2023 has certainly proven to be an interesting year for music, and perhaps even a defining year for the industry.
Between many beloved artists releasing new music, trying new genres, and entering into new controversies, a cultural shift has begun to emerge in mainstream music.
Other than sampling old pop hits, there weren’t any definitive trends in music this year. Not yet, anyway, with Olivia Rodrigo’s new Paramore-esque album.
TikTok’s recent obsession with Ayesha Erotica and the disappointment of Timbaland’s new Nelly Furtado and Justin Timberlake single make it clear that we’re hungry for that addictive 2000 pop-club music and desperate for a pop princess savior.
As it turns out, trendsetter and internet personality Addison Rae might be the perfect girl for the job.
Last month, the TikTok sensation released her first album, a self-titled EP featuring five pop acts and a fitting “girl next door gone bad” album cover.
Given the incredible staying power of the Y2K trend in fashion, it’s time to extend it to the music industry.
Someone just had to do it first, and do it right. It’s no surprise that fashion pioneer Y2K was the one to bring it to the music scene.
- I didn’t do it well
Ray opens his debut album beautifully with this fun and flirty track, reminiscent of Y2K pop idol Britney Spears in both the musical production and lyrics like “He calls me late at night and calls me ‘baby’ / If you knew what he was like” blessed.” you’d probably hate me.
- 2 of 4 (featuring Charli XCX)
Pop sensation Charli XCX features on the highly anticipated song after it was leaked about a year and a half ago on TikTok and quickly gained popularity. Part of this is due to the catchy song, but you may remember the iconic, overheard line “this pum pum / to die for.” (Note: It’s actually “that boom-boom-bass to die for,” but admittedly, saying “pum-pum” is a lot more fun.)
- Nothing is on (except the radio)
An unreleased song from the queen of pop herself, Lady Gaga, this seductive retro-pop tune finds Addison taking the chance to show off her impressive vocals. Both the use of the word “radio” and the sly, suggestive lyrics remind me of a song I used to sing along to, oblivious, in the back seat of my mom’s minivan in the early 2000s.
- it could be you
Ray closes the album with this haunting breakup anthem, adding layers of guitar, drums and bass for a more rock ‘n’ roll sound reminiscent of early Avril Lavigne. The similarities continue in her fiery lyrics: “Now I don’t want to settle, I’ll kiss / someone new / it could be you.” This song will not only make you want to get up and dance, but it will instantly make you want to break up with your boyfriend.
While Addison Rae may not be an accomplished musician, she is someone who knows what her audience wants and has the talent and tact to give it to them while staying true to herself and her brand.
This is a feat in itself, especially for her first album.
It will be interesting to see how she influences other artists and how she continues to grow as an influencer and now as a singer.