkiness, along with clear nods to Sting, The Police, and Prince. The result is moody, atmospheric, and utterly captivating.
3 Dua Lipa – Radical Optimism
I’ve always loved Dua as an artist but tend to gravitate more toward her singles than her albums. ‘Radical Optimism’ arrived with huge expectations following the smash success of ‘Future Nostalgia’ and its lead singles. While critics generally offered positive reviews, the album has had a more muted reception overall. In many ways ‘Radical Optimism‘ does feel like a U-turn compared to the discopop triumph of ‘Future Nostalgia’ but Dua deserves kudos for trying something new. Leaning heavily into neo-psychedelic production, with a strong influence from Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker, she creates a record that balances pop grooves with a dreamy, 1970s-inspired hippie vibe. It’s bold, refreshing, and fun.
2 Coldplay – Moon Music
As soon as you mention Coldplay, you either get a nod of approval or an eyeroll. I’ve always loved their early indie sound, but I’m equally a fan of their pop evolution. Strangely, I never expect to enjoy their albums (despite loving so many of them), but Moon Music once again took me by surprise. It’s quintessential Coldplay: full of atmospheric, cinematic interludes and soaring stadium pop anthems, with a touch of campy disco-pop on the brilliant “GOOD FEELINGS.” In many ways, this album feels like a culmination of Coldplay’s signature sounds—a perfect showcase of them at their very best.
1 Sabrina Carpenter – Short ‘n’ Sweet
She’s been everywhere this year and might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Short ‘n’ Sweet’ is hands-down my album of the year.
Primarily a Pop record with Country, R&B and Disco elements, Sabrina steps seamlessly into the role of pop princess—a space Katy Perry once ruled in the 2010s. Carpenter worked with a variety of collaborators, writers and producers on this album, the majority of them elite in the Pop world but the album remain remarkably cohesive. It offers something for everyone, tied together by Sabrina’s flirty, breathy delivery and the cheeky wit of her lyrics. It’s fun, fresh, nostalgic, and unapologetically pop—a triumph of an album.
Here are other albums I have enjoyed this year:
- Another Sky – Beach Day
- Beyoncé – Cowboy Carter
- Clairo – Charm
- Kelly Clarkson – When Christmas Comes Around… Again
- Jacob Collier – Djesse Volume 4
- Billie Eilish – HIT ME HARD AND SOFT
- London Grammar – The Greatest Love
- Griff – Vertigo
- Becky Hill – Believe Me Now?
- Pale Waves – Thinking About You
- Rag’n’Bone Man – What Do You Believe In?
- Alfie Templeman – Radiosoul
- Tyla – TYLA
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