As the music team started pulling together our favorite songs of 2025, we had to pause and ask ourselves the obvious questions: what actually makes a song one of the best? Is it replay value? Structure? Impact? The way it hits in the car versus in headphones? We got specific about the little details that separate a good track from one you can’t shake.
And because EnVi’s listening habits are global by default, the list is too. Our team is pulling from different backgrounds and different corners of music, so you’ll hear that range here, across languages, genres, and countries of origin so this roundup naturally makes room for artists outside the usual shortlist — including underrepresented voices, newer breakouts, and songs that may not have the biggest machine behind them but still hit the hardest.
If you’re looking for what we had on repeat earlier in the year, you can also check out our Best Songs of 2025 (So Far) mid-year roundup here!
IV OF SPADES – “Nanaman”
IV OF SPADES’s triumphant return to the music scene was long overdue — and it proved to be well worth the wait. Upbeat and sweet, “Nanaman” feels like a more matured development of the sound the team tapped into with their 2019 viral hit, “Come Inside Of My Heart.” Blaster, the song’s lyricist, sings on the chorus: “Again, again / I’m completely defenseless / Again, again / I am going insane.” A quintessential instrumental break follows the second chorus — each of the members playing away with echoes of decadent harmonies before it picks up into a funky, electric sound. It is hard to believe that it’s been seven years since the four last performed together as their synergy seeps through every string and drum hit. – Jade Diones
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Kehlani – “Folded”
Kehlani’s “Folded” takes a simple image, folded clothes at the door, and turns it into a whole emotional standoff. The song is a plea and a warning at the same time: come get your things, but don’t take too long…because I might fold, too. Lyrically, the track captured the emotional reality and statuses of relationships in 2025 better than most songs this year did.
As a vocalist Kehlani gives her best, most impressive performance to date in “Folded,’ earning her two 2025 GRAMMY nomination and possibly her first win(s) for Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song. The stacked harmonies, controlled runs, and soft precision in their delivery recall classic R&B — especially peak-era Brandy – while still giving that unmistakable Kehlani twinge.
The song’s impact has stretched far beyond its 278 Million streaming numbers and took over social media. “Folded” lived on TikTok repeated vocal stims, take-that-to-your-grave storytimes, and through covers and remixes (including aforementioned Brandy!), with artists and fans alike reinterpreting it in bedrooms and late-night videos across the globe. – Davonna G. Gilpin
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BIBI – “Scott and Zelda”
The Lowlife Princess, BIBI, known for her silky vocals and sultry vibe delivered exactly that with her second full-length album, EVE: ROMANCE. The album boasts 14 tracks across 42 minutes, with eight prereleases and six new tracks that ruminate on the dichotomy of love. While the album as a whole deserves its flowers, there is a clear queen and it’s of course “Scott and Zelda.”
In true BIBI fashion, it’s littered with tasteful innuendos and seductive double entendres. While at first glance this track could be all about reading a book, it doesn’t take much to realize that BIBI means so much more. The track is a sensual anthem about a lover who wants to be read, marked, and well understood, like a book of course. Gathering insane reception and feedback, the track matched the prerelease single “Bam Yang Gang” in streams and garnered millions of views on YouTube. Coupled with the provocative TikTok challenge she created, you couldn’t escape the track’s allure as it was literally everywhere. BIBI created yet another hit, and for fans of a smooth, delusional love-song, this is a perfect addition to your playlists. – Vanessa Arias
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Olivia Dean – “Nice to Each Other”
With a debut album in 2023 and the release of her sophomore album this year, Olivia Dean is no new face to the music scene. Though the first pre-release from The Art of Loving, “Nice to Each Other,” did wow listeners everywhere, expanding her fanbase and attracting listeners with her groovy but grounded vocals. Based on acceptance, “Nice to Each Other” slowly builds as the song progresses to the chorus, making it easy to dance to, and Olivia’s voice is heard harmonizing with herself, allowing it to be even easier to sing along to.
Hailing from London, Dean’s accent can be heard within her natural vocals, creating a comfortable authenticity that warms the song. Eventually being paired with “Lady Lady” and “Man I Need,” “Nice to Each Other” was the catalyst for Dean’s music to have a well-deserved summer takeover, eventually drizzling into autumn streaming. – Eliza Orlic
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Keshi – “WANTCHU”
Renowned for his tendency to pull at heartstrings, Keshi captures the essence of yearning in “WANTCHU.” Incorporating piano, synth, jingle bells, and a guitar solo atop a trap beat captures the wild beating of a heart in love. Using voice doubling, every verse is punctuated with the way Keshi’s mind continues to run in circles. Just as he admits in the chorus, even in the absence of his lover, Keshi can’t stop thinking about their potential as a couple.
“WANTCHU” is a pivotal track in Keshi’s discography, a turn in his musical direction following the conclusion of his Requiem World Tour. The bold layering of instruments make the track stand out, a sound signalling Keshi’s return to an active role as a producer. Further displayed by the intimate HTOWN REMIX, which he mixed himself, Keshi continues to show a fresh side to his hopelessly romantic anthems. – Dara Gonzalez
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Sayuri & Sopholov – “Secunena”
Mexican duo Sayuri & Sopholov are Mexico’s hottest contemporary stars. Known for blending reggaetón, Latin urban rhythms, and club-ready basslines, the pair has taken over the new wave of Mexican urbano music with their unapologetic lyrics, buenas vibras, and signature sound. “Secunena” paints the story of young high school girls who are reclaiming their empowerment through their sexuality. Being rebellious in their formative years and paying homage to their reggaeton roots, the track was self-produced alongside Fuentes Prod. The trio has brought to life seven songs, with most of their discography consisting of EPs and single releases. With “Veo Veo” as their latest release, their actively growing fanbase eagerly awaits for what the future holds for them, growing each day the group has gained over 2 million active listeners and are what we all say “Las Muñecas Del Estado” –Citlalli Esquivel
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KATSEYE – “Gnarly”
When HYBE and Geffen’s Dream Academy debuted Sophia, Lara, Yoonchae, Megan, Daniela, and Manon as KATSEYE, it was quite clear that they were leaning toward K-pop idiosyncrasies, especially with the viral earworm “Touch.” But they really tested the “global” part of their girl group concept with the equally internet-breaking follow-up, “Gnarly.” Between the abrasive lyrics penned by Alice Longyu Gao and a hyperpop sound that veers closer to the side of Charli XCX and SOPHIE, the complete 360 of the group’s sonic direction left fans in a divisive frenzy. But as soon as the live performance premiere landed on the M Countdown stage, this song took on a new life and became the group’s first Hot 100 entry. It sets the tone for a truly eclectic extended play that although it hasn’t quite solidified the sextet’s definitive sound, gives people a peek into their daring versatility, showmanship, and genre-blind ethos. – Quinn Huang
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Sabrina Carpenter – “Manchild”
Sabrina Carpenter is back with a wink and a sass-filled smirk on “Manchild,” the lead single from her seventh album Man’s Best Friend. After dominating playlists last year with “Espresso” and “Please Please Please,” Carpenter makes her comeback with a playful, exasperated energy only she can pull off. The song is a country-tinged synth-pop banger, perfect for line-dancing fun. Throughout the track, Carpenter is cheeky and confident while capturing the innate frustration of dealing with an immature man. The chorus lands like a gleeful sigh as she sings, “Manchild / Why you always come a-running to me?… Never heard of self care / Half your brain just ain’t there.” The song’s clever production and catchy melodies made it a much-needed summer soundtrack. With her signature mix of charm and witty humor, “Manchild” adds another undeniable hit to her already impressive repertoire. – Kayla Gayle
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The Poles – “Echo! (talk to me baby)”
After a long-awaited return, The Poles released their sole single of 2025, “Echo! (talk to me baby),” and to fans’ surprise, it showed an upbeat and fast-paced side of their musical creation. Consisting of members Daniel Kim, Lee Hwangje, and Kim Kyungvae, The Poles expanded not only their sonic world, but also their visual identity. Paired with the release was their second official music video, featuring all three members moving into an unknown yet familiar place. Showing the indie rockers performing the track while also finding their way, the music video, as well as the song itself, was nostalgic yet new which is perfectly The Poles. – E.O.
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ifeye – “r u ok?”
Hi-Hat Entertainment’s first group, ifeye, issued a warning within the first few seconds of their comeback: “Escúchame el huracán viene por ti.” Just as they predicted, ifeye’s “r u ok?” sweeps up listeners in a campy, musical whirlwind that will have you spinning around for countless repeats. The six-piece team, consisting of members WON HWAYEON, TAERIN, RAHEE, KASIA, MEU, and SASHA — made their debut in April of this year with the saccharine “NERDY.”
The performance for “r u ok?” begins with KASIA loosening up her hair — much like how ifeye themselves have loosened up their school girl image in exchange for a more rebellious vibe. “r u ok?” is experimental K-pop done right with genre switches that pack a punch, yet are still harmonious with the song’s overall structure. A ballroom club sound storms in the infectious chorus, followed by momentum-building Bhangra beats and 808s that will have you dancing along before you even recognize it. – J.D
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TEN – “Stunner”
TEN was nothing short of show-stopping in the title track of his second mini album, STUNNER. Released just one year after his official solo debut, “Stunner” brought a distinct vibe from his previous mini album and his work as a member of Chinese boyband WayV. With a sharp pop-R&B beat and breathy falsettos, TEN effortlessly delivered a track that would find an easy place on listeners’ On Repeat playlists.
The song is only one part of TEN’s artistry with the accompanying music video seeing TEN’s allure in action as he showcased his dance prowess among crowds of dancers falling over themselves to reach him. With backgrounds varying from a vintage bedroom to a chic hotel lobby, TEN made each bounce and step look as easy as breathing. Complete with a bridge-ending high note and a whispered outro, TEN proved that he’s a true namesake of this stunning track. – T.J.
GALCHANIE – “Baby Tee”
Thai singer-songwriter GALCHANIE broke through in a major way this year with “Baby Tee,” a playful, R&B-leaning pop track that quickly became unavoidable in Thailand and across Southeast Asia. Built around a flirty hook and bilingual lyrics that move easily between Thai and English, the song struck a balance between confidence and charm that resonated immediately with younger listeners. Capturing the energy, humor, and self-assuredness of a new generation of Thai pop.
“Baby Tee” took on a life of its own online, soundtracking dance challenges, outfit videos, and fan edits across TikTok and Instagram, while also climbing local streaming charts and landing on viral playlists. Its reach went beyond social media too, popping up on televised music stages and even being covered at large fan events, cementing it as more than just a momentary trend. – D.G.G
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Odetari and HONGJOONG of ATEEZ – “SMB”
ATEEZ’s captain HONGJOONG is no stranger to features, previously working with artists like CHUNG HA and Bradley Simpson, he’s used to solo projects apart from his group. At the start of the year, he teamed up with Palestinian American dance artist Odetari to create the hyperpop diss track “SMB.” While what exactly the acronym stands for, it doesn’t take a leap to say it could stand for “Stay Mad Bitch.” While neither artist has explicitly confirmed or denied, the lyrics are just too cocky to think anything else. The duo brags about their successes, blending together Odetari’s maximalist sound with HONGJOONG’s unique tone, asking their haters if they too should be mad, in the face of their success. While it’s easy to come off as callous, the wordplay and flow are just too good to be mad at — no pun intended — instead they created an anthem for confidence when you’re feeling like hot shit: “Yeah, yeah, that brand’s muse is already me […] your keyboard makes me money / Fame, yeah, don’t be too mad, I’m sorry.” – V.A.
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Felukah – “Danger”
Egyptian artist Felukah continues to carve out her own lane with “danger/خطرr.” The single is a sleek mix of R&B warmth and bilingual rap that’s both grounded and electric. Feluka slips between English and Arabic throughout the track, bringing her signature ease and confidence as she reflects on love, identity, and the realities of living in the diaspora. Over a simmering beat, her lyrics unfold like a conversation. They are filled with pride, romance and self-awareness as she raps about navigating life in New York, chasing dreams, and honoring her roots: “But ‘til I get this money / I’m hustling every day / From a poet to a student to a server to today / Couldn’t walk a day in my shoes without having something to say.” There’s a certain comfort in her cadence, and even the braggadocious moments land with charm rather than a harsh bite. As the chorus blooms, the track becomes instantly replayable; it’s the kind of song you start head-bopping to without realizing. “danger/خطرr” is carried by Felukah’s warm tone and poetic, bilingual delivery highlighting the bold, brilliant, and beautifully honest artist she is. – K.G.
CORTIS – “What You Want (feat. Teezo Touchdown)”
Packing a punch, CORTIS’ “What You Want” became an anthem for youth upon its release. As their debut song, it defined the sonic expectations of the group as well as the message they hoped to portray and immediately, fans were hooked. Socwhen the English version was released featuring Teezo Touchdown, the track gained even more attention.
As BIGHIT MUSIC’s newest group in six years, CORTIS is already proving to live up to the presumptions surrounding them. Consisting of members Martin, James, Juhoon, Seonghyeon, and Keonho, the five teenagers are redefining what K-pop can sound like within a newer generation. As they paint a new meaning of freedom and authenticity, they aren’t doing it without a fresh perspective, and “What You Want” encapsulates that idea. CORTIS is officially here, and they certainly aren’t afraid to “COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES.” – E.O
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Chappell Roan – “The Subway”
Put a finger down if you’ve ever crashed out on public transportation… If you have a finger folded, just know there’s no judgement because Chappell Roan penned an anthem just for you! “The Subway” embraces the vulnerability that comes with trying to subdue the pain of a lost love. Just like her quotable 2022 release, “Casual,” the bluntness in her lyrics make it all the more relatable: “I made a promise / If in four months this feeling ain’t gone / Well, fuck this city / I’m moving to Saskatchewan.” The song’s emotional tinge is doubled by its nostalgia-fueled alternative sound, reminiscent of generational hits like The Cranberries’s “Linger.”
“Subway” was first unveiled during Chappell’s iconic set at the 2024 Governors Ball Music Festival to overwhelming positive reception. It was evident that the hype only grew for the song’s official studio release this year. “Subway” later went on to score Chappell’s GRAMMY nominations for “Record of the Year” and “Best Pop Solo Performance” for a second year in a row. A true visionary in her craft, Chappell Roan continues to be the voice for those whose stories are silenced. – J.D.
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MOLIY, Silent Addy, Skillibeng, Shenseea – “Shake It To The Max”
Originally released by Ghanaian-American artist MOLIY alongside producer Silent Addy, “Shake It To The Max” started as a high-energy, dance-forward track rooted in Afropop and Caribbean influence. The song’s playful hook and commanding rhythm quickly caught on, laying the groundwork for a remix that would expand its reach even further.
The Fly remix, featuring Skillibeng and Korean-Jamaican artist Shenseea, elevated the track without changing its core. Their verses added a sharper dancehall edge that helped the song travel across scenes, from West African timelines to Caribbean party culture and beyond. By the time summer hit, “Shake It To The Max” was everywhere: soundtracking TikTok videos, club nights, festivals, and group chats alike. – D.G.G.
Jeff Satur – “Ride or Die”
Thai singer-songwriter and actor Jeff Satur started our year with the knockout single “Ride or Die,” delivering his signature powerhouse vocals with an addicting synthy bassline underlaid. Each line in the first verse and prechorus feel akin to revving engines at the starting line until it kicks off in the chorus with Satur’s refrain of “I feel it, I feel on overdrive.”
The music video, starring Satur himself alongside Thai-British actress Rebecca Patricia Armstrong (known as Becky), raised the stakes with jewel heists, motorcycle chases, and betrayal. Satur was in his element performing the perfect visual pair for this punchy track, looking more like the star of a feature film than a three-minute music video. Satur released a handful more singles this year, but nothing is as addictive and leaves you wanting more as “Ride or Die.” – T.J.
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no na – “superstitous”
“superstitious” is only no na’s second attempt at music, but that’s all it takes to solidify the Indonesian girl group’s glossy pop sound introduced in their debut song “shoot.” This sophomore single traded in its predecessor’s glimmering, laidback atmosphere for edgier, synthy dance-pop beats lifted straight from the 80s’ archives, immediately evoking a Janet Jackson and Paula Abdul-esque production. It creates the perfect canvas for the 88rising quartet — Baila, Christy, Esther, and Shaz — showing off their vocal flexibilities, cascading into harmonies that melt into the lush sonic world they continue to expand with subsequent releases. – Q.H.
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Dayoung – “body”
Dayoung shed her cute and bubbly image from WJSN for her first endeavour as a soloist. Armed with sensual choreography, smoky makeup, and addictive vocals, she shows a distinctive style to jumpstart her solo career. While released in September, well after the summer’s end, “body” has the undeniable fun, energy, and romance of the season. Dayoung sings confidently as she tries to wear down a crush into giving in to her charms. The track has upbeat percussion and bouncing synths, a rhythm meant to be danced to. This new summer anthem earned her the Best Female Solo Artist award at the 2025 KGMAs, and we can’t wait to hear more! – D.G.
Fuji Kaze – “Love like this”
Fujii Kaze brings us into his world to show what love truly is like through his first full English album, Prema. The project’s second lead single, “Love Like This,” continues that exploration with heartfelt depth. Conveying the love he has for his significant other, the song feels as if Kaze himself is being transformed in a spiritual and healing way. With soulful vocals and soft synth layers, the production leans into an R&B style accented by subtle guitar lines and a touch of 80s nostalgia. The release arrives during a breakthrough year for Kaze coming as he performed his songs for international audiences and took the stage at major music festivals including Lollapalooza Chicago and Austin City Limits in Austin, Texas. –C.E.
Lady Gaga – “Abracadabra”
Household name Lady Gaga stunned the world with the electrifying single release “Abracadabra” the day after the 2025 Grammy Awards (at which she won a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance with Bruno Mars for their duet track “Die With a Smile.”) “Abracadabra” marked a swift return to the sound Gaga is beloved for, mixing electropop and synth melodies with her exquisite vocals to create a dance track that you feel in your bones.
The music video displayed Gaga in all her eerie glory, donned in sharp red leather and white lace trains and surrounded by dancers. Choreographed by Parris Goebel, Goebel was just as much the star as Gaga herself. Precise, elaborate, and unconstrained by normal human movement, the choreography was as alluring as it was bizarre. “Abracadabra” was an easy reminder that although Lady Gaga had delved into different genres over the course of her near-20-year career, OG Gaga is never far. – T.J.
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Jackson Wang – “Buck (feat. Diljit Dosanjh)”
What better way to close off 2025 than to dance? And magicman Jackson Wang makes sure of it with “BUCK,” his collaboration single with Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh. Released on May 9th and the fourth track of his MAGICMAN 2 album, the track is a cross-cultural celebration that balances Jackson’s moody, magnetic pop intensity with Diljit’s partying energy. Fusing the two artistic worlds, they create a high-tension hip-hop dance track that’s impossible to resist. Crisp, hypnotic drum beats pair with seductive, confidence-laced lyrics like “Been living out loud / Give you that buck / If you give me that.” Jackson brought “BUCK” to life at this year’s KCON, debuting an equally charismatic choreography that matched the song’s hypnotic vibes. If you’re looking for a way to kick off your 2026 on a high note, “BUCK” will get you moving with all the buzz you need for the new year. – M.D
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PSYCHIC FEVER from EXILE TRIBE – “Reflection”
When you hear JIGG’s producer tag in the beginning of a PSYCHIC FEVER song, you know you have to make room on your heavy rotation. “Reflection” off of PSYCHIC FEVER’s latest EP, PSYCHIC FILE III, is no exception. The septet are as suave as ever, reminding the one they love: “It’s too bright, look at your reflection / Yeah, you deserve to be treated right.” The song dips into the cloud-rap genre, dialing down on the upbeat intensity PSYCHIC FEVER are known for delivering. However, this softer ambiance doesn’t stop the unit from delivering powerful vocal belts and riding the beat with clever rap bars. “Reflection” is a standout moment from PSYCHIC FEVER’s kaleidoscopic 2025 catalogue. Not only does this track utilize each of the members’ strengths, the song’s relaxed vibe makes it all seem so effortless. – J.D.
Ariana Grande – “warm”
Building off the emotional narrative of 2024’s eternal sunshine, Ariana Grande journeyed deeper into the pages of her publicly dramatized life story that stemmed from polarizing tabloid headlines and moments on the Wicked set after director Jon M. Chu yelled “Cut!” The result is the record’s deluxe, subtitled brighter days ahead, released alongside a beautifully made short film she co-directed with Christian Breslauer.
One of the new tracks is “warm,” which echoes the parent album’s stylistic choices, lush production, and hazy dream-pop soundscape that glimmer against soft synths. It works with the diaristic lyrics that juxtapose between genuine love and fleeting moments of superficial bliss, such as “Can you hold the space I require or will you turn the page?”, a cheeky nod to her viral meme with co-star Cynthia Erivo. – Q.H.
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Billkin – “From Now On”
“From Now On” is, without question, one of the most romantic songs of 2025, and it landed in a year that desperately needed it. While so much of the year’s music has been shaped by breakups, emotional whiplash, and lyrical messiness, Billkin offered something steadier and more hopeful. The song unfolds like a promise built from intention, focusing on the small milestones that make love feel real: waiting until midnight to say happy birthday first, imagining future anniversaries, and choosing someone with clarity and care.
That sincerity is carried by lush strings, piano, and guitar that give the track a sweeping, cinematic warmth. Billkin’s impressive vocal performance helps “From Now On” lean into the romance entirely, embracing the kind of love that sweeps you off your feet without losing its grounding. In a year defined by emotional ups and downs, the song stood out because it reminded listeners that committed, wholehearted love isn’t unrealistic or outdated. – D.G.G
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Madison Beer – “Bittersweet”
This year, two-time GRAMMY-nominated Madison Beer has kept the hits on a roll, from the heavy house “yes baby” to the pumping adrenaline of “All At Once” from the F1: The Album OST. But the October 10th release, “bittersweet,” holds a special place in Team EnVi’s heart, just like how we’re saying farewell to the bittersweet, fleeting moments of 2025. The dream-like track captures the hard-to-explain ache and reflection of those elegiac memories.
Set on top of a floating melody, Madison’s soft, intimate vocals contrast between lingering bitterness for what was lost and the quiet happiness of the painful moment being over. The chorus encapsulates the essence of the song’s message as she sings, “I’m getting over what you put me through / And I’d say I’m done crying / But baby, I don’t lie like you do.” Coming to terms with a hard ending can be difficult, but on this track, the platinum-selling singer reminds us that acknowledging that difficulty is the first step to moving on. But even as final as this single sounds, Madison’s sonic storytelling is far from over, as “bittersweet” is just a glimpse of what’s to come on her highly anticipated January 2026 album, locket. – M.D
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HONORABLE MENTIONS
“Tippy Toes” – ATEEZ
“I <3 YOU” – MARINA
“Daisies” – Justin Bieber
“GALA” – XG
“Billo” – Sharn
“Outside” – ENHYPEN
“Midnight Sun” – Zara Larsson
“Ikaw, ikaw, ikaw” – ICEBOX & Eliza Maturan
“Underpressure! (feat. Wooyoung)” – Gallant
“Carita Linda” – Rauw Alejandro
“Call It Off (feat. JAEHYUN)” – Emotional Oranges
“Make Mala” – Angelina Mvp
“Drop” – HANA
“Hilwa” – zeyne
“High As You” – Mark Tuan
“Sweet Dreams” – j-hope & Miguel
“We Hug Now” – Sydney Rose
“VETIVER Y AMARETTO” – Humbe
“X” – CLOSE YOUR EYES
“MachineGirl” – ADÉLA
“BLISS” – Tyla
“Wolf Type” – &TEAM
Want more of our favorite music? Check out our Best Albums of 2025 here!
