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 Alessia Cara, Conan Gray, LANY, and Nina Nesbitt.

Join us inside…

Alessia Cara – Shapeshifter & Sweet Dream

Alessia Cara is back with a 1-2 punch of singles that are set to suffice any musical palate. The first is ‘Shapeshifter,’ a jazzy, Amy Winehouse-infused song complete with delicate plucks of harp and lush harmonies. The second is ‘Sweet Dream,’ a confessional pop tune that serves as a natural progression of her unique sound established on her albums ‘Growing Pains’ and ‘Know-It-All.’ The melody is as infectious as anything she has released prior and shows a more carefree side to the singer. Together, both songs prove that Cara’s upcoming era may be her best yet.

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Conan Gray – People Watching

Establishing himself as one of this generation’s most emotional songwriters, Conan Gray once again delivers a bittersweet gem with his latest single ‘People Watching.’ Balancing his yearning for love, while still aware of his loneliness, the song is moved by soft guitars, aching synths, and a heart pounding piano. More than just a highlight in his already impressive career, ‘People Watching’ is a grand return to his roots, while showcasing his growth as an artist. A true highlight from one of this generation’s most talented artists.

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LANY – Up To Me

Fresh off the release of their Kelsea Ballerini duet ‘I Quit Drinking,’ LANY is back with its strongest song to date. ‘Up To Me’ is a pulsating synth gem, complete with distorted pianos, and heavenly vocal layering. Lyrically, the track focuses on the singer’s previous relationship and how they long to be back with that person. Equal parts heartbreaking and euphoric, ‘Up To Me’ is the perfect song to dance or cry to. Simply put, it is a well crafted pop tune that perfectly encapsulates their strengths, strengths that are truly otherworldly.

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Nina Nesbitt – Summer Fling

In December 2019, while accepting her Billboard Woman Of The Decade Award, Taylor Swift noted that rising singer-songwriter Nina Nesbitt was someone she recognized with “fire” and talent. One listen to Nesbitt’s latest single ‘Summer Fling’ and it is easy to see why she caught Swift’s attention. Written and solely produced by Nesbitt, ‘Summer Fling’ is a glittery, sun-soaked jam lined with 80’s synths that provide the backdrop for the escapism summer provides. With ‘Summer Fling’ Nesbitt has created something timeless, something few artists in their lives dare to even dream, something only she can do. It is a  true masterpiece from beginning to end.

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Do you agree with our picks?

Your thoughts?