Top Music News from January 2025

January 2025 has been an exciting month for music enthusiasts, with several major releases and announcements that have set the tone for the year ahead. Here are some of the highlights:

Spotify’s Artists to Watch in 2025

Spotify has unveiled its annual “Artists to Watch” list, spotlighting rising stars across various genres. This year’s list features a diverse array of talent, each bringing unique styles and sounds that are expected to shape the music landscape in 2025. The list includes artists who have already started making waves on Spotify’s editorial playlists, showcasing their creative innovation and cultural relevance[1].

Among the standout names are:

Lola Young

Lola Young, a South London singer-songwriter, has captured the music scene with her viral hit “Messy,” which topped the UK Singles Chart in January 2025. Known for her soulful voice and emotionally charged lyrics, she continues to gain recognition for her unique blend of R&B, pop, and neo-soul.

Gigi Perez

Gigi Perez, an American indie folk and pop artist, rose to fame with her viral TikTok hits “Celene” and “Sometimes (Backwood)”. Her heartfelt songwriting and captivating performances have earned her a dedicated fanbase and chart-topping success with her single “Sailor Song”.

Cameron Whitcomb

Cameron Whitcomb, a Canadian singer-songwriter from Nanaimo, British Columbia, gained attention as a contestant on American Idol. His debut EP, Quitter, released in 2024, showcases his raw talent and personal storytelling, particularly in his hit single “Medusa”.

Spotify’s editorial team has curated a special playlist featuring tracks from these rising stars, giving listeners a taste of what’s to come in 2025[1].

New Album Releases

Several highly anticipated albums have dropped this month, delighting fans across the globe:

The Weeknd released his latest album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, on January 24. The album has been met with critical acclaim and features a mix of his signature sound with new experimental elements. Notable tracks include “Dancing in the Flames,” “Timeless” featuring Playboi Carti, and “São Paulo” featuring Anitta. The Weeknd is also set to perform at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, on January 25, followed by a tour and a film debut in May[2][3].
Lil Baby kicked off the year with his new album, WHAM (Who Hard as Me), released on January 3. The album includes collaborations with big names like Young Thug, Future, and Travis Scott, and has been praised for its dynamic production and lyrical depth. Standout tracks include “Listen Up,” “Dum, Dumb, and Dumber,” and “Stuff” featuring Travis Scott[4].
Mac Miller‘s posthumous album, Balloonerism, was released on January 17. The album, recorded over a decade ago, has been eagerly awaited by fans and offers a poignant glimpse into the late rapper’s creative process. Tracks like “DJ’s Chord Organ” featuring SZA and “5 Dollar Pony Rides” showcase Miller’s unique blend of neo-soul, jazz, and psychedelic hip-hop[5].

Upcoming Tours and Performances

In addition to new music releases, several artists have announced tours and special performances:

The Weeknd‘s tour in support of Hurry Up Tomorrow promises to be a major event, with dates across North America and Europe. Fans are particularly excited about the accompanying film, which will premiere in theaters on May 16. The tour kicks off with a highly anticipated concert at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California[6][7].
Lil Baby is also gearing up for a busy year, with plans to release another album, Dominique, in February, followed by a series of live performances. His tour will include stops at major venues like the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, and the Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida[2][8].

Wagner Meier and Pedro Viela / Getty Images

Conclusion

January 2025 has set a high bar for the music industry, with exciting new releases and announcements that promise a vibrant year ahead. Whether you’re a fan of hip-hop, pop, or indie music, there’s something for everyone to look forward to.