As June quickly approaches, musicians across genres are competing in an unspoken race for the song of the summer. The third week of May is jam-packed with music drops that just might earn that title, from Hozier to Summer Walker. An unexpected collaboration between Shania Twain and Anne-Marie will give you all the sassy country-pop vibes while Kesha’s latest studio album showcases her evolution as an artist. Whether you’re in the mood for a hot girl summer, a sad girl summer, or a sweet spot in between, these artists have got you covered.

Hozier, “Francesca”

A decade after alternative singer-songwriter Hozier rose to prominence in 2013, he’s releasing his third studio album “Unreal Unearth” August 18. The project’s third single, “Francesca,” features the Grammy-nominee’s signature heart-wrenching lyrics with lines like “If I could hold you for a minute / Darling I’d go through it again.” The immensely personal track is sure to satisfy Hozier’s die-hard fans who have grown to know and love the artist’s deep cuts over the years.

Maeta, “Through The Night”

Rising R&B powerhouse Maeta isn’t holding anything back – her vulnerable and authentic 2021 EP “Habits” was proof of that. But her latest single “Through The Night” truly cements her status not only as a storyteller, but an incredibly talented vocalist. In the collaboration with Lucky Daye and Free Nationals, Maeta’s soulful voice is addictingly powerful yet smooth. The sultry track is an absolute must for your summer playlist.

Alan Menken, “The Little Mermaid” soundtrack

V’s latest cover star Halle Bailey officially released her highly-anticipated version of “Part of Your World” last month, giving fans a taste of Disney’s new cast recording of “The Little Mermaid.” But if you’ve been itching to hear more, the wait is finally over – the full soundtrack is available to stream today, a week ahead of the film’s premiere on May 26. Bailey’s stunning vocals along with the rest of the star-studded cast (including Melissa McCarthy, Javier Bardem, Daveed Diggs, and Awkwafina) are sure to impress and tide you over until the film hits Disney Plus.

Kesha, “Gag Order”

After experimenting with genre-bending on her last two projects – “Rainbow” (2017) and “The High Road” (2020) – Kesha is returning to the electrifying sound that initially made her famous over a decade ago with a new perspective. Her latest album “Gag Order” featuring lead single “Only Love Can Save Us Now” is sonically reminiscent of earlier hits, albeit with matured themes and vocals. Now in her mid 30s, Kesha is processing her trauma – but she’s not leaving behind her signature one-liners or spoken word lyrics.

Summer Walker, “CLEAR 2: SOFT LIFE”

Multi-talented R&B star Summer Walker’s new EP “CLEAR 2: SOFT LIFE” is her first body of work since her sophomore album “Still Over It” two years ago. Since Walker announced the project while performing at the Dreamville Festival two months ago, fans have been excitedly awaiting the nine new songs. The project — produced by Solange, Steve Lacy, and John Kirby — is accompanied by the music video for the lead single “Pull Up,” which dropped today along with the EP. “CLEAR 2: SOFT LIFE” is a testament to the fact that Walker is in her prime as an artist.

YENDRY, “La Puerta”

As Dominican-Italian singer/songwriter YENDRY gears up for her album release later this year, she’s showing fans a new side of her with the ballad “La Puerta.” The vulnerable track delves into her emotions following her grandfather’s death and is accompanied by a music video. By combining traditional Latin percussions with electronic elements along with her powerhouse vocals, YENDRY is showcasing her individuality and authenticity as an artist.

Anne-Marie and Shania Twain, “UNHEALTHY”

The title track of British pop star Anne-Marie’s third studio album out this summer enters unchartered country-pop territory for the artist — and who better to explore that genre with than the one and only Shania Twain? The global icon partners with Anne-Marie to create a sassy chorus with addictive harmonies. Collaborations are a rare move for Twain, but this one was evidently the right call.

d4vd, “Don’t Forget About Me”

Up-and-coming genre-bending artist d4vd can’t be put in a box — from indie-alternative to bedroom pop to Y2K rock to R&B, the 18-year-old is just getting started. Ahead of his debut EP’s release next week, his latest single “Don’t Forget About Me” is the quintessential heart-wrenching breakup song. With a slow buildup and a dramatic orchestral outro, the emotional track is sure to create excitement for his first project’s release.