Top 10 Albums of 2019

By: Nicole Juliette Hetlyn

2019 was a strong year for new music. For me, it was all about discovering brand new artists as well as falling in love with artists from my childhood. My top 10 albums for this year is more on the pop end than usual, however, I am not afraid to admit that these albums are so damn good. Here's a list of my top 10 albums for 2019, counting down to the top album:

10. What's Going On? - Scotty Sire // Scotty has always released a mix of fun and personal songs, and this album is no different. There are several songs that let you know that it's okay to not be okay. There are also songs that you can dance to/ laugh to while having a good time. Without a doubt, Scotty is always on my party playlists.

9. Hallucinations (EP) - PVRIS // This EP has dark undertones, with more of a pop sound. It's been a work in process for the past three years, and PVRIS finally released it after signing to Warner. Lynn's mystic voice has always been one of my favorites, and we are beyond ready for their next album.

8. Cuz I Love You - Lizzo // Lizzo dominated all of the charts in 2019, and won the hearts of everyone this year. It is so refreshing to see a woman in the industry radiate so much joy and share her confidence with the world. Lizzo reminded all of us that we should love ourselves and be true to ourselves. She also showed us how much of a badass she is - insane dance performances with flute and all.

7. A Modern Tragedy, Vol. 2 + 3 - grandson // grandson is the type of artist that is breaking boundaries and setting the bar higher and higher for artists everywhere. AMT lets us know that we all have a voice and that we need to use it. Jordan (grandson) uses his voice to show how messed up our political system is and how the world we live in today is such a disaster. At the end of the day, the only way for it to change is if we take action.

6. You Are OK - The Maine // The Maine has always written my favorite lyrics, and this album is no different. This album focusses on the fact that you are ok, and if you are not okay right now, you will be. It's the most genuine humans ever showing that life can be real testing, but everything is alright. Their positivity has always been one my favorite things about them.

5. Thank U, Next - Ariana Grande // Ariana had a rough year, but she took all of the sadness and negativity to write my favorite album she has ever released. She let girls know that it's okay to be single, independent, and not rely on a man. Ariana did all of this while writing the catchiest songs I have ever heard. I spent most of 2019 blasting these songs in my car on full volume and realizing what an icon she is.

4. When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? - Billie Eilish // I am constantly amazed by the amount of talent that Billie has, and how humble she has remained. These songs are filled with such vulnerability and Billie is able to write such incredible songs. There are so many layers to everything that she does; nothing is surface level. I've never felt more connected to an artist and their emotions. She simply doesn't care about conforming to society or trying to fit in; she is happy being herself and presents such raw talent.

3. Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent - Lewis Capaldi // I fell so hard for this album (and Lewis) this year. Lewis writes songs that will make you feel the best and worst emotions, ones that you didn't even know you could feel. His incredible voice and vocal range will give you chills as you cry through, I mean, listen to his brilliant album. His hilarious personality is a big bonus as well.

2. tryhard - the Band Camino // This album exceeded all of my expectations. The riffs are so catchy and the smooth vocals will echo in your head for an eternity. It’s just so good, there’s not much else I can say. I listened based on a tourmate’s recommendation, and I am kicking myself in the ass for being so late to the party. Highly recommend listening to this addicting album.

1. Happiness Begins - Jonas Brothers // The Jonas Brothers took 2019 by storm. Not only did they reunite after a six year hiatus, but they released an incredible album, a documentary (Chasing Hapiness), and went on a sold out tour. The triumphant return of the Jonas Brothers has led to Happiness Begins on repeat, and I couldn't be happier. I dare you to put this album on and not scream the lyrics out while dancing; it's impossible.

A few photos from when I shot grandson + PVRIS, as well as when I worked for the Jonas Brothers.

DID YOUR FAVORITE ALBUMS MAKE THE CUT? WHAT WERE YOUR FAVORITE ALBUMS OF 2019?