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TikTok - Changing the Music Industry

November 24, 2023

There is no question that technology and the internet is changing the way in which many aspects of the world operate. The internet has rapidly accelerated the rate that information can be...

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Phonk Music and the Gym and Car Communities

November 24, 2023

People often say that music is a universal language. It is one of those things that all humans understand and enjoy, and it has an incredible ability to bring people together and create a sense...

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André 3000: Challenging the Notion of Age in Rap Music

November 24, 2023

In the world of hip-hop, André 3000 is a name that commands respect and admiration. As one-half of the iconic rap duo OutKast, he has left an indelible mark on the music industry...

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Chaz Mishan: Crafting for YG Entertainment's BABYMONSTER's Debut Single "Batter Up"

November 22, 2023

In a testament to the global nature of the music industry, Chaz Mishan, renowned producer and composer based in Los Angeles, has joined forces with YG Entertainment's talented songwriters...

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YG Entertainment's BABYMONSTER: Redefining Girl Group Dynamics in K-Pop

November 22, 2023

BABYMONSTER emerged from YG Entertainment’s relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence in the music industry. Known for its ability to cultivate global sensations such as BLACKPINK and BIGBANG...

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Thrash Metal - An Aging Genre

November 16, 2023

The thrash metal genre emerged in the early 1980s. Characterized by intricate guitar use, lightning-fast tempos, and its overall bold, aggressive themes, thrash was groundbreaking and quickly became..

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Travis Scott’s Telekinesis

October 27, 2023

Travis Scott, the Houston-born hip-hop sensation, has taken the world by storm with his innovative soundscapes and boundary-pushing creativity. His latest single, "Telekinesis”...

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Drake and J.Cole’s “First Person Shooter”: A Masterpiece in Modern era

October 25, 2023

The lyrics of “First Person Shooter” are a testament to both artists’ lyrical prowess. The song explores themes of success, legacy, and rivalry in the rap industry...

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They're Not Real? The Rise in Virtual Kpop Groups

October 24, 2023

As virtual technology continues to evolve and we move towards the metaverse future, the K-pop industry has begun delving into all the possibilities...

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Sunmi Becomes the 'Stranger' With New Single

October 23, 2023

After over a year of absence from the Kpop scene, solo artist Sunmi has recently come back with her eighth digital single, “STRANGER.” Co-written by Sunmi...

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EXO Chanyeol Assures That You're 'Good Enough' In New Release

October 23, 2023

EXO’s Chanyeol dropped the highly-anticipated single, ‘Good Enough.’ The comeback was made two and a half years after his latest release (‘Tomorrow’) in 2021...

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Overwatch 2 Hits the Right Notes with LE SSERAFIM Collaboration

October 20, 2023

LE SSERAFIM, a powerhouse in the K-pop industry, is a South Korean girl group formed by Source Music. Comprising five members – Sakura, Chaewon, Yunjin, Kazuha, and Eunchae – the group made...

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Songs That Kick Started Careers

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Photo Source: Getty Images

Shake It Off - Taylor Swift

"Shake It Off" is a smash-hit song by Taylor Swift, released in 2014 as the lead single from her fifth studio album, "1989." The upbeat and infectious track marked a significant shift in Taylor Swift's musical style, transitioning from country to pop. Its catchy melody, fun lyrics, and positive message resonated with audiences worldwide. The song's release was accompanied by a vibrant and colourful music video, further amplifying its popularity. "Shake It Off" received widespread airplay, topping the billboard charts in various countries and earning Taylor Swift numerous accolades. Its commercial success and infectious appeal played a pivotal role in solidifying Taylor Swift's status as a global pop superstar till this day. 

Can't Feel My Face - The Weeknd

The Weeknd's "Can't Feel My Face" was a turning point in his career, catapulting him to mainstream success. Released in 2015 on his album called “beauty behind the madness”, the infectious and upbeat track showcased his unique blend of R&B, pop, and electronic music. With cleverly masked drug-related lyrics, the song received widespread attention , firmly establishing The Weeknd as a major force in the music industry. It placed him on a high pedestal in the mainstream and showcased his versatility as an artist, leading to numerous award nominations.

Slow Jamz - Kanye West

Released in 2004 as part of his debut album The College Dropout, "Slow Jamz" was a pivotal song that kick-started Kanye West's illustrious career. The track, featuring Twista and Jamie Foxx, became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts and earning critical acclaim. The song showcased Kanye's distinctive production style and clever lyricism, cementing his reputation as a trailblazing artist. 

The Way - Ariana grande

“The Way" is Ariana Grande's 2013 debut single which was also a song on her album “Yours Truly”, featuring the late rapper Mac Miller. This catchy R&B-pop track showcased Ariana's powerful vocals and received widespread acclaim from music critics. Its success catapulted her to stardom, establishing her as one of the most influential pop artists of her generation.

Best I Ever Had - Drake

In 2009, Drake achieved a significant breakthrough when he dropped the mixtape "So Far Gone," featuring the popular single "Best I Ever Had." The release of this mixtape sparked a fierce competition among record labels, leading Drake to sign with Lil Wayne's Young Money Entertainment, which operates under Cash Money. By the end of the year, the label re-released "So Far Gone" as an EP, making Drake's music a rising success in the music industry.

Good Girl Gone Bad - Rihanna

Incorporating dance-pop elements, Rihanna's third album, "Good Girl Gone Bad" (2007), solidified her position as a prominent icon in the music industry. The Grammy-winning single "Umbrella" not only marked her first prestigious accolade but also propelled her to international fame.

Sign of the Times - Harry Styles

Harry Styles' song "Sign of the Times" marked a significant turning point in his career after departing from the global sensation One Direction. Released in 2017 as his debut solo single, the track showcased Harry's artistic maturity and versatility as a solo artist. The song's epic, anthemic sound and poignant lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him critical acclaim and widespread recognition. "Sign of the Times" not only solidified Harry Styles' status as a serious musician beyond his boy band origins but also propelled him to become a successful and respected solo artist in his own right.

The careers of these popular artists were undeniably shaped and accelerated by their breakout songs. These songs not only kick-started their careers but also left an indelible mark on the music industry.