Music

• Muna Tengi
• 5 Min Read
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Top 10 Songs To Listen To In October 2024

October is the perfect month for new music discoveries. As we move deeper into the fall, music has the power to match the atmosphere, whether you're looking for something moody and introspective or upbeat and energetic. This October, a mix of fresh hits, rising stars, and established icons are making waves across different genres, from Afrobeats to pop, hip-hop, and alternative. Here’s a list of the top 10 songs you should have on repeat as the month unfolds.

1. “Water” by Tyla

Tyla is taking the Afrobeats and Amapiano scene by storm with her hypnotic track “Water.” The South African singer’s song is both sultry and vibrant, blending elements of Afrobeats with a more global pop sound. “Water” stands out not just for its infectious beat but also for Tyla's vocal performance, which exudes a laid-back yet assertive energy. Whether you're driving on a rainy day or having a night out, “Water” offers the perfect mood.

Why You Should Listen:

• Global appeal with a strong African influence.

• Fits perfectly into any chill or energetic playlist.

2. “Vampire” by Olivia Rodrigo

Pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo continues to prove her dominance in the music scene with “Vampire,” a powerful ballad that mixes alternative rock with pop sensibilities. The song explores themes of betrayal and heartbreak, with Rodrigo’s raw vocals laying bare the emotion of someone who feels used and drained. As a standout from her sophomore album, "Vampire" encapsulates the angsty spirit that has made Olivia a voice for Generation Z.

Why You Should Listen:

• Emotional depth paired with a catchy, haunting melody.

• A masterful blend of pop and alternative rock elements.

3. “City Boys” by Burna Boy

Burna Boy has been a frontrunner in bringing Afrobeats to the global stage, and "City Boys" is no exception. The song, from his album I Told Them..., carries Burna Boy's signature confidence and charm. It’s a high-energy track that mixes Afrobeats with hip-hop and pop elements, making it a must-listen for anyone who loves a danceable, feel-good song. "City Boys" is not just a party anthem; it also shows Burna Boy’s knack for blending genres effortlessly.

Why You Should Listen:

• It brings the Afrobeats sound to an international audience.

• Perfect for a workout or party playlist.

4. “Used To Be Young” by Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus delivers a reflective ballad in "Used To Be Young," which feels like a retrospective on her turbulent youth and rise to stardom. The song's simple production allows Miley's raspy, emotional vocals to shine, creating an intimate feel. The lyrics are heartfelt and introspective, making it an ideal track for October as the month often brings a sense of reflection with it.

Why You Should Listen:

• Miley Cyrus at her most vulnerable and introspective.

• A poignant ballad that resonates with anyone thinking about their past.

5. “Slime You Out” by Drake feat. SZA

Drake and SZA are a dynamic duo, and their collaboration “Slime You Out” showcases both artists at their best. The song is a smooth, laid-back R&B track with tinges of hip-hop, and it’s all about complicated relationships. Drake’s reflective lyrics combined with SZA’s ethereal vocals create a perfect blend of introspection and sass. The song captures the confusion and frustration that can come with love, making it a perfect autumn track.

Why You Should Listen:

• Combines two powerhouse artists in a slow-burn R&B anthem.

• Perfect for late-night vibes or reflective moments.

6. “Paint The Town Red” by Doja Cat

Doja Cat’s “Paint The Town Red” is one of the boldest tracks you’ll hear this month. It blends hip-hop with Doja’s playful, unpredictable style, making it a standout on her new album Scarlet. The track features a funky beat and confident lyrics, with Doja reclaiming her narrative and showcasing her individuality. It’s edgy, provocative, and refreshingly self-assured—a perfect anthem for those looking to assert themselves.

Why You Should Listen:

• Catchy beat paired with fearless lyrics.

• Doja Cat’s unique approach to blending genres makes this a must-listen.

7. “Calm Down” by Rema feat. Selena Gomez

Rema’s breakout hit “Calm Down” has been dominating charts since its release, and with Selena Gomez jumping on the remix, the track has only gotten bigger. The song features smooth Afrobeats rhythms paired with catchy pop vocals, creating a cross-cultural hit that has become a global phenomenon. As October cools down, “Calm Down” keeps the temperature warm with its laid-back vibe and infectious beat.

Why You Should Listen:

• A global hit that blends Afrobeats with Western pop.

• Its laid-back vibe makes it a great transition from summer to fall.

8. “Kill Bill” by SZA

SZA’s “Kill Bill” remains one of the year’s biggest hits, and its slow-burning, dark-pop feel makes it an essential track for October. Inspired by the Quentin Tarantino film of the same name, the song is about wanting revenge on an ex-lover, delivered in SZA’s trademark ethereal style. The haunting production paired with SZA’s emotive vocals makes this track a perfect fit for the spooky, reflective season of fall.

Why You Should Listen:

• Dark, moody, and perfect for the Halloween season.

• SZA’s voice and storytelling shine through in this unique track.

9. “Prada” by Cassper Nyovest feat. Saudi

South African rapper Cassper Nyovest teams up with Saudi on “Prada,” an explosive track that blends hip-hop with the African rhythms that have come to define the continent's modern music scene. “Prada” has an infectious energy, with fast-paced beats and braggadocious lyrics that make it a standout track for October. This song has the vibe of a club banger but with enough lyrical substance to keep you engaged.

Why You Should Listen:

• High-energy with a blend of African and global influences.

• Cassper Nyovest continues to push the boundaries of African hip-hop.

10. “Wake Up” by Travis Scott feat. The Weeknd

From Travis Scott’s highly anticipated Utopia album, “Wake Up” featuring The Weeknd is a mesmerizing track that combines Scott’s ethereal production style with The Weeknd’s signature vocals. The song feels like a dreamy, slightly haunting anthem, which is perfect for October. Both artists excel in creating an atmospheric vibe, making this track great for late-night listening or setting a moody, introspective tone.

Why You Should Listen:

• The collaboration between Travis Scott and The Weeknd is electrifying.

• Ideal for fans of atmospheric, genre-bending music.

Conclusion

October is the perfect time to refresh your playlist, and this diverse selection of tracks offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for Afrobeats to keep the energy high, introspective ballads to reflect on, or moody anthems to match the Halloween season, these songs are sure to set the right tone for the month ahead. With artists like Burna Boy, Olivia Rodrigo, and SZA dominating the charts, this October promises to be an exciting month for music lovers across the globe.