LOS ANGELES (AP) — As the sun sets on the leisurely days of summer, music enthusiasts can eagerly anticipate the arrival of fall, a season historically renowned for its abundance of new albums, EPs, and mixtapes.
Already, discernible trends are emerging, showcasing the anticipation surrounding releases from some of the most prominent figures in pop music, both established and up-and-coming.
Additionally, renowned artists from diverse genres are venturing into uncharted territories, while the hip-hop industry is witnessing the triumphant return of its heavyweight champions.
However, amidst these predictable patterns, there are also releases that defy categorization, such as the much-anticipated Pretenders record titled “Relentless,” the captivating “Live for Me” EP by Omar Apollo, and Steve Aoki’s enthralling “HiROQUEST: Double Helix.” Moreover, the music landscape promises even more surprises with numerous unannounced releases.
Thus, The Associated Press’ 2023 fall music preview offers a comprehensive glimpse into the myriad of offerings slated to grace our ears between September and November.
Pop powerhouses
As the summer draws to a close, music enthusiasts eagerly await a plethora of highly anticipated releases from some of the industry’s biggest stars.
After a series of captivating tours by the likes of Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, and Drake, fans are ready to immerse themselves in the fresh sounds of new hooks and melodies.
The upcoming season boasts an impressive lineup of albums, including Olivia Rodrigo’s much-awaited sophomore release, Kylie Minogue’s athletic-pop album “Tension,” and Doja Cat’s highly anticipated “Scarlet.” Meanwhile, Ed Sheeran, having exhausted his repertoire of mathematical symbols for album titles, is set to make a triumphant return with an autumn-inspired release.
Troye Sivan, following his appearance on HBO’s “The Idol,” is gearing up to unveil his third full-length album, with the lead single “Rush” already generating excitement for its seductive and homoerotic undertones.
In addition to these established artists, the music scene is abuzz with the debut solo album from BTS member V, as well as another self-released record from Korean American popstar Eric Nam, which promises to delve into the existential crisis induced by the ongoing pandemic.
Demi Lovato, known for her pop tunes, is taking a new direction by reimagining some of her songs as rock anthems, while Taylor Swift continues her re-recording series with “1989 (Taylor’s Version).”
For those looking to discover fresh talent, Chappell Roan, an artist hailed as the pop star of the future, will be releasing her highly anticipated debut album.
Madrileño Ralphie Choo is also poised to make his debut, showcasing his unique sound on “Supernova.” Moreover, La Doña’s new EP is set to captivate listeners with its fusion of cumbia, salsa, oldies, and reggaeton.
Mark your calendars for the release dates: Olivia Rodrigo’s “Guts” and V’s “Layover” on September 8th, Eric Nam’s “House on a Hill” and Demi Lovato’s “Revamped” on September 15th, Ralphie Choo’s “Supernova” and La Doña’s “Can’t Eat Clout” on September 15th, Kylie Minogue’s “Tension” and Doja Cat’s “Scarlet” on September 22nd, Chappell Roan’s “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” on September 22nd, Ed Sheeran’s “Autumn Variations” on September 29th, Troye Sivan’s “Something to Give Each Other” on October 13th, and Taylor Swift’s “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” on October 27th. With such a diverse and exciting array of releases on the horizon, music enthusiasts are in for a treat this autumn.
Hip-hop heavyweights
The music industry is a whirlwind of shifting release dates and unexpected surprises. In the year 2022, rumors began to circulate that Kid Cudi, the renowned rapper, would be taking a break from creating music.
However, these rumors proved to be nothing more than speculation, as a new album was soon announced for a September release.
Yet, just over a week before its scheduled arrival, Kid Cudi himself declared that the album’s release would be postponed until January. This sudden change left fans in anticipation and wondering what the future would hold for the artist.
In the midst of these developments, another prominent figure in the music industry, Drake, announced the release date for his highly anticipated eighth studio album, titled “For All the Dogs.”
With this announcement, it begs the question: are the days of surprise album drops behind him? Drake’s decision to provide a release date in advance suggests a shift in the industry’s approach to album releases.
Meanwhile, Vic Mensa has been exploring various aspects of his life, including social work, sobriety, and his Ghanaian heritage, which has culminated in an ambitious and introspective new record.
This project promises to offer a deeper understanding of the artist’s personal journey and growth.
Not to be forgotten, the legendary Gucci Mane makes his return to the music scene, bringing with him his signature style and captivating presence.
Additionally, Chief Keef, another notable rapper, is also making a comeback, igniting excitement among his dedicated fanbase.
Flo Milli, a rising star in the industry, is set to release her highly anticipated album, showcasing her idiosyncratic and at times, absurdist, yet undeniably powerful rap style. Her forthcoming project is sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners.
Furthermore, South African rapper Nasty C continues to expand his global presence with his upcoming album, “I Love It Here.” His unique sound and lyrical prowess have garnered him international recognition, and this new release is expected to further solidify his place in the industry.
It is important to note that these are just a few of the exciting releases to look forward to in the coming weeks.
The music industry is known for its surprise drops and unexpected announcements, making it impossible to predict all the albums that may grace our ears in the near future.
To summarize the release schedule: Vic Mensa’s “Victor” and Nasty C’s “I Love It Here” are both set to drop on September 15th, followed by Drake’s “For All the Dogs” on September 22nd.
Gucci Mane’s “Breath of Fresh Air” and Chief Keef’s “Almighty So 2” are both slated for an October 13th release. As for Flo Milli’s “Fine Ho, Stay,” the release date is yet to be determined. Lastly, Kid Cudi’s album “Insano” has been delayed until January, leaving fans eagerly awaiting its arrival.
Country classics
In the realm of music, an atmosphere of reinvention and experimentation pervades as some of the industry’s most iconic figures embark on new artistic journeys.
Willie Nelson, a legendary country music icon, is set to release his highly anticipated first bluegrass record, a departure from his signature sound that has captivated audiences for decades.
Similarly, the incomparable Dolly Parton, known for her soulful country ballads, surprises fans with her first foray into the world of rock music, showcasing her versatility and willingness to explore new genres.
Meanwhile, Ashley McBryde, a rising star in the country music scene, is preparing to unveil her fourth studio album, and if the captivating single “Light on in the Kitchen” is any indication, fans can expect an exquisite blend of her distinctive vocals with the enchanting sounds of the mandolin.
Reba McEntire, a beloved country music icon, makes a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus, promising an album that will undoubtedly remind listeners of her unparalleled talent and enduring legacy.
Notably, Chris Stapleton, who mesmerized millions with his powerful performance of the national anthem at the Super Bowl, is back with a highly anticipated album that is sure to captivate audiences once again. Additionally, Margo Price, a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter, is diligently preparing a double album divided into three acts, a testament to her artistry and commitment to delivering a truly immersive musical experience.
With a slew of highly anticipated releases on the horizon, including Ashley McBryde’s “The Devil I Know” on September 8th, Willie Nelson’s “Bluegrass” on September 15th, Reba McEntire’s “Not That Fancy” on October 6th, Margo Price’s “Strays ll” on October 13th, Chris Stapleton’s “Higher” on November 10th, and Dolly Parton’s “Rockstar” on November 17th, music enthusiasts eagerly await the opportunity to embark on a sonic journey that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Metal mavens
The convergence of cool air and a heavy riff is an alliance that few can deny. This particular season proves to be a veritable feast for metalheads, as the return of esteemed bands such as Baroness and Cannibal Corpse is imminent.
Pittsburgh punks Code Orange also make a triumphant comeback, ensuring that the alternative crowd is not left wanting.
For those with a penchant for the unconventional, Poppy continues to explore her Nine Inch Nails-inspired industrial streak, while Beartooth’s melodic screamo continues to captivate.
Meanwhile, Jared Leto’s Thirty Seconds to Mars offers a unique perspective on the apocalypse, infusing it with a sense of optimism.
However, Deftones enthusiasts will have to exercise patience, as they eagerly await a new record from the only nu-metal act capable of transcending the limitations of the genre.
This celebrated California band is renowned for their ability to infuse artistry into a musical style that is often associated with backward baseball caps and machismo. In the interim, fans can find solace in the release of new material from ††† (Crosses), the dark wave side project of frontman Chino Moreno and Far guitarist Shaun Lopez.
Indie’s not dead
In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the definition of “indie” as it has transformed from a term denoting independent artists to a genre in itself.
This transformation is evident in the works of popular artists like Taylor Swift, whose albums “folklore” and “evermore” are considered as indie releases.
However, it is important to recognize that true indie releases, characterized by self-released music or collaborations with niche record labels, continue to thrive.
Noteworthy upcoming releases from established voices such as Sufjan Stevens, Teenage Fanclub, and Wilco further emphasize the enduring presence of indie music.
Additionally, the emergence of a new wave of talented artists, predominantly driven by women, adds a fascinating dimension to the indie music scene.
Artists like Mitski, Cherry Glazerr, L’Rain, Vagabon, and the Indonesian power-pop-punk group GRRRL Gang, signed to labels like Dead Oceans, Secretly Canadian, Mexican Summer, Nonesuch, and Kill Rock Stars respectively, bring fresh perspectives and unique voices to the indie genre.
Amidst this evolving landscape, Puerto Rican reggae artist PACHYMAN stands out with his forthcoming release “Switched-On,” set to captivate listeners with its nostalgic allure.
The lead single, “Trago Coqueto,” transports us to a bygone era with its use of vintage Korg Poly-800 synths, evoking a sense of warmth and sunshine.
As the indie music scene continues to evolve, it is these diverse and innovative voices that contribute to its enduring appeal and ensure its continued relevance in the ever-changing music industry.
Long-awaited returns
The entertainment industry is often driven by a sense of nostalgia, a longing for the past that permeates various aspects of our lives. However, this does not necessarily result in derivative work.
Instead, it can serve as an opportunity to celebrate the artists we hold dear, especially after extended periods of inactivity or hiatuses between albums.
This sentiment is exemplified by the upcoming releases of several notable musicians. Diddy, for instance, will be unveiling his first full-length album since the 2006 release of “Press Play,” marking a significant milestone in his career.
Moreover, the realm of R&B is experiencing a resurgence, as Jorja Smith prepares to drop her highly anticipated album, her first since 2018.
Jamila Woods, following the success of her 2019 album “Legacy! Legacy!,” is set to captivate audiences once again with “Water Made Us.” Meanwhile, fans of The Gaslight Anthem, a New Jersey band endorsed by the legendary Bruce Springsteen, have reason to rejoice as the group prepares to release their first album in nearly a decade, aptly titled “History Books.” And last but not least, Nicki Minaj, the esteemed leader of the Barbz, is making a triumphant return with “Pink Friday 2,” the highly anticipated sequel to her immensely popular “Pink Friday” franchise.
This album will mark her fifth full-length release and her first since 2018’s “Queen.” The release dates for these albums are as follows: Diddy’s “The Love Album: Off the Grid” on September 15, Jorja Smith’s “Falling or Flying” on September 29, Jamila Woods’ “Water Made Us” on October 13, The Gaslight Anthem’s “History Books” on October 27, and Nicki Minaj’s “Pink Friday 2” on November 17. These highly anticipated releases promise to captivate audiences and remind us of the enduring power of music in evoking emotions and creating lasting memories.