For readers who missed all of March’s releases, don’t worry, because I didn’t. There were a variety of major music releases last month, ranging from upbeat pop hits to laid back country tunes but there were a few songs that stood out to me. So, here are my favorite songs released in March.
#8
“Twilight Zone” by Ariana Grande
I’m not usually a big fan of Ariana Grande’s music, but this song is an exception. It sounds like any other generic pop song, but in a masterful way that’s expected of Grande. I also appreciated how the consistent drumbeat and synth-driven production is similar to The 1975’s style. Grande’s vocals in the chorus are a satisfying transition from the usual lower range that she displays throughout the verses. “Twilight Zone” is great for any study playlist to prepare for finals season.
#7
“Rodeo” by Momma
“Rodeo” is the strongest single Momma has released leading up to dropping their album, “Welcome to My Blue Sky,” on April 4. I also loved their song “I Want You (Fever)” which I reviewed in Baila’s Top 8 of January; however, I found this song’s production a lot stronger because it’s clear their use of piano behind the guitar emphasized the chords. This is an interesting production style that we haven’t heard a lot of since their earlier releases, and I’m glad to see Momma is exploring it again.
#6
“You Said You Were Sorry” by Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco
I was never into Selena Gomez’s vocals or Benny Blanco’s production shown in their music before the release of “I Said I Love You First,” but honestly, this album has made me a fan. In Baila’s Top 8 of February, I reviewed “Call Me When You Break Up” and I assumed that would be the extent of songs I would add to my playlists because of Gracie Abrams’ contribution to the song but “You Said You Were Sorry” has disproved that due to Blanco’s strong production. It’s easy to mess up unique vocal production, but it’s implemented really well in this song.
#5
“Dirt” by Julien Baker and TORRES
Out of the singles Julien Baker and Torres have released leading up to “Send A Prayer My Way” being released on April 18, “Dirt” has been my favorite song instrumentally. Not only does Julien Baker have lead vocals on this song, but she also played the acoustic guitar, electric guitar, banjo, mandolin, and keyboard. Additionally, this is the first song from the album that has an acoustic, country sound, and it’s more relaxed than previous singles. Overall, this song feels very raw and cathartic. Be on the lookout for my review of “Send A Prayer My Way.”
#4
“Bluest Flame” by Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco
I’m a huge fan of Charli XCX, as displayed in my review of “Brat,” so of course “Bluest Flame” was my favorite from “I Said I Love You First.” In Blanco and Gomez’s “I Said I Love You First – Explained,” Gomez says that they took inspiration from Charli XCX for this song and collaborated with her for the production. Because this is Benny Blanco’s first time exploring hyperpop, I’m very impressed, however it’s evident how involved Charli XCX was in creating it. Honestly, without her contribution, I know I wouldn’t enjoy it as much, and I consider this to be more of a showcase of her skills rather than Blanco or Gomez.
#3
“Modigliani” by Lucy Dacus
“Modigliani” is unlike anything Dacus has released before. The best part of the song is, without a doubt, the production. It’s a unique style that Dacus hasn’t shown in her previous work, with the chaotic drumbeat and seemingly random string additions. It heavily reminds me of songs like “Full Machine” by Gracie Abrams and “Renegade” by Big Red Machine feat. Taylor Swift, both being my favorite songs by each of their respective artists. I’m excited to hear this song played live when she comes to Kansas City early next month.
#2
“For Keeps” by Lucy Dacus
“For Keeps” is my absolute favorite on “Forever is a Feeling.” Despite how sad the writing is, this song has been on repeat for me since its release. I specifically enjoyed how she only used a quiet acoustic guitar for the production. The very simple instrumentation is the highlight of the song, making it heartbreaking upon every listen. To read all of my thoughts on this song, make sure to check out my review of “Forever Is a Feeling”
#1
“The Giver” by Chappell Roan
I’m a strong believer that country music is overhated and people just haven’t heard the right songs, and this song’s popularity serves as a testament to that. For being her first time attempting a country sound, she did a remarkable job. The combination of the fiddle and banjo makes it feel like an authentic country song as opposed to the regular country pop on the radio. Roan does something similar to Elton John’s song “Benny and the Jets,” where she emulates an environment within the production. Obviously this song is supposed to be heard live at a local county fair, so she added some small cheers and fun ad-libs to imitate that. This song was a great way for her to pay homage to her home state of Missouri in her own style.
