The Contenders, Vol. 4: Our running list of the year's best songs
Mar 5, 2024
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Join hosts as they discuss potential songs for the best-of-the-year lists, featuring Empress Of, Rosie Tucker, Patrick Watson, and more. Dive into the emotional depth of cover songs and new artists' music styles while exploring the themes of joy, melancholy, and personal growth through music.
Empress Of challenges dating norms with Femenina's desire for a submissive partner.
Rosie Tucker's All My Exes Live in Vortexes intertwines pop-punk with thought-provoking lyricism.
Patrick Watson's Perfect Day rendition embodies beauty and magic through soulful piano arrangement.
Deep dives
Empress of's Song Femenina - A Playful Take on Gender Roles
Empress of's song Femenina cleverly plays with gender roles, specifically depicting a desire for a submissive man. The lyrics explore the idea of seeking a submissive partner while also desiring equality in a relationship. The song's joyful and upbeat vibe, coupled with its incorporation of Spanish language lyrics, adds depth and playfulness to its message, challenging traditional dating dynamics.
Rosie Tucker's All My Exes Live in Vortexes - Layered Meaning and Sharp Lyricism
Rosie Tucker's song, All My Exes Live in Vortexes, showcases sharp lyricism and intricate wordplay. The title serves as a clever play on words, hinting at deeper meanings that leave listeners pondering. The song's mix of pop-punk elements and thought-provoking lyrics creates a dynamic listening experience that invites reflection on themes of desire, relationships, and the interconnectedness of suffering.
Patrick Watson's Perfect Day (Como Rebi Version) - A Soulful Rendition with Cultural Significance
Patrick Watson's rendition of Lou Reed's Perfect Day, titled Como Rebi Version, offers a soulful and contemplative take on the classic song. The track, created for the film Perfect Days, captures the essence of sunlight shining through leaves, embodying a sense of beauty and magic. Watson's arrangement, featuring solo piano, highlights the emotional depth of the lyrics while paying homage to Japanese cultural concepts.
Summer Banton's Boyfriend - A Vibrant R&B Spring Anthem
Summer Banton's song Boyfriend exudes vibrant R&B energy with a playful twist. The track's catchy hook and smooth production create a feel-good spring anthem. Through its playful lyrics, Boyfriend captures the essence of youth, freedom, and independence, resonating with themes of self-assurance and enjoying life's moments. Banton's infusion of nostalgia and modern R&B elements makes this a perfect track for spring fever.
Maddie Diaz's God Person - Reflective Journey of Faith and Existence
Maddie Diaz's song God Person offers a reflective journey exploring faith, uncertainty, and the search for meaning. The introspective lyrics delve into personal introspection and contemplation of life's complexities. Diaz's soulful and evocative vocals carry emotional weight, touching on themes of family, relationships, and self-discovery. God Person delivers a poignant message of seeking understanding and finding peace amidst life's uncertainties.
Brittany Luse, host of NPR's It's Been A Minute, joins NPR's Stephen Thompson and host Robin Hilton to update our running tally of songs that could end up on NPR Music's best-of-the-year lists.
Featured Tracks:
1. Empress Of: "Feminine," from For Your Consideration 2. Rosie Tucker: "All My Exes Live In Vortexes," from UTOPIA NOW! 3. Patrick Watson: "Perfect Day" (Single) 4. Summer Banton: "Boyfriend" (Single) 5. Madi Diaz: "God Person," from Weird Faith 6. Friko: "Get Numb To It," from Where we've been, Where we go from here