As we bid farewell to 2024, it’s time to reflect on a year that has been nothing short of transformative for the music industry. This year has woven a rich tapestry of groundbreaking achievements, poignant moments, and cultural milestones that have left an indelible mark on the global music scene.
Charli XCX took the world by storm with her album BRAT, dominating charts and cultural conversations alike. Shaboozey’s infectious single “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” tied the record for the longest-running number-one on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing its widespread appeal. Coldplay’s ‘Music of the Spheres’ World Tour set new industry standards, becoming the highest-grossing tour by a group. Not to be outdone, Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour concluded with a staggering 149th show, grossing over $2 billion and solidifying her status as a global music icon.
Beyoncé ventured into new musical territories with her country album, topping charts and making history as the first Black female artist to lead Billboard’s Hot Country Songs Chart with “Texas Hold ’Em.” However, her exclusion from the Country Music Awards sparked important discussions about representation in the genre. Meanwhile, Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” not only became his fourth number-one on the Billboard Hot 100, but also reignited the competitive spirit in hip-hop, with many viewing it as a decisive moment in his rap beef with Drake.
The year also celebrated enduring legacies, with Elton John achieving EGOT status after winning an Emmy for his television special Elton John: Farewell From Dodger Stadium. Beyoncé continued to break barriers, becoming the most nominated artist in Grammy history, reflecting her profound influence on the industry. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inducted a diverse class, including Mary J. Blige, Cher, Dave Matthews Band, and A Tribe Called Quest, honoring their significant contributions to music.
Usher headlined the Super Bowl LVIII halftime show, delivering a memorable performance with special guests Alicia Keys, will.i.am, Lil Jon, Ludacris, and H.E.R. Missy Elliott embarked on her first-ever arena tour in North America, with standout performances at venues like UBS Arena. Celine Dion made a triumphant return at the 2024 Olympics opening ceremony, marking her first performance in over four years following her diagnosis with Stiff Person Syndrome. Fans rejoiced as Linkin Park reunited with a new vocalist, and Oasis announced their reunion with a tour slated for 2025, igniting anticipation worldwide.
The year was not without its controversies. Tory Lanez was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the shooting of Megan Thee Stallion, and Sean Combs faced serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering. Additionally, Lil Durk was arrested on federal charges as he attempted to flee the U.S., and Young Thug’s legal battles concluded with a guilty plea to racketeering charges, resulting in time served and probation.
We also bid farewell to several influential artists who left an indelible mark on the music world, including Toby Keith, Chino XL, Liam Payne, Quincy Jones, and Bob Bryar. Their contributions continue to resonate, and they will be deeply missed.
As we reflect on the dynamic and diverse musical landscape of 2024, let’s delve into the albums that defined this remarkable year. Join us as we celebrate We Plug Good Music’s Best Albums of 2024, a curated journey through the sounds that shaped our times.
Dive into our best albums of 2024, from #10 to #1 below, and revisit our list all the way back from #50 here.
10. Mannequin Pussy – I Got Heaven
Mannequin Pussy’s fourth studio album, I Got Heaven, released on March 1, 2024, via Epitaph Records, stands as a testament to the Philadelphia band’s evolution and versatility within the punk rock genre. Produced by John Congleton, the album departs from their previous focus on love songs and political themes, delving into personal relationships, religious motifs, and the emotional complexities of aging.
The album opens with the provocative title track, where lead vocalist Marisa Dabice’s fierce delivery sets the tone for a collection that oscillates between raw punk energy and melodic introspection. “I Don’t Know You” showcases the band’s adventurous spirit, blending brushed drums with Dabice’s emotive vocals, enriched by the addition of Maxine Steen’s synthesizer work. Another standout, “Loud Bark,” exemplifies their ability to merge noise and vulnerability, with guitars that crunch as satisfyingly as an autumn leaf underfoot.
Critics have lauded I Got Heaven for its meticulous balance of firebrand punk and intoxicating power pop, with Slant Magazine describing it as “a musical expression of self-governance and all the pain and pleasure that comes with it.” The album’s dynamic range and thematic depth have secured its place among the top albums of 2024, reflecting Mannequin Pussy’s continued impact and relevance in the music world.
9. Vampire Weekend – Only God Was Above Us
Only God Was Above Us, the fifth studio album from Vampire Weekend, released on April 5, 2024, via Columbia Records, marks a significant evolution in the band’s sonic journey. Co-produced by frontman Ezra Koenig and longtime collaborator Ariel Rechtshaid, the album reflects a matured perspective, intertwining themes of existential contemplation with a nostalgic homage to 20th-century New York City.
The album opens with “Ice Cream Piano,” where Koenig’s introspective lyrics set the tone for a collection that balances intricate compositions with accessible melodies. “Capricorn,” one of the lead singles, showcases the band’s ability to blend diverse genres, featuring a distinctive drum line juxtaposed with lush orchestral arrangements. Another standout track, “Mary Boone,” starts as a ballad reminiscent of their earlier work but evolves into a hypnotic soundscape, highlighting the band’s growth and willingness to experiment.
Critics have praised Only God Was Above Us for its cohesive yet adventurous production. NME describes it as “a record that emits endless warmth, seeking to capture the atmosphere of a long-gone era that once promised endless possibility.” The album’s dynamic range and thematic depth have secured its place among the top albums of 2024, reflecting Vampire Weekend’s continued relevance and innovation in the music world.
8. Billie Eilish – HIT ME HARD AND SOFT
Billie Eilish’s Hit Me Hard and Soft marks a significant evolution in her artistry. Co-written and produced with her brother, Finneas O’Connell, the album showcases a diverse yet cohesive collection of songs that delve into themes of personal growth, societal pressures, and emotional complexity.
The album opens with “Skinny,” a track that begins with soft vocals over an acoustic guitar, then transforms into “Lunch,” a bold and sultry anthem, highlighting Eilish’s vocal prowess and Finneas’s exceptional production skills. Another standout track, “Birds of a Feather,” released as a single on July 2, 2024, exemplifies the duo’s ability to blend genres seamlessly, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience.
Hit Me Hard and Soft has been lauded for its boldness and brilliance. NME describes it as “a record that whispers its way through a marvellous maze of music,” highlighting Eilish’s ability to balance intensity with tenderness. The album’s impact is further evidenced by its inclusion in various top albums of 2024 lists, reflecting Eilish’s continued relevance and innovation in the music world.
7. Cindy Lee – Diamond Jubilee
Cindy Lee’s Diamond Jubilee album stands as a monumental achievement in contemporary music. This seventh studio album from Patrick Flegel’s project is a sprawling opus, comprising 32 tracks that span over two hours. Initially available exclusively through a nostalgic GeoCities website and YouTube, the album’s unconventional release strategy mirrors its avant-garde content, challenging traditional music distribution norms.
The album’s sonic landscape is a mesmerizing blend of lo-fi aesthetics and 1960s pop sensibilities, filtered through a haunting, hypnagogic lens. Tracks like “Baby Blue” and “Government Cheque” exemplify this fusion, with the former’s ethereal melodies and the latter’s dynamic shifts from melancholic build-ups to rousing bursts of finger snaps and intricate guitar lines. Critics have lauded Diamond Jubilee for its meticulous production and emotional depth, with Pitchfork awarding it a 9.1 and describing it as “an essential trove of music.”
The album’s impact is further evidenced by its inclusion in numerous year-end lists, solidifying its place among the top albums of 2024. Its deliberate inaccessibility on mainstream streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music has sparked discussions about music consumption and artist autonomy, with Flegel openly criticizing industry practices. This defiance, coupled with the album’s artistic brilliance, positions Diamond Jubilee as a significant cultural artifact, challenging listeners to engage with music on a deeper, more intentional level.
6. Kendrick Lamar – GNX
Kendrick Lamar’s sixth studio album, GNX, released on November 22, 2024, via pgLang and Interscope Records, marks a pivotal moment in his illustrious career. This surprise release, his first project since departing from Top Dawg Entertainment, showcases Lamar’s unwavering commitment to artistic evolution and his deep roots in West Coast hip-hop.
The album opens with “Wacced Out Murals,” a track that immediately immerses listeners into Lamar’s world, blending introspective lyricism with a nod to his recent public feud with Drake. “Luther,” featuring SZA, stands out as a soulful collaboration, sampling Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn, and highlighting the duo’s undeniable chemistry. Another notable track, “Man at the Garden,” delves into Lamar’s personal reflections, offering a contemplative narrative that resonates with authenticity.
Critically acclaimed for its concise yet impactful composition, The Atlantic notes that GNX “marks a shift in his approach with a straightforward and digestible sound, diverging from his traditionally complex and detailed style.” The album’s production, featuring contributions from Sounwave and Jack Antonoff, seamlessly blends traditional West Coast elements with contemporary influences, creating a soundscape that is both nostalgic and innovative. GNX not only reinforces Lamar’s status as a leading figure in hip-hop but also serves as a testament to his ability to adapt and redefine his artistry, securing its place among the top albums of 2024.
5. Waxahatchee – Tigers Blood
Waxahatchee’s sixth studio album, Tigers Blood, released on March 22, 2024, via ANTI- Records, reveals a significant evolution in Katie Crutchfield’s artistic journey. Building upon the alt-country foundation of her acclaimed 2020 release, Saint Cloud, Crutchfield delves deeper into Americana, crafting a collection that is both intimate and expansive. The album’s production, helmed by Brad Cook, features contributions from musicians such as MJ Lenderman, Phil Cook, and Spencer Tweedy, resulting in a warm, organic sound that complements Crutchfield’s evocative songwriting.
The album opens with “3 Sisters,” setting a contemplative tone that flows into tracks like “Lone Star Lake,” where Crutchfield’s lyrical introspection shines. In “Right Back to It,” she reflects on cyclical patterns in relationships, while “Burns Out at Midnight” captures the fleeting nature of desire. The title track, “Tigers Blood,” serves as a poignant closer, encapsulating the album’s themes of resilience and self-discovery. Critics have praised Tigers Blood for its precision and relatability, with The Observer noting Crutchfield’s vocals as “poised and precise – her best yet, caressing flamboyantly poetic lyrics.”
Tigers Blood has garnered significant acclaim, securing spots on several year-end lists, including Pitchfork’s ’50 Best Albums of 2024′ at number six and Consequence’s ’50 Best Albums of 2024′ at number three. This recognition underscores Crutchfield’s continued impact on the music world, solidifying her place as a leading voice in contemporary Americana.
4. Fontaines D.C.- Romance
Romance, the fourth studio album from Fontaines D.C., released on August 23, 2024, via XL Recordings, marks a significant evolution in the band’s sonic landscape. Produced by James Ford, known for his work with Arctic Monkeys and Depeche Mode, the album showcases the Irish quintet’s departure from their post-punk roots, embracing a more expansive and sonically adventurous approach.
The album opens with the title track, “Romance,” where Grian Chatten’s evocative vocals are complemented by lush arrangements, setting the tone for a record that explores themes of love and existential contemplation. “Starburster,” the lead single, stands out with its infectious energy and intricate instrumentation, reflecting the band’s growth and willingness to experiment. Another highlight, “In the Modern World,” delves into the complexities of contemporary life, blending synth-rock elements with introspective lyrics.
Critics have lauded Romance for its ambitious scope and artistic maturity. NME describes it as “knockout, spiritual songs for the end of time,” highlighting the band’s ability to craft music that resonates deeply with listeners. The album’s inclusion in numerous year-end lists, including The Sun’s ‘Top 50 Albums of 2024’, underscores its impact on the music world. By pushing their creative boundaries, Fontaines D.C. has solidified their place among the most influential bands of the year, delivering a record that is both timely and timeless.
3. Beyoncé – COWBOY CARTER
Beyoncé’s eighth studio album, Cowboy Carter, released on March 29, 2024, via Parkwood Entertainment and Columbia Records, marks a bold and innovative venture into the realms of country and Americana. As the second installment in her planned trilogy, following 2022’s Renaissance, this concept album reimagines Americana through a contemporary lens, blending genres such as folk, country rock, blues, and gospel.
The album’s 27 tracks showcase Beyoncé’s versatility and willingness to challenge genre boundaries. The lead single, “Texas Hold ‘Em,” released on February 11, 2024, made history by topping Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, making Beyoncé the first Black woman to achieve this feat. Another standout track, “16 Carriages,” released simultaneously, features sweeping, pedal steel-soaked arrangements that paint a panoramic canvas, highlighting Beyoncé’s ability to infuse traditional country elements with her unique artistry. Additionally, her rendition of Dolly Parton’s classic “Jolene” pays homage to country legends while adding her distinct vocal prowess.
em>Cowboy Carter shines bright with its ambitious scope and genre-blending innovation. Pitchfork noted that the album is “equally a text and a performance,” highlighting Beyoncé’s ability to craft a narrative that is both personal and reflective of broader cultural themes. The album’s success is further evidenced by its 11 Grammy nominations, including ‘Album of the Year’, solidifying Beyoncé’s status as a trailblazer in the music industry. By embracing and redefining Americana, Beyoncé has delivered a record that resonates deeply, challenging preconceived notions and expanding the boundaries of contemporary music.
2. The Cure – Songs of a Lost World
The Cure’s Songs of a Lost World marks a poignant return after a 16-year hiatus since 2008’s 4:13 Dream. This eight-track collection delves deep into themes of loss, mortality, and introspection, showcasing the band’s enduring ability to craft immersive and emotionally resonant music.
Opening with “Alone,” the album sets a contemplative tone, featuring a Disintegration-esque intro that leads into Robert Smith’s reflective lyrics, inspired by Ernest Dowson’s poem “Dregs.” The track’s atmospheric build and Smith’s evocative vocals draw listeners into a world of melancholy and reflection.
“Drone:Nodrone” stands out with its steely, gothic funk, introducing a riffy strut that adds a dynamic contrast to the album’s predominantly somber mood. This track exemplifies The Cure’s talent for blending despair and aggression, creating a propulsive energy reminiscent of their earlier rhythmic lines in songs like “Just Like Heaven” and “Lovesong.”
Closing with “Endsong,” the album comes full circle, encapsulating the overarching themes of finality and introspection. The track’s deliberate pacing and haunting melodies leave a lasting impression, reinforcing the album’s cohesive narrative.
Critics have lauded Songs of a Lost World for its mature and deliberate approach. Pitchfork notes that the album “presents a somber and deliberate pace, resonating with themes of mortality, aging, and reflection,” highlighting the band’s sophisticated and introspective sound.
The Financial Times commends the album as “a testament to The Cure’s lasting appeal and artistic integrity,” emphasizing the band’s ability to maintain their distinctive emotive quality despite the long hiatus.
Songs of a Lost World not only reaffirms The Cure’s relevance in the contemporary music scene but also enriches their storied discography with a work that is both timeless and timely. Standing as our second best album of 2924 underscores its impact and significance in the music world.
1. Charli XCX – BRAT
Charli XCX’s BRAT is our best album of 2024, and it marks a bold and exhilarating chapter in her musical evolution. Drawing inspiration from the 2000s British rave scene, the album delivers an aggressive club sound that sets it apart from her previous work, such as Crash (2022).
The album opens with “Von Dutch,” a track that encapsulates the album’s energetic and rebellious spirit. “360” follows, featuring a vibrant music video brimming with internet culture references, further solidifying Charli’s connection to contemporary digital trends. “Apple,” which gained viral popularity on TikTok, showcases her ability to blend catchy hooks with modern social media influences.
BRAT stands out for its innovative approach and genre-blending prowess, with the album receiving a Metacritic score of 95, the highest for any album released in 2024, highlighting its critical acclaim. Its lime-green cover art became a viral sensation, influencing various cultural and political campaigns, including the 2024 U.S. presidential election. The remix album, BRAT and It’s Completely Different but Also Still BRAT, featuring collaborations with artists like Ariana Grande, Kesha, and Lorde, further expanding the album’s impact.
BRAT not only reaffirms Charli XCX’s position as a trailblazer in the pop music landscape but also demonstrates her ability to influence and reflect contemporary culture. The album topping our ‘Best bAlbums of 2024’ underscores its significance and enduring appeal.
Click HERE for a full list of our Top 50 Albums of 2024!
