Readers of That Grape Juice know how passionate we are about music – whether that be past or present.
However, unlike our other segments – Retro Rewind, TGJ Replay, and From The Vault – The Pop Stop is the most in-depth look at Pop songs that may have flown under the radar over the last week that you should know, rather they be from music’s biggest stars or those on the rise.
This week, we want to highlight cuts from Justin Bieber, ROSÉ, Mat Kearney, and Griff.
Join us inside…
Justin Bieber – Lifetime
After dividing critics and fans alike over his last album, ‘Changes,’ Justin Bieber came back with arguably the best album of his career in ‘Justice.’ His poppiest effort as of now, there are many hidden gems scattered across the project, but none shine brighter than ‘Lifetime.’ Led by a gentle waltz-inspired guitar, soft strings, and soft piano sounds, this track sees the pop star go from former bad boy to dutiful husband. Destined for weddings in the future, ‘Lifetime’ is Bieber at his most mature and romantic, and we are all the better for it.
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ROSÉ – On The Ground
Over the past few years, K-Pop has become a global phenomenon. One of the groups leading this charge is Blackpink. Now, Blackpink member ROSÉ is looking to spread the influence even further with her debut single ‘On The Ground.’ This electro-pop song’s synth-based production is complimented by a simple guitar. The moments of vulnerability are mirrored by the strength found in discovering self-love. A true standout from one of pop’s biggest stars, ‘On The Ground’ shows that with Blackpink or not, ROSÉ is destined to conquer the world.
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Mat Kearney – Grand Canyon
Having songs that appeared on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ and ‘NCIS,’ singer-songwriter Mat Kearney has made major moves in the pop world thanks to his laid-back sound and emotive lyrics. However, he strays from his usual acoustic sound to a more R&B-influenced pop sound on his upcoming ‘January Flower’ album. Case-in-point, ‘Grand Canyon.’ Built around a clap-based sound, gentle guitars, and pulsating synths, Kearney allows his smooth, seductive vocals do the talking. Short, but sweet, ‘Grand Canyon’ is destined to fill those late-night playlists for you and that special someone. While the actual Grand Canyon has distance between it, this song will bring you and them closer than ever.
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Griff – Black Hole
Since releasing her debut single ‘Mirror Talk’ in 2019, British singer Griff has made waves in the pop world. However, her latest song, ‘Black Hole,’ is about to send a tsunami through the music world. Few have made heartbreak sound this gloriously melodramatic as Griff does in this dark-pop song. Brooding lyrics are perfectly paired with a synth-pop beat to create the confusion and tension that comes with the complications a breakup causes. Pop perfection from start to finish, ‘Black Hole’ is a powerful statement from one of music’s brightest stars.
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Do you agree with our picks?