Here are our daily picks for you featuring Magnum, Elton John, Major Lazer and more!
1. “People Watching” – Sam Fender
England-born, two-time BRIT Award winner Sam Fender unleashed “People Watching,” the title track for his upcoming album, People Watching. Amidst soaring vocals and feel-good instrumentals, the song’s introspective lyricism delves into the desire for genuine human connection. “I people watch on the way back home / Envious of the glimmer of hope / Gives me a break from feeling alone,” Fender sings. Melodic guitar riffs and ambient synths further contribute to the song’s atmospheric quality. Looking ahead, People Watching is set to be released via Capitol Records on Feb. 21, 2025. After, Fender will embark on a tour across North America. Ticket information can be found here.
2. “Kingdom of Madness (Live)” – Magnum
“Kingdom of Madness (Live)” by British melodic rock band Magnum is a powerful track recorded during the final show of their European tour at KK’s Steel Mill in Wolverhampton. Although the song captured enthralling guitar riffs and passion-infused raw vocals, it also marked the last recording starring Tony Clarkin, the band’s guitarist and main songwriter, before he unexpectedly died on Jan. 7, 2024. “Kingdom of Madness” is an all-time fan favorite among Magnum followers, making this live rendition a sentimental addition to the band’s discography. The song can be found on Magnum’s upcoming album, Live At KK’s Steel Mill, which will be released Jan. 10, 2025. Following the release, the group will also play a set of “Tribute to Tony” shows in the UK.
3. “Never Too Late” – Elton John, Brandi Carlile
“Never Too Late” by rock and roll legend Elton John and longtime friend, songwriter and GRAMMY Award-winner Brandi Carlile is a song that bleeds resilience and passion for making your dreams come true. Played during the ending credits of John’s 2024 documentary, “Never Too Late,” the track’s lyricism is a tribute to John’s own life: a life in which, amidst every challenge, he never stopped pursuing the things he loved. It combines his infectious piano-driven melodies with Carlile’s uplifting vocals. “I thought that the documentary illustrated a really important sentiment, because [John] might not have ever found his serenity and his peace, but he did find it, and he found it later in life,” Carlile says. “And it is never too late – too late to find the love of your life, or to start a family, or to change your mind about anything.”
4. “Pon De Streets” – Major Lazer, Afrojack
Major Lazer brings back an exhilarating energy with “Pon De Streets,” a track taken from their deluxe 15th anniversary edition of their 2009 debut album, Guns Don’t Kill People…Lazers Do. Released in collaboration with Dutch DJ and record producer, Afrojack, the group layered the song with electrifying synths, propulsive basslines and catchy vocal samples. These elements, alongside a raging beat and a contagious rhythm, add onto the track’s composition. The official visualizer is loaded with over a decade’s worth of highlights from Major Lazer’s public performances. Guns Don’t Kill People… Lazers Do (15th Anniversary Edition) can be found on all streaming platforms here today.
5. “Santa Drives an Astrovan” – The Philly Specials, Mt. Joy
Although Christmas has officially passed, the holiday spirit continues its reign with the release of “Santa Drives an Astrovan” by The Philly Specials and Mt. Joy. The Philly Specials, a band comprised of past and present Philadelphia Eagles players, including Jason Kelce, add their own unique twist to Mt. Joy’s 2016 “Astrovan” hit. The newly reformed indie rock single is filled with sleigh bells, chiming piano chords, layered harmonies and warm acoustic guitar lines. “Santa Drives an Astrovan” can be found on The Philly Specials’ latest 12-track album, A Philly Special Christmas Party. All vinyl sales will be donated to support Philadelphia charities like the Children’s Crisis Treatment Center’s Holiday Toy Drive and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Snowflake Station.
From resilient anthems, to 15-year-anniversaries, to holiday hits and tributes to lost loved ones, each of these five songs harbor their own significant story. These excerpts don’t do them justice – if any of these song’s resonate with you, check out their history and stay on the lookout for these artists’ upcoming releases.