As much as I’m a huge sports fan and love to yap about it, I’m also a massive music lover. So, I figured, why not share some song recommendations? Over the past few months—and even throughout last year—I’ve discovered some incredible tracks that have made their way onto my playlist. If you’re a big music fan, you might want to add these to yours as well. Most of these songs are fairly new, while some are a little older, but all of them deserve a spot in 2025. So, let’s get into it.
Genius – Ravyn Lenae
OK, Genius by Ravyn Lenae—so good. This song has a groovy beat, and even though the production is pretty simple, the lyrics are amazing. Her voice is so sultry and soothing that you get completely captivated. It’s like you’re transported to another world when you listen to it.
This track is off her Bird’s Eye album, which dropped in August 2024, and the entire project is incredible—both lyrically and musically. Ravyn Lenae is such a gem in the R&B scene. Her sound has this indie-R&B fusion that I love. It’s not overwhelming, but it’s definitely something you can vibe to when you need a moment of calm. Her music brings me peace, yet it still has a funky groove that keeps things interesting.
Love Me Not (Both Versions) – Ravyn Lenae & Rex Orange County
I discovered Love Me Not in October 2024 and instantly fell in love with it. Then, boom—it blew up on TikTok. A part of me was a little sad that it became so popular, but I can’t be mad because it gave her the recognition she deserves.
There are two versions of this song: the original, which is just her vocals, and a remix featuring Rex Orange County. His voice blends perfectly with hers, and it creates a cool conversational dynamic in the song. The lyrics tell a story about being in a relationship that isn’t really serving you, yet you keep coming back. Having two different perspectives makes the song even more immersive.
It’s so addicting. I’ve played it on repeat, and I’m still not tired of it. It’s groovier than Genius—a little more upbeat—but still carries that same smooth, hypnotic quality. I love that it became popular on social media because now even more people get to appreciate it.
Busy Woman – Sabrina Carpenter
I first heard Busy Woman at a Sabrina Carpenter concert in November. It was one of her Spin the Bottle songs, and I had no idea it was from her upcoming deluxe album.
She just dropped the deluxe edition of Short n’ Sweet recently, featuring songs like 15 Minutes and Busy Woman. I love Busy Woman because it’s snappy, full of attitude, and packed with charisma. Sabrina knows how to write insanely catchy lyrics—like, she always has that one line that just hits.
This song is so fun and empowering. It’s got this retro ’70s-’80s vibe that makes you want to throw on a cute outfit, do your hair, and twirl around your room while getting ready. If you need a confidence boost before heading out, this is the perfect song to blast.
Sally, When the Wine Runs Out – Role Model
This one is from Role Model’s album Kansas Anymore, which came out last year. I loved that album from the moment it dropped, so when he released the deluxe version alongside Sabrina Carpenter’s, I was all over it.
Sally When the Wine Runs Out has a country-twang mixed with an upbeat, danceable energy. It makes you want to do a little line dance, and I love that about his music—catchy and fun but still packed with emotion.
The thing about Role Model’s music is that even when the lyrics are sad, the melodies are so infectious that you just have to move. It’s that perfect balance of heartbreak and good vibes. I already know this is going to be on repeat for me all spring and summer. I can picture it now: driving with the windows down, sun shining, headed to the beach—Sally When the Wine Runs Out blasting in the background. That’s the kind of song this is.
Nokia – Drake & PARTYNEXTDOOR
This one dropped on February 14th as part of Drake and PARTYNEXTDOOR’s collab album. And let me tell you, it was a much-needed release from both of them.
Nokia is just classic Drake. From the moment you press play, it’s got you hooked. It’s such a club song—perfect for dancing and having a good time. It has this fusion of ’80s, ’90s, and early 2000s vibes, which makes it even more addictive.
One thing I love about this album is that a lot of the songs have a two-part structure, where the first half sounds different from the second. It keeps things exciting, and Nokia is no exception. Drake has mastered the art of making ridiculous yet ridiculously catchy songs, and this one is no different. Another thing I absolutely love about this song beyond it’s surface level listening if you have a good ear you can hear a phone ringtone going off which I thought was a great touch to the song and quite fitting for it’s lyrics as well.
Another honourable mention from the album? CN Tower. It’s the perfect opener—sets the mood right away. Definitely worth a listen.
Final Thoughts
So, those are some of the songs you should add to your 2025 playlist. If you’re into R&B, indie, and even a little bit of country influence, you’ll definitely find something you like. My taste is kind of all over the place, but I think that’s the beauty of a great playlist—having variety keeps things interesting.
Give these songs a listen, and let me know what you think! Hope you enjoy them as much as I do.