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This week saw the unveiling of Spotify’s 2024 Wrapped results, which, while perhaps lacking in depth compared to previous iterations, still provided users with an engaging reflection of their listening habits. Apple Music also shared its annual Replay, and Tidal introduced its 2024 Rewind, giving those who lean towards these platforms a chance to explore their own musical trends throughout the year. For individuals who may not use major streaming services, this season remains a wonderful opportunity to reflect on their personal favorites from the past year.
Here, the Engadget team shares their most listened-to songs, artists, and albums from 2024, along with their thoughts on these selections.
Spotify Wrapped
Despite the recent controversies surrounding Spotify and the impact of layoffs on the company, my Wrapped report highlighted some interesting facets of my listening experiences. I found that while I had indeed immersed myself in a lot of Ariana Grande’s music this year—content I even covered for our site—my August listening habits seemed inaccurately represented. Spotify suggested I was enjoying Rose and Bruno Mars’ APT, but I believe that particular track was released later.
Ultimately, whether one chooses to judge my musical preferences or not, the overall data felt somewhat inaccurate yet still offered a sense of playful reflection. — Cherlynn Low, Deputy Editor, Reviews
This year has been challenging for me health-wise, leading to long hours spent in waiting rooms where I turned to Spotify for comfort. Notably, March became my “Pink Pilates Princess Strut Pop” phase filled with Dua Lipa, Ariana Grande, and Charli XCX. However, my foremost artist was Fujii Kaze, whose melodies provided solace during tough times. — Mariella Moon, Contributing Reporter
RIP New Jeans. — Aaron Souppouris, Executive Editor
Apple Music Replay
One of my most played tracks this year has been GNX, which not only accompanied me through a hectic Black Friday coverage period but will likely be featured at the Super Bowl. I expect we’ll hear tracks such as “tv off” and “squabble up” during the show.
The arrival of Brat summer transitioned gracefully into Brat autumn for me, solidifying my adoration for songs like “Club classics,” “Sympathy is a knife,” and “365.”
In the realm of albums, Grasa stands out as a definitive must-listen for urbano latino aficionados; it’s perfection from beginning to end, with my favorites, such as “Legendario” and “Manhattan,” still dominating my playlists and likely continuing into 2025.
While Renaissance remains my top choice in the Beyoncé discography, Cowboy Carter is a seamless collection, boasting tracks like “Daughter” and “Spaghetti” that resonate deeply with me.
Additionally, The Death of Slim Shady struck me as a successful conceptual album, particularly with its standout track “Tobey,” which compelled me to explore the entire project. Alongside “Renaissance” and “Somebody Save Me,” it holds a special place in my favorite tracks this year. — Valentina Palladino, Deputy Editor, Buying Advice
Though most popular music services lead users towards playlists and curated radio stations, I firmly identify as an Album Guy. My top album this year wasn’t new but rather a relatively recent release: Daughter’s Stereo Mind Game. The live studio session they shared on YouTube reinvigorated my love for the album, an experience enhanced by multiple listens while they focused heavily on their previous LPs.
The first four tracks from Stereo Mind Game emerged as my second through fifth most played songs of 2024. Topping my list was “Blame Brett” by Canadian pop-rock band The Beaches, from their excellent album Blame My Ex, which captivated me late last year and continued into early 2024. Similarly, my renewed obsession with Tool’s Fear Inoculum followed an unforgettable concert I attended last year.
Lastly, David Gilmour released his first solo album in nearly a decade. His concert visit to New York City was a remarkable experience, reinforcing his enduring talent at 78 and reminding me once more why he’s my favorite guitarist. The closing track, “Scattered,” is nothing short of a classic.
Adding to my year, Pearl Jam released a gripping new album, proving that even decades after their debut, they can still produce compelling rock music. Both Pearl Jam and Gilmour sought out younger producers, which refreshed their sounds while maintaining their legacy.
Of course, numerous up-and-coming artists soundtracked my year, with albums from Bathe Alone, Adrienne Lenker, Billie Eilish, and Girl in Red capturing my attention. This year turned out to be one of comfort and nostalgia for my listening habits. — Nathan Ingraham, Deputy Editor, News
Tidal Rewind
This year for me was evidently marked by a small selection of songs that I played incessantly—most notably, a significant amount of Ariana Grande. Although I do not have a Spotify account, my Tidal playlist prominently features her album Eternal Sunshine, which I admittedly listened to on repeat for months following its release. She truly is a remarkable talent. In addition to Grande, my favorite tracks included “Cry For Me” by Castle Rat, “Bloom” by Baroness, and “Weird World” by Allie X, revealing my diverse listening tastes.
However, the absence of emo tracks in my wrap-up raises some eyebrows, so I approach these results with a tint of skepticism. My primary playlist, humorously dubbed “rawr xD,” is a testament to that. — Cheyenne MacDonald, Weekend Editor
Personal Pick
Not having Spotify does impact my ability to accurately recount my most-listened tracks, leading to results that lean toward recency bias. Nonetheless, I have to highlight the profound impact of Cindy Lee’s Diamond Jubilee. My journey began with confusion, but quickly transformed into an obsession as I found myself captivated by its unique sounds reminiscent of ’60s girl groups.
Additional noteworthy mentions include Adrianne Lenker’s soothing Bright Future, which helped guide me through recovery from major surgery, and the lively bops from Robber Robber’s Wild Guess. As for my most listened to songs, they likely reside in my running playlist, featuring artists like Sheer Mag and Every Time I Die. — Avery Ellis, Deputy Editor, Reports
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