By Sammi Looi, Baruch College

Listening to gentle tunes during quarantine may provide consolation to those in need of comfort. Here are some artists to get you started.

By Tanisha Bhat, Boston University

If we want the genre to continue to make an impact and have a stable future, we cannot depend on music that is made to go viral on the video-sharing app.

By Emma Watts, University of Arizona

By Emma Watts, University of Arizona

By Haven Worley, University of Rochester

The effects of COVID-19 can be heard in the somber themes of Taylor Swift’s newest album.

By Katherine Bry, Washington University

To expand your horizons, try thinking of an area of the world you haven’t explored and dive into its sounds.

By Danielle Kuzel, Florida State University

In their latest release, Spillage Village uses religious motifs to address racism, police brutality, the pandemic and other prominent issues from 2020.

By Benjamin Chen, Columbia University

This relatable podcast is the perfect listen for young adults searching for a bit of peer guidance and support.

By Tanisha Bhat, Boston University

Laying rumors of retirement to rest, the artist has conjured up an album filled with diverse musical styles and songs of heartbreak.

By Eva McCarthy Mínguez, Stony Brook University

Beyond just using the format to have their books read aloud, some writers are starting to use the medium to narrate their work in new, innovative ways.

By Haven Worley, University of Rochester

By Arianna Taylor, University of Rochester

Wearing silver pants and a long elfish beard in ‘Holiday,’ the singer gives Christmas a futuristic take. What does it mean to see him in hip-hop as he redefines musical and cultural boundaries?

By Sarah Esquivel, University of Texas at San Antonio

The release of the 2021 Grammy Awards nominees sparked an outcry of fans and artists demanding transparency and equality from the selection committee.

By Summer Brotman, University of California, Los Angeles

The K-pop boy band illustrates life in the time of COVID-19 with their newest track.

By Samantha Havela, University of Michigan

The two artists break free from the prison of their exes in the campy, rock ‘n’ roll themed music video.

By Sammi Looi, Baruch College

What makes this Korean pop supergroup such a success? It may be the multi-generational cast of experienced singers.

By Sarah Gudenau, Oakland University

Known for his funny YouTube videos and being one half of comedy music duo Tiny Meat Gang, the entertainer is stepping out with some more serious music.

By Laura Song, Biola University

These musicians sound a little different from their K-pop counterparts, but the music is just as good.

By Sammi Looi, Baruch College

Based on League of Legends characters, this collection of (computerized) singers has become a worldwide sensation.

By Tanisha Bhat, Boston University

Except for Mariah Carey’s ‘All I Want For Christmas,’ most contemporary Christmas songs aren’t very well known. Here are some excellent candidates for a new ‘Christmas classics’ list.

By Eva McCarthy Mínguez, Stony Brook University

More than 40 years after the song’s release, it has climbed up the top 100 once again. The reason? A heartwarming TikTok.

By Annika Salmi, Yale University

The virtual band, known for its collaborations with artists across musical genres, has released a new album that perfectly captures the band’s sound and sums up 2020.

By Emily Davies, Solent University

This show interviews prominent environmentalists about the importance of balancing anger about the state of the planet with hope for the future.

By Tanisha Bhat, Boston University

While some critics have dismissed the artist’s latest album, a look at the lyrics paints a portrait of a singer who has found some measure of peace after a period of chaos.

By Alexa Katherine Will, University of Pittsburgh

The singer’s cover of Blondie’s hit song has the public wondering where she has been hiding her edge all her life. She’s always been a rockstar though, as seen by her deep history with the genre.

By Nnekakwo Adibe, Lesley University

Some want us to separate the art from the artist, but that doesn’t remove the sexism, misogyny, toxicity and depraved messages about love, sex, drugs and women present in his work.

By Sammi Looi, Baruch College

One half of the brother-sister duo AKMU, the musician is spreading a message of positivity with her debut single.

By Eva McCarthy Mínguez, Stony Brook University

Her sophomore album defined a generation. Now fans are anxiously waiting for more of her reassuring lyrics.

By Arianna Taylor, University of Rochester

A brand new production company is putting out positive narratives of people during COVID-19. ‘It’s not supposed to be the Oscar winner of the year, it’s just meant to be something that speaks to people right now.’ — co-creator Adam Faze

By Annika Salmi, Yale University

Starting off as a SoundCloud artist, the musician blends languages and genres to create a unique sound that’s also deeply personal.

By Sarah Gudenau, Oakland University

The singer and her fashion choices have always faced criticism, but now the internet is objectifying her body.

By Olivia Moosey, DePaul University

The stage might be closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but there are many diverse movies you can watch to fill the time.

By Sarah Gudenau, Oakland University

With the release of his latest album, a reminder of the singer-songwriter’s internet history may be one his greatest marketing tactics.

By Arianna Taylor, University of Rochester

The backlash to Cardi B and Meg Thee Stallion’s hit song is incredibly hypocritical, and ignores the track’s empowering message.

By Elias Khoury, University of Michigan

Briahna Joy Gray, former national press secretary for Bernie Sanders, and Virgil Texas of the “Chapo Trap House” podcast mix humor and insight to deconstruct mainstream politics and the corporate-owned media.

By Jackie Sizing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Starting off with a small channel on YouTube, these sisters have tasted musical success while remaining true to both their family and audience.

By Annika Salmi, Yale University

The Japanese Australian musician dropped a beautiful album that solidifies his career as an artist. However, some of the tracks sound superficial compared to the album’s overall message.

By Caleb Mullenneaux, St. Olaf College

Despite several decades separating the heights of their popularity, both the rapper and the English singer-songwriter share an unwavering independent spirit.

By Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

You might not know it, but famous DJs like Calvin Harris and Skrillex have been making new music under different names.

By Eva Halvax, University of Arizona

The 23-year-old musician’s new album explores the experience of healing, and the role music plays in that process.

By Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

Every new semester merits a new playlist. These five tracks are the staples of mine.

By Megan Stager, University of Pittsburgh

While K-pop remains Korea’s most popular musical export, this indie rock band is forging the way for a few other styles of music to emerge from the country.

By Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

The Scandanavian bedroom pop artist blew away fans with her 2018 release ‘i wanna be your girlfriend.’ Now popping up all over TikTok, she’s poised to dominate.

By McKenna Uzelac, Columbia University

While the lyrics and sonic presence of his latest remix album, ‘Crush: The Remixes,’ speak to the LGBT+ experience, you don’t have to be queer to enjoy the music.

By Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

The Scottish pop singer is using her extra time during the pandemic to create new versions of her old music, as well as compose entirely new pieces — with a twist.

By Eva Halvax, University of Arizona

As the late rapper moved forward in his career, he evolved musically as well as emotionally, becoming more introspective as he battled with his inner demons.

By Emma Tavangari, UC Berkeley

The artist’s latest release, ‘I’m Allergic to Dogs,’ is a joyous EP that injects excitement into a year full of setbacks.

By Tess McGrinder, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Even after five decades, the legendary album continues to astound, comfort and enthrall fans of the band the world over.

By James C. Loftis, University of North Texas

You may run into unexpected challenges when starting your own podcast. Here’s some advice so you don’t run into the same problems I did.

By Madelyn Haasken, Bemidji State University

Even at 79 years old, the singer’s poetic lyrics and modern ideologies are still resonating with younger generations.

By Olivia Dimond, Bates College

The two women have turned the tables on a music genre that’s usually dominated by men.

By Mitchell Tanaka, Chapman University

The 20-year-long music project, which tackles heavy topics like memory loss, has attracted a unique and melancholic following online.

By Sarah Gudenau, Oakland University

The 2015 hip-hop concept album has a renewed importance because of its social and political commentary on racial inequality, institutional discrimination and African American culture.

By Kaitlyn Nuebel, University of Pittsburgh

Katy Perry’s latest release is an optimistic album about overcoming adversity, a message that many people need to hear right now.

By Caleb Mullenneaux, St. Olaf College

The singer-songwriter is painting a complex picture of the United States in his soon to be released album, ‘The Ascension.’

By Srishti Tyagi, Cornell University

Lifestyle creators used to be notoriously family-friendly. How did LaurDIY break out of her PG persona in her new podcast?

By Emma Tavangari, UC Berkeley

The Barcelona singer spent her childhood learning music long associated with revolution. Now, Rosalía is revolutionizing the music industry herself.

By Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

The pandemic isn’t over, and music fans are getting antsy. Do these concerts scratch the itch, and are they COVID-safe?

By Hannah Reynoso, University of Iowa

Because of her youthful spirit, Siwa is an inspiration to young kids, but people are quick to criticize the superstar for her over-the-top style.

By Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

The new podcast is helping people learn how to deal with their fear of watching horror movies.

By Juliana Fujii, Biola University

Beyoncé’s latest release is a celebration of Black beauty to empower Black women. The project unites African music and cultures in a visual masterpiece.

By Emma Tavangari, UC Berkeley

Activists, influencers and celebrities are opening up to Jamil about body image, mental health and many other important issues.

By Kaitlyn Nuebel, University of Pittsburgh

The stars of ‘The L Word’ have started a quarantine podcast that embodies what it means to survive a pandemic alongside the wit of your best friend.

By James C. Loftis, University of North Texas

Learn the first stages of becoming a podcaster from an amateur who has already made mistakes, so you don’t have to!

By Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

Over the past few months, EDM artists have been collaborating left and right. Here are some of the most exciting projects released in the age of COVID.

By Hannah Reynoso, University of Iowa

Some on the app are roleplaying as Holocaust victims. Regardless of intent, the fad is disrespectful, to say the least.

By Juliana Fujii, Biola University

Music has become a multisensory experience. Check out a brief history of how music incorporated the two art forms to reimagine visuals and audio united.

By Tess McGrinder, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

While arguments over music may seem trivial to some, learning to accept genres outside of your usual taste can lead to an open mind in other areas of your life.

By Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

The British band embraces dialogue clips on their second album, which reflects on political, social and emotional struggles in their signature style.

By Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

Major players in the music industry have been suffering from the effects of the pandemic. Music That Never Sleeps is hoping to offset the damages.

By Starr Shapiro, Columbia University

The thrilling listening experience proves that the genre is our best chance at getting a taste of live theater during the pandemic.

By Sarah Gudenau, Oakland University

Here are three amazing universe-building concept albums that you need to add to your Spotify queue.

By Eva Halvax, University of Arizona

The new single captures the reality of pandemic social limitations while staying true to the heart of summer romance.

By Renee Cantor, University of Pittsburgh

Sibling acts like the Jackson 5, the Jonas Brothers, HAIM and the Bee Gees need to make room because there’s a new and ferocious sister duo that’s here to stay.

By Audrey Martin, Boston University

Since the release of Taylor Swift’s eighth studio album, some fans have been speculating about possible double meanings in songs like ‘betty.’

By Mitchell Tanaka, Chapman University

England’s trip-hop icons aren’t afraid to tackle climate change, economic disparity and other contemporary issues transpiring in the world in their new audio-visual EP.

By Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

Their latest record is far more than just a collection of songs: Here’s a closer look at how the band has changed the game when it comes to debuting new music.

By Danielle Kuzel, Florida State University

The Portland hip-hop musician is growing both lyrically and artistically.

By Nora Markey, Wesleyan University

The up-and-coming surf rock pop band uses mundane, everyday scenarios to express deep longing in their most recent album, ‘You and Your Friends.’

By Jackie Sizing, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The musician’s new song announces her return, and in the aftermath of her divorce from Liam Hemsworth, her independence.

By Emily Jewett, University of San Diego

Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s collab isn’t as scandalous as the internet wants you to believe.

By Abigail Campos, University of Texas at San Antonio

The show supplied our generation with great and forgettable covers alike. Which ones stand the test of time?

By Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

Insomniac had to cancel their 2020 electronic music festival due to COVID-19, but fans are already hyped for next year’s show — tickets were gone within a day.

By Julia Greene, Columbia College Chicago

The artist’s renowned songwriting has gone from red to monochrome to the full spectrum of colors to create vivid imagery in every line.

By Madalyn Watson, Baylor University

Comedian Dan Cummins is a master of laughs. But with the help of his wife, Lynze Cummins, he’s reaching a new audience interested in comedy and the supernatural alike.

By Nora Markey, Wesleyan University

As he rises from obscurity to stardom, the singer’s new album combines bright, reckless sound with dark lyrics about the pressures of fame.

By Sarah Gudenau, Oakland University

The young singer songwriter dropped her first single during the pandemic and its sound masterfully reflects its contemplative lyrical content.

By Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

At just 20 years old, the singer-songwriter passionately weaves lyrics about teenage romance and heartbreak into her debut EP.

By Srishti Tyagi, Cornell University

The new Spotify exclusive podcast allows longtime viewers of the beloved program to explore the decisions and stories that made the show a work of genius.

By Audrey Martin, Boston University

Playlists are king on the streaming platform. These five users take their playlist curation to the next level.

By James C. Loftis, University of North Texas

How has a game — once looked down upon and talked of in such negative light — garnered so much attention in recent years? Listening to people having fun playing the game certainly helped.

By Emma Smith, Wesleyan University

Even though I became obsessed with the theatrical masterpiece four years after everyone else, there are some upsides to experiencing the musical in 2020.

By Danielle Kuzel, Florida State University

The posthumously released album serves as both an incredible tribute to the talent of the late rapper and an inside look at the artist’s inner turmoil.

By Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

From poor advertising to musical sets that were too short, the virtual festival left many fans confused and disappointed.

By Chloe Hamer, Pitzer College

In her new podcast, the former first lady is speaking with her friends and family on a wide range of interesting and empowering topics.

By Nora Markey, Wesleyan University

The singer’s latest album, an unexpected surprise from isolation, is an ode to storytelling with empathetic lyrics and mystical sounds.

By Katherine Brand, University of Michigan

The popular singers’ recent behavior on social media has fans concerned that she is being manipulated by a controlling conservatorship.

By Eva Halvax, University of Arizona

The EP channels anxieties toward a bleak reality, employing the upbeat nature of indie-pop alongside feelings of loss, emptiness and the desire to escape.

By Renee Cantor, University of Pittsburgh

All of the concerts in the NPR Music series are great, but these six are guaranteed to get you moving and grooving.

By Gabrielle Pascal, Hofstra University

Before Elvis ever took the stage, this woman was combining gospel, blues and jazz to pioneer the genre we all know today.