5 Songs By Griff Your Playlist Needs

Her debut album Vertigo may still be hot off the press, but English singer-songwriter Griff has already made a name for herself. Since her debut EP The Mirror Talk in 2021, Griff has been named as the opening act for some massive artists. Maybe you’ve heard of some of them?: Dua Lipa, Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter – no big deal. Named the Rising Star at the 2021 Brit Awards, Griff is living up to that title. Here are 5 Griff songs your playlist needs to get to know The Next Big Thing in pop music.

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‘Vertigo’

The title track of Griff’s debut album is an electro-pop triumph. Its chorus is catchy and anthemic, as Griff’s light-yet-powerful vocals sing out, “You’re scared of heights, that’s vertigo/You wanted lights, go see a show/You ran away, that’s touch and go/You’re scared of love, well, aren’t we all?” Starry harmonies and atmospheric production top off this hit-waiting-to-happen.

‘Pillow In My Arms’

No track has been written more perfectly for heartbreak-induced bedroom dancing than Vertigo track ‘Pillow In My Arms.’ Synthy, groovy, and perfectly woeful, Griff belts out “And it won’t bring you back, love/And it won’t make it stop/But it’s all that I’ve got/So, damn it, I’ll hold it tight in my arms.” So whatever your heartbreak playlist is called, add this song to it.

‘One Night’

Despite being one of Griff’s earlier releases, ‘One Night’ is undoubtedly a dance-pop high that would easily attract the attention of a dance-pop queen like Dua Lipa. But Griff isn’t one to hit the clubs and let loose – Griff dances around her bedroom, trying to shake off self-doubt and the ghosts of her past. She sings: “Can I have one night, one night, one night/Where it’s just me alone?/Is it ’cause I’ve been feeling guilty all along?/Or is it the gods just tryna tell me to move on?”

‘Walk’

Described by Griff as a “platonic” love song, ‘Walk’ closed out her 2021 mixtape One Foot In Front Of The Other. This track is lighter in tone and production than many of Griff’s other music, as she sings about all the good things she sees in someone: “I can’t put my finger on it/It’s not just the way that you talk/’Cause there’s so much of you I adore.”

‘Tears for Fun’

Closing out the list is ‘Tears for Fun,’ one of Griff’s most cinematic and ambitious tracks to date. Channeling a sound reminiscent of the likes of Marina & The Diamonds, Griff’s harmonic vocals are glittering and majestic as they echo, “When it kills your heart but you can’t say no/When it burns you red but you won’t let go/The deepest cuts, well, they heal so slow/I hope they do, God, but what if they don’t?” The song’s haunting production and powerfully evocative lyrics blend to create a powerful anthem about the juxtapositions of vulnerability and resilience, melancholy and hope. 

What Griff songs did we miss that you have on your playlists?

5 Reasons Why You Should Stan Kelsea Ballerini

Kelsea Ballerini has been a standout artist in the country-pop genre since her debut in 2015, and her popularity has only grown over the last few years. And for a good reason! From her incredible songwriting and fearless allyship to her unwavering commitment to her art, Kelsea continually proves she’s more than just a musician. We’re big stans of her, so we’re breaking down our top 5 reasons why you should stan Kelsea Ballerini too!

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Her Songwriting

Kelsea Ballerini’s songwriting skill is undeniable, which makes her stand out as a star in the country-pop genre. From the reflective lead single from her 2020 album Kelsea, ‘Homecoming Queen?’ and gracious, vulnerable closer of 2022’s SUBJECT TO CHANGE ‘What I Have,’ to the vibrant, Grammy-nominated ‘HEARTFIRST’ and cheeky, honest ‘How Do I Do This’ from Rolling Up the Welcome Mat (For Good), she has consistently showcased her ability to craft diverse, clever, bold, sincere songs that resonate with her growing and maturing audience.

Her Beauty, Inside and Out

Kelsea’s beauty is not just skin deep. Her glamor and sense of fashion are always stellar, from her stunning red carpet looks to her always-sparkly stage wear. Beyond her public image, she’s openly shared her journey with mental health through her book Feel Your Way Through, showing immense courage and empathy. Her willingness to share her journey helps destigmatize mental health issues and inspires others to embrace their emotional strength.

Her Fearlessness and Allyship

Kelsea is unafraid to take a stand. During the controversial Tennessee drag ban, she performed with drag queens at the 2023 CMT Awards. Her defiance and support for the LGBTQIA+ community showcased her bravery and commitment to inclusivity. Additionally, her candid interviews on Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy post-divorce showcased her resilience and honesty by sharing her challenges and triumphs.

Her Integrity

In an industry where artists often switch labels for better deals, Kelsea Ballerini’s loyalty to her label, Black River, which signed her at 19, speaks volumes about her integrity. Despite her numerous achievements, including multiple Grammy nominations, headlining shows at Radio City Music Hall, and solidifying a role as a judge on The Voice, Kelsea has remained committed to the team that believed in her from the beginning. This loyalty is a testament to her character and the values she upholds. Her loyalty is also demonstrated by her decision to play her first headlining arena show at home in Knoxville, Tennessee.  These decisions highlight the importance Kelsea places on her beginnings.

Her Commitment to Her Art

Kelsea’s dedication to her music is evident in the boundaries she pushes for her artistry. She wrote and co-directed the Rolling Up the Welcome Mat short film, demonstrating that her artistic vision stretches beyond her songwriting and performance abilities. With six studio albums already released and another on the way, her prolific output over the nine years since her debut highlights her unwavering commitment to her music and the creative avenues that bring her music to life. This relentless drive to create and innovate ensures that Kelsea Ballerini remains a significant and influential figure in music.

13 Taylor Swift Songs You Need On Your Summer Playlist

August may be slipping away into a moment in time, but Taylor Swift’s genre-bending discography is guaranteed to have the perfect track to add to your summer playlist. Whether driving with the windows down, lounging by the pool, or enjoying a beach sunset, here are thirteen Taylor Swift songs to soundtrack your not-so-Cruel Summer.

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1. august

This one is a no-brainer. ‘august’ has shot up the streaming charts with greater and greater demand every year since it was released on folklore in 2020 (streams of the track were up 24% in 2023). From its willowy, hazy production to its carefree, sunny lyricism, ‘august’ is a Taylor summer classic.

2. Our Song

‘Our Song’ is proof that some things really do get better with age. Released in 2006 in the era of full-fledged Country Taylor, ‘Our Song’ is bright, bubbly, and light-hearted. With its catchy, banjo-driven melody and charming lyrics about “the slamming screen door, sneakin' out late” and “riding shotgun with my hair undone,” the song is perfect for soundtracking those nostalgic summer days when everything feels simple and sweet. 

3. Cruel Summer

The anthem of passionate yet uncertain summer romance is none other than ‘Cruel Summer.’ With its pulsing synths and bold lyrics, the song explores the thrill and turmoil of a love that’s as exhilarating as it is risky. Swift's powerful vocals and vivid storytelling make ‘Cruel Summer’ the perfect track for a balmy, exciting summer night. Whether you're sneaking in through the garden gate or just reminiscing about The Eras Tour, this track delivers a rush of exhilaration that's impossible to ignore.

4. Mine (Taylor’s Version)

For a summer day when life feels full of promise, ‘Mine (Taylor’s Version)’ beautifully captures the sweetness and uncertainty of blossoming love. Swift’s storytelling never shines brighter as she sings, “Do you remember, we were sittin' there by the water?/You put your arm around me for the first time.” Whether you're laying in the grass basking in the sun or sitting by the water reflecting on past romances, ‘Mine (Taylor’s Version) offers a poignant reminder of the beauty and joy that come with discovering a love that feels like it was meant to be.

5. Mr. Perfectly Fine (Taylor’s Version) (From the Vault)

With its vibrant production and clever wordplay, ‘Mr. Perfectly Fine (Taylor’s Version) (From The Vault) ’ stands out as a perfect summer track for those moments of letting go and celebrating newfound independence. As one of the first From The Vault tracks released as part of Taylor’s re-recording process, ‘Mr. Perfectly Fine’ sparked a newfound interest in Fearless (Taylor’s Version) thanks to its vibrant production and sassy lyricism. Perfect for a sunny summer afternoon, ‘Mr. Perfectly Fine’ is an automatic Add to Playlist for when you just need to reclaim your own happiness.

6. Starlight (Taylor’s Version)

For a summer evening when you’re feeling nostalgic and hopeful, ‘Starlight (Taylor’s Version)’ offers a magical escape. Creating a dreamy backdrop for those moments of stargazing and turning a simple summer night into an enchanting memory, ‘Starlight (Taylor’s Version)’ will have you feeling like you’re on the boardwalk in the summer of ‘45 along with the song’s protagonists. 

7. Say Don’t Go (Taylor’s Version) (From the Vault)

For a summer playlist that blends sunshine with a touch of heartache, Taylor Swift’s ‘Say Don’t Go’ from 1989 (Taylor’s Version) is a must. The track’s poignant lyrics like “I’m standin' on a tightrope alone” and “Why’d you have to twist the knife?” perfectly capture the bittersweet sting of a summer romance gone awry. Swift’s emotive vocals and the track’s reflective tone make it a poignant addition that adds depth to your summer soundtrack, perfect for moments of icy introspection amidst the summer heat.

8. But Daddy I Love Him

‘But Daddy I Love Him’ from Swift’s newest album The Tortured Poets Department is as passionate and bold as a hot summer night. From the strong declaration of love as Swift proclaims: “Now I'm running with my dress unbuttoned/Screaming "But Daddy I love him!" to the all-encompassing desire of “I’m telling him to floor it through the fences/No, I’m not coming to my senses,” the track highlights the passionate and rebellious spirit of a sultry summer love affair, despite judgment and resistance. 

9. the lakes - the long pond studio sessions

If you’re looking for a Sad Girl Summer addition to your summer playlist, ‘the lakes - the long pond studio sessions’ is the best of the best. The live recorded version of this folklore gem transports you to a serene escape with its evocative lyrics, like “I want auroras and sad prose/I want to watch wisteria grow right over my bare feet/'Cause I haven't moved in years/And I want you right here.” Swift’s hauntingly beautiful vocals and the song’s lush arrangement paint a picture of tranquil, otherworldly landscapes, perfect for those quiet moments in a sun-dappled park or beside your own version of “the lakes where all the poets went to die.”

10. Hits Different

To add a twist of raw emotion and dark humor to your summer playlist, Midnights bonus track “Hits Different” is a must-add. The song captures the hilariously messy aftermath of a breakup with lines like, “I pictured you with other girls in love/Then threw up on the street,” and the feeling of love gone wrong. Swift’s candid lyrics and dramatic delivery turn heartbreak into a catchy anthem, making it perfect for a summer slumber party night when you’re laughing through the tears and reflecting on how “love is a lie.” Add this Taylor track to your summer playlist for a dose of bittersweet fun and a reminder that sometimes moving on can be as entertaining as it is painful.

11. Florida!!! (feat. Florence + The Machine)

What says summer like a track named after one of the most tropical places on the planet? With lyrics like, “Florida is one hell of a drug,” and “I got drunk and dared the hurricane to wash me away,” ‘Florida!!! (feat. Florence + The Machine)’ the anthem for anyone who's ever used a beachside getaway as a way to escape their own mess. This The Tortured Poets Department track is your soundtrack for turning regrets into beachside adventures and reminding you that sometimes you just “need to forget, so take me to Florida.”

12. Getaway Car

For a flashy summer night when you're craving excitement and a hint of rebellion, ‘Getaway Car’ from reputation delivers an exhilarating escape into the thrill of a daring romance. The track’s dynamic production creates a vivid soundtrack for those moments when you’re living on the edge and embracing the thrill of the unknown. And Swift is never more rebellious than she is in this song’s clever bridge: “I'm in a getaway car/I left you in a motel bar/Put the money in a bag and I stole the keys/That was the last time you ever saw me.” ‘Getaway Car’ is a thrilling anthem for those spontaneous nights when everything feels larger than life. 

13. Karma

To close out our recommendations for your summer playlist, ‘Karma’ offers a vibrant celebration of poetic justice and self-assurance. Swift’s confident vocals and upbeat rhythm capture the thrill of seeing the universe balance itself out, as she sings, “Ask me what I learned from all those years/Ask me what I earned from all those tears/Ask me why so many fade, but I'm still here.” The song’s lively production and catchy chorus create an energetic backdrop for those moments of reveling in personal victories and life’s little ironies. Whether you’re basking in the sun or simply in the satisfaction of seeing things fall into place, ‘Karma’’s lively production (and possible reminder of the end of a memorable summer night at The Eras Tour) is just as addictive and joyful as summer itself.