music / Pop

The 20 best new pop songs right now

October’s Bops List features Lady Gaga, WJSN, Mariah Carey, and more.

By Myles Tanzer
October 17, 2018
The 20 best new pop songs right now

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Every month The FADER is bringing you the 20 best pop songs in the world. Subscribe to the updating playlist on Spotify now.

1

Lennon Stella, "Bad"

We love a reinvention and Lennon Stella — of Lennon and Maisy fame — is winning us over with the incredible “Bad.”

2

Astrid S, "Emotion"

The Norwegian singer comes back strong with a power chorus that will lift you up.

3


Ava Max, "Sweet but Psycho"

If you are hot and crazy, like me, you will love this song.

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4


That Kid f. Slayyyter and Ayesha Erotica, "DIAL TONE"

Maybe my favorite pop song of the year, this song has it all — amazing lyrics, an addictive beat, and lots of shock factor. Read our interview with Slayyyter.

5


Lady Gaga, "Why Did You Do That"

The fake pop song from A Star Is Born is actually really fucking good. One of the best opening bars of the year: "Why do you look so good in those jeans? / Why'd you come around me with an ass like that?"

6

Cola Boyy, "Penny Girl"

The world needs more nu-disco moments. Cola Boyy will make you dance.

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7

No Rome f. The 1975, "Narcissist"

A super sweet song about being a shitty boyfriend, what’s not to love?

8

Angèle, "Tout Oublier"

Get into this Belgium gig, you won’t regret it.

9

Too Many Zooz and KDA f. Jess Glynne, "So Real (Warriors)"

I will never not root for Jess Glynne. She sounds perfect on this crazy beat.

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10

Charli XCX f. Troye Sivan, "1999"

Hopefully the first of many collaborations between two of pop’s greatest new minds. Reread our cover story with Charli XCX.

11


Robyn, "Honey"

It’s crazy that we get to live in the same moment as Robyn, the ultimate queen of the dance floor. “Honey” is sublime.

12

MØ, "Blur"

This song sounds like The Pixies spent a summer vacation with Max Martin. More like this, please! Read our 2016 feature with MØ.

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13

WJSN, "Save Me, Save You"

The 13 members of WJSN truly go all out on this mile-a-minute bop. The video is pretty magical, too.

14

Sigrid, "Sucker Punch"

No one does simplicity better than Sigrid right now: “Both our hoodies red / you’re in my head.” Read our new interview with Sigrid.

15


Four Of Diamonds f. Saweetie, "Stupid Things"

*chugs dumb bitch juice* This song rules.

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16


Mariah Carey, "With You"

Mariah Carey has never made a bad song and never will.

17


Hanne Mjøen, "Sounds Good To Me"

If you’re still sad about your summer breakup, this could be your new anthem.

18


Trace, "Side Eye"

All my real emo-pop heads stand up! This one is for you.

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19


DJ Snake f. Selena Gomez, Ozuna, Cardi B, “Taki Taki”

A party with all superstars. Geniuses everywhere the eye can see. This song's a future classic, I think.

20

Whethan f. HONNE, "Radar"

A chill groove to guide you into the next month safe and sound. Good luck, y'all.

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Lady Gaga, Mariah Carey, Pop, Spotify RISE, WJSN

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music / Features
The 20 best new pop songs right now