Intro
As noted, each week, we'll be diving even deeper into the pool of music within Spotify’s "New Music Friday" playlist in order to shine the spotlight on specific songs and artists that stand out. Whether it’s an outstanding album or the release of an artist's new work, we'll be dissecting the music of particular artists featured on the playlist, while acknowledging why other artists also deserve a spot on the playlist. Due to the plethora of talented artists releasing nowadays, some artists may be left out of the playlist. Therefore, I’ll give a monthly shout-out to an artist's music I feel should be recognized with more attention.
Take this a weekly conversation. I'm excited to hear your input as well!
Alejandro's Anecdote
I remember the first time I discovered the "New Music Friday" playlist. I've always been intrigued by different musical genres, especially when the music is in a different language, so I was thoroughly astounded when I stumbled across this playlist. Before that moment, it was harder to find new music that I liked as I had to search others' playlists, hoping to find something that will catch my attention.
Through this playlist, I heard Morgan Wallen for the first time--specifically, his song "Last Night." This single went on to remain 16 non-consecutive weeks at the number one spot of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Although I am not a big fan of country music, I profoundly enjoyed listening to this song. Each stream felt like the first listen for me. His modern twist on country music provided a new perspective that encouraged me to listen to more. Undoubtedly, without the "New Music Friday" playlist, I would not have encountered this track I came to love.
"New Music Friday" has become my go-to for discovering new artists and tracks that fit different moments of my life. It's become a landscape for discovery, which is why I’ve decided to dedicate this blog to it.
Image Credit: Nancy Messiah in MakeUsOf
Currently in the Music World...
This week, I’m especially excited to be talking about Myke Towers' deluxe release of his album, LA PANTERA NEGRA, including features from other remarkable artists such as De La Ghetto, Maldy, Peso Pluma, and Jay Wheeler.
As one of today's top Latin artists, Myke Towers' music has become a huge part of the modern music scene globally, with popular music in reggaeton, hip-hop, and pop.
Spotlighted on this week's New Music Friday, "DEGENERE" featuring benny blanco takes the twelfth spot. Sampling Suzanne Vega's "Tom's Diner," the new track brings a modern twist with nostalgia. Using the same rhythm as the sample, the chorus of "DEGENERE" also invites itself to live in our heads rent free.
There's something about the way Myke Towers blends reggaeton and pop that feels so fresh, yet similar. Since we're used to hearing Fall Out Boy's sample of this song with the inspiring lyrics of "Centuries," it was interesting hearing this sample implemented into a reggaeton song with flirtatious lyrics. The instrumental of this track inspires the listeners to hit dance moves that they never thought of before. My favorite lyric of this song is "Por amor nadie se muere," loosely translating to "Nobody dies from love."
I’ve always been a huge fan of Myke Towers' versatility. From LYKE MYKE to LA PANTERA NEGRA, he shifts gears again, showing off a more melodic side compared to his previous rap singles. The tracks have a high quality of production with lyrics that playfully discuss what it's like to feel like a winner. He has music perfect for the nights we relax at home, and for the nights we party as well.
What really sets "DEGENERE" apart is the production. The smooth beat and flow are flawless. Each one of Myke Towers' albums stirs a conversation in the music world because of his constant, versatile shift in style.
Reddit user, ReggaetonPartyMane1, in Reddit's r/Reggaeton blog states:
"It is the best album of his career. [...] He could have always done an album like this but I guess he was finally allowed to take his time."
With Myke Towers' deluxe version of the album, LA PANTERA NEGRA, now fully released, there’s a lot of conversation about where she’s headed aesthetically. Some say he’s shifting more into an experimental space, considering his transition from hard trap songs into fun pop songs. Others are excited to see him keep blending genres with the inclusion of Spanglish. Because of the ongoing discourse, it’s clear that his music and style are shaking things up in the music industry.
The Artist Who Slipped Away...
Although I've enjoyed the tracks on these past weeks' playlists, I feel that the timeless R&B artist, Mario, deserved a spot for his song "Space." Although it is undoubtedly an R&B track, if I had to create the name of a new genre using this song, I would call it "nostalgic retrofutrism." The lyrics relatably encapsulate what it feels like to be hooked onto a stranger's beauty in public. Additionally, the dreamy effects of the song almost make me feel as if one is floating in space. One thing I like about this single is that the instrumental is just as catchy as the chorus. A catchy instrumental adds on to the timelessness of a song, just like any song from Mario's discography.
Mario's absence from Spotify's "New Music Friday" feels like a missed opportunity, especially with his everlasting international presence in the R&B world. Hopefully, we’ll him make an appearance for his next release.
I encourage you all to take a listen and see for yourself why I think Mario's Space should have been on the playlist. Let me know in the comments what you think--did Mario deserve a spot this week?
Image Credit: Photowall
Invite to Conversation
Now, I want to hear from you! As I wrap up this week’s Spotlighting the Stage, I invite you to continue the conversation with me in the comments.
What tracks are currently dominating your playlists?
Are you excited for Myke Towers' deluxe release of LA PANTERA NEGRA? What do you think so far?
After listening to Mario's "Space," do you think he should've been recognized on Spotify's "New Music Friday"?
Were there any songs or artists on New Music Friday that you think should've been replaced with a different artist?
I’m always open to new perspectives, and I’m excited to hear what’s currently soundtracking your life! Let’s have a friendly debate and discussion in the comments. I love hearing new perspectives, and maybe, you might introduce me to my next favorite song!
Image Credit: Depositphotos
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