Tom Talks #2: Top 50 Songs of 2020

 Hello and welcome back to another Tom Talks! (apologies for the long gap, I had a dissertation to complete.) 2020 was a difficult year for many, in the midst of a pandemic, racial tensions and the massive hit on people's mental health. One thing that got myself and many others through this awful time was music and what a great year it was for this medium of entertainment. 

Before I delve into my top 50 tracks of 2020, (top 50 albums, coming soon!) I have a few honorable mentions for some great songs that didn't quite make the list:

100 gecs FT Charli XCX, Rico Nasty & Kero Kero Bonito-ringtone (Remix)

Bad Boy Chiller Crew-Guns Up

Disclsoure, Anime & slowthai-My High

distinkt-OG TRACKSUIT BADBOY

ENNY FT Jorja Smith-Peng Black Girls Remix

Joji-Gimme Love

Lady Gaga & Ariana Grande-Rain On Me

Nas FT Hit-Boy-Ultra Black

Nines FT Tiggs Da Author-NIC

Skepsis & Zero-Hijack

All great tracks, but now we move onto the TOP 50!

#50: Laura Marling-Song For Our Daughter

The title track of this wonderful album delves deep into this imaginary world, where Laura and her partner raise a daughter and the fears they have for how her life will be. The track doesn't just speak to this figurative daughter, but also to young women in general and highlights the dangers of being a young woman in the music industry, while living in the US with the fear of potential school shootings. This is such a beautiful track, that provides insight into some deep and dark truths, that I am sure mothers everywhere can relate too, with their own offspring.

#49: Internet Money FT Gunna, Don Toliver & NAV-Lemonade

One of this lists more popular tracks, this insanely catchy hit was one of my favourite rap tracks from across the Atlantic. I couldn't stop playing it from when I first heard it and while the verses didn't blow me away, that chorus from Don Toliver " Off the juice, codeine got me trippin'" is simply euphoric and definitely one for singing in the shower.

#48: Denzel Curry & Kenny Beats-'Cosmic' .m4a

The energy from Denzel, especially when he's straining his voice halfway through the track, interspersed with the booming production from Kenny, delivers an absolute banger. The samples flow well with Denzel's delivery and talk of people wanting to take advantage of his fame. It just slaps and is one of several bangers from a great collab project.

#47: Zero & Window Kid-Boozy

Zero has become one of my fave bassline producers with his inventive production, but Window Kid collaboration 'Boozy' outranks his other bangers this year like 'Barry White' and 'Hijack.' One thing I missed in lockdown is the pub and this track really nails that experience to the tee, with some typical witty/jokey lyrics from Window K. 

#46: Digga D-Woi!

Digga is one of the rising stars in UK Drill and with 'Woi!' gave the genre one of its biggest hits. The track talks about backing your boys and I certainly back this track, especially the catchy 'Woi, woi, woi, woi, woi, woi, woi.' part of the chorus. Many a time I blasted this in the car with my mate Rem, during the period restriction was eased and I'm sure we will continue to do so when life returns to normal.

#45: Juice WRLD-Wishing Well

The death of Juice WRLD was a tragedy and this song encapsulates the sadness Juice felt in his final days and to know he was trying to get on the right course, adds to the emotion of this ballad. Juice's vocals are on point and lyrics like 'If it wasn't for the pills, I wouldn't be here. But if I keep taking these pills, I won't be here,' really hits the heartstrings and I'm sure was a tearjerker for many and shows the importance of supporting those who suffer from addiction and depression.

#44: Ghetts FT Skepta-IC3

 

This track did not get enough attention, because these two GOATs of the grime scene made a fantastic piece of art. This pro-black anthem talks about everything from killing the rap game to the Queen sitting in stolen jewels, ending with a sample of the two freestyling from back in the day. Ghetts' new album has had many great singles, but this one really encapsulated the legendary status of these two MCs.

#43: Miley Cyrus-Midnight Sky

I've never been a big Miley fan, but always knew the talent was there and clearly 'Rock Chick' is the perfect aesthetic for Miss Cyrus. The Fleetwood Mac and Blondie vibe of the track works well, against Miley belting out a tale of moving on from a partner and wow her power on the vocal front towards the end. This anthem has so much energy and was one of this years most brilliant pop hits.

#42: DJ Q, Jamie Duggan & Booda-Melody

As soon as I heard the preview of this song, I knew it was going to be a banger. These two Bassline legends do their thing, with Duggan dominating the first half and Q the second half of this smasher. As soon as the raves open back up I will be first to the dancefloor if this slammer is played on the decks.

#41: Taylor Swift FT Bon Iver-exile

I never really got the appeal of Ms. Swift and found her stuff too poppy and at times cringy, but 'folklore' and in particular this duet were the best material I have ever heard from the former Country star. The track gives both sides of a relationship breaking down and both are on point vocally. This more folky side to Taylor really works for her and gave us a fantastic ballad.

#40: Paul Woolford & Diplo FT Karen Lomax-Looking For Me

Nights out have been massively missed, especially the feeling of dancing the night away to a club banger and this song encapsulates that in abundance. Woolford has made many great tracks this year, but this tops the lot, with an anthemic house beat and great vocals from Lomax. When the clubs do reopen, this will be the track that gets me back on the dance floor.

#39: Yizzy FT Big Narstie, Devilman, Mercston, Window Kid, Little Dee & The Pxttern-Don't Feel A Way (Remix)

By far one of my most played tracks of the year, this massive remix was my lockdown party anthem. The original was decent but with verses ranging from Devilman talking about spending lockdown in his crib, to Window Kid with his usual cheeky delivery, there's plenty to love about this track. Alongside the bassy-UKG production from one Dizzee Rascal, this is one party you do not want to miss.

#38: Jorja Smith-By Any Means

The Black Lives Matter movement was one of 2020's biggest events and led to some great music which did not make this list such as Lil Baby' 'The Bigger Picture,' Anderson .Paak' 'Lockdown' and OFB's 'BLM.' While these were all great, this moving track from one of the Midlands' finest, with its powerful message of the pain and pride felt by black people, was a highlight of 2020. This message is most prevalent in the lyric 'White men can't jump but at least they can run,' highlighting the inequalities in the world and educating people with the power of music.

#37: Jay Electronica FT Travis Scott-The Binding

Fans of Jay Electronica have been waiting a long time for new music, so will have been excited to see two albums of new material this year and 'The Binding' is by far the best of the lot. G. Ry's production kicks off the track with ear ripping bass at the start and a more chilled vibe towards the end from Hit-Boy, while Jay and Jay-Z (it's basically a collaborative album without the credit for Z) going back to back with talk about status and spirituality. Scott's ad-libs in the middle add a nice break from the bars and all in all a great collection of artists come together for this banging track and that bass, wowzers. 

#36: Eminem-Darkness

The decline in quality of Eminem's music has been rather disappointing from someone who once considered him the G.O.A.T, but this lead single from his latest project gave us a glimpse of classic Em. The track sees Eminem compare and contrast himself and his struggles with the Las Vegas shooter, which is a very ambitious topic that was done amazingly. He also provides key points on gun control and the lack of support for those with mental health issues, showing that Marshall can still make fantastic conceptual songs. (also the Simon & Garfunkel sample is top notch.)

#35: Big Zuu, Eyez, Kamakaze & Capo Lee-On Fire

The collaborative project is always hard to get right, but four of the best of the current crop of Grime MCs killed it on this one. Fantastic production and bars galore, with Kamakaze's verse my personal favourite, makes for a banger so good it was on the FIFA 21 soundtrack. People who say Grime is dead need to check out this project and then realise the error of their ways.

#34: Bring Me The Horizon-Parasite Eve

Not many lockdown tracks grabbed my attention, but the lead single from the UK rockers new project, really encompasses the dread and fear of the pandemic. The song really makes you feel like the world is ending, with lyrics like "When we forget the infection. Will we remember the lesson?" shows Oliver Sykes and co have a topical side to them. I've loved this band in the past, but this may be their best and most important song.

#33: Squarepusher-Nervelevers

The name Squarepusher, was new to me in 2020 and boy have I been missing out. One of the most wild and creative tracks of the year, the mix of IDM and D'n'B with an Intergalactic sound is right up my street. One of the weirdest productions you'll hear this year, but if you're not boring, go check this out.

#32: Gorillaz FT Fatoumata Diawara-Desole

The new crop of tracks from everyone's fave virtual band was the most consistent I have seen Albarn and co in years. The standout was 'Desole' a Bossa Nova song about moving on from a toxic relationship. Diawara's vocals are amazing and compliment Albarn's haunting tones and the Spanish guitar like instrumental, perfectly. A wonderful track from a superb album, Gorillaz are back to their best.

#31: TSHA-Sister

An up and comer in the UK scene you need to check out, TSHA came out of nowhere for me and released the quiet and chilled out 'Sister.' Perfect for listening to during a quiet walk through nature, the track looks at how TSHA felt finding out she had a half-sister during lockdown. The nature vibe continues throughout the Flowers EP, but 'Sister' is a track you need to check out.

#30: Tame Impala-Breathe Deeper

The new project may not have blown fans away, but this album cut was over 6 minutes of classic Kevin Parker. The track feels like an experience with it's electronic guitars and keyboards mixed in with Parker's autotuned vocals on how to stay calm during nervous situations. The instrumental fits this from starting off chilled, then going more wild in the middle, before slowing down at the end. All in all a great album cut that is Parker at his best.

#29: Pa Saileu FT Backroad Gee-My Family

The winner of BBC Sound of 2021 is already on course for a great year, but 'My Family' made Pa Saileu a breakout star in 2020. The track was an instant wheel up when I first heard it and Saileu's delivery is unlike much else in the UK rap scene. The feature from Backroad Gee (another breakout star) is also great and I can't wait to hear more from two of the hottest young talents in the UK scene.

#28: Jacob Collier, Mahalia, Ty Dolla $ign-All I Need

Three angelic voices came together for this tuneful R'n'B ballad. The track is a cutesy devotion to that special someone, that I'm sure will be a favourite at post-lockdown weddings. All three artists jell so well together and yeah a lovely ballad for you loved up couples.

#27: Dizzee Rascal FT D Double E & Frisco-That's Too Much

Dizzee, D Double and Frisco are three legends of the scene, who absolutely kill it on this new one from E3 AF. Mr Rascal sounds as hungry as his ever been and the two guests do their thing as expected. The dirty, grimey beat is the best part of this absolute banger and it makes me happy to see Dizzee back on form for the first time in a while.

#26: Tom Misch & Yussef Dayes-What Kinda Music

'Hey do you like Jazz?' Yes I do and there's not much better then Tom Misch and the title track for his new project with Yussef Dayes. It's a perfect introduction to the album, with Misch's tale of someone catching his eye in the crowd. With the banging drums from Dayes and orchestral sound, this is a very dramatic piece of art.

 #25: Georgia-24 Hours

A nocturnal club anthem, this may not be a direct rave anthem, but is certainly inspired by a night of dancing in the dark. Georgia's skills as a drummer, producer and singer are at there peak on this single, showing why she is a unique talent. This track may be called '24 Hours,' but I will be listening to this for a lifetime.

#24: Christine & the Queens-Je disparis dans tes bras

'i disappear in your arms' to us English folk, this pop masterpiece from one of France's greatest exports was a track to sing and dance to in 2020. From the incredible 'La vita nuova' EP the track explores someone wanting her, but not being able to have what they want, which while a common concept for a pop song, the atmosphere and delivery of the track makes it stand out. If this is a taste of what is too come, I cannot wait for more Christine in 2021.

#23: Freddie Gibbs & The Alchemist FT Tyler The Creator-Something To Rap About

The reuniting of Gibbs and The Alchemist worked wonders in 2020 and the bars and production came together best on this classy track. The production sounds like something you'd hear in a fancy restaurant with its gentle plucks of the guitar and a piano in a background. Freddie and guest Tyler just rap their asses off, over this beat and make music that is truly art.

#22: J Hus-Deeper Than Rap

We always knew Hus could rap, but the concept and lyrical delivery on this track makes it his best ever. The smooth beat and Hus's talk of being abused by the police and sadness of black women bleaching their skin, make for a great closer to the album and show Hus isn't just about the bangers. I would love to see a conceptual album from this man, but for now 'Deeper Than Rap' gives us the topical side to him we desire.

#21: Lianna Le Havas-Bittersweet

Myself and others have not paid enough attention to this talented songstress, but 2020 will hopefully change that with songs like this one. Lianne's beautiful voice is on display here as she talks about being 'born again' and moving on from a relationship, with a smooth production alongside. Lianne explores an entire relationship on her new project, but the end makes for the best moment.

#20: JPEGMAFIA FT Denzel Curry-BALD! (Remix)

The unique wackiness of JPEG is on display here for this banger from 'EP,' with a bit of Denzel Curry magic on the remix to make it that little bit more special. Denzel takes over this new version, with talk of his losses and lifestyle changes since becoming famous. The melancholic whirring beat tops off what is a great track and JPEG at his most humorous, funky best.

#19: Deftones-Genesis

Another group I discovered in 2020, (they've been around for ages though, so it's no big achievement) this song kicked off a great project and ended up being its finest moment. The impressive guitar playing and manic vocal delivery, as lead singer China Moreno shouts 'BALANCE,' makes for one of this years hard hitting rock tracks. This is the Genesis of the album and hopefully the genesis of more great music, from one of Rock's most interesting and creative bands.

#18: Future Utopia FT Dave & Es Devlin-Children Of The Internet

Fraser T. Smith and Dave have already teamed up for some great music, as put on display at this year's Brit Awards. This topical dissection of the harms of the internet from discussions of using filters to data collection, make for an interesting take on modern society and how it has affected the behaviour of our generation. Dave is no stranger to making music to discuss, but Mr. Smith's lead single from his new project, poses some big discussions about the future of the internet.

#17: Jessie Ware-What's Your Pleasure?

Jessie Ware has always been a great singer, but never quite found her sound, until her Disco and House inspired new project, especially on the title track. The beat has quite a dark, melancholic sound brought on by the synthetic mix of electro pop and a smidge of house influence. This tale of passion fits the beat well and makes for a highlight that lovers will dance the night away to whether at home or later down the line in the clubs.

#16: Headie One & Fred again...-GANG

This last year was a big one for the King of Drill, yet his biggest hits couldn't quite match up to this collaboratory effort with one of the hottest UK producers. The title of the track is used to show brotherhood, rather then its more negative connotations in the media, while the melancholic production fits the introspective tone of the track. Headie clearly is more than just a Drill rapper and I can't wait to see this more experimental side to him.

#15: Charli XCX-enemy

Charli really captured lockdown perfectly on her new project, but for me 'enemy' was the crème de la crème of her latest album. The track sees Charli worry over getting too close and revealing herself to her partner, which reminded me of how myself and others can feel about being open and honest to those closest to them, whether a romantic or platonic relationship. Over some enjoyable hyperpop production and some nice autotune over her voice, Charli made one of 2020's best Pop efforts.

#14: The Weeknd-After Hours

While 'Blinding Lights' was an absolute banger, the title track to my favourite Weeknd project, was what stood out to me in 2020. The build up to the track works really well and once the beat drops, 'After Hours' truly stands out as the best Weeknd track I've heard. The dark, almost melancholic production matches the desperation of Abel to stay with this girl and makes for a bleak, but danceable track, that is peak Alternate R'n'B.

#13: The Streets FT Donae'o & Greentea Peng-I Wish You Loved You As Much As You Loved Him

As a Brummie I had to put someone from the 0121 on this list, so luckily there was new material from the legend Mike Skinner to fill that gap. By far the longest title for a song on the list, the track gives a positive message to love yourself as much as your partner and to put yourself first always. With the bouncy, subtle garage instrumental alongside the soothing tones of Greentea Peng and a short, but sweet Donae'o contribution, this is a positive message to take away in these dark times.

#12: Nathan Dawe FT KSI-Lighter

Two guys who came from nowhere in the music industry to stardom, made a huge club slammer. Dawe's deep house production mixed with Ella Henderson's catchy chorus already make for a summer hit, but KSI's chorus adds the final touch to a great track. This may have been an unlikely duo, but one of this year's most played tracks for me, deserves its place on the list.

#11: Bibio-Sleep On The Wing

A truly tranquil, peaceful effort from one of the most underrated singers in the UK, 'Sleep On The Wing' is truly beautiful. While it just missed the top 10, this is still a track not to be missed, perfect for listening to while going for a quiet walk. The song touches on themes of loss and escapism, but the soothing production truly makes this an exquisite piece of art.

#10: Frisco FT Skepta, Jammer, JME & Shorty-Red Card

Not since 'Too Many Men' has there been as great a track by one of the UK's biggest collectives and man it was worth the wait. The haunting, horror like production with Eastern influences makes for an excellent Grime instrumental, with each member spitting some hard bars in their short, but sweet verses. A fantastic lead single and a collab I have waited many moons for, I was very happy with this effort from Frisco and co.

#9: Notion-Burning

One of 2020's biggest UK Bass tracks, this would certainly have shut down festival season. Notion knows how to make a banger and he certainly did that again, with the pulsating basslines and whirring buildup to an incredible drop. Notion remains at the top of his game and hopefully more wobblers will be coming in 2021.

#8: Arlo Parks-Black Dog

From one of the UK's biggest up and coming talents, this bleak and depressing tale looks into one of the biggest topics of 2020, Mental Health. Arlo talks about the cruelness and pain of depression and how it seems unstoppable, while trying her best to help a friend in need. It's such a sad, yet important take on a topic that is becoming more widely talked about and shows why it's so important to keep tabs on those closest to you, especially in these awful times.

#7: Chris Lorenzo & Bru-C-Introspective

These two juggernauts of the Bass scene are known for their bangers, but went on a more personal direction with this lockdown anthem. This chilled out D'n'B number sees Bruce tell listeners to spend more time focusing on themselves and show love for oneself, to help grow as a person. This was a common theme of the latest project from the Nottingham MC, but no track does it better than 'Introspective,' which truly gives us hope that if we look inside our hearts and minds, we can become better not just to ourselves, but others.

#6: slowthai FT James Blake & Mount Kimbie-feel away

Northampton's own has always been known for his aggressive, punkish attitude, but on 'feel away' we got a more quiet and emotional side, we didn't see too much on his debut album. The simple piano production fits this more quieter moment, with the line "It's not you, so I guess it's me," highlighting the sadness felt at the end of a relationship. Mixed with the magnificent voice of James Blake and a nice contribution at the end for Mount Kimbie, we saw the beginnings of what was to come for Tyron's new project and an insight into the mind of one of the UK's most intriguing spitters, giving us the breakup anthem of 2020.

#5: IDLES-Model Village

The anger and ferocity of IDLES makes them my top post-punk band of the 2010s and that ferocity is on display with 'Model Village.' Their exploration of village life looks at the meaningless of becoming popular in such a small community and the small minded nature of those who live in a village, from their bigotry to loving anything that appears to be nationalistic. The guitars are on point here and as someone who comes from a village, this is the perfect representation of the gated communities that exist in Britain's countryside.

#4: Run The Jewels-a few words for the firing squad (radiation)

My standout track from the world of Hip-Hop and the perfect closer to a powerful, political album, Killer Mike and EI-P killed it on this one. Both artists focus on the love for their partners and how different directions in life could have changed that, with Mike in particular hitting hard with his wife stating "I need a husband more than the world need another martyr." But what makes this track is the big and powerful orchestral instrumental, especially when the lyrics stop and the saxophone blares out and the drums kick in. The instrumental alone would have made this list, but with Hip-Hop's biggest current duo on board, we have a truly special track.

#3: Mac Miller-Everybody

The death of Mac Miller was a true tragedy and this song from his posthumous release, truly hits home the sadness felt by many at his passing. The simple piano and drum combo fits the melody well mixed in with Mac's sorrowful lyrics, exclaiming in the chorus "Everybody's gotta live. And everybody's gonna die." The bluntness of the lyrics hit home the fleetingness of life and how we must make the most of it, before it's too late, a message we can all get behind.

#2: Thundercat-Dragonball Durag

This dreadful year was dominated by sorrow, but there was some fun music and 'Dragonball Durag' certainly ticks that box. The Funky and Groovy instrumental flows well with Thundercat's saucy lyrics about seducing a chick in his durag, while adding humour with lines like "I may be covered in cat hair, but I still smell good." It's a bizzare track, but it's a fun time, which is something we have all needed.

#1: Holy Goof FT Bru-C-Down For You

If you know me I love a good rave and have missed them dreadfully, so there's no surprise this bassline banger is my number 1 track of 2020. Two of the scenes heavyweights came together, with Bru coming more melodic than usual while Goof's Big Bass vibes mixed with banging metal sounds after the drop for a more industrial sound. There's not as much depth or nuance as most tracks on this list, but nothing has quite slapped like 'Down For You' in 2020 and it will be first on the Aux when I see my rave mates again.

So that's my list, I hope you have enjoyed and thank you for reading. 2020 was a tough year, but we had Music to keep us going. Expect more regular uploads and let me know in the comments if you enjoyed this and what you'd like to see me talk about in future. Don't forget to share this about and see you later folks!