One of my biggest passions is listening to music that matches my current moods and emotions. Life has been difficult lately, so, let’s have some fun! Here are my top 5 favorite pop albums that I am listening to on repeat! And, yes, I am old-school and I listen to CD’s.
5) The Killers: Direct Hits
I enjoy listening to a well-done greatest-hits album from time to time, and The Killers deliver a nice package deal with their version. I feel quite nostalgic listening to this CD, because The Killers first became popular when I was in high school. As a sophomore in college at age 20, I would cruise around in my car blasting When You Were Young like I just couldn’t get enough of it! The combination of rock and pop that embodies The Killers’ sound appeals to me, and I love to dance around the room to this album like no one is watching. And, if someone is watching, I do not care!!
4) Lady Gaga: Harlequin
One thing that I love about Lady Gaga’s sound is that it is ever evolving. As an artist, Lady Gaga is not afraid to take risks and try something new. She is a multi-dimensional musical genius! Harlequin is a fascinating album to listen to, as Lady Gaga flexes her vocal talent to include jazz and big band sounds. I especially love the tracks Oh, When the Saints and The Joker. The styling of the CD cover is part of the appeal, with Lady Gaga embracing her role in the movie Joker: Folie a Deux. I have not seen the movie, but I am glad that it inspired the singer to explore new sides of her artistry on this interesting album.
3) Taylor Swift: Lover
Yes, folks, I am a Swiftie! I have no problem admitting it! I did not get the opportunity to attend The Eras Tour, but I watched quite a bit of film from the concerts. And, I will admit, I purchased an Eras Tour sweatshirt. The reason I mention the tour, is because the opening era is from the Lover album. Before watching tour footage, I never really appreciated Lover. To be honest, it was one of my least favorite albums by Swift. However, after the popularity of the tune Cruel Summer, I decided to give Lover another listen. What I found was a much more complex and layered album than I had originally thought Lover to be. From heartbreak to true love to a family member’s health scare, it was a diverse and genius work of art. I have a new found appreciation for Lover, and listen to it frequently!
2) Beyonce: I Am… Sasha Fierce
It is difficult to pick my favorite Beyonce album to add to this list, but I believe that I Am…Sasha Fierce is my current favorite. I love to wake up early in the morning, brew some coffee, and read my Bible while listening to this album. I then proceed to journal my feelings and reflect on what I have read. I love that this album starts off slow, and then really picks up the pace. It is the perfect compliment to my morning devotions. Beyonce is so gifted in her range and singing ability, that I am sure she would sound great singing almost any genera. Her albums over the years have showcased her talent in this area, especially with her recent Grammy-award winning country album Cowboy Carter. However, I will always love hearing her silky-smooth voice sing Halo, and then proceed to belt-out Single Ladies (Put a Ring on it). Thank you, Queen Bey!!
- Lana Del Rey: Chemtrails Over the Country Club
To say that I am a huge Lana Del Rey fan is an understatement! I find her voice to be intoxicating. Her ability to sound full of emotion and sadness and soul is music to my ears. I love her lusty crooning abilities, and the intense control she has over her voice. This album has a jazz/blues musicality that I really enjoy. I also am a fan of Lana Del Rey’s lyrics, and I love that she is a little bit controversial. She does not back away from making things sexy, raw, and real. I value honesty in an artist, and I want their music to touch a real feeling inside of me. I can relate to a lot of what Lana Del Rey sings about, and I love that she does not pretend to be perfect or without fault. She is the total package of what an artist should be: vocally talented, musically creative, and lyrically interesting. I was not at all hesitant to pick Lana Del Rey as my number one, the only difficulty was choosing which one of her albums I love best. However, this one has been on repeat for me recently, and I suggest that you check it out!
So, there you go! My listening choices for pop albums. I am also a fan of other musical genera, so perhaps we will revisit this type of blog post another time! Keep listening!
Jamming out, G.
PS This is a flashback photo from early March 2025 of me wearing my Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour sweatshirt!
The Ladybug 