When it came to music, 2024 had it all: pop girlies, epic rap takedowns, and everything in between. And while the popular artists who dropped albums this year (mostly) deserve their flowers, plenty of smaller artists also made some incredible songs this year.
So to keep the tradition alive, here are 15 of 2024’s lesser-known songs that you should check out.
1. “The Hills” by Rachel Chinouriri
Rachel Chinouriri’s debut album, “What a Devastating Turn of Events,” was truly devastating in the best way. Any of its songs could make this list, but “The Hills” perfectly captures the “soft banger” vibe of the whole album.
2. “My Body’s My Buddy” by Tessa Violet and Brye
We love cheery acoustic songs that celebrate our bodies! This song is a great reminder to show our bodies some love every now and then.
3. “last woman on earth” by Paris Paloma
Paris Paloma dropped her debut album in 2024, and it’s arguably the best album that came out all year. While all the songs on “Cacophony” are incredible, this one hits especially hard. It’s the ultimate explainer for the “man versus bear” argument, dropping some heartbreaking truths about the struggles women have faced throughout history. I could write entire essays about how good “Cacophony” is (and I still might). If you’re into witchy feminine rage music, then you’ll love the entire album.
4. “Onto Me” by Sub-Radio
Sub-Radio always captures the late-90s-to-early-2000s pop punk vibe so well. This song is a pop punk lover’s dream, and it’ll give you all of those nostalgic feelings.
5. “24” by NIKI
No other song captures the joys and pains of growing up as well as this song does. It’s a lyrical masterpiece, and I dare you not to cry at the bridge.
6. “Your Blood” by AURORA
If vocal gymnastics was a sport, AURORA would be an Olympic-level athlete! Her pen game is also strong, which makes for ethereal music that forces you to contemplate your existence.
7. “Lie Detector” by Allison Ponthier
We all need more queer country-pop in our lives, and Allison Ponthier is the perfect artist to fill that void. Her voice and style is both nostalgic and fresh, and her song “Lie Detector” is a must-listen.
8. “Gladiators” by Janani K. Jha
I never knew I needed mythology-inspired pop in my playlist until I found Janani K. Jha’s music. Her entire debut album “The Rest of the Laurels” is epic, but “Gladiators” is the ultimate amp-up song.
9. “Teresa & Maria” by alyona alyona and Jerry Heil
This year’s Eurovision had plenty of bangers, but Ukraine’s entry will captivate you like no other. Jerry Heil has a gorgeous vocal tone, and I’d happily listen to her sing anything. Combine Heil’s stunning vocals with alyona alyona’s upbeat rapping, and you have a recipe for success.
10. “Love Dies in the End” by That Woman
If you need a good cry, listen to this song. The track has a beautiful sentiment, and the violin motif throughout makes the lyrics feel all the more emotional. I want this song played at my funeral.
11. “Trouble” by Laufey
Truly, no artist in today’s musical landscape sounds like Laufey! While she doesn’t have a bad song, “Trouble” is definitely the most underrated song she’s released this year.
12. “These Days” by Orion Sun
This is the perfect song to put on when you need to lay down your head and breathe. The acoustic arrangement and Orion Sun’s floaty vocals are to die for.
13. “Little Chaos” by Orla Gartland
Orla Gartland never fails to make the best head-banging jams. This song begs you to turn it all the way up in the car and scream the lyrics at the top of your lungs.
14. “Hot Like You” by Brooke Alexx
Brooke Alexx has a talent for putting oddly specific feelings into music, and this song is no exception. In “Hot Like You,” she makes the feeling of wanting to be a different type of “hot” catchy as heck!
15. “In My Head” by Nell Mescall
I’m cheating a bit because this song came out in 2023. However, I’m still counting it because it didn’t blow up until it was featured in season three of “Heartstopper,” which came out in 2024. “In My Head” is so good that I can’t possibly exclude it. This song captures Kate Bush’s spirit, but still sounds modern. It’s the definition of “crying in the club” music.
What are your favorite underrated songs of 2024? Let us know in the comments!
Featured Photo via YouTube.
