The year 2024 was the biggest two-face type of year I’ve ever had in my life. It started off real bad, but as the year kept going, things slowly got better. Compared to most years, I can safely say this year was rather successful despite all the setbacks and life altering decisions.

For the time being, I was able to find my spark again in covering racing lately. I’m confident 2025 will start off on the right foot, but I don’t want to get ahead of myself.

I’m quite happy with a few things happening in sports production and have a couple photography gigs lined up soon. The grand goal is to make the latter super common where I can say 2025 was my damn year! Time will tell regarding how things will shape up between now and then.

As far as music, it was also a two-face kind of year. The most dominant number-one singles were absolute garbage, especially from one specific genre that I’ve grown to despise for my personal taste.

Nearly all of my personal favorite songs failed to hit number-one when it should’ve been. In my book, four artists come to mind as to who really made 2024 one of the more fondest years in mainstream music. Those being Chappell Roan, Kendrick Lamar, Sabrina Carpenter, and Billie Eilish.

Let’s not forget other amazing acts such as The Warning and Tyler, The Creator, who put out great albums this year.

Per usual, you’ll get some nostalgic hits then and there, and acts that aren’t that known but I hope you take a liking of them. Again, music is subjective and quite frankly, this year’s rankings were hard to judge. The strong ones were real strong, but so many tunes took until the final days to really solidify their place.

That said, this year’s Top 100 symbolizes a turning point in my music taste and tough decisions were made all year long. Among the tough decisions were realizing a few of my longtime favorite acts that’ve made several of my rankings didn’t make the cut. Acts such as The Aces, who’ve made every chart since first hearing them in 2018. After having 16 (technically 18) songs make last year’s rankings, the most among any artist, Taylor Swift wasn’t able to set the vibe for me despite a few songs reaching the Top 150. The biggest surprise was Metallica, one of my favorite bands of all-time, didn’t make the Top 100 for the first time ever.

The tides have shifted as compared to most years, a lot of the vibes came from records that were released from 2020 onwards. In fact, the Double 20s occupy nearly half the year-end chart in 2024.

Before diving into the best songs I enjoyed playing this year, there’s one honorable mention song I’d like to share.

HONORABLE MENTION

The Kinks – I’m Not Like Everybody Else (Live) (1996)

While watching clips of The Sopranos, this song played after Tony left Janice’s household after pissing her off. My takeaway of this song was ‘damn, this sounds too good for a 60s track.’

That’s when I learned the version heard on the show was a live performance decades after the studio release. Sadly, this version isn’t available for streaming.

Therefore, it’s inelgible for consideration in my Top 100. But I couldn’t dismiss this song, so it deserves its flowers as my one and only Honorable Mention song of 2024. It sounds so damn good and it hits home with what I go through on a regular basis. Not the context of what led to Tony walking out, but my career ambitions.

Below, you’ll see all my past rankings for you to enjoy after this post!

TOP 100 SONGS: HIGH SCHOOL | COLLEGE | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023

Sometime in 2025, I will do my rankings for 2017 and perhaps dabble on middle school (2006-09). Like any rankings, it takes days putting these together. Let alone describe each song and what kind of vibe I had during those periods.

Once I get those two done in the forseeable future, the “I Felt the Vibe” series will be up-to-date and all I have to concentrate are the years that lie ahead.

Without further ado, let’s dive into this year’s rankings that began with 226 classified songs that’ve reached my monthly Top 25. Of those 226 tunes, only 100 made the cut and I’m going to share how those tracks stood out over the rest.

Let’s not waste more time, here are my 100 favorite songs that defined a two-face year known as 2024!

100

Tate McRae – greedy (2023)

Starting off my list is a last minute entry that took me several days to decide if the vibes were felt for Tate’s hit single. Time went by and carefully thought about it, there’s something amusing about this song. I had to put my thinking cap because people see her as more of a smoke show dancer than a singer and songwriter.

For what it’s worth, hearing it on the way back from working a Seattle Kraken game, I liked how it sounded. The production is solid and the lyrics are pretty good. But it wasn’t until later when it became a catchy dance tune. So the decision was made to include “greedy” in this year’s rankings.

99

Juan Gabriel – Hasta Que Te Conocí (1986)

A seven-minute saga from the maestro Juan Gabriel.

I’ve always liked this song and during the final weeks of summer, the song came to life for me. Especially, the final two and a half minutes! It felt something straight out of a television series before the end of an episode that’s about to be the turning point of the series.

Hearing this at night on a long road trip to California is a damn mood that’s indescribable. One of my favorite Spanish tunes of all-time for that reason.

98

Downstait – Kingdom (2016)

“Finish! The! Story!” – Michael Cole (WrestleMania XL Night 2)

Cody Rhodes indeed finished his story in April after defeating Roman Reigns for the Unidsputed WWE Championship.

For me, “Kingdom” does get me hyped up but I also like to associate this song with Taylor Swift’s “Cruel Summer” because what it was for mostly women, this song by Downstait was “Cruel Summer” for men. It didn’t help that I did a mashup of those two songs and it flowed so damn well! Too well!

On top of that, seeing Rhodes wrestle in person when SmackDown took place in Seattle, this song holds a special place in my heart this year. Solid cage match for the championship and made Solo Sikoa look good.

I’m curious where his current title reign goes heading into 2025 where there’s so many unknowns due to the main event scene being well up in the air. A good problem a company can have honestly.

97

Jean Constantin – École buissonnière (1959)

I’m far from a movie buff and what I think is great cinema varies, but there’s something about Frances Ha that was enjoyable. The music are memorable and well-timed, particularly this song which comes from another movie.

The film in subject is called The 400 Blows, released in France back in 1959.

Quirky, but rather fun short tune that just worked in the scene where Greta Gerwig’s character, Frances Harrington, went through hell just to take money out from her bank account. Money she was struggling to earn in her quest of being a renowned dancer.

All of this was done just to pay dinner with a guy played by a then unknown Adam Driver. Quite the film!

By that point, Frances became one of the more memorable film characters I’ve seen. It’s slowly changed over time after seeing more films in 2024, old and new, but she’s still memorable. In large part of Gerwig’s performance.

96

Gucci Mane feat. Offset – Met Gala (2017)

To this day, I’m still surprised I slowly got around into liking this type of rap music because back in college and even after graduating, it was the style I disliked.

Now, I tolerate it enough that I often pick certain rap songs for my traveling playlist and there weren’t many in 2024. On the occasion, I tend to go with a Migos member because it’s a damn mood and “Met Gala” is no different.

With Mark Martin’s favorite rapper as lead and the late Offset as the featured artist, it makes for a cool and boss tune to play.

The intro alone is worth the motivation to kick ass before going to work.

95

The xx – Infinity (2009)

PREVIOUS RANKINGS: 1 (COLLEGE) & 94 (2019)

All year long, I’ve left a tab open on my laptop of this song. Particularly, the instrumental of the song because it sounded so crisp which AI Generated vocal removers tends to struggle with fully removing vocals.

It brought back a lot of memories of my past and remembered why I fell in love with the group all those years ago. Such an a whirlwind of emotions the song is and it really holds up well as The xx’s debut albums was released 15 years ago.

That reminds me, I need to hear this song again in San Diego soon!

94

Like Roses – Easy (2023)

One of my favorite things about doing these annual blogs about my favorite songs is discovering new acts. This year, Like Roses takes top honor because it’s downright angsty and raspy.

Every time I hear “Easy,” my voice feels shot and the urge of drinking water. Thanks to Amy Schmalkuche’s undeniable voice and it’s so damn good!

93

Saoirse Ronan & Nicholas Britell – Winter Coat (2024)

My go-to gift wrapping song this year came from the ever beautiful and convincingly gifted actress Saoirse Ronan.

From the movie Blitz, she has a music performance where it started a bit rough, but it got better over time. Nice little number and didn’t thought about it much after the film.

Days later, I saw “Winter Coat” being nominated for awards and there was a clip of her performing the song live with Nicholas Britell. Sounded beautiful and the studio recording was as good.

Warming song to hear at night if you ask me. What a phenomenal year she’s had in terms of her works.

92

boygenius – With You Without Them (2023)

Back in February, I had a conversation with a dear friend of mine and her boyfriend about boygenius being a band that’s most listenable at home. Not so much while driving because prior to having dinner with them, I realized that if I was going to get my ass fully awake, I needed a high energy tune.

I was listening to The Record on my lengthy drive from West Covina to Los Angeles. It’s a great album for sure, but the three of us agreed that our homes is the best way to fully grasp the trio of Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers and Lucy Dacus.

Anyways, of all the songs from The Record, the opener was definitely among the highlights for me. Just the trio singing in a near choir way was beautiful.

91

HAIM – Feel the Thunder (2020)

There aren’t a lot of songs left from HAIM that I’ve yet heard as we enter 2025. While I patiently wait for their fourth album in the forseeable future, “Feel the Thunder” from The Croods: A New Age was a neat song to hear in full while on vacation a few months ago.

Each song they’ve made for a motion picture are so contrasting with this one being the most unique. In a way, it shows a more aggressive tone of rock compared to the style of music they’re mainly known for. Fits the vibe of the film franchise to an extent and a rather nice deep cut.

Definitely influenced from late 70s classic rock at most, but more so early 80s rock with a doze of glam without it being an outright glam tune.

90

Led Zeppelin – Stairway to Heaven (1971)

When 2024 began, there weren’t a lot of songs that lifted my mood and get me out of a bad rut I was going through with my photography business.

I thought Wayne’s World was good, but not quite out of this world many have said. Of course, the “No Stairway” scene is memorable and it brought me back to hearing this classic record. It had been around high school since hearing the entire song or at least resonated with me.

If there’s one part of the song I always go back and play, it’s when Jimmy Page’s solo goes into high gear. In addition to his solo, everyone gave it their all and once Robert Plant came back into the picture, pure euphoria!

No longer is the song I think of the time when I went to a Leadership retreat before senior year when this song was played on a boat. No way! I think of a dream I had where a wrestler’s journey has come down to one championship match in front of a sold out crowd. Montage clips left and right, highlights of the wrestler working out on a beach and at a gym. Several historical clips of the individual with the final minutes of the song in the background.

The ending alone is what really made “Stairway to Heaven” legendary and was reminded again this year.

89

Miles & Miles – She’s So High (2020)

When it comes to my photo business, the music video of this song is the type of shoots I want to do more of.

To me, it capsualtes the beauty of people in a very sexy way. The song itself is pretty good, but it’s a rare instance where the video carried the load.

88

SisQó – Thong Song (1999)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 95 (HIGH SCHOOL)

Another last minute entry comes from a song I liked playing back as a high school senior. The nostalgia of it all kicked into high gear and remembered what made this song so unique.

Granted, I totally understand the detractors point of view as to why this song wouldn’t work today. For what it’s worth, it was a lit song before the term lit became famous when describing a boss tune.

A song about a thong and a quest to win Michael Jackson over!

87

Giorgio Moroder & David Bowie – Cat People (Putting Out Fire) (1982)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 6 (2021)

With two Indianapolis 500s to my name, “Cat People” still remains as the quintessential pre-race tune for me. My favorite scene from Inglorious Basterds is because the usage of the record due to its poetic nature.

The way I see it, the opening does feel like an individual is going to war. It can be any war and the madness that is the Indy 500 is no different. Particularly, when a driver is all alone in the garage lot standing next to their car before walking down Gasoline Alley and hit the grid. That one scene from Driven always comes to mind when describing the situation.

Despite not covering this year’s Indy 500 for reasons I’ll not discuss here, I still associate “Cat People” with that race. But the true reason why this song came back to life for me was hearing a fan made extended version of this song with “The Myth” starting things off before David Bowie’s vocals come to life minutes in.

It added more to the mistique and aura of an already legendary tune. So much, that I can also see this song working so well for the Daytona 500. If and only if the weather matches the vibes. More on that later!

Overall, this track remains epic after all these years!

86

HAIM – Falling (Live at iTunes Festival) (2012)

Typically, I like to do separate entries for live renditions of certain songs because it can bring a lot of unique elements unheard from studio recordings.

In the case of my favorite HAIM Song, it feels so different. Parts of the lyrics didn’t end up making the Days Are Gone album, let alone when the single of “Falling,” which is the one you hear from their debut, was released in 2013.

It’s rather primative compared to epic version I come to know and love. A sense of twang from Danielle Haim’s guitar and very charming keyboard tone Alana Haim provided. What remained consistent between the live version and final product is Este Haim’s silky basslines, especially in the main chorus.

A neat capsulation of the sister trio before becoming one of the better acts in music in the last decade.

85

Halsey – Ego (2024)

As a sign of proper maturity, I gave certain artist a chance that I might’ve not given them a fair shake. Halsey was among those I really didn’t care for because of one song I didn’t like at all. That being the one she did with The Chainsmokers, who I can’t stand nearly all their top hits. Didn’t work for me then and won’t listen back to now!

Fast forward to the 2024 VMAs, it was the first time since 2009 I decided to go out of my way and watch live because of Chappell Roan. Halsey was also going to perform, but I still had that stench from “Closer” that I was about to just watch something else in the meantime.

I didn’t change the channel, but put mute like I did with acts I didn’t care for or like at all (i.e. Camila Cabello and Katy Perry). I was listening to a livestream an influencer was reacting to.

Then I turned at the screen and noticed Halsey’s live performance setting being punk/garage rock vibes.

I was digging the setting, so I decided to listen to her performance and I really liked the song “Ego.” I was gobsmacked because it was a sign that Halsey is actually pretty damn good!

Not long after, I properly listened to her solo number-one single “Without Me” and ended up not hating it at all. From there, I was rather thrilled for her album The Great Impersonator and quite like the album. It’s super vulnerable and a sad tale of Halsey’s personal life. I’d make a case that her album is among the top-five best of 2024.

At the end of the day, “Ego” resonated to me with her unapologetic lyrics and it still does as I enter 2025.

84

def rebel & Motionless In White – Demon In Your Dreams (2022)

You know business will pick up the moment “this is my brutality” is heard!

Despite the year-long saga Rhea Ripley has had with feuds such as Becky Lynch, “Dirty” Dom Mysterio (what a pussy), and Liv Morgan, “Demon In Your Dreams” was a damn vibe.

However, the vibes were fully felt early spring when she was out of action. For some reason, it felt right playing this song in Southern California during Long Beach weekend.

It felt more right blasting this track at full volume on a warm afternoon at Ventura Blvd.

What was the rental car? A damn Chevy Malibu!

I know, you’re shaking your head. It’s a damn rental!

83

Lana Del Rey – Freak (2015)

Here’s something I’d suggest anyone reading this to do! Click on this clip to understand what I’m about to explain here.

Pardon my language, but it’s a fucking criminal offense the vinyl of Honeymoon splits up “Freak” and “Art Deco” because the transition experience is so gorgeous.

The only way to get that feeling is on the CD and streaming devices, but the video takes it to the next level.

“Freak” is a solid song that leads to an even more amazing tune in “Art Deco.”

A perfect song to play at night and does it make me think about being in that situation where love making is majestically appealing.

82

The Last Dinner Party – Nothing Matters (2023)

Charming and whimsical are words to describe “Nothing Matters” at the beginning of the year. The song is straight forward what the subject is about. I love a tune that gets to the point.

The song is so good, I had to get the 7″ single when I saw it at my local record store. I couldn’t pass it up!

81

Black Sabbath – Planet Caravan (1970)

PREVIOUS RANKINGS: 8 (HIGH SCHOOL) & 64 (COLLEGE)

After all this time, “Planet Caravan” made my Top 100 for the first time in a non-throwback ranking capacity.

I was genuinely surprised that after my days at Idaho, neither this version or Pantera’s cover made my cut. Perhaps it’s because this year was the first time in a real long time I was drawn into the song again.

Not a bad tune to fall asleep and escape reality. Who would’ve thunk it?

80

The Beaches – Jocelyn (2024)

The only concert I went to this year was The Beaches performing at Neumos in Seattle all the way back in February and had a great time jamming out to their set.

Months later, they released “Jocelyn” and became the latest song I gravitated towards from an incredible rock band that’s consistently on the rise. Quite a catchy tune I often listen to from time-to-time.

Even got the Blame Jocelyn 7″ vinyl on Record Store Day during Black Friday.

79

Drake – Family Matters (2024)

For about 15 minutes, Drake appeared to have a small advantage over Kendrick Lamar with this track. The only time such claim can be true and it’s the only Drake track from their beef I actually liked.

However, it’s the fifth best song of their beef. Yes, I’d put Metro’s “BBL Drizzy” over “Family Matters.” The former would’ve made my cut, but at this point, I consider it a hot mess regarding streaming rights and so on.

The song isn’t bad and holds up as a pretty good diss track. Once Kendrick responded, it was game over and now “Family Matters” aged poorly as far as lyrics are concerned.

I’d imagine the next two Grammy Awards will consist of Kendrick taking home more gold. Meanwhile Drake got buried worse than Damien Sandow after losing to John Cena on RAW in 2013.

78

Van Halen – Little Dreamer (1978)

The only Van Halen entry is one of the more underrated tunes in their legendary arsenal, especially from their self-titled debut album.

Quite the contrary tune compared to the bad ass, adrenaline rush the other tracks were. That within itself made “Little Dreamer” stand out in a good way. It was unlike any of the other tracks from this elite LP.

77

Madonna – Hung Up (2005)

This year’s weather at Refuge Oudtoor Festival wasn’t always ideal and it was no different when I was trying to get some golden hour sunrise shots. Too much cloud cover that it ruined one of my traditions, but I figured to get some scenic shots of the fog as a consolation prize.

While doing those shots, this song came up and it stuck with me for a small period of time. More so in the fall, long after shooting photos at ROF. One of the last great Madonna tracks made so sweeter for the usuage of ABBA’s “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight).” It’s a fun bop in a period where the bops were declining in quality.

76

The Beaches – Want What You Got (2019)

Prior of seeing The Beaches in Seattle, this was the track I played multiple times on the way to the show. Mostly when I was trying to find a decent parking area, if possible.

I was able to find a decent area, but this song is all the vibes leading up to the show. It’s definitely a tune worth playing while driving anywhere and could make for a tune worth dancing in the streets, but I’m more of the former.

75

Cannons – Fire For You (2019)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 36 (2023)

Another late-night jam for you! The main reason it made it back to this year’s list is the fact it’s so damn fiesty.

Here’s hoping one day Cannons debut album gets a vinyl release. So much so, it’s probably in my top-three wishlists in terms of albums that’ve yet to be released on vinyls. That’d make for a great Record Store Day 2025 release if you ask me! Plus, it’d complete the discography.

74

Classics IV – Spooky (1967)

Interstingly enough, Classics IV have never made any of my rankings I’ve published. I’m fairly certain it will when I decide to do one from my middle school years, but as of right now, “Spooky” has finally made my cut.

The big reason it made it this year was around Halloween season and wanted to hear a classic jam from the 60s I’ve not listened in awhile. The same went with “Stormy,” which didn’t make a big impact compared to “Spooky” this year.

A timeless and sexy tune, but it also does live up to the track title. The perfect ingredient for the season it’s based on.

Dark and gloomy weather makes the tune more immersive, very Washington like during the fall.

73

Bob Seger System – Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Man (1969)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 15 (2022)

A year ago, the live version of the song made the Top 100. This year, it’s back to the studio version from 1969.

Rather than hearing it from baseball or at random, it was out of leisure. When a song is very 60s in a cool way, it’ll stand out like it has throughout 2024.

Maybe one of the days, I do need to sit down and watch Once Upon A Time… in Hollywood, and figure out what part of the film this song plays. I’ve only seen it once and that was when the film came out. There’s a reason why which I’m going to explain next!

72

Vanilla Fudge – You Keep Me Hangin’ On (1967)

Five years ago, I saw Quentin Tarantino’s (still) most recent film in theaters with my brother, who is super into motion pictures and super critical. If memory serves correct, he really disliked this movie he referred to as a slog jerkoff fest. I thought it was fine, but got the full “Tarantino Experience.”

I’m not sure if that term is right, but how I describe “Tarantino Experience” is the violence. This is the very song accompanied by the extremely brutal climax of Once Upon A Time… in Hollywood where the Manson family got their heads kicked in and severely rendered.

It took me five years to watch that scene again as I have thought a lot of how that film can make a case of being the modern-day version of The Outsiders.

The film had Austin Butler (who I first remembered him from Ned’s Declassified and Zoey 101), Sydney Sweeney, Maya Hawke, Mikey Madison, and Margaret Qualley. All of them becoming quite the names in many capacities.

Very stacked ensembled filled with well-established performers and future household names.

As for the song, I can’t unthink of the tune without thinking about the climax. This was a record I first heard all the way back in middle school and always felt this version is the best out of the three notable ones (The Supremes were the originals and Kim Wilde did a cover of it in 1987).

Whether it’s the single or full version of the song, it’s quite the rollercoaster ride if there ever was one.

Speaking of 2019 films, I seriously need to watch The Irishman.

71

Sabrina Carpenter – Bed Chem (2024)

Whoever said the beat of “Bed Chem” sounds like a 90s West Coast Rap tune is both a genius and a pariah.

As soon as I read that comment, I instantly thought of Tupac’s “All About U” and another person thought of Fabolous and Tamia’s “Into You.” Put those two tracks and do a mashup with “Bed Chem,” you get magic!

Sabrina is quite the personality and it’s highlighted well with “Bed Chem” from start-to-finish.

70

boygenius – Satanist (2023)

A year ago, I highlighted the Saturday Night Live performance of “Satanist” and mentioned it’s going to take time to sit down and listen to the supergroup’s discography.

As you can tell, I ultimately did and the studio recording of “Satanist” stands out well. This is a record worth playing on the road and in traffic. Not because you can hear cars honking, but it provides the enegry oftentimes rock is missing these days.

69

FEX – Subways of Your Mind (1983)

Where were you when “The Most Mysterious Song on the Internet” finally had an artist and official track title?

For me, I was scrolling through Twitter and saw a post explaining the identification was discovered. Immediately, I typed it in on YouTube and finally got to hear a proper recording of the song. Not only that, we were spoiled rotten and got two more songs from the German rock band. All three tracks are unique.

“Subways of Your Mind” can finally be eligible for my rankings was my initial thought!

Days went by and I played this a lot while making the trip to Arizona for NASCAR Championship Weekend. What I shouldn’t have done is play this the morning after a particular night, but I did channel it out and thought about Anora instead while playing this 1983 record.

Talk about a huge glass case of emotions — watching Anora in theaters on Election Night. If you know, you know.

When I got back from Arizona, this song would pop up during a dead puck in Seattle Kraken games. The no longer mysterious tune, playing at sporting events. Talk about timely and certainly a time to be alive!

68

Depeche Mode – Strangelove (Live) (1988)

Earlier this year, I would play the first few songs of the group’s live album from the Rose Bowl called 101. I would play the first few songs in succession, including “Strangelove” and it’s such a jam.

Everything about the live version is perfect and what made Depeche Mode great in a period where momentum was beginning to be on their side in the United States.

67

Hot Chocolate – Every 1’s A Winner (1978)

If I ever go to Paris someday, this song will be my number-one priority to play while walking. In large part of how groovy it sounded while watching Frances Ha the first time. So good, it was played twice in the film!

As the year was coming to a close, I definitely had a huge smile when this song was also used in I, Tonya. So you can thank films that I finally took the time to watch for loving this gem.

66

HAIM – Cherry Flavored Stomach Ache (2021)

As mentioned with “Feel the Thunder,” HAIM’s film tracks are very different. From the 2021 film The Last Letter from Your Lover, this song is more relaxing and showcases the sister trio’s range compared to the previously mentioned song.

This is where you can hear the inspiration and love for 70s music. Nice little word play highlighting the act of moving on and wanting nothing to do with a person. It makes for a pretty good road song before working on a nice summer afternoon.

65

Paul Anka – Put Your Head On My Shoulder (1959)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 56 (2021)

For some reason, I had the urge of getting the original 7″ single of this song after playing it several times at home. It was pretty cheap compared to most vinyl singles and learned that certain records are different.

Considering this record came out in 1959, one of the oldest entries, it required an adapter for the single to be played. I was worried I had to buy one, but I realized that my turntable already had one on the upper left corner. Saved me money and was able to play this classic!

64

Ministry – Burning Inside (1989)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 3 (2023)

This record still makes me want to run through a wall and raise some hell! So much hell, I’d tackle a person through a glass window and land into a pool on a hot SoCal night.

If you don’t play this at full volume, do so to get yourself energized!

63

The Beaches – Slow Mo (2022)

A little bop about having a sexual fling, but wanted it to be a quality pleasure. A gem I really like from this captivating Canadian rock band, who recently had a concert during the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend.

Like “Want What You Got,” “Slow Mo” was another song I was playing on repeat before seeing their show in Seattle.

62

The Gap Band – You Dropped A Bomb On Me (1982)

It must’ve been from work in Seattle where I had the urge to play this on repeat during the summer.

If not, it would’ve been before going to Disneyland with my family.

Wait! Now I remember! This was played while working minor league baseball!

Anyways, it’s another track that sounded so good once again! Don’t you love hearing tunes you haven’t heard in a long time and when you do, it brings back some memories?

61

Carlos Vive – La Gota Fria (1993)

My only recollection of “La Gota Fria” was Ray Conniff’s cover ages ago. Worth checking out by the way!

During the month of May, I did hear this version of “La Gota Fria” and it’s a completely different identity in such a good way.

Well produced and as a sucker for nice volume of the bass, it didn’t took much to fall in love with this record. It’s a classic that I must’ve heard before, but didn’t think much of it until this year. If not, then where have this song been all these years?

60

Faith No More – The Real Thing (Live at the Brixton Academy) (1990)

Here’s a kick ass live version of an already bad ass tune from Faith No More.

Compared to the studio version, this live performance SCREAMS pro wrestling! It’d make for an excellent entrance theme for someone that’s out to kick ass and take no prisoners. A bit of pyro and you got yourself an effective entrance.

The live performance from the album still sounds different with the synths sticking out like a sore thumb. The concert show I’m sharing here is the one I blast at full volume and the prefered version a pro wrestler should use for a gimmick that fits the song’s mood.

59

The Warning – Burnout (2024)

The sister trio’s fourth album Keep Me Fed was a highlight of this year’s music landscape. They’re so damn good, they can make any style unique with “Burnout” being one of those examples.

Compared to their three previous albums, their 2024 release is a continuation of their growth as performers and an homage of the acts before them. That’s my interpertation of “Burnout” and why I liked it quite a lot prior to the album’s release.

58

HAIM – Falling (2013)

PREVIOUS RANKINGS: 1 (2021), 42 (2023), 85 (2022)

My favorite HAIM record reappears for a fourth consecutive year with the Daytona 500 being the main reason for its inclusion.

When I thought about the song’s lyrics and what it meant, all I thought about was NASCAR’s most prestegious event. The chorus would work perfect of why the Daytona 500 is so unique unlike any other major racing event in the world.

For fun, I did a hype video and see what I can do to prove my point. Flaws aside, especially the number of drivers who’ve made at least one Daytona 500, “Falling” makes for an excellent hype tune!

57

Giorgio Moroder – The Myth (1982)

Isn’t this song a glorified instrumental of “Cat People (Putting Out Fire)?”

Yes, but it adds a different element to an already legendary tune.

The hymns of David Bowie added a flavor to “The Myth” as a strong buildup tune. This song fits the vibe of a race morning at Daytona International Speedway as the NASCAR Cup Series garage opens and the crew get to work leading up to the Daytona 500.

Just watching the opening of the film Cat People alone, “The Myth” takes you on an unknown adventure. That’s exactly the vibe I get for “The Great American Race” when listening to this song. It screams Daytona, similar to “Cat People (Putting Out Fire)” does at Indianapolis.

Okay, the theme from Days of Thunder fits Daytona much more, but “The Myth” does for me as well these days!

56

Depeche Mode – Strangelove (1987)

The track that seems to play multiple times when arriving to work in Seattle. I kid you not, “Strangelove” played as left the van in the garage and walked to work.

In a way, it became one of my work anthems during the final months of 2024. As I’ve already mentioned in the 101 version of this song, Depeche Mode were indeed gaining momentum in the U.S. thanks to songs like “Strangelove” from the iconic album Music for the Masses.

55

Kendrick Lamar feat. Lefty Gunplay – tv off (2024)

MUSTARD!!!

Now that I got the obvious bit out of the way, this is a great spiritual sequel to “Not Like Us.” There’s even videos out there who’ve used this instrumental and put the vocals of “Not Like Us” in its place.

Fun little bop and one for the Buick GNX lovers! There was a time where the GNX were among the fastest cars in the world when the 1987 machine came out.

Hell, in the world of racing, Buick were beast AF when it comes to speed, especially at Indianapolis. It’s a shame the engines didn’t last and ended up never winning “The 500.”

54

Jim Johnston – I Want It All (2003)

When putting this together, I couldn’t find the video featuring WWE Superstars of Paul Heyman’s SmackDown doing their vignettes, IDs and poses back in 2003.

The very ones used for the SmackDown intro when this track debuted.

Hearing the full version, it climbed up my rankings as one of my favorite WWE programming themes. In large part of the ending of the song that screamed Saliva.

The riff at the end must’ve been the inspiration for wrestler turned actor Batista’s entrance music performed by Saliva. It’s called “I Walk Alone,” and I suggest hearing this song before playing Batista’s theme. Once you do, you’ll definitely hear the resemblance.

At the end of the day, this SmackDown theme just kicks all sorts of ass!

53

Joy Division – Love Will Tear Us Apart (1980)

On a random morning, I opened Twitter and had one of my usual discoveries. As usual, it’s about a song with this tale being about a track and group I’ve never heard before.

I’ve learned that before New Order, there was Joy Division and this record was their swan song.

The tale is sad because it’s about the struggles of frontman Ian Curtis, who took his own life a month before their biggest hit was released.

Moving song from start-to-finish and I can see how this track being very popular and among the best songs in history. It does require multiple listens to get a grasp of the song’s meaning, but also how well crafted it was, highlighted by the unforgettable synthesizer.

It definitely earned its place as a timeless classic.

52

Kendrick Lamar – squabble up (2024)

You have no idea how fucking happy and relieved I was when “squabble up” dethroned Shaboozey out of the number-one spot!

I’m sorry, I really don’t like “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” because it’s a whailing snooze fest! Naturally, I was going to like a new number-one song, at least one can hope, and this track didn’t disappoint.

Well, I’ve already heard GNX before “squabble up” hit number-one. A breath of fresh air hit in a time I needed it most considering how mostly rotten the other number-ones were and far more superior songs stalling at No. 2 or worse.

Took me a couple listens to like this tune! It didn’t help at the time hearing the whole album half awake. But once I had more energy, I began really liking this track! It’s an all-around damn vibe and the music video is a wonderful homage to the West Coast and loved how Nate Dogg got his flowers as he’s sorely missed to this day.

Fun tune to cap off 2024 if you ask me!

51

HAIM – FUBT (2020)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 11 (2021)

All rise for the national anthem of the Seattle Mariners dropping another fucking game to those damn Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

The 2024 Mariners were a fucking chore to watch, especially when they kept losing to those punks from Anaheim I loathe entirely!

The 2024 Mariners were a fucking chore to watch, especially when they kept losing to those punks I loathe entirely (#NeverForget2002)!

Multiple times this season, I’ve made little clips of the team collapsing to those bums with “FUBT” highlighting the moment the Mariners lost. More often than not, in the ninth inning.

Judging how cheap the team are, I don’t expect 2025 being any better! So yeah, expect no World Series push in Season No. 49!

By the way, what’s a World Series?

50

Kanye West feat. Big Sean, Pusha T and 2 Chainz – Mercy (2012)

For the record, Kanye’s most recent number-one hit “Carnival” is my pick for the WORST song of 2024, beating any song Morgan Wallen put out.

To cleanse that garbage out of my ears, I avoided any of Kanye’s works nearly all year. That was until this month when on a random night at home, I was on a quest to find a song that sounded very reggae to borderline incoherent.

My guesses were Kanye and Lil Wayne, but I also thought of Rick Ross, Slim Thug and Wiz Khalifa. After 16 hours of struggles between me and two of my brothers, I decided to Google “early 2010s rap song with reggae sample” or something like that.

One video click later and all this time, it was a Kanye track!

It was a hit, but a monstrous hit which explained why one of my brothers not remembering this song right away. All I remembered was that damn intro and I would’ve found it sooner if I actually had the patience of looking at the NBA 2K13 soundtrack. That’s where I first heard that song all the way back in 2012!

But again, that damn intro got stuck in my head and once I rediscovered “Mercy,” I’ve been playing it a lot since and reminds me how great Kanye West was. Arguably, the last great year he had in his career.

Love the sample elements of Giorgio Moroder’s score of Scarface included and didn’t realized Teyana Taylor was in the video. Like another movie I’ve mentioned earlier, I got to set time and watch A Thousand and One soon.

49

Cannons – Loving You (2023)

An amazing band who can make any tune euphoric without coming across as try-hards.

“Loving You” is another example where this example comes to life as the very moment the track begins, you’re in for a ride!

Probably the best song with the lyrics “I was made for loving you,” sorry KISS. That top spot is taken by Cannons.

48

Chappell Roan – Pink Pony Club (2020)

The first of seven entries from “The Midwest Princess” is the oldest entry on this list as the single came out four years ago before making it to last year’s iconic album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.

From its piano down to its catchy lyrics, “Pink Pony Club” is an outright beautiful and well-crafted song that shows her capabilities as a singer. I’ve known this when I heard her songs for the first time in late 2023 and as we enter 2025, I still feel that way. Maybe more than ever as I’m geniunely excited to see what’s next.

47

Ministry – Scare Crow (1992)

A long song that kicks ass certainly deserves its place in my rankings!

Problem was that while I casually listened to this song on a monthly basis, I kept forgetting to include this song in my monthly Top 25, one of two ways to become eligible for my year-end rankings.

It finally made my Top 25 this month by default, but it still earned its place because I was in a small Ministry binge with “Scare Crow” being the highlight.

As I’ve mentioned with the live version of “The Real Thing,” I’d say this song can make for a great lengthy wrestling entrance. Like a major faction with their frontman going on a year-long undefeated streak with epic camera works and fog smoke dominating the stage presence.

All-in-all, an amazing tune that’s meant to be disturbing and unapologetic.

46

Tyler, The Creator – Noid (2024)

During that long search for “Mercy,” the only example I could explain to my brothers was the usage of the Ngozi Family’s 1977 song “Nizakupanga Ngozi.”

The main reason I used “Noid” as a aid for help is because it already was one of my favorite 2024 releases. Truer words couldn’t have been said by anyone else but Tyler, The Creator. It’s an anthem for the introverts including myself because there are times where his lyrics rang true, especially in my neighborhood.

I’m extremely finicky and uptight when people glare at me that all I can think of is violent endangerment in my head.

Those are the type of strangers, neighbor be damned, I severely don’t trust whatsoever!

I just want to walk and get the mail in peace. Hell, even eat in peace as Tyler said in “Noid.” So yeah, the whole song is a relatable message.

45

HAIM – Now I’m In It (2019)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 16 (2022)

Every time I think of Cathy Kelley, I just picture her being “the fourth Haim sister” with this song being the main influence. Particuarly, Paul Thomas Anderson’s music video of the single where Alana, Danielle and Este were walking at night during the drum solo towards the end of the song.

As the cool kids say, Cathy has a nice aura that fits the vibe of a Haim sister if you ask me.

Okay, enough of that shit! It’s another record I liked playing on the way to work at full volume on a summer afternoon. Knowing that it’s time for some minor league baseball action!

44

Thundercat – Funny Thing (2020)

Thanks to this very song, I can’t unthink of Thundercat when hearing Tommy Richman’s “Million Dollar Baby.” I just can’t because of the vocal effects used here!

Like the title of Sabrina Carpenter’s latest album, “Funny Thing” is indeed short and sweet. Funky madness as it can get from the former bass player of Suicidal Tendencies ages ago.

43

Raffertie – The Substance (2024)

Regardless of how people feel about a movie like Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance, there’s a lot of takeaways you can get that’s worth your time. This film isn’t for everyone if you’re not into the horror genre, but it’s not like Smile 2 where there’s no sense of relaxation.

I can see why this film is considered for Best Picture for Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globes. The comedic elements are well highlighted.

Personally, I thought it was an amazing movie from start-to-finish. The ending was sadistically awesome, but an alarming reminder of social commentary existing.

It’s my second favorite film of 2024 with The Wild Robot taking top honors.

Outside of the plot, the film’s theme stood out so much because of it’s strong electro pop energy. Like it’s the type of tune to fist pump at a club, but it’s the film’s symbol of the implications that lies ahead once Demi Moore’s character Elisabeth Sparkle takes “The Substance” that leads to the creation of Sue, played by Margaret Qualley.

As fairly memorable Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross’ score of Challengers was, I didn’t resonate with Luca Guadagnino’s film compared to Fargeat’s The Substance. Raffertie’s score on the other hand, it just hit the right vibe for me and the theme really hit out of the park despite not being all that crazy for that particular genre of pop since high school.

42

The Warning – Hell You Call A Dream (2024)

If FOX Sports are smart, I’d use this song for their INDYCAR coverage. I don’t know why I think of the sport when hearing this track.

The only reason I can think of is sometimes the dream of covering INDYCAR can be hellacious. Any ounce of positivity is a necessity because I’ve never had it easy over there. I could say the same thing about NASCAR as well, but “Hell You Call A Dream” fits the INDYCAR landscape much more.

Much of the hell is from my old outlet I had to leave in May because they gave me nothing to believe it’s going to get better. Since then, I haven’t covered an INDYCAR race and once I figure out what I want to accomplish in 2025, I’m unsure if there’ll be room for the sport. Will see though.

Vulnerability and overcoming adversity is the theme of this song from The Warning, which makes it one of the best tracks of Keep Me Fed and perhaps one their best works overall thus far.

41

Depeche Mode – Enjoy the Silence (1990)

PREVIOUS RANKINGS: 1 (2022) & 63 (2023)

For the third consecutive year, “Enjoy the Silence” made the year-end rankings. It moved up 22 spots from last year because it’s still a go-to song in any situation I’m into.

If there’s a season that just clicks with this song, it’s definitely in the fall and early winter. There’s something about “Enjoy the Silence” that just hits different this time of year. Whether I’m driving or walking to work, there’s nothing like this song.

40

Tyler, The Creator feat. Daniel Caesar – St. Chroma (2024)

That beat drop! Inject that into my veins every single time!

Now this is a record you must blast at full volume while driving and a good bass system to really feel the Chromakopia experience. Such an excellent album opener, probably the best album opener of 2024. Bar none!

39

Depeche Mode – Behind the Wheel (Live) (1988)

The two times I went to Southern California in a span of two months, this was a track I occasionally played on the road. Worthy tune for an excellent drive to wherever I needed to go.

Another instance I play the live version over the studio due to the song’s atmosphere across the board.

38

boygenius – Not Strong Enough (2023)

As far as which boygenius song is my personal favorite, it’s a toss-up between “Salt in the Wound” or “Not Strong Enough” with the latter being just ahead which can always change.

I understood why this was a contender for awards at the beginning of the year. All three were able to shine and showcase their strengths in one song.

37

The Doors – Land Ho! (1970)

Like many tunes, it boils down to personal preference. The best way to listen to “Land Ho!” is during sundown and as time went by, I consider this a sleeper hit from their discography.

There was a period of time where I pondered how this song made it to one of their compilation albums. In this example, it’s 13, released in late 1970. Around halfway through the song (at 1:40), that’s where the song shines because it takes you on a voyage before the pace picks back up.

Ray Manzerek’s organs just kept building up with tremendous intensity right before Jim Morrison shouts “Land Ho!”

That’s really all it took to appreciate “Land Ho!” today! It is a voyage.

36

The Warning – Apologize (2024)

Ruthless agression is one way to describe “Apologize!”

The bridge that leads to the chorus added so much energy that makes you want to brawl with someone in the ring.

Lead vocalist Dany Villarreal shouting the song title just added more to the song’s intensity. Without question, it’s definitely one of my favorite tracks from Keep Me Fed. Strong “in your face” energy!

35

boygenius – $20 (2023)

A simple song about money and the implications behind it! I really love the build-up to Phoebe Bridgers’ attitude on the necessity of having $20. From there, that’s when the song gets super chaotic and very rock and roll.

34

Lil Troy – Wanna Be A Baller (1998)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 33 (2020)

Towards the end of summer, I went back to listen to DJ Screw’s rendition of this song. It led me back to play the original and reminded myself how mighty it sounds at night.

More often than not, I would play this song in the background while watching the dangerous streets of Southern California. There’s a YouTube channel where its content consists of those dark areas and it fit the overall mood.

Even hearing this on the freeway, it gave me that same feeling. This is the night tune of all night tunes as far as hip-hop is concerned.

33

Billie Eilish – CHIHIRO (2024)

It took me some time to feel the vibes of “CHIHIRO” which was sandwiched between “LUNCH” and “BIRDS OF A FEATHER.” Talk about an incredible three-song run on an album. You can even say up to five songs if you factor “WILDFLOWER” and “THE GREATEST.” That’s how amazing Hit Me Hard and Soft was!

With this particular song, the overall vibes and Billie’s range was well represented in one of the more longer songs from the album. Works great on a late summer evening and definitely hits right in early winter.

32

Paramore – This Is Why (2022)

The first song to kick off 2024 on a good note! It was my first “Song of the Day” and a fixture to the first month of the year.

In light of working a hockey game and unable to see the Winter Classic, I was in a mood and “This Is Why” got me out of that rut. It was the only way I could’ve escape the FOMO vibes and just do the best I can at work.

The music video is amazing as well, so it didn’t took a lot to like both the song and video. One of the better combos I’ve seen this decade.

31

Shaquille O’Neal feat. Def Jef – (I Know I Got) Skillz (1993)

I put all the blame on an old UrinatingTree video where he reviewed the Shaq Fu video game! Out of nowhere, the first track of Shaq’s debut album Shaq Diesel sounded so damn good!

Too good that I kept saying “I lean on the Statue of Liberty when I get tired” ad nauseam. Mostly when I shower and played this track while on vacation.

Don’t care of the lyric after the Statue of Liberty though.

Before watching UT’s review, I’ve already heard this song back in Idaho as a freshman. Hell, I bought the album on eBay for comedic reasons. Sure, the album is laughable, but this song is mostly dope. Worth the $15 bucks back in 2013.

It’s neat coming back to this song 11 years later.

30

Dua Lipa – Training Season (2024)

Of all albums I was looking forward to in 2024, Radical Optimism was a huge disappointment. The album just didn’t do it for me. If you want an album version of Challengers in terms of such feelings, Radical Optimism was it.

In the end, the first two singles were the only highlights of the album. “Training Season” is the second single from her album and by default, the best one.

Love the 70s influence of the song and it seems all the eggs were put in one basket considering how the rest of the album ended up. Perhaps when I get around listening to Dua Lipa Live from the Royal Albert Hall, some of the songs from Radical Optimism will hit just right.

Due to all those reasons, it was real tough ranking “Training Season” because it could’ve ranked higher, but I could only place it 30th best. Even then, it may be seen as super generous. Still love this song, but facts are facts.

29

The Warning – EVOLVE (2022)

PREVIOUS RaNKING: 38 (2023)

Moving up from last year’s rankings is arguably The Warning’s best song that took some time to fully grasp. A friend of mine usually puts over “EVOLVE” and it took until last year to really recognize the song’s greatness.

The breakdown is fun to play on my keyboard. Amazing build-up! A worthy tune to be used in gaming and wrestling PLEs. Of the songs I would love to see in iRacing’s NASCAR console game, “EVOLVE” was the one I picked out of The Warning’s catalog.

With the right momentum, I sure hope such idea comes to life in any capacity! It’s that damn good!

Of the songs that’ve ranked in my Top 40, “EVOLVE” is the lowest ranked song in terms of where the song peaked in my monthly Top 25 I keep track of to make this post possible. Its peak was 17th back in January, around the time I was playing the breakdown on my keyboard.

28

Casper, Nio García, Darell feat. Nicky Jam, Bad Bunny, and Ozuna – Te Boté (Remix) (2018)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 9 (2020)

Of all the films I’ve seen that premiered in 2024, Mean Girls (the musical version) was the first one I saw and it ranks dead last in my rankings. I just saw far more better films as the year went on.

Now what does this film have anything to do with this song? A lot!

It was played at one point in the movie which was super out of left field and I least expected this song being used. At least it was at a party, so it fits the vibe. However, I would’ve expect hearing this record in an R-rated film. Not in a musical film.

Later in the year, I was listening back to songs that made my 2020 rankings and reconnected to those tunes. To the point that this particular song, I incorporated it into a racing novel I’ve been working on since late 2022. That’s where the vibes of the song kicked back in and probably will into 2025 when I continue to work on my passion project.

27

HAIM – Summer Girl (2019)

PREVIOUS RANKINGS: 2 (2022), 9 (2023), 17 (2021)

For nearly half the year, “Summer Girl” consistently made my monthly Top 25 rankings despite ranking no higher than seventh in April.

What else can I say about this song that I haven’t said over the last three straight years?

Timeless — that’s the right word to describe “Summer Girl.”

26

ZZ Top – Gimmie All Your Lovin’ (1983)

The moment I caught wind of MaXXXine coming out in theaters, I knew I had to see the other two Ti West films related to Maxine Minx beforehand. I liked X, but REALLY loved Pearl. The latter was worth all the constant posts I’ve seen on Facebook ranging from the ending to the “I’m a star” scene.

For me, Pearl is one of my favorite films of all-time. After seeing those films, I was hyped for MaXXXine to cap off the X trilogy. While I ultimately liked the film, what I really loved was the film’s inclusion of this ZZ Top classic.

BOOM! You were smack dab in 1985 with Maxine, who was super confident about her audition for “The Puritan II” and best believe she made it loud and clear to the would-be contenders. The whole time the song played just kicked ass!

One of my favorite move intros I’ve seen which is saying a lot from a not-so movie buff like myself.

25

HAIM – Let Me Go (2013)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 6 (2023)

My highest ranked HAIM song of 2024 is the ever underrated “Let Me Go.” Pumps me up every single time I hear it on the road! Such an excellent tune during baseball season if you ask me.

Hell, when I left Ventura Blvd. after getting some ice cream and buying some records, I blasted this song at full volume with the windows down. Got a loud “yeah” from it which made my entire trip back in April. It’s such a killer song!

24

Chappell Roan – My Kink Is Karma (2023)

While watching some of Hugo One’s playthroughs on YouTube, usually weeks after the livestream on Twitch, I play songs that were either played in that moment or a random song that I felt fit the mood. Even if the song has nothing to do with the gameplay whatsoever.

Mind you, the YouTube uploads doesn’t have the song from the livestreams. Therefore, I like adding some music while watching the playthrough to make the viewing experience even more enjoyable.

In one of his playthroughs, he was playing a modded version of Grand Theft Auto: Vice City and for some reason, I wanted to play a Chappell Roan tune as he was trying to conquer the mission “Demolition Man.” As I’ve said, he was playing a mod version, so it made the already frustrating mission to most, beyond infuriating.

Each time he failed the mission, I replayed “My Kink is Karma” from the beginning until he passed it.

Glad it’s a tune I really enjoyed because replaying back to the beginning can get annoying, but worth the circumstance once Hugo passed the mission.

23

Kendrick Lamar – euphoria (2024)

The tides shifted the moment “euphoria” came out!

At the time of this song’s released, I wasn’t the biggest Kendrick fan. He had some good songs, but others I felt he was trying way too much that it didn’t click for me. That all changed with the first diss track on Drake.

The series of beat changes worked masterfully and carried a different tone without feeling so jarring. To think this was only just the beginning of what ended up being a one-sided feud in favor of Kendrick.

22

Led Zeppelin – In the Evening (1979)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 33 (2018)

Last month, I belive it was one of those nights I couldn’t sleep much when I felt like playing “In the Evening” on repeat. From there, like many songs, I like playing it multiple times to get the feel of the record.

The intro of the song still hits different and it does take me to a different world where nothing else matters, but you and whatever vision I was facing when hearing it.

That’s what music does to me from time-to-time, it takes me elsewhere to escape reality for several minutes.

21

Chappell Roan – Red Wine Supernova (2023)

During the months of March and April, I was months removed from hearing Chappell Roan for the very first time. By that point, I was beginning to explore the rest of The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess and began hearing some songs on repeat.

“Red Wine Supernova” was the very song I played several times in that two-month window. It’s a fun, catchy and a sexual tune if there ever was one.

Just recently, I stumbled on a video where the demos was completely different, especially the lyrics. It made me appreciate the song’s evolution to where it was long ago to what became the tune we get to hear at anytime.

It’s definitely one of the many highlights of Chappell Roan’s album and with very good reasons!

20

Kendrick Lamar – meet the grahams (2024)

A lot of people love “Not Like Us,” including yours truly. However, if you were to tell me which was the best Kendrick diss record during his feud with Drake, “meet the grahams” can’t be topped. There’s no way this diss track takes second place!

Yes, it doesn’t have the fun beat. Yes, this is a song that’ll be a hard sell on mainstream radio. But this is the song where Kendrick went for the kill before doing his victory lap in “Not Like Us.”

Cold, sinister, violent and rage. Those words is how I describe “meet the grahams” back when it came out in May. Kendrick made sure Drake got his 15 minutes with “Family Matters” before going for the final blow to win the feud. Now that’s some Undertaker shit right there.

19

Cannons – Hurricane (2022)

A relentless tune that symbolizes Cannons sultry and pleasuring aesthetic.

I often come back and play this song without skipping it when the time of day is right. That usually means it’s played at night.

Love the bassline, the drums, the synths, the guitar, Michelle Joy’s vocals and the whistling. Everything about this track is sexy AF.

18

Lana Del Rey – Art Deco (2015)

In my high school rankings, I’ve mentioned how much I loved “Young and Beautiful” from The Great Gatsby soundtrack. To some extent, “Art Deco” feels like a spiritual successor to the 2013 song.

Again, to really feel the vibes of “Art Deco,” play “Freak” first.

Independently speaking, “Art Deco” is a beautiful tune where Lana Del Rey really shines. Me explaining it doesn’t do it justice, this is a wonderful tune.

17

The Pretenders – My City Was Gone (1984)

Three words — that damn bassline!

One of the greatest songs where the bass was emphasized. It really brought a nice tune about Ohio into a great tune about the state and rock music as a whole.

It must’ve been either Bristol or Richmond when FOX Sports used this for their NASCAR Cup Series coverage. This was played after the race off pit road, but can’t recall which race it was right now. But that’s when I first heard this Pretenders song and haven’t looked back ever since.

When you’re driving and it’s lengthy trip, this is a good song to play multiple times to past the time at full volume. Even if you’re not in the state of Ohio, just play it!

16

Depeche Mode – Pimpf/Fpimp (1987)

Knowing the context of the song title, it does leave quite a nerve. Henceforth, I included the name of the extended version which is just that particular word in reverse.

Oddly enough, the “extended version” begins backwards before the rest of the song is the just the original song.

The haunting piano tune is quite the contrast with the rest of Music for the Masses and it closes out the amazing 1987 album.

Add the loud thud from the big drums and hearing the druids, it makes for a bizarre masterpiece despite how jarring it sounds when you play the entire album from top to bottom.

Fast forward to the live concert at the Rose Bowl, the introductory before “Behind the Wheel” plays makes this track an out of body experience. Like a sense of fear before it gets super vibrant. I love a track that builds anticipation, especially before an acts hits the stage.

It’s a shame the 101 concert album starts towards the end of the song rather than the beginning as seen in the D.A. Pennebaker film of the 1988 show in Pasadena.

Name aside, it’s an impactful instrumental to close out an amazing album or kicking off an amazing concert by Depeche Mode.

15

D12 – Purple Pills (Instrumental) (2001)

Like “Mercy” in December and “Fire on High” back in high school, “Purple Pills” was an elusive song to find.

Every time I heard the instrumental on WrestlinGifs’ channel, you know shit is about to hit the fan when he’s about to rant about some of the bad moments of wrestling. Bad as in the quality of a show, angle or match. Just to be very clear on my remark!

It took my several months for Shazam to finally recognize the instrumental and I just knew it was something from Eminem. My problem was I didn’t bother looking at all the D12 instrumentals which would’ve solved my search a long time ago.

Upon learning it came out before both The Eminem Show and Encore, it made so much sense because I see “Purple Pills” as a sign of what was to come from Eminem.

The song itself is fine, but the instrumental is a lot enjoyable and even laugh. By laugh, I mean when thinking about the lolcow moments of wrestling and Pav ranting about it.

14

Chappell Roan – Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl (2023)

Out of the blue, I like to associate this song with Tiffany Stratton. I don’t know why, but it kind of fits her personality to an extent.

Anyways, another example of a fun tune that capsulates her desire for a woman that’ll satisfy her more than any guy could ever imagine.

13

The Beaches – Cigarette (2023)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 55 (2023)

No matter the time or location, I’m always up for this Beaches record. Preferably, at high volume.

This song is as good as it can get and hearing it live in Seattle was such a blast! If you were to tell me my top-three Beaches tracks from Blame My Ex right now, it’ll be “Blame Brett,” “Everything Is Boring,” and “Cigarette.”

12

Genesis – Mama (1983)

PREVIOUS RANKINGS: 12 (2020) & 54 (2019)

Part of me hopes this track is used in a coming of age drama film someday. The lyrics itself can work for a nice scene. But that’s not the reason why this song is back in my annual Top 100.

This relates to hearing an extended version that brought a whole new perspective to an already legendary song from Genesis.

Made by Maximus Maximal, the 10-minute extended remix capsulates the intensity and oftentimes infidelity tale unlike any other version I’ve stumbled upon before.

It felt something straight out of an action film before the climax kicks in and the song carrying the entire scene. The remix left me asking for more which isn’t a bad feeling at all when it’s awesome.

11

Charlie – Spacer Woman (1983)

Thanks to a couple of people, I found a Facebook post where a video showing the 80s nightclub scene had this odd tune. I liked it and heard it in full. Rather obscure, “Spacer Woman” was a damn vibe in late spring and it carried into the summer months.

Everything about it was futuristic for its time. Mind you, this was released in 1983 and I would’ve never heard about it until seeing that Facebook post in the middle of the night.

The song was so unique that I had to get the 12″ record of this song. There was no way I was going to pass it up due to the obscurity of this song. It wasn’t a Top 40 hit, let alone that known in America. Those are the records I really love discovering, especially if it was released in the early 1980s.

10

Chappell Roan – HOT TO GO! (2023)

PREVIOUS RANKING: 24 (2023)

The first Chappell Roan that made me notice her works and even made last year’s Top 100. This was well before she really blew up this year and now many people around the world know who “The Midwest Princess” is.

You can say she’s one of the very few artists I heard of before they became super big in mainstream music and pop culture in general.

As the year was coming to a close, this was the song I constantly heard at work in Seattle. It’s really become a sports anthem similar to the Village People’s “Y.M.C.A.” became nearly a half century ago.

In fact, she even said so herself that “HOT TO GO!” is the gayer version of the previously mentioned 1978 single.

This song isn’t for everybody and I get that because it’s super campy and tongue-in-cheek at the end of the day. For me, it’s a fun bop that I don’t mind hearing anywhere.

There’s a mashup of “HOT TO GO!” featuring Toni Basil’s “Mickey” that is so well-made. I even heard a similar mashup at Phoenix Raceway during NASCAR Championship Weekend.

Again, a NASCAR race! You know how fucking rare is it for a queer bop to transcend into that environment?

That alone, makes “HOT TO GO!” a generational tune of the Double 20s.

9

Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe! (2024)

Half of this year’s Top 10 songs were released this year, which has to be a record because if you’ve followed my other posts, I only relate to a couple songs of the year in subject.

Definitely not the case in 2024 because there were so many great tunes I loved that came out over the past 12 months. This very song was one of the first 2024 singles I really loved.

Very 80s vibes and arguably her best work to date. The very song she performed at this year’s VMAs where her stage presence was Joan of Arc.

By that point, she arrived in the world of music and pop culture.

It’s an amazing tune that even some of my family members like this song. That’s no easy task!

8

Jamie xx feat. Robyn – Life (2024)

I love hearing songs and associate it with Formula One. No matter the time period, I can feel it more than any other motorsports discipline.

Okay, so what era of F1 this song I associate with?

The early 1980s and just picture scenes from Caesars Palace, Long Beach, Monaco, Österreichring, and Monza just to name a few. In a time where it was rough, gritty and dangerous.

Yet, this vibrant dance jam visually works for that era of F1 racing. Moreover, the onboard cameras as they navigate the grand prix circuit in a period when Alain Prost and Eddie Cheever drove for Renault. Those loud engines and turbo sounds of the 80s works perfect with this 2024 tune.

It must because I was super bored and felt this was the best song to associate that era. Otherwise, this was definitely the highlight of Jamie xx’s latest album In Waves.

7

Yeah Yeah Yeahs – Burning (2022)

My parents were watching Echo back in January and I so happened to hear this song in the intro. Forget the show, I was instantly hooked to the song!

Talk about an intense record that really takes you on a chaotic trip. Added by the fact I heard a recreated version that was played in the commercial failure flick Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken. The rework made an already epic song more epic. Worthy of a bad ass WrestleMania entrance.

The vision I had was the ramp covered with smoke, but as soon as the pyro kicks in (at 1:14 of this link), that’s when the camera follows the path to the stage as a trio rise from the depths of hell with a ring of fire on the ground. Think of The Brood’s entrance, but as each line of the chrous is sang by Karen O, one person appears.

Compared to some of my wild visions, this was one of my more fleshed out ones I came up with. Anyways, this song kicks ass!

6

Caroline Polachek – Welcome to My Island (2022)

While in San Jose, I had saved this song on my main playlist after hearing this song somewhere on YouTube. There was a sense of hope to hear this song at some point and I got my wish during that trip.

I really love how I felt the vibes of Simple Minds “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” when Caroline Polachek does the “hey, hey, hey, hey” like she owns it.

A nice track to kick off Desire, I Want To Turn Into You. It just fits the summer and sunny vibes to a tee.

5

OneRepublic – Kids (2016)

The oldest Top 5 entry this year goes back to a song that was released before my final semester at the University of Idaho. It only peaked at 96 on the Billboard Hot 100 chcarts which is why it never made to my consciousness until January 2024.

My mom had this song on her playlist and really liked the vibes of the song. Like I’ve heard it in a film somewhere. It wasn’t the case, but this song provided tremendous fondness because the lyrics can be seen from multiple perspectives.

It can be seen as a coming of age tale, a love story or simply a longtime friendship. No matter how you view it, this is a hidden gem tune that makes this style of music one of the best things from the 2010s.

4

Chappell Roan – Guilty Pleasure (2023)

From “Femininomenon” to “Guilty Pleasure,” The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess is an album worth playing from start-to-finish! All of the tracks are good, to damn good, to phenomenal.

The album’s closure is a culmination of everything that transpired with Chappell Roan’s tales and fantasies. Lovely acoustic, energetic AF once it goes the pop route and an unforgettable yodeling.

This makes for a nice dance tune in front of a large setting and perhaps the most underrated part of this song is how the violins arrived towards the end of the song. That really took it to the top of the mountain for me and made her my top artist despite only having one single release this year.

An incredible song to hear as we enter 2025!

3

Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso (2024)

At first, I only thought about the music video. She had quite a few of those this year that made me think of the video rather than the song itself.

Once I thought about the song, that’s when it really hit right with “Espresso” leading the charge.

It so happened I felt like playing it on the freeway in Southern California after a long afternoon at the track. Perfect recipe to make me love a song.

What’s fascinating about Sabrina Carpenter is that I remember her from Girl Meets World before I tuned out a few episodes in. I’ve known she’s made tons of music, but it wasn’t on my radar. Fast forward to this year, she became inescapable due to her sassy and humorous presence with her songs.

“Espresso” is a bass-tastic and witty pop hit. I’m a sucker for the 80s vibes a song goes for, especially if it’s a song perfect for Top 40 radio.

Of the four singles from Short n’ Sweet, this is my favorite. Bar none! Not even close! “Bed Chem” is a distant second.

2

Kendrick Lamar – Not Like Us (2024)

Entering December, I paced myself thinking what’s going to be the top song of 2024. Not just of all the songs that were released this year, but for my annual rankings.

Since doing these regularly in 2019, I usually have a definitive number-one song. Not this year! It took me weeks to finalize my Top 100 as you saw with the last-minute inclusion of Tate McRae’s “greedy.” There were just two songs that stood apart from the rest of the pack and each had their perks!

In the end, I had to make the tough decision and put “Not Like Us” at second. Of all the men, nobody can hold a candle to what kind of monstrous year Kendrick Lamar had in 2024. This was the year of all years for the ladies, but Kendrick gave the gentlemen something worth celebrating and this song was the ultimate victory lap.

Twice, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 charts. First, when the song came out a day after “meet the grahams.” Second, when the much anticipated music video was uploaded to temporarily tap out bro country from polluting the charts.

Really wished “Not Like Us” lasted much longer at number-one, but it wasn’t meant to be. That didn’t stop me from jamming to this record all summer long. It made me appreciate DJ Mustard again because you knew back when I was in college in the 2010s, that if “Mustard is on the beat,” it’s gonna be a banger!

This was certainly a banger and once again, a victory lap for Kendrick after burying Drake. I don’t care what Steph Curry said about this song, “Not Like Us” earned its flowers and replayability. That’s why it was the definitive hit.

For a guy that didn’t like Kendrick at the beginning of 2024, I enter 2025 being more than neutral, but rather a fan of his stuff. I can’t wait to see how the Super Bowl Halftime Show unfolds because it should be pretty good.

Okay, if it’s not “Not Like Us,” what song really set the vibe for you?

1

Billie Eilish – BIRDS OF A FEATHER (2024)

Alright, I get it. This song is the opposite of “Not Like Us,” but what made this Billie Eilish record my favorite record of 2024?

For starters, I’d recommend watching a video where Billie and her brother FINNEAS analyze “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” to really get the grasp of what makes a masterpiece come to life.

What really set it apart was Billie’s vocals that took me back to what made her so amazing when I first heard of her all the way back in 2018 when “lovely” was featured in 13 Reasons Why.

The tremendous respect and chemistry the sibilings have is their strength. To me, this is the song that captures it so well for me. More than any other song in an already well-established career.

Powerful, powerful lyrics. Beautifully crafted instruments.

By the middle of fall, but right before going to Arizona, that’s when I realized that “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” may be my favorite song of 2024. I don’t know why this song struck an emotional nerve close to NASCAR Championship Weekend.

Like to me, my relationship with the world of racing symbolized the message of this hit song. It motivated me to keep fighting and just enjoy the moment being back at a race track in a period of time where I needed to come back. Not think about the past, but focus on what lies ahead, and enjoy it.

When you look at my top-three tunes, all three are polar opposites as one of my close friends noted. “Espresso” is a bop with comedic elements, “Not Like Us” is a bop with a sense of victory, and “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” is a bop with tremendous emotion. That’s what made it difficult for me to decide my top songs because each are so damn good in their own right.

The chorus sealed it for me, especially the second part when the tune takes it down a notch before the drums kicked in as she says “I love you ’til the day I die!” Beautiful harmony. Need I say more?

Towards the end, this was the best all-around 2024 single I heard this year and at this time, it’s Billie and FINNEAS’ magnum opus. Believe me, you can say that about several of her songs, but for me, this is the one as of this post.

And with that, “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” is my song of the year. Totally not a flop like they thought wasn’t it?

STATISTICAL NOTES

SONGS PER DECADE:

• 1950s – 2
• 1960s – 3
• 1970s – 6
• 1980s – 15
• 1990s – 7
• 2000s – 4
• 2010s – 14
• 2020s – 49
  • 2020 – 5
  • 2021 – 1
  • 2022 – 7
  • 2023 – 14
  • 2024 – 22

TOP 10 SONGS THAT WERE RELEASED IN 2024:

• “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” by Billie Eilish
  • Ranked 1st
• “Not Like Us” by Kendrick Lamar
  • Ranked 2nd
• “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter
  • Ranked 3rd
• “Life” by Jamie xx feat. Robyn
  • Ranked 8th
• “Good Luck, Babe!” by Chappell Roan
  • Ranked 9th
• “meet the grahams” by Kendrick Lamar
  • Ranked 20th
• “Euphoria” by Kendrick Lamar
  • Ranked 23rd
• “Training Season” by Dua Lipa
  • Ranked 30th
• “CHIHIRO” by Billie Eilish
  • Ranked 33rd
• “Apologize” by The Warning
  • Ranked 36th

ARTISTS WITH MULTIPLE TOP 100 SONGS:

• HAIM – 8
• Chappell Roan – 7
• Depeche Mode – 5
• Kendrick Lamar – 5
• boygenius – 4
• The Beaches – 4
• The Warning – 4
• Cannons – 3
• Billie Eilish – 2
• Giorgio Moroder – 2
• Jamie xx – 2*
• Lana Del Rey – 2
• Led Zeppelin – 2
• Ministry – 2
• Sabrina Carpenter – 2
• Tyler, The Creator – 2

*Jamie xx is a member of The xx

ALL-TIME NUMBER ONE SONGS:

• High School — “Dream On” by Aerosmith
• College — “Infinity” by The xx
• 2018 — “Pray for Me” by The Weeknd feat. Kendrick Lamar
• 2019 — “Never Surrender” by Corey Hart
• 2020 — “Fade Into You” by Mazzy Star
• 2021 — “Falling” by HAIM
• 2022 — “Enjoy the Silence” by Depeche Mode
• 2023 — “Never Let Me Down Again (Live)” by Depeche Mode
• 2024 — “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” by Billie Eilish

Another year, another Top 100 in the books!

As always, music is subjective and each have their personal tastes in what they look for in a song. Mine remains a hot mess, with a lot of tracks resonating to me for different reasons.

This is why I’m passionate enough to share the songs I enjoy on an annual basis and even go back to do retro rankings. I’m curious to see how the music landscape looks in 2025 because there could be an influx of artists that could release music.

As the old saying goes, time will tell! But that’ll do it with this year’s edition of “100 Songs I Felt the Vibe!” Hope you enjoy some of these tracks and perhaps discovered the next artist you’re putting on repeat.

Each year, a link to a Spotify playlist featuring all 100 songs and the specific versions of the song where the vibes were felt is available for listening purposes.

Outside of discussing about music, I have my main photography page. Feel free to check out my works and if you’re generous, donations are welcomed to keep my business alive.

Until we meet again, doubt me if you insist, prove me wrong if I give consent.

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