Welcome to Music of the Month, your once a month stop for all the latest music releases! My name is Anisa Tran, a well-versed music lover who is ready to give you the 411 on today’s top hits and new releases. With a new year comes plenty of new tunes for us to feast our ears on. Many of these artists worked hard throughout 2020 on their latest projects. Here’s some new releases to start your 2021 off right.
“drivers license” by Olivia Rodrigo
17-year-old actress and singer Olivia Rodrigo made her entrance into the music industry with her first single, “drivers license” on January 8, 2021. The song tells the story of a heartbroken girl driving through the suburbs after her boyfriend breaks up with her before she got her driver’s license, an accomplishment they were supposed to celebrate together. The song is open, emotional, and raw, making it a beautiful debut for Rodrigo’s music career. With its honest and heartfelt lyrics, “drivers license” has become a song that hits home for teenagers dealing with heartbreak.
“Chemtrails over the Country Club” by Lana Del Rey
On January 11, Lana Del Rey released her single, “Chemtrails over the Country Club,” a teaser for her new album of the same name coming out in March. This song has a dreamy yet melancholic feel, with deep and meaningful lyrics such as, “I’m on the run with you, my sweet love there’s nothing wrong contemplating God. Under the chemtrails over the country club, we’re in our jewels in the swimming pool.” In the music video, Del Rey uses vintage inspired visuals that transition toward a darker, more horror inspired aesthetic at the end of her song, hinting at her upcoming album’s theme.
“34+35 Remix” by Ariana Grande featuring Doja Cat and Megan Thee Stallion
Ariana Grande dropped a remix of her song, “34+35,” a track from her album, “Positions,” on January 15. The remix features singer Doja Cat and rapper Megan Thee Stallion, marking her second collaboration with Doja Cat and her first one with Megan Thee Stallion.
Doja and Megan’s rap verses fit in perfectly with Grande’s sweet yet scandalous tune, with their blush worthy lyrics blending beautifully with the classical strings — , Doja Cat even wittily shades rapper 6ix9ine.
The remix was released with an Austin Powers inspired music video, complete with a comic book-like aesthetic.
A lot of great music has been released so far, and it is sure that there will be more amazing releases and projects this year. Stay tuned for more.