TOP 50 SONGS OF 2022

[dremolus - solarpunk]

Here we go again.

Truth be told, it's unfortunately been hard to really get invested in music this year. Perhaps it's a consequence of a lot of slow movement and lack of interesting developments and stories related to news (and those that were, were sadly depressing or disappointing), but the lack of music to distract ourselves - as much as distraction is a healthy exercise - from the exhausting, draining 24/7 global news cycle that just never seemed to bring anything exciting or inspiring, it wasn't ideal. I'm not really in the mood of reminding everyone of all the horrible stories that occurred over the last 12 months.

Of course it'd be hyperbole to say nothing good happened from last year or that there weren't things we ought to take away from this year. And personally while I'm questioning truly using music to distract yourself from reality, I'm not going to deny the power of art to help color life and make it more bearable. Personally, having recovered from another depressive episode from January to February, I'm at least thankful for many developments that happened, even if they're small. And accompanying them was some good music.

Philosophical pre-amble aside, this year wasn't as boring as mainstream charts would have you believe. We saw reggaeton reach new heights as Bad Bunny's album Un Verano Sin Ti became the biggest album of the year, with little competition. Harry Styles established himself as one of the top acts of the year with the biggest hit of the year in his comeback single, 'As It Was'. The long-awaited returns of SZA, Kendrick Lamar, and Beyoncé finally happened and brought with them quality albums, alongside other comebacks like Björk, Angel Olsen, Weyes Blood, Beach House, and Florence + the Machine. Acts like Steve Lacy, Joji, and Kim Petras finally properly broke through with smash hits. Critically acclaimed acts like Black Country New Road, ROSALÍA, billy woods, Natalia Lafourcade, JID, Conway the Machine, and Alvvays arguably reached new heights of acclaims with their new albums. Craziest of all, the best hit of the year came from Kate Bush as usage of her iconic 1985 song Running Up That Hill in the latest of season of Stranger Things. But biggest of all was Taylor Swift making new streaming and  sales records with Midnights, less than 6 months old and already on track to being the biggest album of the decade and one of the biggest of all time.

Again, I understand 2022 was not an easy year to like but let's be positive for once and celebrate the things from last year that are worth remembering. Despite this perhaps being one of my longest lists to date, this was actually a much easier year to nail down and finalize positions.

Once again before we continue, I'd just like to say if you do end up disagreeing with me in regards to placements or overall thoughts, don't take that as a slight against you. We all experience art differently and take and interpret joy in different ways, so who am I to dictate what's good for you or not? These are simply the best songs in my opinion: the ones that shined through whether or not I can convincingly explain their brilliance or not.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Hot Biches}
Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

Before we begin, let's start with a couple honorable mentions:

Honorable Mentions Round 1

Porta by Sharon Van Etten



another year, another Sharon Van Etten song that’s really really good but barely manages to make the list proper. But at least it’s better than anything on her underwhelming album.

My Love by Florence + the Machine



Kinda odd that in a year that had perhaps my favorite Florence album to date, she only barely made it onto my HMs

Forget You by Slowly Slowly



The best 1975 song this year and it wasn’t made by the 1975!

Ikiru by Haru Nemuri



I’ll have more to talk about Haru Nemuri come my other list of best albums and while this isn’t as good as bang! from last year, it's still pretty damn great.

Middle of a Heart by Adeem the Artist



The latest addition to be included onto this list, just a simply heartbreaking ballad.

Simulation Swarm by Big Thief



I could've been any single from Big Thief's latest album but this was the one I came back to the most. Just so warm, comforting and cozy

Summer Somewhere by LIES



Surprisingly the first appearance of Mike Kinsela on my lists but it still has all the traditionally great and emotive singing and songwriting I’ve come to expect

ABC by Polyphia feat. Sophia Black


Spelling is fun

The Thrill is Gone by RAYE



We better give RAYE a hit in 2022

GODMODE by Kno and Sadistik



Abstract hip-hop doesn’t often appear on this list as most acts are more album artists than singles artists but between a great beat and surprisingly sticky flows, check this out

SPOILER: Click to show

{Spoiler}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#50. POP! by NAYEON 

So as I’ll show throughout the list: k-pop had a really good year of releases. From new minis, solo debuts, and new groups with promise showing up, there was no shortage of good K-pop. Even among the mainstream releases, TWICE, (G)I-DLE, NewJeans, and IVE. So much in fact, I have three entries in the Top 50 for the first time! Of all the K-pop songs, this is probably the simplest, especially since it’s NAYEON’s solo debut. But as I’ve said multiple times, being simple doesn’t mean being basic or boring. NAYEON’s got a ton of bubbly charisma, the subtle electric guitar throughout the song adds a bit of spice, and the pre-chorus and hook are amongst the catchiest in pop this year, Korean or otherwise. It’s just really cute and fun song, and whether or not we get more solo NAYEON material, this is a great Pop.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#49. Until I Found You by Stephen Sanchez feat. Em Beihold

I mentioned last year that I’m not particularly won over easily by retro throwbacks. Perhaps it's an oversaturation of these retro attempts or a ton of overly sterile, sanitized pop that reminds me of all the worst tropes of old eras, but a song has to be really impressive for me, just sounding old isn’t enough. That said, if there’s a throwback that not only captures the sound of 60s pop, but also the style and even the attitude, it’s this one. Typically, this type of earnest, direct ballad can be saccharine and corny but Stephen Sanchez manages to strike a balance with the classic, almost gentlemanly tone and the simple guitar and drums in the background. You can absolutely imagine the ballroom dance floor slow dancing to this song and for once, for once that’s not a dig. And controversially as it may be, I like the Em Beihold duet version more than the original. It just adds to the lovestruck aura of the track, and she and Sanchez have a ton of chemistry and interplay with each other. If this gets overplayed particularly at proms or weddings, I could see this getting old or annoying. But for now, I’m fine sinking into the romantic smoothness of it all.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#48. What They Call Us by Fever Ray

I haven’t gotten the chance to say this in any RD or server I’ve been in but I’m actually a huge fan of Karin Dreijer. Whether it’s her work as Fever Ray or with her brother in The Knife, she just has an ear for wonky synth compositions that are oddly catchy and captivating. Alien in how experimental they sound but not completely off putting or even harsh in their tones or synths. Fever Ray made their comeback this year with this being Karin’s first song in 5 years and a new album coming out in March and I will say now if you aren’t on board or familiar with Karin’s work beforehand, you probably won’t like this song.

It’s a slow build with Karin’s tired and broken sounding vocals beat down selling the abstract paranoia, holding onto whatever safety she has. It’s one of the most startling depictions of forced weakness and vulnerability in any single released this year. And making it all more haunting is the instrumentation and production running throughout. Anchored by a surprisingly upbeat synth loop, the heavy 808 percussion, ghostly siren and strings, and reverbed claps providing a surprisingly good groove, it’s a dark song that’ll make you uncomfortable and unnerved in the best way. If you aren’t into this sort of dark pop, you won’t like this but if you are, prepare to be hypnotized into the abyss

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#47. Angel by First Aid Kit 

And in the polar opposite in terms of themes and sound, we have First Aid Kit. I’ve heard of this band for a while and really enjoy what I’ve heard but this is the first year I’ve really been able to sink my teeth into their music. The great harmonies and warm production elevate the lyrics dealing with insecurity and self-doubt to actually being empowering when it comes to say their true feelings. What I love most is the liberating attitude of the lyrics: freely letting go and finally admitting their feelings for someone, but not expecting them to reciprocate those feelings back. And while most would play for self-pity and drama, here that’s a mature acceptance of it as a way for both parties to move on and grow. And the way the horns come in at the end only add to the relief of the emotions. It’s a track that really lets you know if you’re a country fan but haven’t been paying attention to First Aid Kit, you really oughta because there’s little excuse not to.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#46. Touch the Sun by Cryalot

Y’know even despite being a big Kero Kero Bonito fan, it took awhile for Sarah’s work under the Cryalot pseudonym to click. It wasn’t as immediately colorful some of her best work but it wasn’t as dark or atmospheric as some of the cuts on TOTEP either. And the bent towards a more EDM dance, dare I say mainstream sound palette, also through me for a loop.

But eventually, it grew on me and I not only learned to appreciate what Sarah’s done here, but also thoroughly enjoy the shift in sound. But it wasn’t really the solid quiet build-up to a surprisingly good bass drop that stuck with me. It was actually the lyrics dealing with the continued optimism that’s been present in most of Sarah’s output as of late. It’s not blind naivete though - with the allusions to Icarus, it’s a delicate balance of euphoria that could easily melt away and leave you crashing to earth. But in those moments when you’re safe and can touch the clouds, it’s everything. I’m not sure if Sarah will stick with the Cryalot act for perhaps a few more EPs but for now, it’s a promising solo work.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#45. Grapevine by Weyes Blood

A bit surprising for some that Weyes Blood is this low but I can justify it partially by saying that while good - and you’ll hear me talk about And in the Darkness on my other list, most of the lead singles didn’t click with me the way Movies did. A tradeoff considering the album didn’t have the sweeping grandiose compositions Titanic Rising did but it did mean I didn’t return to much of individual songs outside of the album.

There are a few exceptions though, with this standing as my favorite single of hers this year. The gentle acoustic guitar and drums + the added bells and synthwaves, and Natalie's always lovely voice and harmonies just flat out sound beautiful. So much in fact that it does a good job at masking the melancholic lyrics of the song, where Natalie feels small and ignored in her relationship with a deluded masculine cowboy. Like with Until I Found You, it captures not only the sound of classic pop, but also the smarter singer-songwriter attitude. And it's a good reminder that the hype from her 2019 wasn't a fluke, Weyes Blood really is here to stay and I'm all for whatever stories she has next.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#44. Heavy Heart by Bartees Strange

I remember hearing about Bartees Strange back in 2020, garnering acclaim for his Live Forever. I heard bits of it, liking it, but feeling like something was lacking to distinguish him from other indie rock acts that same year. And while I still don’t think all that potential has been realized with his newest album, if he keeps making indie rock like this, he could easily make it there. If First Aid Kit was mature in dealing with unreciprocated love, Bartees Strange is knowingly immature and even self-serving in dealing with the heartbreak. It’s ugly and unappealing but also all too real and relatable especially in the acceptance he isn't dealing with the heartbreak and trauma as well as he thought he could, how he's dealing with it isn't healthy and he knows it. And yet warm, delivery as he tries to move on, the catchy drumline, and the horn interlude on the bridge just adds to the power of the song. It's a great lowkey indie rock song that I hope signals better things to come.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#43. Western Wind by Carly Rae Jepsen

I know not exactly shocking I’d put a Carly song on this list. All of her singles this year have been fantastic from the solid dance pop of Talking to Yourself to a surprisingly sweet disco duet with Rufus Wainwright but it was the lead single that stuck with me the most. It didn’t immediately hit me as a great song as it took a while to get used to Rostam’s lowkey and luscious instrumentation - with the same sounds that were on Vampire Weekend’s last album - but dare I say it, I think Carly does this sound more justice than Ezra Koenig did. She just captures the chill, warm, homesick, vibe better but without making it boring or anonymous. She is comfortable and manages to make the indie folk sound her own. It’s just more evidence Carly can do more than the girl-next-door upbeat pop song (as if she needed reminding of her greatness.)

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#42. NEW TRICKS: ART, AESTHETICS, AND MONEY by Kilo Kish feat. Vince Staples

Kilo Kish was one of the first big pop discoveries this year. The type of instantly confident and charismatic pop singer that makes you wonder where they’ve been all this time and why you haven’t paid attention sooner. This was my intro to Kish and it immediately made me pay attention. Than whiplashing synths with a rubbery tight groove, Vince Staples ad libs, and Kilo’s sarcastic demeanor throughout, it was something special. And that was before getting into the surprising depth and intelligence in the lyrics, with a scathing sarcastic commentary on the commodification of art in a capitalistic world that manages to be sharp and detailed without losing a catchy pop edge or feeling like a lecture. It’s the type of smart pop you don’t see often, and pop that could be pushed harder and with more ears given the right push (and a just, non-greedy world).

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#41. hit by uh

This will no doubt be the most obscure song on this list and am 98% confident most have never heard about it for the first time and as of writing, this is only the act’s sixth song. Info about this act is very sparse but they are a brother and sister synthpop duo though judging by this song, more of the atmospheric, experimental side.

Take all the foreboding paranoia and dread of the earlier Fever Ray song but this time with more abstract ambient textures. More textured drums stuttered percussion against beeping synths and ghostly synth pads. And Fionnuala Kennedy’s warped but still emotional vocals permeating through. It’s difficult explaining what really makes this song work without simply describing the sound but there’s just a crisp texture throughout all the song. But I think what really made me love this song and respect it for more than the experimentation is that for an act that’s just breaking through, they made an electronic listening experience that no act really gave me this year. It’s a strange song that’s hard to describe but if it latches on to you, music you can’t ignore and leaves you wanting more.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

Let's continue with more honorable mentions

Honorable Mentions Round 2

Talk by beabadoobee



While I'm still not over the moon with beabadoobee as her fans are, she released her best album this year and really refined her style. Hope she can continue making this type of dream pop rock.

Softly by Arlo Parks



Also haven’t been wild with Arlo Parks’ work as much as I want to but this is one of her best songs yet and a good balance of the bedroom pop indie sound with her strong writing.

BADモード by Hikaru Utada



Nothing much really to say aside from a really good jazz pop song and that it’s glad I get to finally praise something Hikaru Utada has put out

Don't Forget by Sky Ferreira 



Girl makes a song about “not forgetting” and then forgets to make more music. I'm done stanning (PLS COMEBACK SKY)

If You Want Me by Röyksopp feat. Susanne Sundfør



Disappointed I could only get to one of Röyksopp's three albums last year but at least I walked away with this beautiful gem of a house song.

PIRATE RADIO* by Jean Dawson 



Gotta give credit to a song with this killer of a hook but being this creative in fusing indie rock and pirate imagery.

killer by FKA twigs




Another year I wind up liking the more poppy FKA twigs song compared to her artsier work on CAPRISONGS

Survivors Guilt by Joey Bada$$ 



Oof, talk about a gut punch of a song. Rest in Peace Capital STEEZ, still gone way too soon

Mosquito by Model/Actriz 



I don’t think there’s been a lyric this year that’s been equal parts terrifying and cool as “With a body count higher than a mosquito”

Sandwich Sharer by illuminati hotties




illuminati hotties are rather hit or miss with me when it comes to their own work but this was definitely a hit, one of their best hooks in my opinion.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#40. Loser by Sueco

Yup, I really do have a Sueco song as one of the best songs of the year. And this isn't even partially ironic love, this was one of my favorite rock songs of the year and one of my favorite pop punk cuts of the decade so far. I’d include actually myself in those who are surprised it’s even here. Sure it is derivative of other pop punk songs, particularly of the Travis Barker type, but there’s actually punch and bite to the playing, especially the drums, and Sueco fits well in the world of pop punk, he doesn’t come across as poser, unlike other acts. But like most of pop punk, the real strength lies in the hook. That catchy hook and build up to Sueco saying in a almost celebratory way "I can't even catch a break when eveyrbody's in my way", it just hit and stuck with me in a way I couldn't explain. And I don't really expect most to get my love for this song, but every loser like me's gotta have an anthem.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#39. Hideous by Oliver Sim

I’ve made it no secret my love of The xx and especially Romy Croft but sometimes I think many - myself included - tend to take Oliver Sim for granted. That changed in a big way for me this year the second I finished listening to this song. A gentle soft guitar driven art pop song with Oliver Sim’s smooth baritone sounding both gentle and ironically beautiful as he grapples with self-disgust as a gay man. While in most cases, this sort of self-deprecation can come across as self-serving and whiny, he really captures a toxic, self-destructive attitude that would even berate him for feeling sympathy for himself. Only elevating the track are Jimmy Sommerville’s higher tones begging Sim to feel some compassion for himself. All capped off with the heartbreaking lyrics that actually blew me away when I first heard it: “Been living with HIV since 17, am I hideous?”. One of the most powerful songs of queer identity I heard all year, you owe it to yourself to check this out and his album because it really is something beautiful.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#38. Sunshine by Caroline Polachek

Even though I really do like her as a pop act, I’ve still got a hard time having my opinions nailed down on Caroline Polachek. She’s got a unique voice that can bounce between fun dance pop and more operatic belting, distinctive writing, and can make some great hooks but I wasn’t enthralled with her 2019 album as many were.

That said, all of her songs this year have been great and have made me really excited for her 2023 album. The operatic Sirens was on the cutting board to make the list and Billions was equally beautiful. But for me it was actually this song that I loved the most. The warm Spanish guitars, Caroline’s voice effortless charisma in playing fast and coy and still desiring this guy, and hitting high notes without sounding shrill, it’s a shame this was released in October because this could’ve been a summer jam. And perhaps that’s why I took to this song the most: it’s perhaps a simple summer pop song but Caroline’s able to make it unique with her voice and her flair for ambitious pop pivots. Again, I have higher expectations for her upcoming album and hopefully the quality is just as good as this song.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[HamedM1 💔]

Not Sunshine!

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#37. Voltage by ITZY

If we're talking about surprise entries even I'm shocked made it on this list, we have to talk about ITZY. For a few years, I’ve disliked much of ITZY’s output: finding them annoying and irritating but without much of the charm I like out of other equally annoying acts. But to my shock, I found myself vibing with a lot of their 2022 output, even songs that their fans didn’t mind. This being the song that for me, really became a turning point for ITZY. Most Japanese singles by k-pop tend to be of lesser quality but the girls didn’t half-ass this at all. All 5 women have and the interplay they in moving from one to another is so, especially Ryujin, who’s rapped parts are my favorite bits on the song and shoutout to Yeji who probably had my favorite sung performance on the track. It's just an unbelievably kickass banger that I never would've expected loving from this group and who knows, if they continue this path, maybe I'll actually be a MIDZY in the future.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS _

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#36. OH HEY by LÜCY and Hitsujibungaku

I’ve talked in my best albums how Japan has consistently put out some of the best dream pop of the 2020s with acts like RAY and For Tracy Hyde, with another Japanese band, Hitsujibungaku, collabing with Chinese singer LÜCY. It’s pretty much just a showcase of everything I’ve loved about the scene the past 3 years: catchy electric guitar licks, dreamy vocals from both acts, engaging and cute lyrics, and just a warm atmosphere that you can’t help but get sucked into. If you’re hesitant about checking out asian dream pop because of the language barrier, at least give this a chance.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#35. What Have We Done by Brutus

Even though I’ve been getting into more and more of it the past few years and probably listen to more of it than any of my friends, metal doesn’t often appear on my best songs list. Part of it has been the fact I tend to gravitate towards more of the atmospheric metal genres but also not a lot of metal singles have stuck with me, even in more mainstream metalcore bands.

But for the first time, I have two metal songs on my list, both from post-metal bands. Brutus caught me off guard and I’ll talk more about them in my best albums list, but if you’re into more atmospheric metal bands like I am or even if you just like kick-ass metal songs, you have to listen to them. It’s without a doubt one of the best slow burn songs of the year as the minute-long build up before the drum kicks come in and Stefanie Mannaerts’ foreboding beautiful voice transformers into harsher raspier anger. With her Scandinavian accent, she’s even reminiscent of Björk dare I say, although I don’t think Björk’s ever been on a song this heavy. I can’t really think of many bands this unique right now, metal or otherwise, and I hope with their acclaim this year, more years look at the brutality but also the beauty this band is making.

SPOILER: Click to show

Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#34. All Comes Crashing by Metric

Speaking of slow builds however, I was a bit put off when I heard that this was the lead off single for Metric’s upcoming album. The more minimalist verses with the synthetic percussion just felt like a hindrance, especially once the organic drums and guitars came in opposite Emily Haines’ voice and that catchy electric loop started. But once I get used to the song I learned to appreciate the verses alongside the hook. The minimalism also fits the lyrics in looking at the apocalypse but more from a domestic point of view: particularly in how we can rebuild a world that’s collapsing (which could also double as a metaphor for a relationship), knowing it’s not going to be easy, but nothing happens just sitting down. It elevates the hook as the moment of confidence to finally head into the dark with all you’ve got. It’s a smart alt rock song that I loved seeing the love for amongst mainstream rock listeners and hope that Metric can continue the momentum with more hits in the future. With a world that’s crashing down, we’re gonna need a good soundtrack as we fall together.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#33. Bad Habit by Steve Lacy

This has been the “hipsters” choice for one of the best hits of the year and while part of it may be overhyped due to a year lacking in any interesting hits, I can't deny there's an odd magic tot his song. So many parts of this shouldn’t work: Steve Lacy’s still not the most polished singer with a lot of charisma and his higher register is annoying, the processed guitars isn't that different from other derided hits, the odd scatting breakdown at the end, the sickly emo lyrics, it’s stuff I should not like. And yet it all came together to make one of the most magnetic hits of the year, and a balanced being twee and relatable while being catchy in more ways than the hook. The fact a song this different sounding from the mainstream managed to get organically massive, that's undoubtedly very cool, even if Lacy would like to be known for more than just this song. But if it was this song, I wouldn't be that mad.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#32. Funny Girl by Father John Misty

This was the very first song released in 2022 that I heard immediately knew it was one of the best songs of the year. And while much of the shine has been dulled by a disappointing album from Josh Tillman, that still doesn’t take away from how beautiful this song is. I love the classical pop arrangement with the flutes, sax, horns, and piano, of the song and the subversion on Josh Tillman's persona. Devoid of any concrete satire or social commentary, for once, he is earnestly lovestruck at the Hollywood starlet captivating everyone in the room with her charisma and larger-than-life persona. And yet for all the yearning Tillman has, he knows he's got no chance and actually meeting the Funny Girl and is just willing to be the hapless fool in love with her public persona, none the wiser to the real woman behind the screen. It's just a gorgeously romantic song, whether taken straight or ironically and is another hit in a crowded singles catalog.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS  

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#31. Spitting Off the Edge of the World by Yeah Yeah Yeahs feat. Perfume Genius

I’m not gonna say that Yeah Yeah Yeahs comeback after 9 years lived up to the hype but no matter how lukewarm the album ended up being, at least the first shot back was a hit. The heavy synths and reverbed drums backing Karen O before the drums come in, it actually plays into the same template as Metric's output this year. But whereas Emily Haines is confident in leading the revolution and swinging for the fences, Karen plays into a more relaxed and resigned fight. There's a subtext that none of us wanted it to come to this but it's here and this is the dystopia we're faced with...might as well fight and love while we try and figure out what to do. I also love her chemistry with Mike Hadreas, even though he doesn't do much aside from soft vocals on the pre-chorus and a few backing vocals on the hook, it adds to the unity and comradery needed to face the unknown. We're not that in short of songs that speak to a youthful dread about the future only to empower people, but with music this good, it's hard not to join in the yelling over the edge.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

Can't believe we're already at the halfway point!

Honorable Mentions Round 3

SEX APPEAL by BLACKSTARKIDS



A bit sad and ironic that the best BROCKHAMPTON song this year wasn’t put out by them across both of their albums

Welcome to Hell by black midi



One of the best anti-war songs in a while…and that after this year, feels even more terrifying

ESCAPE by Flume and Quiet Bison feat. KUČKA



Originally had 'Sirens' here but after awhile I thought this was the best balance of Flume’s erratic glitch and beautiful art pop.

girlfriend by hemlocke springs



Nothing cracks me up more than the adlib of “OH MY GOD, I LOVE YOU!”

LOVE DIVE by IVE



the biggest song of 2022 in Korea and once again proof that this year would’ve been more interesting if there was more K-pop charting outside Asia

Bad Dad by PVA 



We really need more of this darkwave pop to be bigger than it is.

Ojitos Lindos by Bad Bunny and Bomba Estéreo



Probably the best Spanish language hit in the U.S. since the reggaeton explosion and one of Bad Bunny’s best ever songs.

diving board by redveil



A really great surprise, the off-kilter and syncopated flows against the surprisingly lucious jazzy beat but with a good hook, it’s lowkey and chill without leaning too much on vibes

Stressed by Conway the Machine feat. Wallo267 



Glad I finally get to put a Conway song on my best songs list as he’s been my favorite Detroit rapper for a few years now. It might not be the catchiest thing ever but it’s one of the most detailed and vivid pictures of depression on a rap song in a while.

Green Book by Ghostly Kisses



An absolutely beautiful art pop ballad and a prime example in 2022 that sometimes less is indeed more

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#30. i’ve still got something to teach you by Vylet Pony

Second year in a row,Vylet Pony does it again. She was a quiet novel surprise last year with a lot of charm if inconsistent production. What I didn’t expect is that less than a year later, she would not only topped my expectations this year, she wound up making some of the best pop of the year.

If ANTONYMPH played on sincere love of ironic Internet culture, this is more of a showcase for a serious side for Zelda. Much of the lyrics this time focus on the creation of art and the journey of learning to build up your talents and self-confidence. I like how there’s emphasis on the journey and enjoying the process of making art, as there is feeling pride in the finished product. And it’s also enjoyable even if you don’t know the story of the album or aren’t a Brony. But what I really love about this song is that it’s a showcase for Zelda’s talents as a producer. From the quiet piano, acoustic guitar, strings and bubbly synths leading into the electric bass and organic drums, then a chiptune breakdown in the middle then going back and ending on the quiet synths and guitar, it’s quite epic even for how small the scene is and a testament to her talents to make a song this big despite seemingly a low budget.. If you’re still scoffing at a brony artist getting praise and acclaim, this song could show doubters she’s got something to teach them.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#29. Body Suit by Foxes

I’m a sucker for a good sax so this song opening with a killer line was already gonna mean it ranked somewhere on my list. All of Foxes’ lead singles were great but yeah the slower, more sincere lovestruck song that also had a great sensual edge to it, that was my favorite of hers this year. I just love how understated the whole song, feeling even more romantic without a big belting chorus. And in a year with that rather lacked in great straightforward pop, Foxes was a great gift early on.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#28. New Gold by Gorillaz feat. Tame Impala and Bootie Brown

I said it when I first heard it and I still stand by it: one of the best Gorillaz songs since their return. And while I’ve cooled on it a bit since it came on, still amongst their best. Bootie Brown and Damon Albarn’s last collab - Dirty Harry - is actually my favorite Gorillaz single of all time so I had high expectations and it was met and then some. He hasn’t missed a step since then and the smooth and charismatic flow fits well as the man laughing at the world while also being part of the system. And no apologies for this one: Kevin Parker’s hook is also the best thing Tame Impala has done since Currents. And while the song tackles very familiar themes of nihilism, societal decay, and materialism for Gorillaz, this is one of the few times where what they present very nearly looks like it’s gold worth achieving. At least, before everything crashes.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#27. Surround Sound by JID feat. 21 Savage and Baby Tate

The fact JID didn’t have a hit as a lead act this year is criminal as not only has he proven himself to be one of the most talented and thoughtful rappers in the scene now, he’s also more than capable of appealing to mainstream sounds with great hooks plus fun flows and beats. Both of those elements are present plus a solid feature from 21 Savage and a fun, sexy bridge from Baby Tate who remains underrated. But it’s JID’s yet again by the end with a darker beat switch and tighter, grittier verse from JID that remains as braggadocious and confident as the more laid back song. Well, even if the mainstream is slow as ever to appreciate his talents, that doesn’t detract from how good JID has been and hopefully continues to be this decade.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS

[dremolus - solarpunk]

#26. Walkin by Denzel Curry

One of the very first tracks in 2022 I heard acclaim about and yeah, all the hype is real for this one. The title is apt as Denzel airs all his thoughts in what feels like an single almost extended free flowing verse across two beats, reflecting on profiting off of systemic racism and various killings and deaths in the black community thanks to gang violence, all without a proper coping mechanism to deal with all the pain and trauma he's been faced with. I love the way the boombap beat transitions into a trap beat that mirrors Denzel's increasing frustration on the lack of solutions to deal with all the issues. He just keeps walking with hopes of surviving and making it through in one piece. As I said, it's one of the most beloved rap songs of 2022 for a reason, one that really is worth stopping and and walking on it.

SPOILER: Click to show

{Sexy Biches}Mayman HamedM1 💔  ramona wants sleep rekwiem razorshark  Daryl the Beryl  willapted33  GP  Choco  Crimsonio  rom  samo🦕  peacebone  wheatsquares33  bornfearless2000  fearlessarrow  filthy  Leaf  lyhom  Web  Nick P  wrip  rimetm  BB🌕  kimberly  kindofbiased  MoD  otaviohmg  @trilogy  Sambalada  Devil Marlena Nylund  singingrulebritannia  violentdreams  walt91  𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕖𝕓𝕤  Ｓｏｕｎｄｃｌ🕤ｃｋ  recordyear  Fanstar1  joshtheking  Nasarati  tanooki  rekwiem  Triple 9  Willow Rinadoobee Breakfast  M5AGTS