As summer unfolds and embraces us with its radiant glow, a wave of exciting new releases from the industry’s brightest stars, budding future legends, and captivating talents emerges. All About Ginger has handpicked a collection of standout works that are destined to become the soundtrack of our sun-kissed days and grace our playlists throughout the coming months.
Here are the albums, EPs, and singles we think you need to hear in the summer of ‘23.
Post Malone: Austin [Mercury/Republic]
Post Malone’s highly anticipated fifth album, titled Austin, will finally be released on July 28th. The rapper took charge of production alongside a talented team including Andrew Watt, Louis Bell, Max Martin, and Rami Yacoub. Featuring a total of 19 tracks, it includes previously released singles “Chemical” and “Mourning,” in addition to fresh additions like “Too Cool To Die,” “Something Real,” “Novacandy,” “Socialite,” and “Don’t Understand.”
Despite his relatively short time in the industry since his breakthrough in 2016, Malone has consistently produced numerous chart-topping hits, solidifying his position as one of today’s most talented and dynamic artists. Alongside the album release, Post has announced a major North American tour, If Y’all Weren’t Here, I’d Be Crying, promising exciting new music, impressive production, and an unforgettable live experience for his fans.
The Weeknd: The Idol, Vol. 1 (Music from the HBO Original Series) [XO/Republic]
The Weeknd, aka Abel Tesfaye, has curated an exciting musical experience for his upcoming series, The Idol, starring Lily-Rose Depp. The soundtrack, titled, The Idol Vol. 1, features singles such as “Popular” with Madonna and Playboi Carti, as well as “Double Fantasy,” a collaboration with Future. Both tracks have been produced by the Canadian singer himself, along with Mike Dean and Metro Boomin.
In a conversation with Jeremy O. Harris, Tesfaye revealed that icons such as David Bowie, Prince, and Pink Floyd played a significant role in shaping the soundtrack for his new HBO series. Drawing inspiration from The Wall and Purple Rain, as well as films like Shaft, he expressed his desire to elevate his craft to new heights. Abel acknowledged that he aims to push his boundaries and believes that he is currently at his musical best.
Grouplove: I Want It All Right Now [Glassnote Records]
Indie rock band, GROUPLOVE, will release their sixth album, I Want It All Right Now, on July 7th through Glassnote Records. Produced by Grammy-winning John Congleton, the record reflects the transformative journey of the group’s principal songwriters and lead vocalists, Hooper and Zucconi. Their lineup also includes bassist Daniel Gleason, guitarist Andrew Wessen, and drummer Ben Homola.
Inspired by their experiences in raising a daughter with sensory needs, the album’s 11 songs shift from external searching to introspective self-discovery. GROUPLOVE’s unique blend of ’90s-style indie rock and energetic performance style is evident in this bold and insightful record, which captures the essence of their live shows and playful spirit.
Big Freedia: Central City [Queen Diva Music]
New Orleans’ bounce queen, Big Freedia, is making a comeback with her much-awaited album, Central City, marking her first release in nine years. Set to come out on June 23 via Queen Diva Music, the record features exciting collaborations with artists such as Ciara, Lil Wayne, Faith Evans, Kamaiyah, and others.
Big Freedia has already treated fans to a taste of the album with her new single “Bigfoot,” showcasing her signature style.
After the release of her 2014 album Just Be Free, the artist continued to keep fans engaged with a series of standalone tracks and EPs, including the well-received 3rd Ward Bounce EP in 2018. Additionally, Big Freedia collaborated with names like Flo Milli, Kesha, CocoRosie, and others, contributing to a number of singles. Notably, she made a notable appearance last year on Beyoncé’s “Break My Soul,” which samples her own 2014 song “Explode.”
Diplo & Lily Rose: “Sad in the Summer” [Columbia Records]
Diplo’s latest collaborative project, Thomas Wesley: Chapter 2 – Swamp Savant, kicks off with “Sad In The Summer” as its lead single. The album comprises six tracks and boasts a lineup of talented artists such as Lily Rose, Dove Cameron, Johnny Blue Skies (formerly known as Sturgill Simpson), Paul Cauthen, Sierra Ferrell, Morgan Wade, Parker McCollum, Kodak Black, and Koe Wetzel.
Co-penned by Lily Rose, Griffen Palmer, Geoff Warburton, Ben Johnson, Diplo, King Henry, and the Picard Brothers, “Sad In The Summer” captures the essence of cherishing the ephemeral delight of summer and a seasonal romance, yearning for a love that endures as the temperature drops. This track beautifully combines Lily Rose’s buttery vocals with Diplo’s distinctive beats, resulting in a harmonious blend that delights the ears.
Kaytraminé feat. Pharrell Williams: “4EVA” [Venice Music]
Renowned producer and DJ, Kaytranada, has established a remarkable reputation for his collaborative releases. An unexpected revelation was made to his fans as he unveiled a joint project with the talented rapper Aminé. Together, they adopted the moniker “Kaytraminé” and united their creative forces with Pharrell on their debut single, “4EVA.”
Imbued with Kaytranada’s characteristic dance-infused rhythm, the track emanates an irresistible groove. Aminé effortlessly rides the beat with his clever rhymes, while Pharrell’s vocals enhance the song as he takes on the hook.
D.J.C./Daniel Jahmal Clarke: “Sexy House Thang” [NexGen Music]
Daniel, known by his various aliases including D.J.C., D.A., and Urban Enigma, radiates an infectious energy in the underground and cross-mainstream scene. The mastermind behind NexGen Music, a renowned record label specializing in diverse styles and genres, is preparing to release a new single called “Sexy House Thang.” This song is the result of tireless efforts, originating as early as 2010 when the producer lived in a modest Brooklyn apartment.
Originally slated for a 2020 release, “Sexy House Thang,” featuring Bijoux, faced an unfortunate setback due to the unforeseen impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout the past year, both artists dedicated themselves to the project, resulting in the decision to drop it this summer. Recognizing the need for a captivating visual representation, they also enlisted Neil Sanford to create its upcoming animated video.
