This week’s New Music Friday features standout releases like Selena Gomez’s “Mi Camino,” The Weeknd & Anitta’s collaboration “São Paulo,” and Shawn Mendes’ “Heart of Gold.” With additional offerings from Cody Johnson, Ethel Cain, and Ella Langley, there’s a sound for everyone -- including holiday releases from Jordana Bryant and Skip Ewing. Listen to the full playlist below.

"São Paulo" - The Weeknd & Anitta

"São Paulo" by The Weeknd and Anitta presents a dark, surreal vision of the Brazilian city, blending reggaeton beats and pop with an eerie, cinematic style. Anitta’s portrayal as a pregnant woman with a sinister face on her stomach is a powerful, disturbing symbol, creating an intense visual layer that amplifies the haunting tone of the song. This portrayal suggests an interplay between allure and mystery, amplifying the atmosphere of São Paulo as both vibrant and shadowed by its underlying intensity. The video’s surreal, dystopian aesthetics reflect The Weeknd’s recent artistic direction, bringing audiences into a nightmarish version of São Paulo. The collaboration captures a paradox: São Paulo’s dazzling nightlife alongside a lurking sense of darkness, expressed through the video’s ominous visuals and pulsing beats. With this release, both artists explore themes of allure and danger that echo through The Weeknd’s recent works, pushing boundaries while immersing viewers in the tension and magnetism of one of Brazil's most dynamic cities

"Mi Camino" - Selena Gomez

Selena Gomez’s “Mi Camino” is an emotionally charged, punk-infused Spanish track that channels the heartbreak and independence of her character in Emilia Perez. With raw, impassioned vocals, Gomez leans into the Spanish lyrics, reflecting her pride in her heritage while giving fans a glimpse of her powerful on-screen persona. The intense guitar riffs and steady drumbeats add a fiery, rebellious edge to this track, offering a refreshing contrast to her earlier work. In “Mi Camino,” Gomez not only expands her musical boundaries but reaffirms her commitment to bringing Latina representation to the forefront.

"Heart of Gold" - Shawn Mendes

Shawn Mendes shines in “Heart of Gold,” a delicate ballad that radiates with vulnerability and sincerity. This song offers a glimpse into Mendes’ inner world, where he grapples with the beauty and challenges of remaining kind and empathetic. The gentle acoustic guitar and Mendes’ warm, emotive vocals make the track feel like a confessional moment, inviting listeners to connect on a deeply personal level. With “Heart of Gold,” Mendes once again proves his ability to capture complex emotions with simplicity, making it a standout in his evolving discography.

"Liberty" - Sam Hunt

“Liberty” by Sam Hunt is a breezy, Americana-inspired anthem that captures the essence of freedom and self-discovery. Known for his knack for genre-blending, Hunt delivers a track that balances country twang with introspective lyrics, painting a vivid picture of open highways and endless skies. His smooth delivery and vivid storytelling transport listeners to a place of reflection, making “Liberty” an ode to those moments when the journey itself becomes the destination. It’s a reminder of Hunt’s skill in crafting songs that resonate on both a personal and universal level.

"Overdue" - Cody Johnson

With “Overdue,” Cody Johnson gives voice to the feeling of long-awaited joy finally realized. Johnson’s rich, baritone voice and the song’s soulful melody make for a captivating experience that’s as satisfying as the relief it portrays. Known for his authenticity and down-to-earth style, Johnson lays bare his gratitude and fulfillment in every line. “Overdue” is a celebration of those moments when the wait is worth it, and Johnson’s heartfelt delivery makes it a track that’s bound to hit home with fans everywhere.

"Two Steps at a Time" - Eli Locke

Eli Locke’s “Two Steps at a Time” is a charming country love song, perfect for swaying under the stars. Locke’s warm vocals and romantic lyrics bring to life the magic of slow-dancing with someone special, echoing the timeless beauty of honky-tonk classics. The line, “You make it an art, stealing my heart, but girl, it ain’t no crime,” captures the sweet simplicity of falling in love. Locke’s journey from the Southwest to Nashville has been fueled by his signature Bakersfield sound, and “Two Steps at a Time” showcases his ability to bring fresh energy to traditional country themes.

"Call Me Crazy" - Ron Barrett

“Call Me Crazy” by Ron Barrett is a fiery track that tackles love and betrayal with an intensity that country-rock fans will love. Barrett’s gritty vocals and hard-hitting lyrics draw listeners into a story of heartbreak and resilience. Produced by Grady Saxman, known for his work with today’s country heavyweights, the song combines country storytelling with a rock edge that makes it unforgettable. Recently awarded “Fan Favorite” at the Josie Awards, Barrett’s bold style and emotional depth shine in “Call Me Crazy,” marking him as a standout in the modern country scene.

"Same Time Next Summer" - Sam Paige

Sam Paige’s “Same Time Next Summer” is a nostalgic pop single that paints a vivid picture of a summer romance that’s destined to fade with the seasons. Paige’s expressive voice brings warmth and vulnerability to the song, while the catchy, upbeat melody captures the fleeting joy of young love. The music video weaves scenes of sun-soaked memories with the solitude of autumn, adding a cinematic quality to Paige’s storytelling. Inspired by artists like Taylor Swift, Paige’s songwriting connects with listeners on a personal level, making “Same Time Next Summer” a memorable prelude to her upcoming EP.

"20-20" - Ella Langley

In “20-20,” Ella Langley reflects on hindsight and the wisdom that comes with it. With a dynamic vocal performance and relatable lyrics, Langley explores how looking back can help us understand our past choices and grow from them. The track’s infectious beat and Langley’s charismatic delivery make it an empowering anthem about embracing mistakes and moving forward. Langley’s unique ability to blend country, pop, and rock elements shines in “20-20,” making it a song that’s as introspective as it is energizing.

"Whenever A Child Is Born" (Radio Single) - Skip Ewing

Skip Ewing’s “Whenever A Child Is Born” is a stirring holiday ballad that beautifully captures the sacred joy of every birth, making it a timeless Christmas anthem. Ewing’s voice carries warmth and reverence as he sings about the profound impact each child has on the world, tapping into the universal celebration of life. Co-written with award-winning songwriter Aaron Barker, whose credits include George Strait and Clay Walker, this song has a spiritual resonance, reminding us that each birth is a testament to hope and love. This release follows Ewing’s album Road To California, which delves into themes of resilience and adventure with tracks like “Road Dog” and “The Highway Won.” The album showcases Ewing’s range, from heartwarming narratives to contemplative moments, solidifying him as one of country music’s cherished storytellers.

"Wish You Stayed" - Julia Raye

Julia Raye’s “Wish You Stayed” is a tender ballad that captures the quiet ache of unfulfilled love. Her soft, breathy vocals convey a sense of longing that resonates deeply, supported by a delicate instrumental arrangement that emphasizes the song’s introspective nature. Raye’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the moments shared and the regrets that linger, making “Wish You Stayed” a deeply moving track. Raye’s ability to capture complex emotions with simplicity makes her a promising voice in contemporary music.

"Home For Christmas" - Jordana Bryant

“Home For Christmas” by Jordana Bryant is a heartwarming holiday track that radiates comfort and joy. With her rich, warm voice, Bryant sings of the traditions and togetherness that make Christmas special. Her delivery evokes a sense of nostalgia, making listeners feel like they’re right at home with their loved ones. This festive tune is sure to become a holiday staple, capturing the cozy magic of Christmas that Bryant brings to life with authenticity and charm.

"Wait For It" - Tyler Farr

Tyler Farr's song "Wait For It" delves into themes of resilience, tackling life's challenges head-on with grit and authenticity. Known for his rugged vocals and relatable lyrics, Farr captures the emotional weight of persevering through personal struggles, a theme that resonates deeply with audiences. This track reflects his ability to tap into universal experiences, as Farr has consistently connected with fans by addressing the highs and lows of real life in a raw, unfiltered way. Farr’s latest works are notable for their emotionally charged storytelling and, in recent years, he has continued to explore themes around strength, survival, and self-reliance, making him a standout in the country genre as someone who isn’t afraid to confront tough issues in his music​

"Punish" - Ethel Cain

Ethel Cain’s “Punish” is a haunting track that dives deep into themes of introspection and emotional turmoil. Cain’s ethereal vocals and dark, atmospheric production create an immersive experience that’s both beautiful and unsettling. Known for her gothic, storytelling style, Cain crafts a sonic landscape that captures the listener’s attention, making “Punish” a thought-provoking exploration of self-discovery. Her unique approach to music solidifies her as an artist unafraid to push boundaries.

"ashes & rust" - Jeremy Zucker & Chelsea Cutler

In “ashes & rust,” Jeremy Zucker and Chelsea Cutler reunite for a moving duet that explores love, loss, and healing. Their voices blend seamlessly, creating a chemistry that brings depth to the song’s poetic lyrics. The delicate production highlights the raw vulnerability of both artists, making “Ashes & Rust” a poignant exploration of relationships. Zucker and Cutler’s emotional connection and storytelling abilities shine in this track, making it a beautiful and memorable collaboration.

Photo Credit: @shawnmendes on Instagram.