With everything constantly changing nowadays, we can always count on one thing to bring us together: music. Like many others, I spent my quarantine listening to music and finding the right tunes to help me through the year. 2020 may not have been the best year, but it was a great year for music, and I am eager to share my favorite songs that haven’t received as much attention.

10. Mood (remix) – 24kGoldn, Justin Bieber, J Balvin, iann dior

The original version of “Mood” by 24kGoldn and iann dior was a sensation. I remember putting it on repeat when it came out, because I couldn’t get enough. Though the rap part isn’t as strong in the remix, I found that J Balvin’s latin touch combined with Justin Bieber’s section transformed this into a whole new song. 

9. 33 days – Keenan, gnash, Anna Clendening

The most unexpected combination, “33 days” has good vibes all over. The back and forth makes the song perfect for a karaoke night, and the lyric video is one of my personal favorites because of how simple and impactful it is. Every time I listen to this song, I always wish it was longer than just two minutes. 

8. Funny – Jasmine Thompson

“I guess freedom didn’t free you like you thought.” Zedd always delivers, this time with Jasmine Thompson, a breakout artist. I first discovered Jasmine through this song and immediately connected with her through the music video and her natural vocals. When I initially heard the song, it felt like a classic Zedd song with little nuances from Jasmine that left me feeling empowered. 

7. Treat Myself – Victoria Justice

Victoria Justice is back! I grew up watching and loving “Victorious,” but was sad to see that Victoria was not continuing to make music. “Treat Myself” reflects on Victoria’s mental health after rumors of an alleged feud between her and Ariana Grande as well as hate from the internet. The music video fits very well with the mood of the past year, and Victoria’s voice is powerful and mellow. Released in the last few weeks of 2020, this song was something that I could treat myself to.

6. Young & Sad – Noah Cyrus

In “Young & Sad,” Noah Cyrus touches upon feeling in the shadow of her sister, Miley Cyrus. She begins the song with a heartfelt message from her dad, Billy Ray Cyrus, which connects well with the message that the lyrics send about Noah’s family dynamic. While the acoustics are great on the song, Noah’s delivery is what sells it. 

5. Hate The Way – G-Eazy, blackbear

G-Eazy was one of my top artists, according to Spotify wrapped. Both him and blackbear, who had the hit “hot girl bummer,” are well respected artists. Nevertheless, “Hate The Way,” released in October of 2020, didn’t automatically receive the attention it deserved. Undoubtedly, G-Eazy has a unique voice that meshes well with blackbear, resulting in arguably one of the best collaborations of 2020. 

4. Safe With Me – Gryffin, Audrey Mika

There’s no other way to say it, this song is a bop. Gryffin has always been one of my top artists, but Audrey Mika was a new find for me. Her vocals, which are so organic compared to some artists, match so well with the lyrics and the background music. It’s safe to say that this is one of my favorite Gryffin songs.

3. Forever – FLETCHER

I am a FLETCHER stan. As a queer woman, FLETCHER, known as Cari Fletcher, opens up a conversation about inclusivity in the music industry. Her secret weapon is having two sides with her music, and “Forever” is no different. I first listened to the original version and was blown away as to why it wasn’t on the radio. It felt like a bubbly pop song with the signature FLETCHER flair. After listening to the stripped version, I was in love. This song truly works for any occasion, and most definitely for a dance party.

2. Stay – Cheat Codes, Bryce Vine

Bryce Vine, despite having hit songs like “Drew Barrymore,” is truly underrated. Along with “La La Land,” this song joins the top of my list of best Bryce Vine songs. This collaboration with Cheat Codes was unlikely, but I was pleasantly surprised at how Bryce’s style complemented Cheat Codes’ beats. The tune, when paired with the wistful lyrics, makes this the perfect song for any mood.  

1. love u again – Olivia Holt, R3HAB

Olivia Holt, notably from the Disney channel and recently the Marvel series “Cloak and Dagger,” has proven that she’s more than just an actress. Not only is the music video for this song aesthetic, but the lyrics, especially in the bridge, are bittersweet with a touch of nostalgia. “love u again” is the unapologetic song we didn’t know we needed.