Essential alternative pop listening

The albums that define alternative pop.

Our picks for where to start with alternative pop — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

The alternative pop essentials

Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.

Collabs

Halsey

Collabs

A collection of collaborative tracks blending Halsey's emotive pop with diverse guest artists, creating a tapestry of modern vulnerability.

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Think Later

Tate McRae

Think Later

A vibrant mix of introspective lyrics and catchy pop hooks that capture the struggles of young adulthood.

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Badlands (Live at Webster Hall)

Halsey

Badlands (Live at Webster Hall)

A raw and emotive live performance that captures Halsey's dynamic vocal range and intimate storytelling.

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I Used to Think I Could Fly

Tate McRae

I Used to Think I Could Fly

A blend of introspective lyrics and catchy melodies that capture the complexities of young adulthood.

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So Close to What

Tate McRae

So Close to What

An introspective blend of alternative pop and dance beats, capturing youthful vulnerability and empowerment.

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Too Young to Be Sad

Tate McRae

Too Young to Be Sad

A vibrant blend of dance-pop and alternative elements, capturing youthful introspection with tight melodies and relatable lyrics.

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Badlands

Halsey

Badlands

A vibrant tapestry of confessional lyrics and eclectic pop production that captures the complexities of youth.

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The Great Impersonator

Halsey

The Great Impersonator

A kaleidoscopic blend of alternative pop and R&B, merging introspective lyrics with lush electronic soundscapes.

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Manic

Halsey

Manic

A kaleidoscopic blend of pop and R&B that vividly explores the tumultuous landscape of mental health and relationships.

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Hopeless Fountain Kingdom

Halsey

Hopeless Fountain Kingdom

A sweeping blend of introspective lyrics and atmospheric pop melodies that explore themes of love and identity.

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Hit Me Hard and Soft

Billie Eilish

Hit Me Hard and Soft

A kaleidoscopic blend of intimate lyrics and lush electronic soundscapes that showcase Eilish's evolving artistry.

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Guitar Songs

Billie Eilish

Guitar Songs

A hauntingly intimate collection of acoustic-driven ballads that showcase vulnerability and raw emotion.

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When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?

Billie Eilish

When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?

A haunting blend of minimalist beats and poignant lyrics that explore the complexities of modern existence.

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Happier Than Ever

Billie Eilish

Happier Than Ever

A reflective blend of intimate lyricism and lush production that encapsulates personal growth and emotional complexity.

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Therapy Sessions

David Archuleta

Therapy Sessions

An introspective blend of alternative pop underscored by earnest lyrics and soothing melodies.

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Dreamland

Glass Animals

Dreamland

A vibrant mosaic of dreamy synths and nostalgic beats that evoke a sense of surreal escapism.

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Fallen Angel

Ari Abdul

Fallen Angel

Ari Abdul combines punchy beats and haunting melodies to explore themes of vulnerability and desire.

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Room 93

Halsey

Room 93

A haunting blend of ethereal vocals and atmospheric pop, exploring themes of love and loss.

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The Other Side of Down

David Archuleta

The Other Side of Down

A polished blend of pop melodies and heartfelt lyrics, showcasing Archuleta's vocal prowess and emotional depth.

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Christmas from the Heart

David Archuleta

Christmas from the Heart

A heartfelt collection of classic holiday melodies infused with Archuleta's soaring vocals and emotional depth.

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If I Can't Have Love, I Want Power

Halsey

If I Can't Have Love, I Want Power

A haunting blend of pop and rock that explores themes of womanhood against a backdrop of cinematic soundscapes.

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Hey U X

Benee

Hey U X

Benee's playful blend of alternative pop and soul creates a vibrant soundscape filled with whimsical lyrics and catchy melodies.

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Lately I Feel Everything

Willow Smith

Lately I Feel Everything

A whirlwind of pop-punk energy mixed with introspective lyrics and experimental soundscapes.

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Coping Mechanism

Willow Smith

Coping Mechanism

A raw blend of alternative pop and punk energy, infused with introspective lyrics and dynamic production.

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