BEYOND THE NOTES
Photo by Tara Radmard
January 29, 2025 | Isabella Appell
From BRATs to Midwest Princesses, 2024 gave us fresh icons, a country music renaissance, and a whirlwind of trends. As the year comes to a close, we asked our members what they're leaving behind—and what's making the cut for 2025. Here are Cherry Pop's official music ins and outs for the new year.
This year is all about spotlighting overlooked artists, experimenting with multimedia, and curating the ultimate no-skip playlist. 90s feminist rock revival is thriving, and we're not just here for the headliners—The Beth, The Linda Lindas, and their underrated openers are getting the recognition they deserve. And while we'll always show up early for a front-row experience, let's be real: the barricade era at the crack of dawn is over. We're dancing our way to the back of the crowd and loving every second.
Fan culture is shifting, too. Harassing our artists online? So last year. Let's respect boundaries and find better ways to show our love—looking at you, Chappell Roan stans! But don't get it twisted: shaming bad music is still fair game (if your playlist is questionable, at least own it). And to our instrumental music enthusiasts, we owe you an apology. We're finally slowing it down in 2025, taking the time to appreciate lyricless music.
To all our festival-goers, can we collectively agree to stop filming entire sets? Do everyone a favor, record your favorite song, and then put your phone down. Live in the moment, not through your screens.
And to our reigning pop producer, Jack Antonoff—well, the opinions are divided:
"I hate Jack Antonoff; all his new work sounds the same," a Cherry Pop member passionately criticizes.
This year, we're doubling down on what we love. SZA, we respect the experimentation, but it's time to revisit your Ctrl and Z era. And a quick PSA to our drill and phonk fans: let's rewind to 2016 and stick with the golden-era of Drake and Kanye. Some things are better left untouched.
Above all, we want more artist collaborations. Isn't that what music is about? So here's to 2025—respect your artists, hit every jazz bar in sight, and we'll see you in the crowd.
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