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- Album Review: "BITE ME" - Reneé Rapp
*BITE ME by Reneé Rapp via reneerapp.com Reneé Rapp is a force to be reckoned with. Her brutally honest lyrics and authentic personality make her stand out in the pop music scene. Her latest album, BITE ME , encapsulates the singer’s raw and vulnerable self while showcasing her unmistakable talent. From the cheeky lead single, “Leave Me Alone,” to the powerful ballad, “Sometimes”, the singer is undoubtedly one of the best modern performers. The twelve new songs give listeners a glimpse into her journey since the release of her debut album, Snow Angel . TRACKLIST Leave Me Alone Mad Why Is She Still Here? Sometimes Kiss It Kiss It Good Girl I Can't Have You Around Me Anymore Shy At Least I'm Hot I Think I Like You Better When You're Gone That's So Funny You'd Like That Wouldn't You Leave Me Alone “Leave Me Alone” is a powerful statement about Rapp’s carefree attitude and desire to live life on her own terms. She doesn’t want to listen to anyone and only wants to do what makes her happy. This is something that makes fans, as well as people who don’t even know who she is but happen to come across her interviews, absolutely adore her. She isn’t afraid to speak her mind and be her honest self. While the song has several tongue-in-cheek lyrics, such as "Manager called me said ‘where’s the single?" and "Party in the hills people tryna talk business // Leave me alone, bitch, I wanna have fun," my favorite line is at the end of the second verse. Rapp proudly says, “Took my sex life with me now the show ain’t fucking!” This directly references the show, The Sex Life of College Girls , which many people say went downhill after she exited the show to pursue her music career. While it is unclear if Rapp agrees with this statement, her including it in the song is a callout to everyone angry at her for following her dreams, leaving the show in the past. She is tired of everyone’s loud opinions and expectations. She just wants to be left alone. Mad The sophomore single, “Mad,” is an electrifying pop anthem about wanting to make up after a fight, but her partner refuses to accept her apology. She has done everything — “not a sorry in a world [she] ain’t already said.” However, her partner won’t let her back in. Rapp reduces it to the fact that they enjoy being mad at her, and it’s their own problem because they could’ve been “having sex” and could’ve been “cute and stupid.” She switches it up in the last chorus, where she accuses her partner of “fucking with [her] head.” She’s exhausted with this and has decided to give up. Her lyrics resonate with listeners who have experienced having someone refuse to accept a sincere apology for the sake of feeling superior and in control. Alongside the infectious production and clever hook, “Mad” is a perfect pop song. Why Is She Still Here? The third and final single before BITE ME ’s release is the emotional ballad, “Why Is She Still Here?” The song contains a bluesy, R&B-influenced soundscape that complements Rapp’s powerful vocals. Throughout the track, she pleads to her partner to either let her go or let the other woman go. They are stringing her along, putting the singer through this toxic push-and-pull. The frustration and desperation are evident through Rapp’s passionate vocals and anger-filled lyrics. She hates being treated as a second choice, but can’t seem to let go of them herself. “Why Is She Still Here?” being BITE ME’s lead ballad ingeniously prepped the audience for the remainder of the album. Sometimes Rapp immediately kicks off the new songs with “Sometimes,” which instantly rips the listener to shreds. It is the direct follow-up to the last song, “Why Is She Still Here?” The piano ballad is about this push-and-pull described previously. However, while the third song shows more of the singer’s frustration, “Sometimes” shows more of her devastation. In the chorus, she delivers the heart-wrenching lyrics: “If I can’t have you, then let me find someone else // I’m tired of being a good time // It’s killing me having you sometimes// If you still want her, then leave me here by myself // I know what I said, but it’s not fine.” Her stunning vocals plead with her subject to stop stringing her along and cut her loose, so she can move on with someone else – someone who will treat her as more than a body. With Rapp’s flawless falsettos and vulnerable songwriting, “Sometimes” instantly became a top favorite of mine. Kiss It Kiss It Rapp brings back the energy with the sensual pop anthem, “Kiss It Kiss It.” The song explores moments of sexual intimacy with her partner. The couple is so in sync, spending all their time tangled up with each other. In the classic Reneé Rapp fashion, the track is filled with comedic, out-of-pocket lines such as “She asked me how I liked my breakfast // I told her, ‘Hot on the bedroom floor’” and “I think we almost made a baby // I mean, we can’t, but we came so close.” These lines are not only naturally cheeky but also highlight the couple’s fiery passion and chemistry. Alongside the steamy lyrics, the track contains an undeniably infectious soundscape complete with a bouncy bassline and catchy drums. Just like “Sometimes,” “Kiss It Kiss It” was an immediate Rapp favorite. Good Girl In “Good Girl,” Rapp shares the story of her life being turned completely upside down when her muse came into her life. The moody, electrifying track describes how the singer was once a good girl – “Sunsets and yoga // Safe sex and no drugs.” That is, until they showed up. Now, she is a wild child, staying up late and "disappointing her father." The entire song feels like an extension of the very first line in “Leave Me Alone.” In the lead single, she sings, “I’m a real bad girl but a real good kisser.” This direct reference provides even more context to both songs, telling people to leave her alone because she wants to have fun with this new woman. With the synth-heavy, 80s pop-inspired soundscape, "Good Girl" is an unforgettable anthem that will be a standout on tour. I Can't Have You Around Me Anymore The album’s tone strips back down to the guitar-led ballad, “I Can’t Have You Around Me Anymore.” The song shares Rapp’s internal conflict of falling in love with a friend and not knowing how they feel about her. The singer has a girlfriend at home, and it is causing fights because it is obvious that Rapp has feelings for this new person. Her soft, subtle voice, which is usually powerful and confident, displays her guilt and sorrow. She pines for this person but does not know what to do. In the end, she tells her muse that she can no longer have them around because the pain has become unbearable. She would rather be unhappy in her current relationship than risk it all for the unknown – or break her current partner’s heart. The soft, acoustic soundscape complements the vulnerability and complexity of the lyrics. Shy “Shy” contains a 2000s pop-rock vibe that would perfectly fit on the soundtrack of a cult classic romcom. When speaking in an interview, Rapp confessed that the song is about how she felt “smitten and nervous” around her current girlfriend, Towa Bird, who was the muse for most of BITE ME. The infectious song begins with her admitting how this is not usually how she reacts: “It’s hard to make me nervous // Much easier to piss me off,” immediately following up with “But whenever you’re around, babe // I kiss the ground you’re walkin’ on.” Throughout the track, she tries to explain to her girlfriend not to be gentle with her because her timidness is not from being sexually reserved but from being so head over heels that she doesn’t know how to act. However, in the bridge, she completely switches the tune to bold lyrics, symbolizing the singer coming out of her shell and embracing her nerves. At Least I'm Hot Once again, Rapp has blessed her listeners with a flawless, tongue-in-cheek anthem that pokes fun at herself while remaining relatable to her audience. “At Least I’m Hot” is about how Rapp’s life is falling apart; she is depressed, and everything is overwhelming her. But it’s okay, because at least she is hot. The bridge contains my favorite lyrics, as it continues the 2000s pop-rock vibe while also featuring comedic lyrics: “I don’t know if you’re new ‘round here // But let me make this crystal clear // I might be down but I’m still bad.” Rapp cleverly utilizes this common pop culture slang, but twists it to fit the “depressed but hot” narrative. “At Least I’m Hot” instantly became one of my favorite songs on BITE ME due to its ingenuity and humorous nature. I Think I Like You Better When You're Gone “I Think I Like You Better When You’re Gone” was the one song on the album where the title was completely misleading. I was expecting an anger-fueled anthem, but instead, I was met with an absolutely devastating break-up ballad. The acoustic R&B-style song is about her ex-girlfriend from the perspective of when they were still together. She kicks off the track with the chorus: “I know that I’m supposed to miss you and wish that you were here // But the more I drink, the more I think you might just disappear // I got a funny feeling, funny feeling something’s wrong // I think I like you better // I think I like you better when you’re–.” Before she can finish the hook, she immediately switches to the first verse, but it might as well be the same, as she tells her subject, “Out of sight, out of mind.” She explains that she is happier when she is not around, dreads her return, and knows that this relationship is doomed. Leading into the second verse, she does the same hook cut-off, with the lyrics “I think I like you better when you’re – Across the fucking country.” The lyrics are heart-wrenching, emphasized by the guilt and sorrow dripping in Rapp’s voice. The vulnerability and honesty she displays, as well as her incredible vocal range, make the song one of my favorites in her entire discography. That's So Funny “That’s So Funny” is another sarcastic track that I couldn’t help but think is the moody follow-up to “Poison Poison” off Snow Angel . The song calls out the unnamed subject for doing Rapp dirty and painting her in a negative light. Similarly to “Leave Me Alone,” she also references The Sex Lives of College Girls. In the second verse, she sings: “But here comes the spoiler// The show’s really over // If you’re looking for closure // You got a better shot with God than you do with me.” After Rapp left the series, the show was generally not well-received and subsequently canceled. Her clever references that tie to other songs are what make the singer one of my favorite songwriters. She is a genius wordsmith who is a true triple threat: singer, songwriter, and actress – A well-rounded talent that deserves to have a bigger name in the industry. You'd Like That Wouldn't You Rapp ends the album with a bang. “You’d Like That Wouldn’t You” is my favorite song on BITE ME . It contains all my favorite elements: Rapp’s witty sarcasm, an infectious soundscape, and her insane vocal range that made me fall in love with her when I first heard Snow Angel. The song is a feisty anthem toward her ex-girlfriend, predicting all the things that she wants from Rapp, such as begging for her to take her back, never finding love again, and crashing her wedding when the officiant says, “speak now.” Dripping in sass, she asks her ex: “You’d like that, wouldn’t you?” Rapp’s quick tongue and ability to leave audiences in shock with her bluntness are why so many people are lured to the artist (media training, who?). She is authentically her, and with the final track, she is staring her ex directly in the eye, saying, “BITE ME.” BITE ME by Reneé Rapp is a flawless twelve-track album consisting of powerful ballads, sassy lyrics, and stunning vocals. Her previous album, Snow Angel , is one of my favorite records of all time, so I had high expectations for the new project. Rapp did not disappoint, giving fans a skipless album that shows her versatile talent. After the release of this project, I am only more excited to attend the BITE ME Tour in Los Angeles. Click here to see if she is coming to a city near you and follow her on all social media for any upcoming announcements. Also, make sure to listen to the live versions of five BITE ME tracks, which were released shortly after the album. Written By Karlee Skipper Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.
- Review: "Ghost of Us" - Midnight Til Morning
Midnight Til Morning’s newest single, Ghost of Us, is a pop rock song about missing a relationship. You’ve tried everything you can to forget about this person, but they live rent free in your head. You’re still in love with what used to be, what you can no longer have. The song truly reflects how difficult it is to fall out of love with someone you thought was the one. Are you early 20 somethings like the band is? Are you in this position right now? Or are you just looking for some fresh music to vibe to? Yes? No? Either way, I hope this song graces your ears today. Ghost of Us’s lyrics like “If I’m honest, when you call me, my bags been packed since the morning” and “Spent all night here deleting your pictures. One phone call and I tell you I miss you” are honest and vulnerable. I like the overall vibe and production of the song. All four members are singing so I get to analyze the unique tones, inflections, and, most notably, accents. It’s been a long time since I’ve listened to a band where all the members are equally talented singers. A strong single with undeniable charisma and an upbeat pop rock energy that I feel has been missing from mainstream music recently has my stamp of approval. Midnight Til Morning are comprised of Australians Conor Smith and Mason Watts and Americans Shane Appell and Zach Newbould. They were pursuing solo careers and were formed on Netflix’s Building The Band, a new realty television singing competition show that primed in July of this year. They just recently released their debut single, “ Bye ”, and are going on tour. The tour is spanning North America, Canada, and Australia (with more dates coming soon) and officially goes on general sale tomorrow, August 8th. If you’re looking to add a new band to your music diet, check out their music and consider buying a ticket! Written By Jazz FOLLOW Midnight Til Morning: Instagram | Spotify | YouTube
- Review: "Guess She's Cool" - Only The Poets
Only The Poets’ newest single, Guess She’s Cool, is an alternative pop song about rebounding after a breakup. Alternative can be a wide range of genres. In this case, the song is giving 2000s and 2010s pop with R&B and hip hop influence. In the song, he expresses that he’s not completely over his ex and would much rather get back together with that person. The first rebound after a breakup can be complex and leave you with mixed feelings. You’re still longing for the person you once loved and replaying those memories as if you still get to go back home with them. You’ve physically moved on, but you’re mentally stuck. Guess She’s Cool runs at 3 minutes and 43 seconds. It starts with a bass strum that leads into the first chorus. “I’m tired of being lonely so I sleep with someone else”, “Got flooded by the memories, but they’re the last thing that I need”, and “I guess she’s cool, but she’ll never be, never be, never be, never be you.” I love the honesty and relatability in the lyricism. The outro is a twenty second piano solo. The mood is sad, but it fits with the theme and vibe of the song. It reminds me so much of the type of pop music I used to listen to growing up. Only The Poets is an English band hailing from Reading, England. The band consists of frontman and lead vocalist Tommy Longhurst, bassist Andrew Burge, lead guitarist Clem Cherry, and drummer Marcus Yates. They’ve been a band since 2017, have opened for Yungblud , and have released numerous EPs. In 2025, alone, they have released “ I Keep On Messing Up ”, “ You Hate That I’m In Love ”, “ Emotionally Hungover ”, and “Guess She’s Cool”. Earlier this year, they sold out a massive European tour that pushed 25,000 tickets and sold out some shows in America's biggest cities as well. They are trustworthy touring acts as is evident by the many more upcoming shows they have planned before the end of the year. If you love bands, I recommend you give their music a listen! Written By Jazz FOLLOW Only The Poets: Instagram | Spotify | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube
- Review: "Addicted" - HEYOON
With her new release, “Addicted,” Korean pop star HEYOON continues to stun audiences with creativity, vocals, and an all-around hard-hitting discography to date. Being her second release of 2025, “Addicted” brings in new elements to HEYOON’s discography, bringing in a bass-driven house track that has elements of dreaminess and chill beats that echoes throughout the song. “Addicted” is made for late night fun, with the dreamy elements of the production and seductive themes taking over the song. Like HEYOON’s partner in “Addicted,” listeners are bound to get hooked on this song and, for lack of a better word, get addicted to HEYOON’s smooth vocals and trance-like production and not get enough of it. (delete this note once finished - things to do before writing your article:) - Put in the artists social media links “Addicted” is a really nice addition to HEYOON’s production thus far. The song is versatile, with it either being a song perfect for getting ready for a night out, a late night drive with the windows rolled down, or even both on the same night. The lyrics and production match each other beautifully, with the catchiness of the bass-line and HEYOON’s lyrics meshing together making a great house track. That’s not even mentioning HEYOON’s vocality, which was the standout of this song for me. This not only marks HEYOON’s second single out in 2025, this also marks an artistic evolution for HEYOON overall, with production credits and a payoff that shows off her artistry and what’s to come for listeners. HEYOON, also known as Heyoon Jeong, is a South Korean singer, splitting her time between Seoul and Los Angeles. Breaking out into the mainstream with the global pop phenomenon Now United, HEYOON transitioned to a solo career after five years in the group. Selling out stadiums and having a heart of philanthropy, HEYOON is an inspiration to her fanbase and new listeners alike. With “Addicted” being her third entry into her discography and her first solo entry, HEYOON proves that she can stand on her own as not only a singer, but is talented with production and composition as well. Listeners can keep up with HEYOON’s new releases and live shows on her social media, linked down below. Written By Abby Mornhinweg FOLLOW HEYOON: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube
- Review: "Us" - Carolyn Dodd
In her new single “Us”, Carolyn Dodd explains how she has been able to move on from her past heartbreak. She uses multiple tactics, imagining her ex lover and all of their negative qualities, as well as reminding herself that there is no way they are not constantly talking and thinking about her. For Dodd, hindsight is 2020, and this song is both a healing journey for her and a way to poke fun at her old relationship, hoping that they are struggling with this loss. Her voice has a tonality similar to Maggie Rogers, strong while still delicate and a perfectly mixed vibrato. Dodd plays with riffs and minor chords to emphasize lines, and the chorus has a punching quality as if she is raising up her fist to wherever her old love lies. Dodd sets the scene in the very first verse, directing her lyrics right to her old partner. She gives herself the power, stating that she has grown taller and left their pictures behind, allowing her to move forward and not look back. Even if she has been moving forward, she hopes that they are still stuck in the past and miss her absence (like any breakup would). In the chorus, she sings, “Can't open up about it / your new friends hate my guts / But I know you think about it / I know you think of us”. Each line ends on a vocal punch to the gut, with Dodd demanding she stay in the forefront of their mind. In the bridge, she drives home the idea that she has won. Each line is a new lie they are telling, that they’re happier now, that Dodd is crazy, but they know this is not the truth. With one final repeat of the chorus, the track ends in a triumph. Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, Carolyn Dodd and her family picked up and moved to Los Angeles so she could pursue her acting career. Along the way, however, she fell in love with music as well, leaving the show “Get Shorty” with Chris O’Dowd and Ray Romano in 2020 to pursue her music career. Since the age of seven years old, Dodd has been a singer-songwriter, wanting to tell her story and sing about love and loss, and how hard it is to make connections in society today. Make sure to follow the social medias below to stay turned for more music from Carolyn Dodd. Written By Tessa Maddaloni FOLLOW CAROLYN DODD: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube
- Review: "This House" - Allie Crummy
My mom frequently complains about the wear and tear on my childhood home. It’s true, our house looks less polished than it did years ago. However, the wear and tear are evidence of the lives that have been lived in that home. This is what Allie Crummy describes in her song “This House”. In a society that values looking clean, polished, and perfect no matter what, it can be easy to lose sight of the truth that Crummy depicts so artfully in her lyrics: to be loved is to be changed. The footprints and stains are evidence of life and evidence of love. The track begins with a bouncy bass and groovy guitar melody. The vocals sneak in beautifully and softly over the instrumental that create a mellow yet enticing feeling for Crummy’s listeners. In the chorus she begins stacking vocal harmonies and demonstrating impressive musical abilities while simultaneously creating a stunning experience within this song. The balance with the bass, light percussion, and synths compose this fantastic musical project. “Experience” is the best way to describe this track, as you will carry this song with you following the first time you listen, or rather experience, it. Allie Crummy is a musician based in Des Moines, Iowa. She has described her work as being of the indie-folk genre, saying she takes inspiration from the blues, pop, and soul genres. She also works as an audio engineer and producer, using her wonderful skills with various artists in the recording studio. She has released four studio albums, three EPs, and nineteen music videos. Crummy is undeniably an artist of taste and immense skill. She will no-doubt make her mark in the music industry and create a wonderful legacy for herself. Written By Victoria Fitzgerald FOLLOW ALLIE: Instagram | Spotify | Facebook | Website | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator
- Review: "I Like Her" - Rue Vega
In her empowering ballad, "I Like Her" by Rue Vega, she touches on themes of self-improvement and healing. It emphasizes the importance of growth, vulnerability, and choosing to remain strong. The repetition in the chorus makes the message of confidence and acceptance sink in even deeper. There’s a sense of honesty in the song, like she’s not afraid to admit that healing takes time. The verses balance raw emotion with moments of strength, showing that growth isn’t a straight path. Listeners can connect to the way she talks about learning to trust her healing process again. This pop ballad starts off slower with gentle piano guiding the reflective vocals. As the song continues, it quickly grows in volume and power. This subtle build-up allows for the impact to hit right where it needs to. The climax brings in layered drums and soaring background vocals that make the song feel huge and emotional. The production strikes a balance between softness and strength, matching the lyrics perfectly. Small touches, like the faint echo on her voice, give the track a dreamy quality. The use of crescendos helps create tension and release, keeping the listener pulled in. Singer/songwriter Rue Vega enters the pop-alt scene with a blazing impression and passion. Talented in vocals, guitar, and piano, she performs original music as well as a wide range of covers. She often performs live, where her stage presence shows the same authenticity that comes through in her recordings. Her strongest belief when it comes to music is that it brings people together and invites listeners to connect. The joy that comes with resonating lyrics and good energy is what fuels her musical spirit. Rue Vega’s style blends heartfelt storytelling with modern pop-alt sounds, making her music stand out. Written By Adalyn Reichenberger FOLLOW RUE VEGA: Instagram | Spotify | YouTube
- Review: "CAN YOU FEEL IT?" - SPEAK!
Looking back at the carefree land of youth, "CAN YOU FEEL IT?" by SPEAK! invites listeners to be motivated by the opportunities and perspectives of a young mind. The song uses masterful storytelling to paint a picture of two people living their best lives together before adulthood and time cause them to grow apart. Longing reflections like "falling over the handlebars but we didn't even seem to mind" are woven through the lyrics, honing a craving for the liberty of the good old days. Openness and vulnerability come through the chorus as the speaker invites a romance with someone who makes her feel the way she did when she was younger. Whether it be to take a chance and reach out to someone who makes you feel good, or simply to embrace the feelings of living for today, this upbeat song is sure to inspire you. Click here to listen to CAN YOU FEEL IT? Groovy electric guitar, punchy percussion, and an overall sunny atmosphere sweeten this invigorating indie pop rock song. DAME's vocals are silky and soulful at the same time, drawing you into the cinematically narrative feeling of the verse. Her singing is captivating through the catchy and nostalgic chorus, with a vocal stress pattern that will have you singing along. This bright track is punctuated by a touch of unexpected trumpet trilling which increases and blends beautifully with the other instrumentals. Building to the bridge, like a call to action, male speaking vocals ask the question "now what you trying to do with me?" and DAME's singing amplifies the lyrics of fulfillment in response with vocalizing that oozes passion. SPEAK! is a Birmingham-based project of musician Jake Parsons' design. He is a producer and songwriter, and uses SPEAK! to join with artists and release soulful indie pop tunes. From featuring various vocalists to working with friends on instrumentals, the creative process of SPEAK! is as bright and unifying as the music it produces. Influenced by artists and musical groups like Daft Punk and Remi Wolf, the project delivers listeners an upbeat and resonant sonic experience. Artists like Scarpello , Maczee P , and DAME have joined Jake in this collaboration. Keep an eye out for the growing discography by checking out the links below. Written By Hanna Kowal FOLLOW SPEAK!: Instagram | Spotify | TikTok *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator
- Concert Review: The Weeknd’s After Hours Til Dawn Tour at the Rogers Centre in Toronto
The Weeknd Tour via CBC//Photo Credits: Hyghly Alleyne The Weeknd is a singer/songwriter hailing from Toronto, Canada, with his R&B vocals hitting audiences since his YouTube days in 2010. Following his release of Hurry Up Tomorrow , The Weeknd announced his After Hours Til Dawn Tour . I had the opportunity to attend his first out of four performances in his hometown right at the Rogers Centre. The Rogers Centre, the retractable roof stadium known to house the Toronto Blue Jays, hit home to The Weeknd as he used to watch the Blue Jays when he was younger. Now, people are watching him. Opening for him were the lovely Mike Dean and Kaytranada (substituted for Playboi Carti), setting the tone with great electro-pop beats and epic visuals. To add, effects were used throughout all sets that added to the vibe. This hyping the fans, the festivities began to further engage the crowd in this emotional yet exciting performance. The Weeknd walked out strong, mask on, ready to perform his hit “The Abyss” from his new album, Hurry Up Tomorrow . Firstly introduced by his posse of women in red, the dancers set the stage for his arrival. The visuals, lights, and dancers set the party for a smashing show. After performing some favorable hits like “Starboy”, “Feel It Coming”, and “I Can’t Feel My Face”, The Weeknd took off his mask to reveal himself, erupting the crowd. This created a more personable vibe, as he explains that he is glad to be home. He went on to perform a set list of new and old songs from his various albums. With this being his first show in his hometown, the audience felt special to be the first crowd to give a warm welcome home. He showed off his extensive range with every other song, adding his personal flare to further entertain. However, nothing can take away the spectacular firework show at the end. Before he hit the stage, the Rogers Centre opened its roof to the view of the CN Tower and the beautiful Toronto night sky. After an encore, The Weeknd exclaimed that they would have to drag him off stage. This created more hype as people, including myself, leaped off of their seats to jump to more hits. On a happy note, he also performed my favorite song “House of Balloons/Glass Table Girls” before the finale. During the final song and his goodbye to the crowd, fireworks bursted from behind the seats to wish the audience farewell. Out of the many concerts I’ve ever been to, I have to say that this was the coolest display I’ve seen. If you are in the Toronto area or reading this from the United States, there are still tickets out there to see this amazing performance! If you’re an avid The Weeknd listener reading this with FOMO, I strongly encourage you to get those tickets, they won’t disappoint! Written By Nevaeh Scott Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.
- Album Review: "SWAG" - Justin Bieber
SWAG is Canadian musician Justin Bieber 's seventh studio album, filled to the brim with love songs, pop and RnB production, and features from several other artists. T R A C K L I S T ALL I CAN TAKE DAISIES YUKON GO BABY THINGS YOU DO BUTTERFLIES WAY IT IS (with Gunna ) FIRST PLACE SOULFUL (with Druski ) WALKING AWAY GLORY VOICE MEMO DEVOTION (with Dijon ) DADZ LOVE (with Lil B ) THERAPY SESSION (with Druski) SWEET SPOT (with Sexyy Red ) STANDING ON BUSINESS (with Druski) 405 SWAG (with Cash Cobain & Eddie Benjamin ) ZUMA HOUSE TOO LONG FORGIVENESS (with Marvin Winans ) After being discovered on YouTube for his incredible singing voice, it wasn't too long before Justin Bieber rose to immense fame as a teen popstar. He released his debut project, the EP My World , in 2009, and the following debut album My World 2.0 a year later, the latter being even more incredibly successful than the last. For the past sixteen years, there hasn't been anyone who doesn't know who Justin Bieber is. He has released six more albums since then, the latest being his July 2025 surprise album SWAG , released a day after its initial announcement. ALL I CAN TAKE It makes sense for an album filled with love letters to start off with one. Amongst an RnB and pop fusion beat, Bieber sings about how he loves intimacy and being alone with his significant other. There’s no better feeling than shutting the world out and spending time with the one you love most, feeling like you’re the only two people in the world. As a celebrity, and in Bieber’s case, one of the biggest in the world, you especially have to cherish this time even more because it always feels like everyone has eyes on you. Paparazzi, the media, fans - spending time not focused on the world of fame makes everything feel more real and in the moment. DAISIES The second track of SWAG is the most popular of the album, and for good reason. It features pop production of a slow to medium tempo that feels familiar but original and unique at the same time. The acoustic guitar chords mixed with prominent drums, significantly in the chorus, are what create a combination of easy listening with pop and RnB. Bieber sings about how he has fallen in love and wants to be with his crush, but his crush isn’t sure of whether or not a relationship should be pursued. Bieber is okay with waiting for his crush to decide if they should be together, but he reiterates that he is falling in love. YUKON Another acoustic guitar-heavy production is found on track 3, with the beat hidden behind it so that they flow evenly together. That’s not the only distinctive element of the song, with Bieber’s voice being pitched up throughout, although the adlibs are at a regular pitch. The use of references and similes is implemented all over the lyrics, ex.: “I pull up like Jimmy Neutron // I can help you move on like U-Haul”. Bieber recognizes he can’t live without his love, and knows that his significant other could be with anyone else, but he is glad that they are together, and promises to always love and take care of his significant other. GO BABY Disco-inspired synths and a slow-paced drum beat come together in a song Bieber has dedicated to his wife, model and entrepreneur Hailey Bieber. In the song, Justin professes her love for her, congratulating her on her accomplishments and reassures her that he is always there for her, no matter how hard life gets. Like Justin, Hailey is also very much in the spotlight 24/7, due to coming from a famous family and being married to a famous musician. When she is affected by the hate she receives, Justin understands why she is upset and lets her know that she isn’t alone. Together, they can get through all the ups and downs while still being in love. THINGS YOU DO The first line of the fifth track, “I threw the towel // When you came around”, most likely means that Justin was living the lifestyle of the typical popstar, but when he met Hailey, everything changed for him, and he wanted to begin assuming a private life so that he could dedicate all of his time and attention to her. He has never felt this much romantic love for someone like this before, and he feels as though she changed his life. He focuses on not only grand gestures, but appreciates everything she does for him and that they do together. BUTTERFLIES Butterflies are what you get preceding and during the beginning of a relationship. More often than not, they go away after some time, even though love in the relationship still remains. However, Justin expresses that this is not the case for his marriage, as he still feels this way years into his own relationship. No matter what social status or how much fame or money Justin has, he will never lose the love that he has for Hailey. She means everything to him, and nothing else matters as long as he has her. “BUTTERFLIES” features production similar to its preceding songs, but its tempo increases in the latter half of the track. WAY IT IS (with Gunna) The first of several features on SWAG is found on “WAY IT IS”, a song about wanting to get married and live a quiet life away from the busyness and suffocation of the music industry and the world of fame. Justin and Gunna fantasize about being married to their true loves and starting families with them. They want to live the life of a having a beautiful home with a white picket fence, something they’re able to obtain, which they very happy about and grateful for. They feel lucky that they are in the position where they don’t have to worry about their careers and can focus on what they believe truly matters in life, which is family. FIRST PLACE “FIRST PLACE” has a loud and emphasized beat, but it’s paired with distant melodic synths, making it another distinct and creative track on SWAG that shares traits of a relaxing and beautiful song. Justin says that’s Hailey is in “first place”, meaning that he prioritizes her over everything else because she is most important to him. He wants to be able to spend as much time with her as possible and wants her to know this. He wants to persevere through any arguments or disagreements they have because he wants to stay with her and wants her to always know much he loves and appreciates her. SOULFUL (with Druski) “SOULFUL” is an interlude track - the recording of a short conversation between him and comedian and online personality Druski. In the background, there are muffled synths that sound like what we’ve heard before throughout the first eight tracks of SWAG . WALKING AWAY No relationship is perfect, and everyone who loves each other eventually has arguments and disagreements, and sometimes even falling outs. It would be easier if you could love someone without tension, but every once in a while, it will appear. Justin, while undoubtedly loving Hailey, understands that the miscommunication they sometimes come across means he needs to take a step back and reassess how he addresses situations that arise in their marriage. However, he reassures her that he will never give up on her and their marriage, and he promises that he will always work through anything that comes up that tries to pull them apart from one another. GLORY VOICE MEMO As the title of track 11 implies, “GLORY VOICE MEMO” is part of a song that wasn’t made into a full song, but is the demo of it, most likely a verse and the beginning of a potential chorus. Justin sings about his faith and his religion in a series of runs and octave changes in an echoing room alongside the strums of a guitar. It sounds as if the guitar is being played into a microphone and Justin is singing away from the microphone, when it’s usually the other way around in music. Justin turns to God to help him understand why he’s going through pain, and that he needs God’s help getting out of it. DEVOTION (with Dijon) Like “ALL I CAN TAKE”, Justin sings about how much he loves and appreciates intimate moments in a relationship, this time with the help of Dijon. Justin has already proven himself to be very romantic, and his love language appears to be physical touch, supported by the line “Roll some weed and cuddle up real close”. He’s shown that he loves spending time with Hailey and thinks about her all the time. Dijon sings about his own love life from his perspective, and that the feelings Justin has for Hailey are the feelings that Dijon has for his own significant other. Their significant others mean a lot to them, which is why the song is titled “DEVOTION”. DADZ LOVE (with Lil B) Even before SWAG was announced, which was a day before its release, Justin still managed to tease a Lil B feature by posting multiple Instagram posts and stories with his music, and he also changed his handle to @lilbieber. Justin repeats echoing lines of about love over a somewhat muffled beat and ongoing transcendent synth. The title of the song "DADZ LOVE” implies that this track is dedicated to his son, and that he loves being a father and sharing a child with the love of his life. THERAPY SESSION (with Druski) In another interlude with Druski with music in the background, him and Justin talk about the pressures of constantly being in the public eye, when they want to be left alone. Whether they are hurting or not, repeatedly being asked by people how they are doing is causing them to look down on themselves and feel as though everyone else is fine while they aren’t. They just want to let go and feel happy and be left alone by those who don’t know them or what they actually have going on in their lives. SWEET SPOT (with Sexyy Red) “SWEET SPOT” is another track on SWAG about intimacy with your significant other, and well as about changing your lifestyle to be with this person, this time with Sexyy Red. She raps about how she used to not prioritize one-on-on relationships until she met her current boyfriend, and now that’s the only person she wants to be with. Most of the tracks on this album are about monogamy and loving and being dedicated to your one true love, and “SWEET SPOT” is another one of these tracks. What it is also has in common with the other tracks is it’s 80s-esque synthwave production, showing that the album is cohesive throughout, both lyrically and musically. STANDING ON BUSINESS (with Druski) The third and last interlude with Druski references a viral video of Justin taken by a paparazzo shortly before SWAG was released, with Justin criticizing him for recording him and invading his privacy. Featured in the track are most the notable and recognized lines from the video, including the song’s title “standing on business”. 405 Interstate 405 is in California, where Justin and Hailey live, and the line “Hundred on the dash” could be a metaphor for several different things. With the line “How my baby look like that // Gonna make me crash”, the high driving speed could be a reference to his heartbeat whenever he looks at or thinks about Hailey, which connects back to the sixth track “BUTTERFLIES”. It could also be a metaphor for how his life was like before he met Hailey, when he felt like he was doing a million things at once, as he is one of the biggest musicians in the world, and that it felt like time was flying by. The tempo and intensity also increase to match the vibes of the lyrics. SWAG (with Cash Cobain & Eddie Benjamin) The title track references the term Justin would use frequently in his early career, and this song successfully brings its popularity back, with the help of Cash Cobain and Eddie Benjamin. The song features a trap beat with more transcendent synths as Justin and Cobain rap throughout about having swagger. ZUMA HOUSE “ZUMA HOUSE” is another stripped down track that features only an acoustic guitar and Justin’s amazing vocals away from the microphone. Justin describes the insecurities he has about himself and that he’s scared of being left alone, and is asking his significant other if this will this come to fruition if he were to have a weak moment. TOO LONG The penultimate track of SWAG summarizes the main themes of the album: love and intimacy. It features a futuristic-sounding production with pop synths and sound effects and an RnB beat. FORGIVENESS (with Marvin Winans) The final track of SWAG is a duet and cover of “Lord, I Lift Your Name on High” with pastor Marvin Winans. This track connects to the eleventh track “GLORY VOICE MEMO”, as they are both about religion and faith. Justin and Winans shadow each other's echoing vocals as they sing about Jesus. The song is also a ballad, with notes from both a grand piano and an organ overlapping one another. SWAG is another fantastic album from Justin Bieber. His vocals were impeccable throughout all of the tracks and the production and instrumentation were flawless. This is just more proof that Bieber is one the most talented musicians of the 21st century, as well as one of the most iconic and well-known pop stars in the world. His large vocal range, his ability to combine genres, and his musical chemistry with other artists just show how much of a virtuoso he is. Written By Ashley Adams FOLLOW JUSTIN BIEBER Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.
- Review: "Couldn't Replenish" - Elena C. Lockleis
Elena C. Lockleis is back with their first single from 2025--and they're just getting started. "Couldn't Replenish" is an acoustic-inspired ballad about the confusing messiness of heartbreak and abrupt endings. With vocals from singer Liliia Kysil, "Couldn't Replenish" carries a soft, wistful sound throughout. Even with its gloomy subject matter, the track retains a strong warmth. This warmth is all the more impressive considering that Elena made the song entirely remotely. They found Lilia on the website, Vocalizr, and collaborated to complete the track. With its emotional core and instant memorability, "Couldn't Replenish" is a demonstration of how strong a songwriter Elena truly is. As a musician, Elena C. Lockleis has always concentrated on their songwriting, which is evident throughout "Couldn't Replenish." In both melody and lyricism, "Couldn't Replenish" soars. The lyrics are equal parts poetic and universal. When it comes to their process, Elena states that "[it's] like throwing paint at a wall and seeing what colors stay vibrant." This vibrancy is seen all over "Couldn't Replenish." The titular line "I could make sense as I crumble on this bench how a love like ours couldn't replenish" is just one example of a lyric that is so emotionally evocative and relatable. Elena's songwriting paired with Liliia's airy vocals results in an undeniably impactful track. Couldn't Replenish" is a cathartic breakup song that is sonically soft yet emotionally heavy. Elena C. Lockleis is an artist and songwriter based in Los Angeles. The musician had a strong start to 2025 already, with the release of two singles back-to-back: "Couldn't Replenish" and "I Will Cheer With You." Both songs have received mass critical acclaim from various music journalists and blogs alike. Elena has only officially released three singles, with their first, "Mind-Vs.-Heart," debuting in 2023, yet the songwriter has already made a huge splash. On Spotify alone, they have over 1600 monthly listeners and counting. It is extremely exciting to see where Elena will go next with their career and when their next musical drop will be. In the meantime, you can listen to "Couldn't Replenish," along with the rest of Elena's discography, on streaming services now. Written By Lauren Nolan FOLLOW ELENA: Instagram | Spotify | YouTube *Sponsored Post - Discovered on Musosoup. A contribution was made to help create this article. #SustainableCurator
- 10 Songs You Wouldn't Know if Not for TikTok
Are you new to the TikTok world? Maybe you don't use the app but keep hearing these songs everywhere. On the other hand, maybe you're a TikTok connoisseur and already know every song on this list without even reading it. Either way, we hope you'll stick around for the new and the nostalgia, because this list spans across TikTok's short but vibrant eight year history. Come along as we explore ten songs you wouldn't know if not for TikTok. 10. Chase McDaniel - Project We're starting off strong with a country banger. "Project" by Chase McDaniel is an iconic, shameless tune about being a heartbreaker. McDaniel expresses that he, himself is a project, and that loving him is a mistake. Ouch! But that vulnerability is exactly what so many people online resonated with. Seemingly out of nowhere, "Project" jumped to number one on iTunes in the country category upon its release in 2023. Of course, this wasn't a surprise to McDaniel's follower base. He knew exactly what he was doing, teasing bits of the song for weeks until its full release. McDaniel might see himself as a project, but he's certainly a promotional guru. 9. Tay Money - The Assignment If you were on TikTok in 2022, you might remember the trend surround Tay Money's "The Assignment". Fans using this song would caption the video with something they were told to do followed by them doing it in either malicious compliance or some other kind of overkill. This is a tough trend to explain, but it was very funny at the time. Regardless, the song was pretty catchy and quickly blew up all over the net. Even today in 2025, "The Assignment" still sits as Tay Money's fourth most popular song on Spotify. 8. Phao - 2 Phut Hon (KAIZ Remix) Phao's "2 Phut Hon", specifically the KAIZ remix, was memed over and over again across the clock app. Most interestingly, this one taps into the cosplay culture of TikTok the most. Part of its popularity comes from the fact that it uses iconic anime characters like 002 from Darling in the Franxx to showcase an incredibly simple dance, actually. And if the dance is easy, well, people are going to want to do it! Everyone wanted to dress up as their favorite character and recreate that unforgettable shimmy. And just like that, "2 Phut Hon" spread like lightning. Everyone was doing the "002 dance" as it was called at the time, with their own spin on it. While the song isn't talked about much in 2025, it's definitely a certified banger and I highly recommend adding it to your workout playlist. 7. Paul Russell - Lil Boo Thang Paul Russell's "Lil Boo Thang" is the sunny pop jam we can all go to when we need to smile. With elements of funk and disco, its almost impossible not to dance to. Maybe that's why it became such a popular sound bite. "Lil Boo Thang" is often used in videos showcasing people from all walks of life dancing or even happy dog videos. It's the true definition of a feel good jam. Being fairly new to going viral, Russell doesn't have any other major hits yet, but has worked with A-list artists like Meghan Trainor and opened for her during her tour in 2024. This song is just the kind of sunlight the music world needs, and we're certain that Russell will continue to release great tunes with all of his talent and charisma! 6. Alex Warren - Ordinary Now for a sentimental love song, Alex Warren's "Ordinary". This one is genuinely beautiful. It's often used in wedding videos or in shorts about couples' unique love stories. Warren's smooth voice is reminiscent of artists like Sam Smith or Hozier. It's incredibly pleasant to listen to. Meanwhile, the passion behind "The Ordinary" is undeniably cinematic. It fits the vibe for romantic TikToks perfectly. Today, it remains Warren's most popular song on Spotify, but he has some other vibrant and artistic songs that are sure to captivate you just as much. His whole discography pretty much feels like a fairytale. 5. Sarah Maddack - Coffee Shop Bop If you remember the "Coffee Shop Bop" trend on TikTok, you might also remember that its creator, Sarah Maddack was absurdly under-credited for the song. The sound bite was used over and over again due to how catchy it is, but few of the users making videos with it even knew the original source. Thankfully, Maddack has reclaimed her adorable, infectiously catchy little jam, having released it on streaming services. Now, it's easy to find the song with the correct credentials. Maddack has a creative, rhythmic songwriting style that she claims has "ADHD energy", which is actually the perfect descriptor for her work. Her YouTube channel is full of whimsical little songs describing wild, imaginary tales. She's quite the creator, and if you like "Coffee Shop Bop", you should check out the rest of her music! 4. Kenya Grace - Strangers Singer and electronic producer, Kenya Grace found TikTok popularity with her song "Strangers" in 2023. Similarly to Chase McDaniel's approach, the song was teased constantly until its release. This continues to be a powerful marketing strategy, especially when the song is this good. Kenya Grace's style is particularly unique, which sets her apart from other viral artists of the time. Her music is fast-paced drum and bass with soft, almost whisper-like vocals. However, all of her lyrics hit hard with relatable themes. "Strangers" talks about the rise and fall of relationships, about how at first you spend all of your time with someone, but when things go wrong, you go back to being strangers. It's a contemplative theme, but we've all been there. Maybe that's why it speaks to so many people. 3. JVKE - Golden Hour "Golden Hour" by JVKE is a masterclass in portraying emotion through sound. The title of the song genuinely reflects the feeling in the music. You can put this sound to any beautiful sight or experience and it elevates the moment. Of course, that's because it was carefully thought out, planned, and executed. "Golden Hour" is the work of JVKE and his brother, Zac Lawson. The song took over four months to create and even longer to promote. In the end, the beautifully-crafted piano work became the focal point of the song, with many TikTok creators recreating it, boosting the song's popularity. Eventually, it became a staple in everyone's romantic Spotify playlist. If you somehow haven't heard this song, you absolutely need to! 2. Connie Francis - Pretty Little Baby This song is particularly interesting, as it wasn't promoted by TikTok, it was revived by it. "Pretty Little Baby" by Connie Francis was released all the way back in 1962. Interestingly enough, this was not Francis's most popular track of the time. She was more well-known for "Stupid Cupid" or "Who's Sorry Now". Of course, the internet has a way of pulling gems like "Pretty Little Baby" out of the woodwork. Lately, it's been the song stuck in everyone's head with how often it accompanies videos showcasing animals, parenting, or even comedy sketches. It's a lighthearted little tune that resurfaced just before Francis' untimely passing this past July. We hope this queen can rest easy knowing that her music is beloved by countless generations. 1. Gayle - ABCDEFU Finally, we've reached what I consider to be the quintessential TikTok virality song. "ABCDEFU" by Gayle is, to me, the most memorable song promoted on the app. The instant hit can be heard playing literally everywhere in countless videos and on the radio. Gayle absolutely hit the nail on the head with a unique spin on the revenge against your ex trope. The simple idea of using the alphabet song to make a diss track? Incredible. And the internet thought so too. This song took Gayle's music career to a completely new level, currently sporting over 270 million streams on YouTube alone since its release in 2021. Since then, she's been consistently releasing music, with notable titles like "internet baby" and "kinda smacks" bringing the same kind of energy to the table. With the work that goes into creating and promoting her music, Gayle deserves all the success in the world, and we can't wait to see what she puts out next! Finally, I want to include some honorable mentions that didn't quite make the list. iLOVEFRiDAY's "Mia Khalifa" is one of those tunes that defines TikTok's launch, but is a bit too raunchy to showcase on its own. Additionally, I want to mention Fulton Lee for promoting his entire career on TikTok with so many releases at this point that it's impossible to pinpoint just one. So , what did you think of today's list? Have you been hearing these songs on TikTok over the years? Have you discovered something new? Feel free to let us know at any of our socials below! Written By Shelbi Baker Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Spotify | TikTok | YouTube *copyright not intended. Fair use act, section 107.












