The new year is promised to be a landmark year in music, with artists across several genres preparing for their new releases. Fans are eagerly anticipating new projects from these global stars, established icons, who are yet to set 2025 off with history.

The Weeknd, one of the most influential artists of the 2010s and current generation, is preparing to release his new album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, after his record-breaking album After Hours. It is rumored to be his final project under his name with his previous albums still upholding their names. His project is expected to continue the artist’s tradition of R&B and hip-beats, along with new instrumental and electronic aspects. Collaborations are predicted to play a significant role in Hurry Up Tomorrow, as The Weeknd is known for working with a wide range of artists. It is still uncertain whether these features will spotlight established stars or new faces, but fans are eager and anticipating an emotionally charged falsetto.
Similarly, Lady Gaga is expected to drop a project that could redefine her reputation once more. Known for her wide variety of genres, her fans are excited about what the album has to bring. While the album details remain under wraps, many speculate her dance-pop roots may make a return. Gaga’s public image plays a major part in the way her music is perceived, as her iconic visual aesthetics create striking performances for her fans. Along with her album, fans and critics are expecting dramatic music videos with abstract visual concepts and even a potential collaboration with new artists. Gaga’s release, “Die With A Smile,” with the Weeknd was one of 2024’s biggest hits that got fans on the edge of their seats for her upcoming album.

Lana Del Rey’s upcoming album, The Right Person Will Stay, is set to mark a significant shift in her musical career. She is known for her blend of cinematic and melancholy and has always been an artist to uphold her expectations. With this new album, Lana is venturing into the country music region, making way for a new chapter of her pursuit. Lana’s production team is known for its work and collaboration alongside Taylor Swift and Lorde, which has helped shape Lana’s emotional-driven lyricism. Lana fan, Kenzi Reiter (11) states that “her music brings the world comfort with her heartfelt and driven songs” and is eager for this new drop.”

Popular artist, Mac Miller, has his new album, Balloonerism, set to drop soon this year which promises to be an intimate and deeply reflective project. Having tragically passed away in 2018, Miller’s legacy has lived on through his earlier works, including in his albums Swimming and Circles. Balloonerism is composed of songs Miller recorded between 2013 and 2014, a period in which he was discovering his voice. For his long-time fans, this album will create a strong sense of nostalgia and evoke an emotionally charged listen as the set songs are a mix of lo-fi beats and complex lyricism. This is a highly anticipated release, showcasing Mac Miller’s music-making process in its rawest form, before becoming the household name that he holds today. Student Chelsey Natividad (11) asserts: “Knowing that I will be able to witness Mac’s journey before the world knew his name is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I can connect with him and his music on a more personal level and better understand who he was as an artist.”
In 2025, the music industry promises an exciting layout of albums that reflects new perspectives and the unique voices of varying artists across all genres. As these releases unfold, they are all sure to shape the soundtracks of this upcoming year and set the tone of unforgettable music.