It’s officially spring (amen!) and not only does that mean more sunshine, but a slew of refreshing new bops, too. Hailee Steinfeld’s summer-ready track, “Sunkissing,” is a light and airy ode to warm weather romance; Ciara’s “Da Girls” closes out Women’s History Month with a bang; and a new record from 6LACK gives listeners a different perspective on the vulnerable artist. Just in time for your weekend, V has rounded up the best music drops of the week.

 

Hailee Steinfeld, “SunKissing”

Like all of Steinfeld’s songs, “SunKissing” is an easy, smooth listen—perfect for the rush of warm days ahead. Having already garnered 68 million Spotify streams and counting, we’re sure to be listening to the beloved artist’s soft vocals all summer long.

Ciara, “Da Girls”

As Women’s History Month comes to a close, Ciara is here to say her piece. The video for “Da Girls,” which Ciara dubs “a female empowerment anthem,” is directed by Sara Lacombe, with Ciara and her long-time collaborator Jamaica Craft on creative direction. With an entirely female team producing the video, Ciara brought the music’s message to life.

Jimin, FACE

South Korean singer, songwriter and member of 21st century pop icons, BTS, Jimin has released his first solo album, FACE. Illustrating honest experiences of loneliness (grounded in both the pandemic and global stardom), FACE is a breakthrough moment for the young star with so much ahead of him.

Shania Twain, “Giddy Up!” (Malibu Babie Remix)

Today, Shania Twain releases the “Giddy Up!” Remix, which comes as a collaboration with Malibu Babie. Still the best-selling female artist in the history of country music, Twain has developed a passion for championing women and sought out a female remixer. Babe happens to be one of the best, having worked with Nicki Minaj and Megan Thee Stallion. Of her, Twain says: “She is so talented and I’m so pleased to give a fellow female producer the spotlight.”

Flo Milli, You Still Here, Ho? Extended Edition

Last summer, Flo Milli’s You Still Here, Ho ? was released and met with critical acclaim by The New York Times, NPR, Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, Billboard, and more. Featuring “Conceited,” the hit single that amassed over 69 million streams and went viral on TikTok, the album was huge. Today, the Alabama-born artist releases the extended edition of the debut album.

6LACK, Since I Have a Lover

After five years out of the spotlight, 6LACK is dropping his highly anticipated third record, Since I Have A Lover. On it, the Atlanta-born, GRAMMY-nominated artist is pivoting away from the melodrama he’s become known for and leaning into acoustic guitars and alternative sounds. Discussing subjects like mental health and personal growth, love and self-actualization, 6LACK is returning stronger and softer all at once.

Nat & Alex Wolff, “If I’m Gonna Die”

With the announcement of their soon-to-come album, Table For Two, set for release on May 12, Nat and Alex Wolff are dropping their latest single, “If I’m Gonna Die.” The brothers say that this record—like that of many working artists—is a product of the pandemic: “Alex and I spent lockdown living together for the first time since we were both in high school.” When it finally game time to put the album together, it took a short 11 days. Listen to the first track to get a taste of what’s to come.

Maude Latour, “Lunch”

Rising alt-pop star Maude Latour’s new single, “Lunch,” is vibrant and vulnerable, carrying all of the whimsical elements of new love on the horizon. Born and raised in New York City, she’s confident in her bold style and sound—the most important ingredient in any musical success.

Fall Out Boy, So Much (For) Stardust

Early-aughts pop-rock lovers, you’re in luck. Today, Fall Out Boy releases their 8th studio album So Much (For) Stardust. And better yet, this summer the band will hit the road for a global headline tour.

Victoria Monét, “Smoke”

Victoria Monét is warming up for a big 2023 with the release of her fiery new single, “Smoke” feat. Lucky Daye. The pair harmonize over a staccato bass line and soaring horn section, or, in Monét’s words, “I’m exhaling the old and inhaling the new.” With that kind of conviction, it makes sense that her first headlining show in LA sold out in under one minute.

 

Check back next week for the hottest releases of the week!