2022 [1] has finally arrived, and the period when we actually have to commit to the "new year, new us" promises we made last year is here at last. While we prepare for the brighter days, the freezing temperatures, and the countdown to summer once again, we are continuing to find new ways to get through this bizarre year — with listening to great new music being one of them.
This year, we're paying close attention to the artists who have been declared ones to watch [2] by critics, experts, and the general public (let's face it, mostly TikTok users), and that includes BBC Radio 1's Sound of 2022 winner PinkPantheress [3], alongside Priya Ragu [4], Mimi Webb [5], Enny, Lola Young [6], and many more.
With so many new songs set to be released this month (and this year, undoubtedly), it can be hard to keep track of who's doing what — and whether or not it's worth listening to, more importantly. Well, that's where we come in. Every month, we'll be rounding up the best songs [7] from the UK music scene for your listening pleasure. Whether it's another iconic Adele hit or a ballad from R&B songstress Jorja Smith, we've got the songs to see you through this new month.
Just a few days into January, we've had a heart-wrenching breakup anthem from Lauren Spencer-Smith on repeat and a brand-new track from Rat Boy just released, with plenty more music still to come. Read on to discover all the tracks that made it onto our January playlist.
"THE REV3NGE" by Joey Bada$$
It feels like a long time since we've heard new music from American rapper Joey Bada$$, and that's because his last full album was released way back in 2017. "THE REV3NGE" is his latest single, and it's an explosive track dedicated to the art of revenge and seemingly reflecting on his success.
"Need You Tonight" by JP Cooper ft. RAY BLK
At first glance, a collaboration between indie folk artist JP Cooper and R&B songstress Ray BLK [8] seems like an odd pairing, but trust me when I say that it works. It's quite a departure from BLK's usual sound, but the track gives her a real opportunity to showcase her dynamic vocals, and the harmonies aren't too bad either.
"Paramaniac" by Abby Roberts
TikTok star and beauty sensation Abby Roberts [9] has just added another notch to her belt thanks to her first ever music release, "Paramaniac". The saccharine track is a dreamy post-punk anthem rooted in realism, and it has the video to match. One for fans of PC music and artists like Blood Orange and Baby Queen, it's very much worth a listen.
"Big Bad Mood" by Jordan Stephens and Miraa May
Former Rizzle Kicks member Jordan Stephens has taken a break from presenting to grace us with his brand new single, "Big Bad Mood". Created in collaboration with North London baddie Miraa May, the dynamic track is a very fun listen, with a bouncy backing track and some tongue in cheek lyrics.
"Little Bother" by King Princess and Fousheé
23-year-old King Princess has teamed up with TikTok star Fousheé for this alt-soul track, and it's a match made in heaven. The song fuses alternative dance beats with soulful vocals and delightful harmonies, and it's the perfect listen for fans of genre-bending sounds.
In an interview with NME, King Princess said that "It became this song about tiptoeing around someone you've lost and feeling like a pest. It poses questions to a person who may not be listening at all and I think that's a beautiful sentiment."
"Holiday From Reality" by Poppy Ajudha
Poppy Ajudha [10]'s sultry new single, "Holiday From Reality" is a true testament to her distinctive voice. At times, the track positions Ajudha as a modern day Amy Winehouse [11] because of the jazz influences, but with a much fuller and sonically interesting backing track.
"Forget About Me" by Aluna, Diplo, and Durante
"Forget About Me" is the glitzy new release from Aluna (yes, that Aluna) and it's a high energy collaboration that features Diplo and Italian producer Durante. "This song is about that moment when you've cleaned up the trash pile that was once your heart," the singer said of the track. "You're feeling yourself and you've worked out how to be alone but the past comes back to haunt you, hungry for your new self love and abundant vibes."
She added that "Those are the moments you have to stay strong and really forget about your old love so that new fresh love can waltz into your life. When the one that got away comes back . . . what you gonna do? That's not what I call destiny, you deserve better."
"Jealousy" by FKA Twigs feat. Rema
The first official release from FKA Twigs' highly anticipated new album, Caprisongs, does not disappoint. The synth-heavy track is a collaboration with 21-year-old Nigerian singer Rema and has elements of the growing amapiano sound that's slowly being brought into the mainstream by South African artists.
"Fingers Crossed" by Lauren Spencer-Smith
Lauren Spencer-Smith's "Fingers Crossed" is about to be the breakup anthem of 2022 — we're sure of it. The track pairs soothing melodies with harmonious vocals and an impressive range, and whether you're heartbroken or not, you will most likely have the song on repeat at some point.
"Ram Raid" by Rat Boy
English musician Rat Boy, otherwise known as Jordan Cardy, released "Ram Raid" earlier this month, and already it's become a staple on gym playlists everywhere (we assume). A high-tempo indie banger, the energetic track is undeniably catchy, and we promise it won't be long before you can recite all the words in the shower.
"Absolute" by Foxes
"Absolute" is the latest offering from English singer-songwriter Foxes, and it's just as vibrant and eclectic as we remember her to be. Taken from her upcoming new album, The Kick, the song is a glittery feel-good dance anthem that definitely deserves a spot on this month's playlist.
"900 Degrees" by Deyah
Rising Welsh artist Deyah's genre-bending new release "900 Degrees" is a captivating listen. It's harmonious, it's emotive, and it's fluid, and it feels like the kind of song you'd want playing in the background as you curl up with a good book and light an incense stick.
"A Dangerous Thing" by Aurora
Norwegian singer Aurora's latest single, "A Dangerous Thing," is definitely one for fans of Chvrches, The XX, and London Grammar. Led by her distinctive vocals and paired with a celestial-sounding backing track, the song is the perfect accompaniment to any new year's intention setting.