Emma Lichtenstein, Brandeis University

If you’ve never heard of the yellow-haired, jumpsuit-wearing musician, get ready to have her music change your entire life.

Megan Thompson, Montclair State University

Fans are shocked as the former One Direction singer strips his boy-band identity for a persona that suits his age.

Giana Gayles, Stanford University

It’s finally become less weird to get caught listening to strangers whispering soothing noises in your ear.

Dylan Kazanova, University of Texas at San Antonio

The Big Easy is known for jazz, but is it what everyone’s listening to? It’s time to explore the multifaceted music scene that includes rock, rap and funk.

Eric Alexander, University of Colorado Denver

It’s the end of an era, but the music of these Dutch electronic legends will always live on.

Christine Bushart, Georgia State University

Just because you can consume it doesn’t mean it was made for you.

Noah Carey, University of Pennsylvania

Here’s a look at other sitcoms that could follow the lead of the ‘Office Ladies,’ which features Pam and Angela from ‘The Office.’ 

Rebecca McKinley Parsons, Wake Forest University

I don’t know who hurt him, but they better watch their back.

Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

Rave culture is on the rise and providing new opportunities for aspiring artist. Here are some new artists to look out for in the next few years.

Claudia Ng, University of Texas at Austin

It’s as easy as listening to music.

Abby Webb, Rice University

Hailing from Minnesota, these three friends drink wine and put their own spin on the true crime podcast.

Katelyn Melder, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Remember, studying isn’t a rave. Chill out with this playlist.

Marie Christensen, George Fox University

This family band is writing beautiful harmonies that evoke their Oregon home.

Maddy Ipema, Columbia College Chicago

EarthGang is the Southern dynamic duo you have been waiting for.

Brandon Suss, University of South Carolina

XXL posts an annual list of top new artists. Which year produced the ones with the most staying power?

Rebecca McKinley Parsons, Wake Forest University

This collaboration between Miley Cyrus, Lana Del Rey and Ariana Grande is a heavenly pairing.

Katelyn Melder, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Heartbroken? There’s a song for that.

Caleb Clark, Hillsdale College

Charli XCX’s new album displays her trademark style, but is a bit derivative of her older work.

Abby Webb, Rice University

The new Travis Scott documentary has some fun moments, but avoids deeper insights into the rapper’s life.

Taylor Sprinkle, University of Texas at Austin

The electropop duo revisits their past with their second full-length release of the year.

Rickea Bell, Saint Peter’s University

This album is the comeback of R&B no one knew we needed.

Aliza Pelto, Pratt Institute

I’ve done my waiting, 12 years of it!

Brandon Suss, University of South Carolina

‘Babushka Boi’ is the culmination of A$AP Rocky’s past, present and future.

Rebecca McKinley Parsons, Wake Forest University

Just when you thought he couldn’t be more successful, he drops ‘Hollywood’s Bleeding.’

Caleb Clark, Hillsdale College

Could we be seeing some musical maturity in this new album? Possibly …

Kathryn Milschewski, Carthage College

This indelible voice is going to rediscovered by a new generation.

Caleb Dukes, Rice University

Are you here for ‘Norman F—ing Rockwell!’?

Christopher Duggan, Boise State University

With his second album, this developing musician shows just why Kanye and Justin Vernon have taken an interest in him.

Maddy Ipema, Columbia College Chicago

Their new album is a revelation of the struggles the band members have been through, and their honesty is inspiring.

Eric Alexander, University of Colorado Denver

The most talented team in all of electronic music continues their trend of groundbreaking sounds.

Taylor Sprinkle, University of Texas at Austin

cocainejesus captures a reveling, adventurous spirit in his most introspective album yet.

Sam Shepherd, McGill University

The hit Broadway musical sidesteps a frank portrayal of teenage suicide in favor of a half-baked portrait of teenage mental health.

Kathryn Milschewski, Carthage College

The former One Direction star’s interview with Rolling Stone gives fans key insight into his upcoming album.

Christopher Duggan, Boise State University

As the only release before the artist’s untimely death, the album still amazes with its virtuosity, diversity and passion

Katelyn Melder, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

From Tyler, the Creator to Taylor Swift, the summer of 2019 was filled to the brim with wonderful albums.

Sydney Hawkins, Alabama A&M University

These artists are changing the game.

Lauren Do, Davidson College

The more important question … are we ready for it?

Eric Alexander, University of Colorado Denver

Addic.tech breaks the music-streaming mold by providing a passionate, high-quality experience.

Rebecca McKinley Parsons, Wake Forest University

Deeply personal and utterly dynamic, you won’t have to ‘tryhard’ to like the album.

Abby Webb, Rice University

It’s been 50 years since the festival, but its message lives on.

Sam Shepherd, McGill University

Broadway-bound composers and producers should look to the Classics for musical theater inspiration.

Christopher Duggan, Boise State University

Completing a four album cycle, the new release from the indie folk band is another intriguing chapter in the band’s creative evolution.

Maddy Ipema, Columbia College Chicago

Hip-hop culture needs to make female representation and diversity a priority.

Kathryn Milschewski, Carthage College

Taylor isn’t crying over boys anymore.

Caleb Dukes, Rice University

Is it really all sunshine and rainbows?

Alicia Owens, Georgia State University

Latin music is gaining popularity, but these artists still need to make their way on to your playlists. 

Alicia Owens, Georgia State University

Following K-pop can be overwhelming, so here’s a breakdown of where and how to get the best content.

Kala Horvat, University of Georgia

You should seriously be anticipating the upcoming debut solo album from the Fifth Harmony star.

Sydney Hawkins, Alabama A&M University

Here are 10 motivational tunes that will get you through the upcoming school year.

Alicia Owens, Georgia State University

Hip-hop artist Taylor Bennett talks about alienation on this EP. 

Taylor Sprinkle, University of Texas at Austin

Move over men, Tommy Genesis is here to reclaim the female body.

Aliza Pelto, Pratt Institute

This oft-forgotten category should be on more people’s minds.

Rebecca McKinley Parsons, Wake Forest University

Let’s dive ‘head first’ into his newest release, ‘bright side of the moon.’

Kristin Auld, St John’s University

These two YouTubers are creating something new out of the familiar.

Maddy Ipema, Columbia College Chicago

‘WILLOW’ finds serenity in the Cosmos.

Ashley Peterson, Geneva College

From their name to their message, the band’s faith comes first.

Caleb Clark, Hillsdale College

Ra Ra Riot has some good ideas and some mediocre songs.

Emma Dailey Mitchell, Columbia College Chicago

He went viral years ago and he’s still singing his heart out.

Sophie Westergren, Ithaca College

Looking for a summer podcast to wrap your brain around during a long car ride?

Rickea Bell, Saint Peter’s University

“NH2” is coming, folks.

Mela Lozano, University of Texas at San Antonio

He will have you reminiscing about your first love in every song.

Caleb Dukes, Rice University

The bop brings R&B vibes and creative sounds.

Maddy Ipema, Columbia College Chicago

The raw debut album is a narrative toward self-discovery and meaning.

Kristin Auld, St John’s University

One up-and-coming artist and her Friends are fusing pop and jazz into musical masterpieces, one song at a time.

Christopher Duggan, Boise State University

With ‘Phantom Palace,’ Kevin Johnson introduces his own brand of ‘time travel pop.’

Logan Floyd, Mercyhurst University

The hilariously foul-mouthed Australian puppet comedian has a big introspective side.

Eric Alexander, University of Colorado Denver

One of the U.K.’s fastest-rising producers is expanding his signature style.

Tom Pinto, Ringling College of Art and Design

Dr. Luke: doctor of music but ruiner of morals and reputations

Rocco Romano, University of Iowa

Listen outside of your comfort zone.

Rebecca McKinley Parsons, Wake Forest University

Taylor’s signature cryptic messages are back.

Aubrey Doerr, Chapman University

After much anticipation, is ‘The Big Day’ everything it’s been made out to be?

Lauren Prestia, University of Massachusetts Lowell

Even though he’s gone, the New Orleans funkmaster lives on through memories and samples alike.

Clarence Dodge, Sarah Lawrence College

The chilling climate change warning is a stunning blend of activism and art.

Haley Cohen, Quinnipiac University

This Dream Theater album’s lyrical insight into mental illness is still relevant today.

Kathryn Milschewski, Carthage College

Only Postmodern Jukebox could see Eminem in gypsy jazz.

Sophie Westergren, Ithaca College

If you find yourself in a music rut, don’t despair.

Zailin Peña, Southern Adventist University

Dive deep into the true crime genre this summer.

Taylor Sprinkle, University of Texas at Austin

The musician’s latest release reframes our issues as an opportunity for self-improvement, rather than an excuse for self-pity.

Sarah Mease, Columbia College Chicago

The powerhouse musician ups the ante by doing two simultaneous tours, Enigma and Jazz & Piano.

Caleb Clark, Hillsdale College

Nigerian musician Burna Boy could be the next breakout artist.

Christopher Duggan, Boise State University

The Chicago MC’s debut album is a 22 track love letter to God, marriage and his wife that’s heavy on enthusiasm and light on most everything else.

Sydney Hawkins, Alabama A&M University

Rap and hip-hop is once again turning to Africa for inspiration.

Rocco Romano, University of Iowa

Classical music isn’t dead, it’s just evolved into something greater.

Rebecca McKinley Parsons, Wake Forest University

Giddy up boys, Spacey Kacey is the new sheriff in town.

Amber Amortegui, Palm Beach Atlantic University

This crooner’s heavily soulful sound is filled with hard work and heartbreak.

Madison Feser, Seton Hall University

It’s not all about trucks, beers and hometown girls.

Sydney Hawkins, Alabama A&M University

Smith’s second album is a considerably rare yet beautiful approach to rap music.

Ashley Peterson, Geneva College

The latest album by the Christian rapper dives deep into themes of pain, depression and introspection.

Caleb Clark, Hillsdale College

The Flaming Lips still have it decades later.

Kathryn Milschewski, Carthage College

Each song has something to offer listeners — whether it be positive or negative.

Eric Alexander, University of Colorado Denver

Take a listen to the Austrian musician’s newest track, ‘Snake Charmer,’ and three other songs that put a new twist on swing.

Caleb Dukes, Rice University

As the eligibility period comes to a close, Ariana Grande and Billie Eilish look to dominate.

Tom Pinto, Ringling College of Art and Design

The Japanese genre evokes the sounds of neon city life, and it’s starting to make a splash in the West.

Hannah Jumer, Converse College

Smart home speakers are becoming incredibly popular but have been inaccessible to the deaf and hard of hearing community — until now.

Maddy Ipema, Columbia College Chicago

This mixtape is inherently political and emotionally charged.

Sarah Mease, Columbia College Chicago

Five years on, it’s time to take a look at one of jazz music’s unlikelier duos.

Maddy Ipema, Columbia College Chicago

Dreamville finds strength and inspiration in numbers.

Rebecca McKinley Parsons, Wake Forest University

They’re leaving their Disney personas far behind.

Katelyn Melder, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

These artists are shedding light on a subject that is often left in the dark.

Abby Webb, Rice University

Ingrid Michaelson’s new album sets the ever-popular ‘Stranger Things’ to music.