XO by Beyoncé
"XO" was one of my anticipated songs of the year, and it did not disappoint. When Beyoncé was first released, "XO" was the first song I listened to on the album. It was also one of the first songs that I found myself replaying. It's one of her most beautiful songs, and I hope to see it smash.
Yung Rapunxel by Azealia Banks
I remember being on the fence about Azealia when she announced "Yung Rapunxel". I've been a stan since shortly after "212" was released, but grew tired of her attitude and album delays. "Yung Rapunxel" instantly restored my faith in her. The screaming was very unexpected. It's just a weird song that nobody else could have done properly.
Chocolate by The 1975
"Chocolate" was a very unexpected discovery. I was listening to a UK station on my satellite radio one day, and heard this song. It sounded like an old song; possibly late 90s or early 00s, so I didn't pay much attention to it after that day. But I began hearing it over and over again, and the more I paid attention the lyrics, the more I loved the song. It's such a dark song.
Team by Lorde
I never thought that Lorde would have had such an impact on me over the last few months. I didn't get into her until after Pure Heroine was released. "Team" has been one of my favorite songs by her from the moment I first listened to the album. The haunting intro had me hooked from day one.
Ain't Your Right by Sky Ferreira
As I was coming up with this list, I was stuck between several different songs for the #1 spot. I had to pick a song that had some sort of major impact on me/my musical taste this year. I found myself coming back to "Ain't Your Right" over and over. It was my favorites of the new songs when I saw her live in March. It's so different from anything she's ever done. It's kind of grungy, but upbeat at the same time.