The Contenders, Vol. 4: The songs we can't stop playing this week
Feb 11, 2025
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This week features the captivating Tunde Adebimpe, the creative force behind TV On The Radio, discussing his powerful new track 'Drop.' Listeners dive into the evocative soundscape of girlpuppy’s debut album 'Sweetness,' particularly the introspective hit 'Champ.' The episode explores themes of love and protest through Lonnie Holley's heartfelt 'Protest With Love.' Plus, The Weather Station’s poignant 'Lonely' reflects on urban isolation, while Ólafur Arnalds & Talos offer a haunting tribute to connectedness in 'We Didn't Know We Were Ready.'
The podcast emphasizes the trend of artists like Tunde Adebimpe and Brittany Howard successfully exploring solo careers to express individual creativity.
It also highlights the unpredictable nature of sports, illustrated by the Kansas City Chiefs' surprise defeat and its implications.
Deep dives
Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl Struggles
The Kansas City Chiefs faced a significant defeat in the recent Super Bowl, where expectations were high due to their favored status. Observations noted that the Chiefs' momentum was quickly overshadowed by the Philadelphia Eagles' commanding performance, surprising many fans. The intensity of the game led to inevitable discussions among fans, particularly regarding the implications for star player Travis Kelsey, who missed a potential proposal to Taylor Swift post-game. This defeat starkly highlighted the unpredictability of sports, where even favored teams can experience disheartening outcomes.
Kendrick Lamar's Halftime Performance
Kendrick Lamar's much-anticipated halftime performance captured the attention of both fans and critics, particularly due to the backdrop of his rivalry with Drake. There were heightened expectations around whether he would perform his hit 'Not Like Us,' which has become emblematic of his criticisms toward Drake. Lamar indeed performed the track, creating an electrifying atmosphere as he showcased a medley of his popular songs, stirring strong reactions from the audience. His engaging performance served not just as entertainment but also as a powerful statement in the ongoing narrative of hip-hop rivalries.
Emergence of Solo Artists
The podcast discussed the rising trend of established artists launching solo careers after years in bands, emphasizing the personal identity that comes with this transition. Tunde Adabimpe's much-anticipated debut album highlights the artist's individual explorations beyond his band, showcasing a unique musical direction that diverges from his prior work. This sentiment extends to other musicians like Brittany Howard, who, after stepping out of their group identities, manifest deeper, more introspective perspectives in their solo projects. The conversation pointed to how solo ventures allow artists to present their individual creativity, offering fresh dimensions to their sound and artistry.
The latest update to our running list of the year's best songs includes the shredded guitars of girlpuppy, solo material from from TV On The Radio's Tunde Adebimpe and more.
Featured artists and songs:
• Tunde Adebimpe: "Drop," from 'Thee Black Boltz'
• girlpuppy: "Champ," from 'Sweetness'
• Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith: "Into Your Eyes" from 'GUSH'
• Lonnie Holley: "Protest With Love," from 'Tonky'
• The Weather Station: "Lonely," from 'Humanhood'
• Ólafur Arnalds & Talos: "We Didn't Know We Were Ready" (feat. Niamh Regan & Ye Vagabonds) (single)
Enjoy the show? Share it with a friend and leave us a review on Apple or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Questions, comments, suggestions or feedback of any kind always welcome: allsongs@npr.org
Hear the songs in the All Songs Considered playlists in Apple Music and Spotify.