The Friday Drop: Demi Lovato, Sech, Janelle Monáe, and More New Music This Week

"The catchy beat was initially what drew me to this song, but after paying closer attention to the powerful lyrics, I could not stop listening. With lyrics like "Thinking you'll never get your chance / Feeling like you've got no solution / It's only 'cause you're human," if I'm ever feeling down or doubting myself for whatever reason, this is what I plan on listening to to get me out of my funk. Thank you, Demi and Marshmello! I needed this." — Monica Sisavat, editor, celebrity and entertainment

"I had been patiently waiting for Joe Keery, aka Djo, to drop new music since his 2019 debut solo project, Twenty Twenty, and he finally delivered with his latest single, "Keep Your Head Up," which does not disappoint. The track is a fun fusion of psychedelia, pop, soul, and funk as the 28-year-old singer and musician urges listeners to stay encouraged amid tough times. And just when you think the song can't get any better, in comes a sonic eruption guided by a sweet saxophone. It really is a masterpiece." — Brea Cubit, assistant editor, celebrity and entertainment

"I'm all for the chill September vibes that are all over my playlist this Friday, but the 'Relación Remix' gives me every genre I'm looking for in one song. It eases in with some soft crooning, but halfway through, I found myself jumping up from my chair and taking a necessary dance break. Every single reggaeton icon is featured in this remix, including my personal favorite: Rosalía. Her voice is so gorgeous on this track, and the beat is quite literally bumping!" — Charisandra Perez, social media and partnerships coordinator

"LUDA! My ears feel so #blessed Ludacris is giving us new music. Ludacris has been around forever and contributed to some of the biggest hits from the past three decades! Maybe it's the nostalgia of growing up with his music always in the background. but there's something so good about hearing Ludacris back on the mic. This song is no different, and it feels like 2003/2004 all over again. Take me back! (honorable mention to Chance)." — Zareen Siddiqui, director, audience development

"This protest song was written for Amazon Prime's documentary, All In: The Fight For Democracy, which premieres on Sept. 18. The film will explore issues surrounding voter suppression, so it's fitting that Monáe's empowering single inspires others to fight against social injustice. 'Turntables' is her first release of original music since 2018's Dirty Computer, and it's a triumphant return indeed." — Brea Cubit, assistant editor, celebrity and entertainment

"Mae is a BRITISH KWEEN. Who doesn't love (need) some angsty pop music in their life? And with a British accent everything just sounds so much better doesn't it? Mae's sound reminds me of a more mellow Dua Lipa/Mabel (more queens). If you're a fan of either, you'll love Mae!" — Zareen Siddiqui, director, audience development

"I love the hopeful message of this song, but it's Sia's vocals that really do it for me. Oh, and the beat of this track is definitely giving me some The Weeknd vibes." — Monica Sisavat, editor, celebrity and entertainment

"Orion Sun teamed up with producers Nascent and Loshendrix for this pensive mellow track, which I'm already hoping will be featured on an episode of Insecure when the show returns for a fifth season. It's just giving me that vibe." — Brea Cubit, assistant editor, celebrity and entertainment