There were many new album releases that won over fans and music lovers in 2021. YEM picks the 5 best in no particular order. 

1. Sour by Olivia Rodrigo

Created during last year’s lockdown, Sour has all but catapulted Rodrigo to stardom in little less than a year. With songs like “Good 4 U” and “Deja Vu,” YEM sees this album as an opportunity to look on at Rodrigo’s promising career with great interest.

2. HSMTMTS – S02

A show like this is only as great as its songs, and the soundtrack for High School Musical: The Musical: The Series does not disappoint. Us here at YEM can’t get enough of it, especially with hits like “You Ain’t Seen Nothin.”

3. Red (Taylor’s Version) by Taylor Swift

Taylor’s second re-recording allows her to reexplore several phases of her life with blends of country and pop. It also saw her write and direct a short film for her song “All Too Well,” which stars Sadie Sink and Dylan O’Brian. YEM is truly impressed and moved by this seamless blending and Swift’s storytelling. 

 

4. Montero – Lil Nas X

Lil Nas X’s debut album is a huge crowd-pleaser that manages to stay true to the artist and his message. He’s come a long way since “Old Town Road,” and YEM sees this album as a sign of great things to come.

 

5. Happier Than Ever by Billie Eilish

Self-reflection during the pandemic helped Eilish create this album, which showcases her growth as an artist. YEM found this album inspiring and a fitting encapsulation of how the pandemic has given everyone an opportunity to look at themselves and make a change.

For more on the Best of 2021 Top 5 Lists, click here!