Friday, December 21, 2018

Top 100 of 2018: 80 to 71



You remind me of a time when things weren't so complicated...




Another surprise album from Beyoncé, this time with husband Jay-Z. The Carters released "Everything Is Love," and this single was out of Mrs. Carter's comfort zone. I initially didn't like the song, thought of the song as a hype-up anthem for their tour, On The Run II. To my surprise, I found myself bopping when they performed this piece. While it may not the usual Beyoncé & Jay-Z collaboration, it sure made an impact towards 2018. Let's wait and see what the power couple will come up with next.






From one radio hit to another, Imagine Dragons know how to make a song that is also a smash with mainstream media. Focused on the screaming component, the chorus carries the rest of the song, adding an energetic swirl to a much positive-track. What may seem to be a dramatic piece turns out to be a sought-out inspirational one - all suitable for an Imagine Dragons song.






Perhaps I interpreted the song in a wrong way, but it works great as an exercise warm-up. Thought of the song as a revenge track, which in some way, is true. But listening to the words, it's a big mess of emotions, not knowing what one wants from this person. Not a relationship, but more than a friendship? Congratulations to 5SOS for gaining attention on the radio, it's truly amazing to see how far they've come.





Always wondered what a song would sound like, taking elements from other songs. In comes Anne-Marie with this little ditty, referencing to childhood friends with the likes of Britney Spears, Nelly, Dr. Dre, and more. While nostalgic, I felt like the song dragged a bit too long to find enjoyable... The video, however, does save the piece altogether. I know Anne-Marie can do better, this song is simply a beginning to a long career.





Taken by surprise with this song, mostly because everything was thrown at once to me. Although sexuality should not be a discussion, Mathew V presents himself in a careless manner that pleases both audio and visual senses. Where was this song when the summer came, I don't know, but it makes you feel like you have no concerns whatsoever. Good for V to come out of his shell, he never sounded better.





Retro Disco meets modern day beats: you got yourself a match made in heaven. Not to mention, the random words spoken by Jessie Reyez adds the pizzaz that the song needed. I find this song relatable to pop culture, as the video explores one that not may be familiar about the dance scene. Turning something old into a fresh track, what can't Calvin Harris do? And it's always delightful to see Sam Smith tackle Dance music, he manages to perform soundly.





The video may have caused controversy with the church, but it showcases a man asking forgiveness for his sins. The elaborate film takes a look into the personal life of Jay-Z's scandal, and his lyrics are on point with the choir singing in the background. Beyoncé adds her own riffs, but does not steal the attention from her husband. Listen to what the man has to say, because he's got a lot to confess at the altar. No one can tell the truth more like Shawn Carter over here.





BTS managed to win the hearts of North American fans, and their song turns out to be a critical success. Mostly due to the video, the K-Pop scene knows hot to please their fans. And not to mention, there is a remix that includes Nicki Minaj - it might even be better than the original. Goes to show that there is a progress with music, and I am excited to hear more and more multi-language collaborations.





Ariana Grande didn't even want this song to be a single - but the audience proved that this single would be well-received. If I am not mistaken, the song is about her grandfather, which is a lovely dedication, especially with the arrangement; there are audio clips of him speaking in the background. One of the stronger songs from "Sweetener," hopefully Miss Grande continues to experiment with these mid-tempo ballads.




There's mystery and suspicion in this song, and it's easy to consider that both artists are singing to each other. Throw in a psychedelic video, and you've got another story. I like the path Charlie Puth goes with this song, dazzling people with an 80s back track and some affirmative accusations. For the throwback of the year, Charlie Puth and Kehlani puts every one into one sexy love triangle.

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