The first week of July is coming in hot – between perhaps the most anticipated album drop of the summer – “Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)” – to a smash hit cross-genre collaboration from Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” soundtrack, this week is full of music from all ends of the spectrum, from nostalgia to futuristic optimism. International artists like Rauw Alejandro, First Aid Kit, and Elyanna are breaking barriers and putting their own spin on your summer soundtrack. July is starting with a bang – so be sure to dive into these artists!

Taylor Swift, “Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)”

Fans waited in anticipation for prolific songwriter Taylor Swift to re-record her third – and completely self-written – studio album “Speak Now.” Although she wrote the album more than a decade ago at just 19 years old, this body of work has proven itself to be truly “Timeless.” Complete with the album’s 16 original tracks plus six new “From The Vault” tracks, “Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)” is an incredible testament to Swift’s strength and tenacity as an artist throughout her long career. Features from Hayley Williams and Fall Out Boy will instantly transport listeners back to 2010, while Swift’s mature 2023 vocals on songs like “Never Grow Up” will remind you how far she’s come.

FIFTY FIFTY, “Barbie Dreams (feat. Kaliii)”

Wildly successful four-member K-Pop girl group FIFTY FIFTY join forces with “Area Codes” rapper Kaliii to add yet another smash hit to the ever-growing list on the soundtrack to Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” movie. The four “gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous girls” – Saena, Aran, Keena, and Sio – bring their signature transcendently optimistic style together with an iconic verse from Kaliii to bring an essential track to the mix. See you in Barbie Land on July 21!

Lakeyah, “WANT EM HOOD”

Lakeyah is back and better than ever with yet another hit song just in time for the summer. The barrier-breaking rap-songstress pairs her smooth R&B style with hard-hitting lyrics in her latest single “WANT EM HOOD.” The sassy anthem lists her set of criteria for a partner – Lakeyah is self-assured, confident, and will not settle for anything less than what she truly wants. 

Elyanna, “MAMA EH”

Palestinian-Chilean breakout star Elyanna transcended language and genre when she became the first artist to perform a full set in Arabic at Coachella this year. Now, her brand-new single “MAMA EH” follows up this groundbreaking success with an evolved sound representing a new chapter for the history-making artist crossing over into the mainstream industry. Elyanna has proven herself to be an enigmatic force to be reckoned with.

Gus Dapperton, “Henge”

Rising alt-pop artist Gus Dapperton is back with his most transformative body of work yet. Inspired by Ocean Vuong’s On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous, the album opens with the upbeat “Sunset” and closes with the poetic “Sunrise,” featuring Vuong himself. In between the two bookends include gems like a duet with BENEE and the dance anthem “Homebody,” released alongside a stunning music video. “Henge” is sure to be a career defining album for Dapperton.

Rauw Alejandro, “PLAYA SATURNO”

For the essential summer album to bring you all the island vibes, look no further than Rauw Alejandro’s highly-anticipated fourth studio album “PLAYA SATURNO.” The Puerto Rican artist pays tribute to his culture by incorporating elements of reggaeton with features from prominent artists within the genre, while crafting an optimistic, eccentric, and vibrant depiction of summer that will transport listeners straight to the beach.

First Aid Kit, “Palomino Deluxe (Child of Summer Edition)”

Swedish indie-folk duo First Aid Kit continues to delve into themes of love and loss on their new project “Palomino Deluxe (Child of Summer Edition).” Featuring five-brand new songs in addition to the 11 ethereal tracks on their November album “Palomino,” the deluxe “Child of Summer” edition is truly one for the books – made especially emotional by one half of the duo, Joanna, becoming a new mom.

MAU Y RICKY, “NO ES NORMAL”

Multi-platinum award-winning Latin duo Mau y Ricky is back at it. Yesterday, the pair released an electric new single in collaboration with Jay Wheeler. The latest release tees up their larger, highly anticipated album, Desgenerados, out July 20th, which features special guest appearances.

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