This New Music Friday is packed with must-hear releases across genres, from Ariana Grande’s sparkling take on “Popular” from Wicked to Lil Nas X’s unapologetically bold “need dat boy.” ROSÉ’s “number one girl” captivates with emotional depth, while Nashville favorite Stephen Wilson Jr. brings fresh soul to “Stand By Me.” Country star Niko Moon adds his signature laid-back vibe to the mix with EP These Are The Nights, making this week’s playlist a dynamic ride. Dive into Fandom Daily’s New Music Friday for the best tracks you won’t want to miss.

"Defying Gravity" – Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo

“need dat boy” – Lil Nas X

With “need dat boy,” Lil Nas X continues to prove why he is one of the most inventive and bold artists in the modern pop landscape. His unique ability to blend humor, heart, and depth into one track is on full display here, making for an experience that’s equal parts fun and reflective. The song pulses with energy and is filled with moments of vulnerability, as Nas balances desire with emotional complexity. What makes this track so special is his fearlessness in expressing himself in ways that both entertain and challenge societal norms. It’s a celebration of being unapologetically oneself, and the infectious production and cheeky lyrics make it impossible not to be swept along for the ride.

“number one girl” – ROSÉ

ROSÉ’s “number one girl” is an exquisite demonstration of emotional maturity and vocal depth. The track is both a tribute to love and a declaration of confidence, where ROSÉ’s delicate yet powerful voice conveys longing and desire with such elegance. The production has a cinematic quality to it, with lush instrumentation that mirrors the vulnerability in ROSÉ’s performance. There’s a quiet strength that underscores her delivery, giving the song a profound sense of intimacy and authenticity. “number one girl” is a testament to ROSÉ’s artistry, capturing a tender emotional truth that listeners can relate to, and showcasing her ability to transform personal moments into universal anthems.

“American Girl” – Carley Ridersleeve

Carley Ridersleeve’s “American Girl” is a striking and evocative commentary on the complex landscape of modern womanhood. With fearless vulnerability, Ridersleeve weaves together sharp observations about the societal pressures that shape a woman’s life — from beauty standards to gender expectations, to the subtle yet constant demand to conform. The song reflects a poignant tension between striving for self-expression and being forced into predefined roles, and it does so with such authenticity and strength that listeners can’t help but feel deeply connected to it. Ridersleeve’s delivery is at once raw and empowering, capturing the essence of a woman caught between the freedom of self-determination and the weight of societal judgment. The repeated refrain, “That’s the life of an American girl,” serves as both a declaration and a critique, embodying the duality of living within the confines of an idealized image while also yearning for a truer sense of self. “American Girl” isn’t just a song — it’s a powerful exploration of identity, strength, and the complexity of navigating the world as a woman today. Ridersleeve's artistry shines through in every line, making this track a deeply moving and thought-provoking statement that resonates with anyone who has ever been asked to fit into someone else's idea of who they should be. It's a testament to her skill as both a storyteller and a voice for personal and collective empowerment.

“Pour Me Out” – Kashus Culpepper

“Pour Me Out” by Kashus Culpepper is a raw, soulful exploration of heartbreak and personal growth. Culpepper’s voice is achingly beautiful, filled with both fragility and strength, as he lays bare the weight of his emotions. The production is stripped back, with trilling piano and Culpepper's smoky, rich voice leading the soul. There’s a sense of catharsis in every note, as if the music itself is an outpouring of pain and hope in equal measure. “Pour Me Out” is a journey through sorrow and healing, a piece of music that speaks to the soul and invites listeners to reflect on their own lost loves.

“Almost Gone” – Vincent Mason, Gavin Adcock

In “Almost Gone,” Vincent Mason and Gavin Adcock deliver a haunting and beautifully crafted ballad that lingers in the heart long after it fades. The harmony between their voices is nothing short of mesmerizing, evoking a sense of melancholy and bittersweet reflection. The minimalist production allows the vocal interplay to shine, drawing the listener into a space of quiet intimacy. Every lyric feels like a confession, and the song’s pacing adds to its emotional depth, making it feel as though time itself has slowed down to accommodate the story being told. “Almost Gone” is an achingly beautiful meditation on love, loss, and the things we can never quite hold on to.

“Stand By Me” – Stephen Wilson Jr.

Stephen Wilson Jr.’s rendition of “Stand By Me” breathes new life into this timeless classic, infusing it with a richness and warmth that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. The stunning guitar work allows his vocal performance to shine through while keeping depth in the arrangement. This version of “Stand By Me” is a welcome invitation to revisit the song’s powerful message of support and loyalty, and Wilson brings a tenderness to the lyrics that feels deeply personal. It’s a rendition that reminds us of the song’s enduring power to unite us in times of need, making it an emotional listening experience.

These Are The Nights – Niko Moon

Niko Moon's These Are the Nights EP, released today, offers a refreshing and introspective escape, capturing the essence of simple pleasures and life’s most treasured moments. Across the four tracks, Moon explores themes of gratitude and living in the moment. Songs like "Money Can’t Buy" reflect the importance of priceless experiences with loved ones, while "Summer Don’t Go" and "Night’s Still Young" evoke a sense of nostalgia and living carefree. The EP's laid-back vibe is a perfect soundtrack for slowing down and reflecting on what really matters. Moon teamed up with his longtime collaborators Danny Majic and David J, who co-wrote the project. For fans of Moon’s previous work, this EP deepens his connection to authenticity and heart while continuing to highlight his smooth blend of country and laid-back vibes. This project is perfect for fans seeking a mellow yet meaningful journey through sound.

Dead Giveaway – Colby!

With “Dead Giveaway,” Colby! delivers an EP that is unapologetically herself, a blend of fierce confidence and vulnerability wrapped in inventive production. The project as a whole reveals Colby!’s unique ability to fuse genres, seamlessly shifting between pop, alt, and indie rock influences while maintaining her distinct voice. There’s a palpable sense of rebellion in the way Colby! approaches each track, whether she’s confronting societal expectations or simply exploring her own experiences. What’s truly special about Dead Giveaway is Colby!’s willingness to take risks, creating an EP that feels authentic, fresh, and empowering. It’s a body of work that challenges expectations and invites listeners to embrace their own individuality.

“OD” – McMillin

McMillin’s "OD" is a sonic force that ignites with the intensity of raw, unfiltered rock. This track isn’t just a glimpse into the chaotic inner workings of the mind — it embodies the tension and disarray of overthinking, creating an immersive experience that pulls you into a whirlwind of feeling. The Nashville native taps into something universally human with "OD," but his unique voice and unflinching honesty elevate it beyond typical explorations of mental turmoil. From the opening seconds, McMillin’s commanding guitar cuts through the air like a sharpened blade, setting the tone for a journey that feels as cathartic as it is unsettling. Lyrically, "OD" digs deep into the weight of regret and self-inflicted anguish. McMillin doesn’t just describe the feeling of being trapped in your own head — he shows it, making each word hit. The track pulses with vulnerability, yet it’s never sentimental. It’s brutally honest and undeniably compelling, as McMillin’s vocal delivery shifts effortlessly from intimate to intense, reflecting the restless emotional chaos of the song’s protagonist.

McMillin’s artistry truly sets "OD" apart — this is not just a songwriter processing pain. He transforms that pain into something almost palpable, creating a listening experience that doesn’t just engage the head, but also seizes the heart. The track’s electric energy demands to be felt. By blending the emotion of early 2000s pop-punk with modern production, McMillin crafts something that resonates deeply, leaving listeners full of respect for his creative process. "OD" is a song that refuses to let you go, pulling you into its depths and leaving you breathless by the end.

Deadbeat Disco – Sleep Nation

Sleep Nation’s Deadbeat Disco is an LP filled with energetic, punk, glam, and classic rock-inspired anthems that exude a rebellious spirit. From the first note, it’s clear that Sleep Nation isn’t interested in playing by anyone else’s rules. The band’s relentless energy and bold attitude infuse every track, creating a thrilling listening experience that refuses to be ignored. “Deadbeat Disco” is equal parts defiant and fun, offering both a critique of societal norms and a celebration of the freedom that comes from embracing your true self. The LP is a sonic adventure, with dynamic shifts in style and mood that keep you on your toes, proving that Sleep Nation is a band to behold.

“In A Honkytonk” – Eli Locke

Eli Locke’s “In A Honkytonk” is a masterclass in classic country storytelling, drenched in authenticity and rich with detail. The song is a love letter to honky-tonk bars and the tales they hold, capturing the essence of those wild nights filled with dancing, love, and mischief. Locke’s voice is unmistakable, filled with charm and grit, and the production evokes a sense of nostalgia, making you feel as though you’re right there in the bar with him. “In A Honkytonk” isn’t just about the music — it’s about the stories, the memories, and the people who make them. It’s an irresistible track that reminds us of the timeless allure of country music and the way it brings people together.

“High Time” – Jason Boland & The Stragglers

Jason Boland and the Stragglers’ "High Time" is a masterful blend of recklessness and reflection, celebrating both the personal freedom found in carefree moments and the fleeting nature of those freedoms. The song is a raw, almost confessional look at the way life’s small, chaotic pleasures—like a shared moment with a loved one or the intoxicating effects of rebellion—intersect with deeper, existential realizations. Boland’s storytelling is both poetic and candid, offering a meditation on freedom while acknowledging that even the most liberating experiences can feel temporary. "High Time" expertly fuses the band’s signature Red Dirt style with rock, folk, and country elements while maintaining a deeply personal touch. Boland's lyrics are drenched in wit, humor, and a sense of nostalgia, striking the perfect balance between the highs and lows of life. The track encourages listeners to embrace the present moment, even as it recognizes the ever-looming passage of time. Musically, it’s as intoxicating as the themes it explores — anchored in the band’s ability to weave authentic storytelling with infectious melodies.

These releases come together to create a diverse yet cohesive snapshot of this week’s musical offerings, each bringing something unique to the table while inviting listeners to delve deeper into the emotions and experiences that define us.

Photo Credit: @arianagrande on Instagram.