I’ve heard the term “during these unprecedented times” a solid 4000 times in the past year. 2020 was weird, yeah, but as an occasional optimist, I think we should focus on some of the brighter aspects of the year. And by brighter aspects, I mean the music. Personally, I believe that 2020 has been an extremely strong year in terms of music. Perhaps quarantine led to a sudden burst of creativity and artists were able to produce and create even better music. Or maybe it’s just a coincidence. Either way, 2020 has delivered some amazing albums, and the following are just some of my favorites of the year.

Sawayama

by Rina Sawayama

Sawayama was able to make a lasting first impression on the music industry with the release of her official studio debut album. Sawayama’s unique and fresh sound demands the overuse of the replay button, as songs, such as “XS”, have you hooked after one listen. The album dabbles in a multitude of genres, but it’s safe to say that Sawayama is one of the top pop albums of 2020. 

After Hours

by The Weeknd

The Weeknd outdid himself with the release of his fourth studio album After Hours. The album reigned supreme on the Billboard charts for months, with the hit title track “Blinding Lights” dominating the singles charts. Despite the album’s positive critical feedback and success, it was not nominated for a single Grammy, leaving everyone with their jaw on the floor.

Folklore

by Taylor Swift

With the surprise release of her eighth studio album, Taylor Swift pretty much secured a Grammy win for Best Pop Album. Folklore, while still pop, delves deeper into the alternative side of the genre. Personally, I see this as the end of Swift’s experiments with her musical style. With the very recent release of Folklore’s sister album Evermore, it’s safe to say Swift has found her style.

The New Abnormal

by The Strokes

In April, the Strokes released their sixth studio album, The New Abnormal. The title track “The Adults Are Talking” is an easy listen with a clear, followable beat and soothing vocals. The entire album has a familiar feel to it, almost like nostalgia. It’s comfortable and a perfect way for the Strokes to come back after six years.

Ungodly Hour

by Chloe x Halle

The sister duo returned with their second studio album, Ungodly Hour. With the album, the sisters were able to confirm everyone’s suspicions that they would soon run the pop industry. Halle also has a multitude of producing credits under this album, further proving the likeliness of the sibling duo securing a spot as the next generation’s pop icons.

While compiling this short list, I really realized how great this year’s music was. With as many great albums that were released this year, the list could honestly go on for pages (Punisher by Phoebe Bridgers, Eternal Atake by Lil Uzi Vert, Untitled (Black Is) by SAULT, Women In Music PT. lll by HAIM, I’m being completely serious this list would be over 20 pages). 2020 was stressful. It was terrible, if i’m being honest. But, for me, and I’m sure for many others, the release of so many amazing albums was able to shoot at least some doses of serotonin into my body.