One of London’s most eclectic musical talents, fred again.., is back with a new project, ten days. This tape is here pretty soon after his USB outing which was more a collection of tracks that was built upon over the last two years. Currently, that number is up to 16 and clocks in at around one hour and six minutes of material. Tons of rappers land on that offering, including Baby Keem, Future, Rico Nasty, Lil Yachty, Anderson .Paak, and more. Interestingly, the latter’s track, “places to be”, which also features CHIKA, is on ten days.
However, USB features two remixes, and not the final cleaned up version. Even though fred again.. is dropping this at the tail-end of the summer and it does have a lot of uplifting vibes on it, it still feels like you can play at any time. With the colder months approaching, moods may swing in the opposite direction. But to cure that, all you have to do is spin ten days and you’ll be instantly better. A lot of the beats on have a cheery, whimsical, or just possess some high energy. The first half features more of the latter, whereas the second half becomes more toned down in some respects. He really did curate a fun palette of soundscapes, and the guests fill in the gaps perfectly.
Fred Again… has a fascinating body of work. His solo material is electronic based, but whenever he crosses paths with hip-hop artists, the results are unexpected. “Stayinit” was an eclectic mash up of Fred Again… EDM with Lil Yachty’s croon over the top. “Turn On the Lights Again..” turns Future’s first big hit into a four on the floor anthem. Fred Again… is digging into his collaborative bag once again with “Places to Be,” and this may be his greatest hybrid of styles yet.
“Places to Be” doesn’t contain any of the nocturnal, club vibes of Fred Again…’s most famous songs. It’s a bright, sunny bop with vocals from Chika and Anderson .Paak. The crux of the beat stems from a vocal sample and a stuttering drumbeat, but the soaring synth is what really makes it irresistible. The synth is a sonic transporter, making the viewer feeling they’re soaring through the aforementioned sunny sky. It’s a fitting sensation, given the lyrical topic of the song. Chika is the first person heard on “Places to Be,” and her smooth, relaxed delivery meshes perfectly with the exhilarating beat drop around the minute mark.
Fred Again… and Chika both do their thing, but it’s Anderson .Paak who steals the show. The artist goes absolutely wild with a half-rapped, half-sung verse that manages to keep pace with the beat. The lyrics aren’t mind-blowing, but they’re extremely fitting. “Pretty brown, round, got me weak in the knees,” he raps. “Slow up, your homie down, I’m re-adjustin’ my speed. I’ve been gone too long, baby doll, don’t leave. Okay, but mash, foot up on the gas.” The Fred Again… production turns euphoric in the las few seconds of “Places to Be,” as it brings back the Chika vocals and slows the tempo. This is going to be lots of summer playlists.
What are your thoughts on “Places to Be” by Chika, Anderson .Paak and Fred Again…? Do you like Fred Again…’s tweaked sound? Does Anderson .Paak steal the show for you? Is this a candidate for song of the summer? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Anderson .Paak, Chika, and Fred Again…. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on in the music world.
Quotable Lyrics:
Runnin’ up numbers, shiftin’ the axis, like I was NASA But if you believe they put a man on the moon Then, damn, what I got to do? (I gotta) Gotta move that ass, that’s right Tell me what that fast track like
This summer, we’re all gonna be outside. And Fred Again.. just dropped a hot contender for the song of the season. Joined by Anderson .Paak and Chika, Fred is setting the sexy vibes with his new single, “Places To Be.”
Over an energetic beat, listeners can feel their hearts racing, instantly calling back their favorite summer fling. On the chorus, Chika and Paak repeat “Hello, I got places to be / Got me next to you, and you next to me,” utilizing a sample of a poem called “Intimacy,” first shared to Soundcloud by Chika in 2017
Paak takes the bridge, delivering his signature raspy vocals, as he promises his loyalty to a woman, and simply asks the same in return.
“Baby girl, there’s nothin’ that could keep from you / Haters always wanna keep me from you / Got me pickin’ out my speed now for ya / Please be loyal,” he sings.
The song’s speed slows down toward the end, sonically symbolizing winding down in the summertime heat, with your favorite person by your side.
In addition to this instantly iconic track, Paak is gearing up to release more music this summer. Next Friday (June 7), Paak will release his new collab album with Knxwledge as the supergroup NxWorries, called Why Lawd?.
In the meantime, you can listen to “Got Places To Be” above.
Anybody who thought the vinyl resurgence was just a fad was mistaken: The industry has experienced a legitimate revival. As a result, music fans are interested in physical media in ways they may not have if the decades-old medium hasn’t made a comeback. That doesn’t mean everybody is listening to just their parents’ old music, though. That’s part of it, sure, thanks to rereleases that present classic albums in new ways. A vital part of the renewed vinyl wave, though, is new projects being released as records, of which there are plenty.
Whatever you might be into, each month brings a new slew of vinyl releases that has something for everybody. Some stand out above the rest, naturally, so check out some of our favorite vinyl releases of April below.
Wilco — The Whole Love Expanded
Legacy Recordings
This past month saw what is essentially the Super Bowl of vinyl: Record Store Day. Artists and labels always come through with great new releases to mark the occasion, many of which you’ll find in this month’s vinyl rundown. First up is The Whole Love Expanded, a 3LP release that includes, along with the base album, alternate mixes, demos, and more.
At The Drive-In’s In/Casino/Out has long been out of print, so leave it to Record Store Day to bring it back. This edition of the band’s second album is available on purple/green smoke vinyl, but only 3,500 copies were pressed.
Fred Again.. “released” USB in 2022, but that’s also not necessarily completely true, in that the project is constantly evolving with new songs being added on a regular basis. Well, the project as it stands right now is getting a vinyl release, and he’s pulling all the stops with a lovely “specialist spot reflective varnish” on the outer sleeve.
The soundtrack for the 1997 superhero movie Spawn is a real ride, featuring songs by everybody from Metallica to Cypress Hill to Moby. It’s quite the mix and it’s stunning on smokey red vinyl, too. The hard rock mixed with electronic concept was novel in its time, and now acts as a bit of a portal to a simpler (better?) time.
The Daylight EP was a high point for Aesop Rock, featuring production from EL-P, Blockhead, and, of course, Aesop Rock. If you’ve wanted the project on vinyl, a new reissue is the first time the full thing has ever been pressed on vinyl, including the hidden bonus track.
Idol was one of the kings of the ’80s, and his second album, Rebel Yell, was monumental, with the title track enduring as one of his signature songs. As for this new expanded edition of the project (released to mark the album’s 40th anniversary), it comes with eight bonus tracks that include previously unreleased music, original demos, and more.
Sunny Day Real Estate — Diary: Remastered And Expanded Edition
Sub Pop
Diary is an undeniable landmark release in emo music, and as the project turns 30 years old, Sunny Day Real Estate has delivered the definitive vinyl edition of it. This “remastered and expanded” version comes with the bonus tracks “8” and “9” (all pressed on pearlescent vinyl), along with newly written liner notes.
UK electronic duo Orbital made their mark with their self-titled 1991 debut album (The Green Album, as it’s also known). Over three decades later, they’ve just dropped the definitive version of it via a 4LP box set. This edition includes two double gatefold LPs featuring remixes and rarities (including unreleased tracks), as well as an exclusive 60-page book documenting the story of the album.
The Eagles’ original stint (ending in 1980, before their 1994 reunion) was one to remember, and it came to an end with The Long Run. The project — led by the Grammy-winning, No. 1 single “Heartache Tonight” — is back in a fancy new run limited to 10,000 copies and pressed on pressed on MoFi SuperVinyl, meaning it’ll sound as good as it ever has.
The zoetrope has been around for well over a century at this point, and yet the visual effect the spinning, seemingly animated images have is still pretty wild to look at today. Blur included one on their new picture disc reissue of Parklife, making it a uncommonly visual way to experience a Britpop classic.
Speaking of Damon Albarn: Last year, Gorillaz brought us all to Cracker Island, and now we have a chance to go back. For Record Store Day, the group shared a deluxe, limited-run vinyl edition of Cracker Island that comes with six tracks that previously weren’t available on physical releases. There’s also a striking new album cover by Jamie Hewlett.
Dwight Yoakam — The Beginnings And Then Some: The Albums Of The ’80s
Rhino
Closing out with yet another Record Store Day release, Yoakam compiled his first three albums onto this new box set. This limited-edition release includes thirteen rarities and demos from the era, enough fresh material to justify its own disc.
Fred again.. is finally having his breakout moment as one of the biggest names in music. Within the past few years, the English musician and DJ has taken the EDM world by storm with many hit records and collaborations. His album series Actual Life navigated the COVID-19 pandemic as he turned audio clips and sounds from social media and everyday life into joyful and melancholic moments named after those he sampled. The third installment earned him one of two Grammy Award wins. He took home Best Electronic/Dance Recording for “Rumble,” his collaboration with Skrillex and Flowdan. In addition to his awards and accolades, Fred again.. has headlined major festivals, including Bonnaroo and a closing B2B set with Skrillex and Four Tet at Coachella. Together, the three also sold out a pop-up show at Madison Square Garden.
Now a giant in the dance music world, Fred again.. is far from a new artist. Before focusing on an artist career, he produced for the likes of Ed Sheeran, Rita Ora, Shawn Mendes, and BTS. Outside of electronic and dance music, Fred again.. is also active in hip-hop, producing tracks for numerous rappers in both the UK and the US. His earliest rap productions include Roots Manuva and Stefflon Don while he has also collaborated with Eminem, Baby Keem, and Lil Yachty in recent years. Today, we are ranking Fred again..’s best rap collaborations from least to greatest. Take a look at the list below.
7. “Jungle (Remix)” – Fred again.. feat. Rico Nasty (2022)
Fred again..’s silver-certified “Jungle” is one of his biggest singles. He recruited Rico Nasty for the remix, adding a rap twist to the dance-banger as Rico spits over the song’s abrasive beat drop. She matches the intense house beat with her usual energetic delivery. Fred also chops part of her verse to compliment the other vocal sample that acts as the song’s centerpiece. An essential Fred again.. song, “Jungle” already hits hard with its buildup and drop, but Rico Nasty’s guest verse on the remix packs an even more powerful punch.
6. “West Ten” – AJ Tracey & Mabel (2020)
With the help of Take A Daytrip, Fred again… crafted the beat for “West Ten,” AJ Tracey’s collaboration with Mabel. A smooth UK garage song, the track acts as a spiritual successor to AJ’s other UKG track and biggest hit, “Ladbroke Grove.” Much like his 2019 single, the song sees AJ rapping over the groovy beat from Fred as Mabel sings the chorus. AJ Tracey and Mabel’s “West Ten” is yet another danceable ode to West London and a fun song that recaptures the feeling of his biggest hit.
5. “Rumble” – Skrillex, Fred again.. & Flowdan (2023)
Before they took over Coachella and Madison Square Garden, Skrillex and Fred again… teamed up with Flowdan for “Rumble,” a rap and EDM fusion. An intersection of grime and dubstep, the Grammy-winning single’s production is simple yet effective. The unpredictable percussion and stuttering basslines allow Flowdan to skip across the beat with his signature grime flow. The high-pitched sample of Beam’s vocals on Skrillex’s “Selecta” juxtaposes Flowdan’s deep voice. Fred and Skrillex’s production may be minimal, but the song builds to create an exciting blend of rap and electronic music.
4. “Baby” – Aitch (2022)
Many of Fred again..’s rap collaborations see the producer bringing artists into his world for experimental electronic tracks. In 2022, he ventured outside his comfort zone when making the beat for Aitch’s “Baby.” The lead single from the Manchester rapper’s debut album, Close To Home, is a smooth blend R&B and hip hop that emulates the early 2000’s. Aside from Aitch’s charismatic bars, the sample of Ashanti’s “Rock Wit U (Awww Baby)” practically makes the song, so much so that she is credited as a primary artist. The production from Fred again.. and others bring out the best of Aitch, turning the sample’s vintage vibe into a summertime jam.
Easily Fred again..’s hardest-hitting rap collaboration is “Pop Boy.” He produced one of three tracks for Stormzy’s Heavy Is The Head. The song’s explosive production constructs the right moment for Stormzy to showcase his confident lyricism as he revels in his success as a rapper who has crossed into pop. He even name-drops Fred again… before the chorus: “Fred, you forgot the drums, wait there.” The bouncy production on “Pop Boy” also allows for one of Aitch’s earliest breakout moments, exhibiting chemistry between him and Stormzy, as well as foreshadowing his and Fred’s future collaboration on “Baby.”
2. “Own It” – Stormzy feat. Ed Sheeran & Burna Boy (2019)
Another Fred again…-produced highlight from Stormzy’s Heavy Is the Head is “Own It.” The hit single is a crossover collaboration between Stormzy, Ed Sheeran, and Burna Boy. The dancehall production from Fred and Jay Weathers allows for each artist to shine individually. It lends itself to Stormzy’s rapping as his singing intertwines with Burna Boy’s chorus and Ed Sheeran’s standout vocals. “Own It” is a tender yet energetic track that brings the best out of its star performers. Fred again..’s production incorporates dancehall but can highlight elements of hip-hop, pop, and afrobeats.
1. “Know Me” – Headie One & Fred again.. (2020)
One of Fred again..’s most notable rap collaborations is GANG, his breathtaking project with Headie One. The 8-track EP chronicles the rapper’s recent release from prison at the time. A departure from Headie’s typical content, Fred provides a balance between his ambient, electronic sound and Headie’s typical UK drill. The whole project is transparent as it gives a multi-dimensional glimpse into the mind of one of Drill’s biggest stars during one of his most vulnerable moments.
A standout track from GANG, “Know Me” specifically pushes Headie out of his comfort zone on a fast-paced blend of techno and drill. Fred provides a thumping kick, rapid percussion, and modulated 808s that are essential to any UK drill track. Headie One floats over the beat and Fred manipulates his vocals, which adds to the track’s sense of urgency. “Know Me” exemplifies the brilliant convergence between the styles of Headie One and Fred again.. on GANG.
Fred Again.. teamed up with Lil Yachty and Overmono to treat fans with the new single, “Stayinit.” This marks Fred Again..’s first new song of the year, building off the success he found in 2023 with tracks like “Leavemealone” with Baby Keem and “Adore U” with Obongjayar. It also continues his USB series, according to NME.
“I know you / Down with the pain, see the rain / Realize everybody won’t be perfect / But I do / Try hard to fix the mistakes that I made with you,” Lil Yachty points out in the emotional lyrics, seemingly inspiring the track’s title, as he takes the perspective of hoping the other person stays in the relationship — mistakes and all.
Instrumentally, it opens with a chill electronic production that transforms Yachty’s voice. It then builds in intensity on the “stay in it” chorus, when Yachty’s vocals cut out and are replaced with a techno dance beat that’s sure to excite a crowd.
Along with the song, the visualizer includes a behind-the-scenes moment of Fred Again..’s run from a few weeks ago, where he performed at Knockdown Center in NYC. It “captures the moment yachty hears this song on a proper system for the first time,” as Fred himself put it — complete with light displays and all.
Check out “Stayinit” above.
Fred Again.. is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
Lil Yachty’s imagination and creativity continues to run wild. Everyone knows the fascinating and explorative streak he has been since dropping Let’s Start Here. a little over a year ago. Sure, he has went back to his introductory trap rap style here and there. In fact, some of those reroutes have been fantastic releases. But, what has been really interesting is seeing him try out different instrumentals and genres. Today, Lil Yachty, Fred again.. and Overmono are working together on “Stayinit.”
Fred again.. is a hip-hop adjacent producer that we have covered quite a bit. He also likes to drop sick tracks with tech house and EDM instrumentals. That is where “Stayinit” lives in. The usual structure of a track like this shows up, with fragments of verses and ultra repetitive choruses.
Listen To “Stayinit” By Lil Yachty, Fred Again.., & Overmono
One of Fred’s recent efforts we covered included the increasingly popular “leavemealone” with Baby Keem. This may be another favorite of many as the beat is quite good and perfect for ragers at the club. According to Stereogum, this song was previewed days after Fred again won a GRAMMY. He popped out to a New York show hosted by Overmono, the other producer for this song to preview it. Now, streaming fans can enjoy this song at the leisure.
What are your thoughts on this brand-new single, “Stayinit,” by Fred again.., Lil Yachty, and Overmono? Is Yachty the best genre-bending rapping rapper out right now, why or why not? What was your favorite element of the song and why? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Fred again.. and Lil Yachty. Finally, stay with us for the most informative song posts throughout the week.
Quotable Lyrics:
I know you Down with the pain, see my rain in [?] Realize everybody won’t be perfect But I do Try hard to fix the mistakes that I made with you With you, you do, you do, you do
Fred Again is fresh off a massive breakout 2023. Though he’s been grinding away for a while in the UK garage and electronica underground, the DJ and producer started gaining a lot more attention last year. Part of that came through his affiliation with Skrillex and Four Tet. The trio filled in as a headliner in week 2 of Coachella last year after Frank Ocean backed out of his second performance. It all culminated with a Best New Artist nomination at the Grammys.
Fred Again has parlayed his big year into a handful of high-profile collaborations. Because he tends to play many of his songs at shows before they’re ever released fans are often familiar with his catalog of work-in-progress material. That was the case when he collaborated with Nigerian singer Obongjayar “adore u.” It was even more the case a few months later when he unleashed “leavemealone” with Baby Keem and a remix with Nia Archives shortly after. He’s also been playing an unreleased song with Lil Yachty at recent shows. But fan hype reached another level recently when Yachty joined him on stage to perform the song himself.
Just before that he made his surprise first team-up with emo pop singer YUNGBLUD. Despite neither of the two distinctive artists being particular critical darlings the song seems to be performing quite well with fans. It’s racked up nearly 2 million streams on Spotify in just a few weeks. What do you think of Lil Yachty joining Fred Again on stage during a recent music festival? Are you looking forward to their collaboration eventually dropping? Let us know in the comment section below.
The 2024 Grammy Awards are just around the corner, and much like previous iterations of the annual ceremony, there likely won’t be a shortage of show-stopping performances. But above all, fans are hoping to see if their favorite artists’ hard work will pay off with a win, and the chance to take home their own golden gramophone trophies as they secure their spot in music history.
When it comes to the Grammys in particular, half of the fun is trying to understand the voting criteria, which remains elusive from year to year. While music journalists are just as in the dark as average music fans about who gets to win a Grammy, nerding out over this stuff is what we do best. (Though we’re aware that we may end up dropping some potentially controversial viewpoints, thus testing the pressure cooker that is the internet in the process.)
In anticipation of the big night, this music journalist is taking a look at 10 stacked nomination pools, and will distinguish which artists probably will win, and who probably should win that coveted Grammy gold. (But please, go easy on me if you don’t agree!)
Best Pop Dance Recording
“Baby Don’t Hurt Me,” David Guetta, Anne-Marie and Coi Leray
“Miracle,” Calvin Harris featuring Ellie Goulding
“Padam Padam,” Kylie Minogue
“One in a Million,” Bebe Rexha & David Guetta
“Rush,” Troye Sivan
Will win: “Padam Padam” Should Win: “Padam Padam”
“Padam Padam” is Kylie Minogue’s first single in two years, and with its infectious dance-pop sound, energetic synths, and sweet, sticky chorus, it was almost guaranteed to be a hit. To create a song that penetrates the pop landscape, social media, and the LGBTQ+ community this deep into her decades-long career proves Minogue’s affinity for hit-making. A win in this inaugural category would be justified and incredibly appropriate.
Best African Music Performance
“Amapiano,” Asake and Olamide
“City Boys,” Burna Boy
“Unavailable,” Davido featuring Musa Keys
“Rush,” Ayra Starr
“Water,” Tyla
Will Win: “Water” Should Win: “Unavailable”
A win by any of these artists would be a win for the culture, Africa, and Afrobeats, which continues to be overlooked by the Recording Academy in all-genre categories despite its influence. This is the first time this award will be presented, though few can deny the impact this style has made to the sonic landscape of modern-day music as a whole.
“Unavailable” in particular became the first song by a Nigerian act to hit 100 million streams on Spotify in 2023. This achievement is merely a footnote for Davido when observing the larger picture of his success and musical contributions, achieved through his artistic and cultural integrity. A Davido win would be incredibly overdue, but Afrobeats’ oft-omitted importance places all nominated acts in a deserving light.
Best Rap Song
“Attention,” Doja Cat
“Barbie World,” Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice ft. Aqua
“Just Wanna Rock,” Lil Uzi Vert
“Rich Flex,” Drake & 21 Savage
“Scientists & Engineers,” Killer Mike and André 3000 feat. Future and Eryn Allen Kane
Will win: “Barbie World” Should win: “Scientists & Engineers”
Women have (rightfully) been running the hip-hop game for the better part of the last few years. A win by either the Queen of Rap and the new pop-rap princess—or even rap’s resident chameleon Doja Cat—would be a welcome, tide-shifting moment for the macho genre.
However, in “Scientists & Engineers,” one of rap’s most respected voices Killer Mike shines through conscientious bars, while Future’s undeniable flow showcases why he’s one of the biggest names in contemporary music. Elsewhere in this link-up for the ages, fellow ‘Dungeon Family’ member André 3000 provides what very well could be his final rap verse on wax. “Scientists & Engineers” carries attributes that continue to stand the test of time in hip-hop: authentic rhymes, rhythm, and collaboration.
Best R&B Song
“ICU,” Coco Jones
“Angel,” Halle
“Back to Love,” Robert Glasper ft. SiR & Alex Isley
“Snooze,” SZA
“On My Mama,” Victoria Monét
Will win: “Snooze” Should win: “ICU”
As one of the highlights on an album full of highlights, the smoothness and soothing vibes found in SZA’s “Snooze” would cap off an incredible year for the Jersey girl.
Though in her breakout single “ICU,” Coco Jones’ lower register and unbelievably velvety vocals display that the hallmarks of R&B live on in our newest stars. A win in this category for Jones would solidify her place among one of the brightest lights in the genre today, and would bring a happy ending the former Disney darling’s Cinderella story.
Alternative Music Album
The Car, Arctic Monkeys The Record, Boygenius Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd, Lana Del Rey Cracker Island, Gorillaz I Inside the Old Year Dying, PJ Harvey
Who will win: The Record Who should win: The Record
The debut studio LP from the supergroup (comprised of Julien Baker, Lucy Dacus, and Phoebe Bridgers) is crafted in a way that showcases each member’s individual strengths, but also proves the power of collaboration and teamwork. Their long-awaited link-up remains modern while still evoking the sounds and styles that inspire them, from rock to folk. Christened the best album of 2023 in UPROXX’s Music Critics Poll, this is virtually a no-brainer.
Record of the Year (awarded to the song itself)
“Worship,” Jon Batiste
“Not Strong Enough,” Boygenius
“Flowers,” Miley Cyrus
“What Was I Made For?” from “Barbie,” Billie Eilish
“On My Mama,” Victoria Monét
“Vampire,” Olivia Rodrigo
“Anti-Hero,” Taylor Swift
“Kill Bill,” SZA
Who will win: “Kill Bill” Who should win: “Flowers”
“Kill Bill” spins the idea of breakup anthems on its head through thematics and sonics that slay. However, what gives “Flowers” the edge is the commercial and personal triumphs on top of its thematics. The funky, rockin’ self-love anthem feels like a cathartic return to form for the musical shapeshifter, whose personal life has undergone as many changes as her sonic identity.
Unlike her previous pop efforts like “Malibu” and “Prisoner,” which felt forced in some respects, “Flowers” found the superstar and the audience meeting at the right place and time. The song brings a sophisticated, confident maturity, and for the first time in a long time, it truly felt like Miley was just being Miley.
Song of the Year (awarded to the songwriter/songwriters)
“A&W” — Jack Antonoff, Lana Del Rey & Sam Dew, songwriters (Lana Del Rey)
“Anti-Hero” — Jack Antonoff & Taylor Swift, songwriters (Taylor Swift)
“Butterfly” — Jon Batiste & Dan Wilson, songwriters (Jon Batiste)
“Dance the Night” (From “Barbie the Album”) — Caroline Ailin, Dua Lipa, Mark Ronson & Andrew Wyatt, songwriters (Dua Lipa)
“Flowers” — Miley Cyrus, Gregory Aldae Hein & Michael Pollack, songwriters (Miley Cyrus)
“Kill Bill” — Rob Bisel, Carter Lang & Solána Rowe, songwriters (SZA)
“Vampire” — Daniel Nigro & Olivia Rodrigo, songwriters (Oliva Rodrigo)
“What Was I Made For?” [From the Motion Picture “Barbie”] — Billie Eilish O’Connell & Finneas O’Connell, songwriters (Billie Eilish)
Who will win: “Anti-Hero” Who should win: “What Was I Made For?”
“Anti-Hero” marks the seventh time Taylor Swift has been nominated in this category, now a Grammy record. The single serves as the pulse of her LP, has been virtually inescapable for over a year, and shows the depth of her pen and personal glossary. A T.S. win in this category would amplify the Grammy’s love of “making moments” at the ceremony.
However, the perfect, tear-jerking placement of “What Was I Made For?” in Barbie solidifies the power of Billie Eilish and brother Finneas’ lyrical simplicity. The (future Oscar-winning) song showcases what we love about Billie’s more subdued tracks: the palpable optimism underneath surface-level melancholia — which is befitting of the film’s underlying theme — as well as the general feelings of modern-day womanhood.
Best New Artist
Gracie Abrams
Fred Again..
Ice Spice
Jelly Roll
Coco Jones
Noah Kahan
Victoria Monét
Who will win: Ice Spice Who should win: Victoria Monét
High-profile friendships, a masterful social media pull, and even a Chia Pet made in her likeness — it would seem as though Ice Spice would be the clear-cut favorite to win. High honors here would crown the Bronx artist as the third woman rapper in history to win Best New Artist, which could be a controversial bestowment amongst rap purists who deem Ice to be “too pop.”
But when was the last time we had a true blue triple threat in our midst? Victoria Monét has been under our noses the entire time. Her incredible stage presence, deeply quotable lyrics, and overall star power make her the full package, and a win of this magnitude would be worth the wait. Noah Kahan would also be a great choice, as his musicianship has steadily earned a following amongst both fans and artists alike.
Album of the Year
World Music Radio, Jon Batiste The Record, Boygenius Endless Summer Vacation, Miley Cyrus Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd, Lana Del Rey The Age of Pleasure, Janelle Monáe Guts, Olivia Rodrigo Midnights, Taylor Swift SOS, SZA
Who will win:Midnights Who should:SOS
As mentioned earlier, the Grammys love “making moments.” Taylor Swift is far and away the biggest name in contemporary music, and a win in this category will provide the moment. If honored with the biggest award of the night, Taylor could surpass Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon, and Frank Sinatra for the most Album of the Year wins by any artist in history. However, some could argue that — though thematically sound — Midnights is not a career high. Although a win would be the cherry on top of her banner year, star power and fanfare don’t always warrant an automatic win.
SOS on the other hand, is a true career high for SZA, solidifying her status as thee reigning R&B superstar. It was her first No. 1 album, it nabbed the biggest streaming figures for an R&B album in U.S. history, and it’s the longest-running No. 1 album by a woman in this decade. A much-deserved win in this category would also create a “moment”: SZA would be the first Black woman since Lauryn Hill in 1999 to win Album of the Year, and only the fourth ever after Natalie Cole, Whitney Houston, and Hill. The personal triumphs, coupled with the album’s successes, will feel like a win for all.
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
Earlier this month, Bonnaroo announced its 2024 lineup, headlined by Pretty Lights, Fisher, Post Malone, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Fred Again.. from Thursday, June 13, to Sunday, June 16. The festival will be staged on The Bannaroo Farm in Manchester, Tennessee, and it’s always one of music’s hottest tickets of the summer.
Is Bonnaroo 2024 Sold Out?
Good news! Tickets are still available for Bonnaroo 2024. According to the festival’s official website, there are four different ticket packages to choose from: 4-Day General Admission (starting at $435), 4-Day GA+ (starting at $695), 4-Day VIP (starting at $1,105), and 4-Day Platinum (starting at $4,155). Layaway plans are also available for each ticketing package, ranging from $25 down to $200 down.
For reference, tickets to Bonnaroo 2023 ranged from $299 to $1,250, but Bonnaroo explained the 2024 price hike in a statement last November, as excerpted below.
“Bonnaroo is incredibly important to each and every one of us who works to make it happen each year, and we know how special this experience is to you. We are proud of this community that we have built together. In the spirit of the Roo community and communication, we wanted to give you a heads up as we prepare for the annual presale.
Ticket prices are going to look different this year, and here’s why:
When you purchase your presale tickets, you’ll see a new price that includes all fees upfront — the only additions at checkout will be your chosen shipping option and your locally applicable sales tax.
For the first time in more than a decade, we’re also making a notable base price increase. This increase will still be far less than inflation over that time. The cost of producing this magical world has increased and our goal is to be as transparent with you as possible. To continue to deliver the quality experience you have to come to love and appreciate, prices need to go up just slightly.
The Farm is truly the most magical place on Earth and 2024 is going to be an incredible year. We can’t wait to see you next summer!”
Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
