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 Luke Hemmings, Yola, Maisie Peters, and Gretta Ray.

Join us inside…

Luke Hemmings – Starting Line

The 5 Seconds of Summer frontman has now launched his career at the starting line. Serving as his debut solo single, ‘Starting Line’ is a shimmering power-pop ballad complete with rollicking drums, beautiful strings, and an emotional guitar solo. Sonically similar to Harry Styles‘ ‘Sign of the Times,’ Hemmings reflects on past memories and is forced to confront what he has control over in this life. If ‘Starting Line’ is any indication as to what is to come, then the world may have very well found its next big superstar.

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Yola – Starlight

Serving as the next single from her upcoming ‘Stand For Myself’ album, Yola once again delivers another masterful fusion of Country and Soul with ‘Starlight.’ However, unlike her previous works, ‘Starlight’ provides a greater depth to it and scope of emotions that has not been seen in her work before. Her husky vocals are paired with an acoustic guitar, gentle strings, and an expressive bassline. All together, they prove just how bright Yola’s star shines, one that surely won’t fade anytime soon and we are all better because of it.

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Maisie Peters – Psycho

A Pop star scorned is a classic trope of the genre; however, few can do it as well as Maisie Peters. She has no qualms with enacting her sweet revenge on her Patrick Bateman-esque boyfriend. A sugary sweet production – complete with a glittering guitar line, bouncing synths, and handclaps – cannot hide the biting lyrics. Make no mistake, this is not another cliche, rather it is a rising Pop star at her peak performance exuding her absolute boss girl energy.

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Gretta Ray – Human

Melbourne singer-songwriter Gretta Ray is back in a big way. As she gears up to release her debut album ‘Begin To Look Around’ in August, she has released ‘Human.’ A sensual Pop gem, this track showcases resounding drums, light keys, and gleaming synths that provide a bold sophistication she clearly has a mastery of. A masterclass in Pop excellence, ‘Human’ is as close to perfection as one can get.

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Do you agree with our picks?

Your thoughts?