The Pulse of Today’s Music: What’s Trending Now

Genre-Blending: The New Normal

In 2024, sticking to a single genre feels like a thing of the past. Artists are embracing genre-blending more than ever, mixing elements of pop, rap, rock, electronic, and even classical music. This year, we’ve seen major hits from artists like Doja Cat, who skillfully blends hip-hop with pop and punk influences, or Post Malone, whose songs move seamlessly between trap, rock, and folk.
New artists are no longer confined to traditional genre labels, with genres like hyperpop gaining momentum. Pioneered by artists like 100 gecs and Charli XCX, hyperpop is a chaotic yet captivating mix of distorted beats, high-pitched vocals, and a mashup of various sounds.

If there’s one platform that continues to shape the music industry, it’s TikTok. Songs can go viral overnight, often driven by creative dances, memes, or challenges. One of the biggest success stories of 2024 is “Good Days” by SZA, a track that gained massive popularity on TikTok before becoming a global hit. Similarly, artists like Ice Spice and Steve Lacy saw their careers soar thanks to the platform’s viral reach.
TikTok has become a launchpad for new talent, allowing independent artists to bypass traditional gatekeepers. If your song catches fire on TikTok, it’s almost guaranteed to find a home on mainstream streaming services.

Amapiano, a South African music genre, has exploded onto the global stage this year. Characterized by its laid-back beats, jazzy elements, and infectious piano melodies, Amapiano has crossed borders and is making waves in the international music scene. Artists like Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa have been leading the charge, while collaborations with global pop and hip-hop stars are helping the genre reach new audiences.
Many tracks from the genre have become club favorites and are regularly featured on Spotify’s top playlists, demonstrating the genre’s rising appeal.

Music has always cycled through trends, and this year, we’re seeing a huge revival of 90s sounds. From R&B to grunge to house music, today’s artists are drawing inspiration from the past. Olivia Rodrigo’s latest album has been praised for its 90s pop-punk vibes, reminiscent of early Avril Lavigne and Alanis Morissette.
Meanwhile, house music is having a moment again, with artists like Drake and Beyoncé incorporating 90s house beats into their newest albums, including Beyoncé’s smash hit, “Break My Soul.”

In the streaming age, singles have reigned supreme, but 2024 is witnessing a revival of the concept album. Artists are returning to creating albums that tell a cohesive story or express a central theme. For example, Lana Del Rey’s latest album is a beautifully crafted narrative, with every track contributing to a larger story about fame, identity, and love.
This trend reflects a growing appreciation for deep, immersive listening experiences, where fans are encouraged to consume an album from start to finish, rather than just cherry-picking singles.