To the disappointment or delight of music lovers, Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” took Album of the Year at this year’s Grammy Awards celebration. While the nominees list was stacked with Taylor Swift’s “The Tortured Poet’s Department” and André 3000’s “New Blue Son,” many beloved 2024 albums didn’t make the cut.
The Beacon staff revisited some of the year’s best releases and compiled a list of albums that deserve not only award-winning recognition but your open ears, too.
“Charm” by Clairo
Recommended by Camille Kuroiwa-Lewis, Living Editor
While not as strong as her previous album, “Sling,” “Charm” still has 2021 Clairo’s whimsical lyricism and lo-fi production. The album features childhood memories and adulthood struggles, making for the ultimate 20-something relatable masterpiece. Particularly, the piano chords of the song “Slow Dance” remind me of the Joe Hisaishi soundtracks I listened to as a kid. This album also holds a special place in my heart for coming with the best concert experience. In 2024, Clairo toured at the forest venue of McMenamins Edgefield in Troutdale, OR, and the show was one of the most enchanting experiences I’ve had in the woods.
“Cowboy Carter” by Beyoncé
Recommended by Tiffany Marquez Escobar, DEI Editor
When Beyoncé first announced “Cowboy Carter,” I, like most people, was skeptical. I even avoided listening to the two singles, “Texas Hold 'Em" and “16 Carriages,” released ahead of the album. However, “Cowboy Carter” has had an undeniable impact on country music. It redefined what the genre is and who gets to be a part of it. It also uncovered the contributions Black musicians had in making country music what it is today. That alone makes it deserving of its “Album of the Year” win. If you still haven’t given this piece a full listen, you’re missing out on a groundbreaking piece of music history.
“ÉXODO” by Peso Pluma
Recommended by Riley Martinez
I will admit, I listened to a few albums from beginning to end in 2024. This is one of them, and it solidified my admiration for Peso Pluma and his music. “Éxodo” combines regional musical styles and elements — from corridos tumbados to reggaeton — and foregrounds instruments like requintos, trombones and the tololoche, cementing Peso Pluma as a figure redefining the corrido sound while also delivering potent messages on drug cartels, power and luxury. The lyricism of this album is worth its own blurb. But, if nothing else, this music will move you, if not emotionally, then physically, too.
“Eternal Sunshine” By Ariana Grande
Recommended by Naara Conlon
From the first chords to the last, “Eternal Sunshine” is the perfect package. Miss Ponytail has once again devoured with beautiful songs that have managed to both bring tears to my eyes and given space for me to throw it back. In this album, Ariana Grande describes the end of a relationship and the sweet, sappy beginnings of a new one. She weaves sunshine-like undertones throughout her songs, making “Eternal Sunshine” effortlessly flow from one track to the next. “Eternal Sunshine” is and always will be an award-winning hit in my household.
“Don’t Forget Me” by Maggie Rogers
Recommended by Maggie Dapp, Sports Editor
Though I consider my music taste to be varied, Maggie Rogers is my musical touchstone — her bright but natural sound is one that fits my every mood. This album is (thankfully) more of the classic Maggie Rogers sound I love, but in this one, Rogers’ folk-indie-pop music is fused with rock, 70’s references and a Kacey Musgraves-esque country twang. I consider this album to be “Heard It In A Past Life’s” big sister— one that’s wiser, quite jaded and holds a master's in religion. “So Sick of Dreaming” is hazy but biting, and the title track is retrospective and filled with longing. From Amsterdam to London to Portland, “Don’t Forget Me” kept me company in 2024 — I hope it does the same for you in 2025.
“The Secret of US (Deluxe)” by Gracie Abrams
Recommended by Kalena O’Connell, Reporter
Gracie Abram's second studio album, “The Secret of Us,” details the painful beauty of girlhood. If you need to feel that euphoria and panic of having a crush or beginning a new relationship, listen to “Let It Happen” and “Packing it Up.” Sing along to the anthem made in honor of all our best friends: “Tough Love.” For that heartbreak you can’t seem to shake, you need to scream “I Love You, I’m Sorry” and “That’s So True.” I am a firm believer that sad music makes great sing-along music, which somehow turns it into happy music. And you’re in luck, because the only thing that beats singing along to a Gracie Abrams chorus is a Gracie Abrams bridge.
“Kansas Anymore” by ROLE MODEL
Recommended by Samantha Zavala, Reporter
ROLE MODEL’s latest album, “Kansas Anymore,” explores heartbreak and homesickness. Starting from the first track, “Writing’s On The Wall,” the album details the failure of his long-term relationship. However, instead of chronicling the shortcomings of his ex, as many breakup albums do, ROLE MODEL praises their time spent together in true love letter fashion. The mix of indie-pop beats and folk-eque melodies creates a melancholic soundtrack for any occasion. With a deluxe version soon to come, “Kansas Anymore” is an album worth the listen.
“Short n’ Sweet” by Sabrina Carpenter
Recommended by Julianna Pedone
I’ll keep this short n’ sweet. Have you ever tried this one? And, by “this one,” I mean this album, “Short n’ Sweet,” of course. Well, if you haven’t, please, please please do. I’ve been a fan of Sabrina Carpenter since her “Girl Meets World” days when she lit up our TVs with quick wit and effortless charm. Years later, she’s doing the same in her latest album, which just earned two Grammys for its razor-sharp storytelling — capturing everything from dating someone who can’t spell to other modern romance ills. There’s something for everyone on this album, so hit play and let it run on repeat.
“CHROMAKOPIA” By Tyler, The Creator
Recommended by Natalie Gordon, Multimedia Editor
I’ll be honest, this is the first Tyler, The Creator album I’ve listened to and boy, has it turned me into a believer. The transitions between songs allow each track to stand on its own, which makes this album shine. The album's vibe is upbeat and exciting, with features including Doechii and Sexyy Red, as well as an incredible production. One of my favorite tracks is slower than the rest of the album: “Like Him” immediately sets an emotional tone with its somber instrumentals and meaningful lyrics. “Mama I’m chasing a ghost, I don't know who he is” is one line that hits particularly hard, dealing with themes of identity and losing those we love. I cannot recommend this album enough.
“Persona” by half alive
Recommended by Q Acosta, Photographer
After a two-year hiatus of not listening to half alive, I found myself drawn to them again. With fluffy personas to promote their album, Cher and Sonny became magnetic characters pulling the theme of this album together. From reminiscing about childhood in “Sophie’s House” to making sure we appreciate those who support us in “Thank You,” this album captures the essence of what makes a person who they are. However, this album doesn’t just come with great indie-pop tunes, it also comes with energetic choreography and mesmerizing music videos that truly embody what it means to be alive.
“Brat” by Charli XCX
Recommended by Kimberly Cortez
It’s hard to look back at 2024 and not think of the inescapable, abrasive and provocative cultural zeitgeist that is Charli XCX’s “Brat.” This cultural phenomenon and artistic achievement is so widespread that it even shaped U.S. politics for a brief moment. It’s the album I keep returning to, even now, months after its initial release. As someone who maybe partied a little too hard after turning 21, this album spoke to the version of me dancing like there’s no tomorrow and the other part of me waking up the next day hungover and filled with existential dread. But, it’s not only partying that’s explored on the album. Female friendships, societal expectations and the meaning of success are some of the many themes “Brat” explores.
“Memoir of a Sparklemuffin” by Suki Waterhouse
Recommended by Kaylee Monahan, Reporter
You might recognize her as Karen from “Daisy Jones and the Six” or as Robert Pattinson’s long-term partner, but this model, actress, whatever reveals the layers beneath these labels in her indie masterpiece, “Memoir of a Sparklemuffin.” Following the success of her debut album, “I Can’t Let Go,” and viral hit “Good Looking,” Waterhouse’s 2024 release transcends her usual musical palette into an atmosphere of dreamy soundscapes, ethereal pop and folk Americana. Inspired by her haunting reflections and wistful emotions, this album delicately stitches together “what is now” and “what might have been” — perfect for late-night dances or cries, both of which I did at her downtown Portland concert last fall. “Memoir of a Sparklemuffin” is a dream you won’t want to wake up from.
“GNX” by Kendrick Lamar
Recommended by Evan Guerra, Photographer
“GNX” was released last November with no warning, and the shocks were felt quickly after. Kendrick Lamar had a lot of competition in 2024 — and coming towards the end of the year meant the bar would be even higher. Lamar not only surpassed the bar, but he raised it further. From the lyrical genius and storytelling in “reincarnated” to the more laid-back track “luther,” “GNX” is an almost-perfect album in my eyes. I feel confident placing “GNX” up there with some of Lamar’s best records like “good kid m.A.A.d city” and “To Pimp A Butterfly.” This is a must-listen album of 2024, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see it nominated for Album of the Year in 2025.
“Why Lawd?” by NxWorries
Recommended by Kaeden Souki, reporter
The genre-bending duo of Anderson .Paak and Knxwledge follow up on the long-awaited sequel to 2016’s “Yes Lawd!” The album offers the same lush, esoteric production from Knxwledge and smooth, soulful vocals from .Paak — but with a more somber tone following .Paak’s divorce from his wife of 13 years. There are few things I love on this planet more than .Paak’s pimpish, arrogant attitude in his music, but to hear him more vulnerable than ever was a refreshing change. Like its predecessor, “Why Lawd?” builds upon the legacy of other releases from the Stones Throw label such as “Madvillainy,” and consists of a long tracklist of songs that capture tastes that leave you hungry for more.
Standout tracks: “Battlefield,” “Distractions,” “86Sentra,” “FromHere,” “NVR.RMX” and “WalkOnBy.”
“Do Not Disturb (Deluxe)” by Nemzzz
Recommended by Aidan Hyde, Sports Reporter
This debut UK Drill album by Nemzzz contains a soulful drill as well as a trap music sound. Nemzzz encapsulates his journey’s struggles to the top of Manchester’s rap scene with unfiltered lyrics, and he tells his story through a mix of energetic and mellow songs. He incorporates unique vocal samples and creates a captivating story that many can connect with. Whether you're getting hyped up for a game, or simply want to lean into your introverted side, this album has a vibe for you.
“Stick Season (Forever)” By Noah Kahan
Recommended by Lexi Buckner, Photographer
"I'll dream each night of some version of you that I might not have met": Noah Kahan’s “Stick Season (Forever)” is a love letter to the past and a breakup with the present, wrapped in folk-infused melodies. With lyrics that cut deep and storytelling that lingers, the album captures the messy beauty of growing up, leaving home and wondering if the person you once were is someone you’ll meet again. It’s not just music — it’s a soundtrack for every version of you that almost was. In my opinion, this is one of the best albums for college students to cry to when homesick. I also got to see Noah Kahan last summer in Wheatland, CA, and the concert was amazing. Hearing him tell the album’s backstory really made the experience 100 times better. 10 out of 10 would see him live again.
“Muse” By Jimin
Recommended by Kripa Manoj, Reporter
When people hear the term “K-Pop,” many imagine cutesy skirts and teenage pop. After taking a break from listening to the same three indie songs on my playlist and getting back into K-Pop, “Muse” is a refreshing re-introduction to the genre. During BTS’s military hiatus, each of the members have been releasing their own singles and albums, each with unique aesthetics and genre fusions. With an intro track, “Rebirth,” and a title track following a mix of funk and R&B, “Muse” defies the boundaries of the K-Pop sound.
This list was compiled by The Beacon staff. We can be reached at beaconeditor@upbeacon.com.
