New Music Friday: Fergie, Macklemore, Jhene Aiko, Demi Lovato And More

Just when you thought you were all caught up on new music, Friday comes back around and throws you for another loop. A loop with an amazing soundtrack, at least.

A surprise album from Jhene Aiko, the homecoming of Fergie, the fourth album single from Demi Lovato, a new track from online celebrity duo Jack & Jack and so many more musical gifts have been given to us on this lovely Friday.

Enjoy this list of some of the greatest new songs to check out and then go do exactly that – check out the songs and enjoy.

Fergie feat. Nicki Minaj – “You Already Know”

It’s the return of Fergie! The former Black Eyed Peas singer released her second solo album, “Double Dutchess,” on Friday and each track is like a little glimpse inside her interesting mind and the musical exploration that she’s been through to create this pop album masterpiece. “You Already Know” is the perfect combination of Minaj’s flair and Fergie’s funk. The song’s chorus is enough to send the listener over the edge in sensory-overload because it is just so purely spot on. When you’re done listening to this song and are obviously going to continue with the rest of the album, definitely check out her track “Life Goes On” next. It’s an absolute thrill.

Macklemore feat. Dan Caplen – “Intentions”

Always one to speak his truth in a way that often lines up with the truth of many of those listening, this song speaks to really speaks to the everyday person. It has Macklemore’s usual free-flowing feel that puts the listener on a ride that might be gentle in sensation, but rough on reflection. Caplen’s raspy-smooth voice only adds to that contradictory texture of the track. As a whole, the song’s sound is expertly designed and its message of being able to look at yourself and see what you are or are not doing well, but still being okay with yourself, is for everyone.

Jhene Aiko – “Jukai”

When Aiko released “Trip,” a surprise 22-song album on Friday, fans were rightfully shocked and delighted. The album does just want its title promises and puts its listeners on a trip - emotionally, sonically and mentally. This song, “Jukai,” is essentially poetry set to music and it’s absolutely lovely. It takes one’s semi-negative thoughts about the everyday world around us and turns it into something beautiful. The rest of the album only follows suit, with more songs of contemplations, striking melodies and powerful poetry that bring with it stunning sensations.

Demi Lovato – “Sexy Dirty Love”

This song will be your new addiction, but don’t expect it to intoxicate you gently. It’s definitely one of the funkiest songs Lovato has done, but just like every other style of music that she tries out, she’s done an amazing job. She takes the funk, adds some pop, throws in her soul and packages it up into this sexy, dirty and lovely track.

Jack & Jack – “Beg”

This new song from pop duo Jack & Jack will have you begging for more. Summer might be technically over, but while the warm weather still remains, this is the perfect song to be listening to with sunglasses on, just driving on the open road. If you have any last-minute road trips you want to take, this is the only song you need for the playlist.

Tamar Braxton – “Blind”

Braxton’s ballad is heartbreakingly beautiful. The music plays second fiddle to her voice and is simple and quiet in the background while Braxton’s powerful voice shines through. For those times when you want to feel all the feels, this is the song to listen to. You can hear that she’s pouring everything she has into her performance and the song is all the better because of it.

Why Don’t We – “Invitation”

This song is a master class in how boy band pop songs should be. It’s both youthful and fun, but also mature and smooth. The song’s vibrations will have the listener feeling all types of things, mostly just happy that they decided to check out the song in the first place. With how perfectly this song was crafted and executed, it’s going to be pretty surreal to hear the whole “Invitation” EP when it comes out on Sept. 27.

Sleeping With Sirens – “Gossip”

Not just the song, but also the entire, same-titled album that the band just dropped on Friday. While this track is good, the album as a whole is great. Each song is unique, but in a way that still creates a well-formed album. If you’re short on time, but want to check out a few of the songs off the album, go with “Trouble,” “Legends” and “Closer.”

Moxie Raia – “Wheels”

Prepare to be electrified by Raia’s new song, “Wheels.” She combines simplicity, head-bopping beats, cool vibes and her invigorating voice to form a song that pulls you in from the get-go and will become a favorite new fun song.

Anne-Marie – “Heavy”

Take a listen, and then never stop. This song will weigh you down with a heaviness that you won’t want to be able to lift off of you. Anne-Marie’s voice is sweet, but intense and confident. Her lyrics might be a lot of questions, but there’s no questioning whether or not this song should be added to your playlist immediately. Its melody captures the listener and makes sure they don’t want to leave.