Top 5 Songs of the Week

Every Friday, EW’s music team rounds up the five standout tracks of the week. This edition features an eclectic mix of artists making waves with their latest releases. Kacey Musgraves makes a striking return with “Justified,” a track from her upcoming album. Building on the emotional depth of her previous work, Musgraves captures the tumultuous aftermath of a relationship’s end. The song reflects the ups and downs of moving on, with lyrics like “Moving on was feeling strong, but healing doesn’t happen in a straight line,” set against a backdrop of smooth production reminiscent of her Grammy-winning album *Golden Hour*. The song’s raw, candid lyrics explore the complexities of personal growth and the lingering doubts that accompany it.

Caribou’s latest single, “You Can Do It,” is a high-energy dance track that sees Dan Snaith once again demonstrating his talent for crafting infectious beats. The track, which serves as a preview for his upcoming North American tour, is characterized by its frenetic bass line and layered production. The song’s title and mantra, repeated throughout, provide a rallying cry over a dynamic mix of glossy keys, whirring synths, and pulsating beats. Accompanied by an endearing video featuring Frisbee-catching dogs, the track is both exhilarating and invigorating, proving that Caribou’s inventive approach to electronic music remains as captivating as ever.

“Family Ties” by Baby Keem featuring Kendrick Lamar is a powerful collaboration that showcases Kendrick’s lyrical prowess. The track is packed with biblical references and clever wordplay, delivered with Kendrick’s characteristic intensity. His verses, such as “I been duckin’ the pandemic/I been duckin’ the social gimmicks,” display his unique voice and thought-provoking content. Baby Keem holds his own against Kendrick’s formidable presence, reflecting on his journey with nostalgic and introspective lyrics. The song’s beat shifts between 808s, flutes, and percussion, creating a complex and engaging listening experience.

MUNYA’s “Cocoa Beach” offers a dreamy escape with its retro-futuristic sound. The track is a preview of her debut album, *Voyage to Mars*, and features a blend of funk and disco influences. The accompanying video introduces a black-hooded extraterrestrial who arrives in Cocoa Beach, Florida, engaging in heartwarming activities with MUNYA. The track’s lyrics, “We can make it together,” coupled with its shuffling beat, convey a sense of cosmic connection and boundless possibility.

Finally, CL’s “Spicy” reaffirms her status as a K-pop powerhouse. The track, produced by Baauer of “Harlem Shake” fame, showcases CL’s versatility as she effortlessly switches between Korean and English. The song’s commanding beat and CL’s confident delivery make it a standout in her discography. Despite her decade-long anticipation for a U.S. debut, CL’s focus has recently shifted back to the Korean market, where her impact continues to be felt strongly. These tracks each bring something unique to the table, making them the highlights of this week’s musical offerings.