The Must-Hear Albums of 2023: Dolly Parton, Olivia Rodrigo, Travis Scott, and More!

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While 2023 has seen a surge in major concert tours with the likes of Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Drake, and others taking to the stage after a pause due to COVID, there have also been remarkable music releases in the past year. Olivia Rodrigo defied the sophomore slump with "Guts," an album that showcased maturity without sacrificing the rawness of her debut. Indie-rock supergroup Boygenius, comprised of Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus, and Julien Baker, finally treated fans to a full-length LP filled with lyrics worthy of being inked. Victoria Monét, best known for co-writing some of Ariana Grande’s biggest hits, took center stage with her debut album, stepping into the spotlight herself.

These artists are just a few of many, both new and long-time favorites, whose music we couldn't get enough of this year. The list below, presented in alphabetical order, includes only full-length albums. This means no re-releases (apologies to T. Swift) and no EPs (sorry, Kelsea Ballerini, whose post-divorce banger Rolling Up the Welcome Mat was an instant classic). We hope you discover some new music to add to your playlist. And if you don't agree with our choices, just remember - as the multihyphenate drag duo The Boulet Brothers would say - music is art, and art is subjective.

Boygenius, The Record

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Boygenius captivated fans with their 2018 EP and finally released their first full-length album, The Record, to much anticipation. The LP features a blend of contemplative folk ballads and powerful rock anthems that sounded amazing in the arenas the band played to sold-out crowds all year. The first two tracks, "Without You Without Them" and "Satanist," showcase the band's versatility, transitioning from breathtaking a cappella harmonies to high-energy guitar-driven intensity. Each member's vocal talents are highlighted throughout the album, but their standout moments come when they join forces in songs like "Not Strong Enough" and the rollicking invitation of "Satanist" to embrace satanism, nihilism, and anarchy.

Boys Like Girls, Sundays at Foxwoods

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Boys Like Girls are still embracing their emo roots, as evidenced in their latest album "Sundays at Foxwoods." The album, their first in 11 years, takes listeners back to the MySpace era with nostalgic tracks like "The Outside," while also incorporating a newer, synth-infused sound in songs like "Blood and Sugar." True to form, the album includes a meaningful ballad with "Cry," nestled between energetic tracks. The band's lyrics resonate with listeners who have grown alongside the band over the years. With the current resurgence of pop-punk in the music industry, Boys Like Girls have seamlessly reintegrated themselves into the mix.

Chappell Roan, Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess

Our initial encounter with Roan was a bit perplexing, as a passenger on a party bus to Medieval Times requested “Pink Pony Club.” The song began with Roan’s wistful vocals accompanied only by piano, marking a departure from typical party-bus music. However, it quickly evolved into a synth-laced track about dancing at a West Hollywood strip club, making it evident that Roan’s music is indeed suited for a party bus atmosphere. Her debut album, Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, is filled with catchy, colorful tunes like “Red Wine Supernova” and “Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl” that are perfect for setting the tone for wild nights out. At the same time, Roan isn't afraid to showcase her vulnerability on slower tracks. For instance, the piano-based ballad “Coffee” delves into the challenges of meeting up with an ex after a breakup, while “Picture You” is an emotive love song exploring the fear of expressing deep feelings. — E.T.

Standout Track: “Pink Pony Club,” an unbelievably catchy ode to dancing all night under the disco ball

Chris Stapleton, Higher

Stapleton's entry into the country music scene with his debut album Traveller in 2015 brought a refreshing infusion of soul. The album Higher serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity of this soulful element in the genre. Stapleton's rugged vocals are perfectly complemented by his wife and longtime collaborator, Morgane, adding a sweet contrast to his signature sound. Known for his guitar prowess, Stapleton delivers powerful and bluesy tracks like "South Dakota," while also showcasing his softer side in songs like "It Takes a Woman." His versatility is evident in the title track "Higher," where he artfully balances simple yet evocative lyrics with his complex vocal delivery. Stapleton's unwavering commitment to his distinctive style continues to set him apart in the music industry. — Meredith Nardino

Standout Track: “White Horse,” which comes complete with a smoldering guitar solo and brazen cowboy charm

Adam Hagy/Getty Images for ABA

British singer Gold combines her nurturing voice, comforting lyrics, and nostalgic beats to create a distinctive soul-gospel hybrid. Her fourth studio album, Gold, released just two weeks after her third, Heaven, showcases her gentle yet affirming delivery. The album delivers reminders that life is too short for fighting (“There Will Be No Crying”) and that we all deserve love (“Only Love Can Wait”). Gold's uplifting track “Reason” is a tribute to spirituality, while “Desire” speaks to intimacy. With a lullaby vibe, the nine-track Heaven album contrasts with the energizing Gold, which is sure to lift your spirits. Noteworthy track: “Life Will Be,” an upbeat anthem that inspires listeners to believe in themselves and break free from their worries.

Cleo Sol, Gold

Dolly Parton, pictured above, made the decision to record her 49th studio album, Rockstar, after what she perceived to be an undeserved nomination to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last year. Some may have expected the album to be a gimmicky disaster, but Parton's enduring iconic status and versatility shine through, establishing her rock credibility with a combination of original songs and classic covers. The 30-song album features collaborations with rock icons such as Stevie Nicks, Paul McCartney, and Joan Jett, along with a stunning duet with her goddaughter Miley Cyrus on "Wrecking Ball." While some fans may have hoped for more new tracks, it's a joy to hear the beautifully aged voice of Parton blending seamlessly with other acclaimed musicians. If there's still any doubt about Parton's place in the Hall of Fame, Rockstar puts it to rest.

Standout Track: “Purple Rain,” a nearly eight-minute version of the Prince classic that highlights the smoky qualities in Parton’s voice

Dolly Parton, Rockstar

Fatboi Sharif George Douglas Peterson

While 2023 was a significant milestone for hip-hop as it celebrated its 50th anniversary, the year has been lackluster for the genre, with rap songs sparsely appearing at the top of the Billboard 200 and Hot 100. However, if mainstream hip-hop seems to have lost its momentum, the future of the genre may lie in the underground scene with innovative artists like Sharif. The New Jersey native has continued to build on the success of his 2020 album Gandhi Loves Children with Decay, which features atmospheric instrumentals (produced by Steel Tipped Dove) that complement the haunting imagery of Sharif’s evocative lyrics. Sharif’s unique style blends abstract phrases and pop-culture references to create a trippy and immersive experience like no other.

Highlighted Song: “Brandon Lee,” an apocalyptic lament that transports listeners to a desolate world in search of a glimmer of hope.

Fatboi Sharif, Decay

Hozier's third album, Unreal Unearth, is inspired by Dante's Inferno and takes listeners on a journey through the circles of hell, from the descent into darkness with "De Selby (Part 1)" and "De Selby (Part 2)," to the breakthrough of "First Light." In a new challenge, Hozier wrote and sang in Gaelic for the first time, while continuing to blend poetry and politics in "Butchered Tongue," and delving into his own heartbreak in "All Things End." The album is eclectic yet focused, demonstrating that a gut-wrenching ballad about roadkill like "Abstract (Psychopomp)" can coexist with a lofty tale of young love like "Damage Gets Done."

Standout Track: “Unknown/Nth,” a hypnotic ballad about betrayal with a bridge that will make your heart stop

Hozier, Unreal Unearth

Iggy Pop Per Ole Hagen/Redferns

2023 was a banner year for the old school, with a critically acclaimed album by The Rolling Stones, the last-ever Beatles track, and tribute to rock elders. One such tribute was Pop's Every Loser, backed by stars like Travis Barker, Chad Smith, and Duff McKagan. The album shows the punk forefather's ferocity and refusal to fade, with "Neo Punk" standing out as a tongue-in-cheek tune that offers a final ruling on the "what is punk?" debate.

Iggy Pop, Every Loser

The Jonas Brothers had a major year, experiencing personal (such as Joe’s separation from wife Sophie Turner) and professional growth. With the release of "The Album," Nick, Kevin, and Joe created songs suitable for a stadium tour they embarked on mid-year. While the music has a more mature theme with references to fatherhood, classic JoBros tracks like “Wings” and “Waffle House” can still be found. The album channels warm-weather vibes with songs such as “Vacation Eyes,” “Summer Baby,” and “Summer in the Hamptons,” making it a record for all seasons.

Standout Track: “Little Bird,” a dad ballad guaranteed to tug at the heartstrings

The Jonas Brothers, The Album

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Full of heart and hope, Proof of Life is a crash course in positive affirmations. Oladokun, a queer songwriter of color who proudly uses their music as a platform, breaks free from genre constraints, offering a groundbreaking blend of folk, R&B, and pop. From the opening track, "Keeping the Light On," to the closing track, "Somehow," Oladokun paints a vivid and deeply personal picture. Despite being an up-and-coming artist, Oladokun stands tall on duets with heavyweights like Chris Stapleton and Manchester Orchestra ("Sweet Symphony," "You at the Table") and stands out among contemporaries Mt. Joy and Noah Kahan ("Friends," "We're All Gonna Die"). Oladokun's message is one that we can all benefit from: Change may be daunting, but confronting it head-on can lead to remarkable growth. — M.N.

Standout Track: “Somebody Like Me,” a deceptively upbeat plea for love and support

Joy Oladokun, Proof of Life

Kali Uchis Scott Dudelson/Getty Images for Coachella

Uchis describes her third studio album as an "erotic, sensual, and glittery" record inspired by her zodiac sign. The album, Red Moon in Venus, combines Uchis' groovy R&B influences with her Colombian roots, delivering silky ballads like "I Wish You Roses" and emotional tracks like "All Mine." The project, which also features a song with Uchis' boyfriend, rapper Don Toliver, is packed with cosmic themes and Spanish-only lyrics, showcasing her hypnotic vocals in any language. A standout track is "Fantasy," a sultry mid-tempo jam that feels like a romantic daydream.

Kali Uchis, Red Moon in Venus

Lana Del Rey Joseph Okpako/WireImage

Regardless of her Waffle House antics, Del Rey proves once again that she is one of America’s top songwriters with her ninth album, Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd. The song of the same name showcases her exceptional talent, with a charming Harry Nilsson reference and a metaphor that is uniquely her own. Despite her reputation for melancholy, “The Grants” exudes a sense of optimism, as Del Rey sings about cherishing cherished memories throughout the years. Did You Know also features standout collaborations with Father John Misty, Jon Batiste, and Jack Antonoff, who teams up with Bleachers on “Margaret.”

Standout Track: “Sweet,” an understated love song that includes a lyrical nod to “The Greatest” from Del Rey’s excellent 2019 album, Norman F–king Rockwell

Lana Del Rey, Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd.

Lil Yachty Erika Goldring/FilmMagic

Lil Yachty, known as one of the key figures in the emerging SoundCloud/mumble rap genre, surprised everyone with his unexpected album, Let’s Start Here. Departing from his usual minimalist trap beats, the album takes listeners on a journey into cosmic psychedelic soul. Tracks like “The Black Seminole,” “Running Out of Time,” and “The Zone~” showcase Yachty's versatility and expansiveness, defying expectations set by his earlier work such as “Minnesota.” Let’s Start Here. demonstrates that there is more depth to Yachty than meets the eye.

Notable Track: “The Zone~,” which expands like exploding nebulas seen through a telescope.

Lil Yachty, Let’s Start Here.

The band marked their 16th year by releasing a self-titled album which showcased their evolution and success. Featuring a diverse range of tracks from high-energy dance tunes like "Leave in Five" to heartfelt ballads like "Funny How?", The Maine solidified their place in the alternative rock scene. The album's dark and raw lyrics, as seen in "How to Exit a Room", mark a departure from their earlier work, indicating the band's growth since their debut in 2007, including their 2021 release "XOXO: From Love & Anxiety in Real Time".

Standout Track: “How to Exit a Room,” in which singer John O’Callaghan offers an escape route for listeners “desperate for a different point of view”

The Maine, The Maine

Man On Man Courtesy of Shore Fire Media

Sweat is real and undeniable like a heartbeat. Provincetown from Man on Man showcases the musical and life partnership between Roddy Bottom and Joey Homan, delivering a lo-fi punk celebration with pulsing synths, rhythmic drumbeats, unapologetic guitar riffs, and vocals that oscillate between intimate conversations and secretive whispers. The album is saturated with fuzz and romance, enhanced by J Mascis on the closing track "Hush" and the love between Bottom and Homan, capturing a late-night attitude that accompanies a shot, a lit cigarette, and an invitation to a dark corner for some excitement. - J.B.

Outstanding Track: "Haute Couture," the upcoming queer punk anthem

Man on Man, Provincetown

Masego, also known as Micah Davis, has been creating soul-satisfying music for years, and his self-titled sophomore project showcases his talent. With luscious saxophone solos and jubilant vocals, Masego invites listeners into his colorful world. Even songs about heartbreak and despair like “Down in the Dumps” and “Bye Bye My Love” feel exciting and upbeat. Artists like Kehlani and Alex Isley have turned to him to take their tracks to the next level, and his music has gained recognition beyond his 2017 track “Navajo” sampled in Drake’s “Champagne Poetry.”

Standout Track: “Sax Fifth Avenue,” which speaks to the challenge of doing what you love even when it doesn’t always pay the bills

Masego, Masego 

Mitski's seventh album, The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We, showcases her shift towards American folk and country themes, with songs like "My Love Mine All Mine" featuring pedal steel and "Bug Like an Angel" incorporating a 17-piece choir. The emotional catharsis in her music reaches new heights with tracks like "I Don't Like My Mind," and the standout track "The Deal" delves into the narrator's symbolic exchange of their soul with a bird perched on a streetlight.

Mitski, The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We

Michael Kovac/Getty Images for iHeartRadio

The Show uncovers the former One Direction member's newfound love and successful solo career, despite the overshadowing of his sophomore album by the COVID pandemic. While songs like “Heaven” reflect a specific inspiration, tracks like “Meltdown” have become anthems for heartbroken fans in need of a pick-me-up. Drawing from his own experiences, Horan wrote about leaving his 20s behind and the challenges of adulthood in the album’s title track. - S.S.

Best Track: “Meltdown,” offering fans an uplifting reminder that Horan's music is there for them during difficult times.

Niall Horan, The Show

Mat Hayward/Getty Images for iHeartMedia

In 2021, Sour propelled Rodrigo, a former Disney Channel sensation, to certified critical acclaim. With her sophomore effort, Guts, Rodrigo effortlessly avoided potential fan disappointment. Moving beyond the heartache of her early years, Rodrigo's sound has matured alongside her. While she doesn't veer too far from her original style — "Vampire" is just as powerful as "Drivers License" — she makes enough changes to solidify her place in the industry. Edgy anthems "All-American Bitch" and "Get Him Back!" brim with youthful female rage, while ballads "Making the Bed" and "The Grudge" introspectively explore her insecurities. Witty, honest, and ambitious, Guts cements Rodrigo as one of the defining artists of her generation. — M.N.

Standout Track: "Pretty Isn't Pretty," a vulnerable admission of feeling powerless against society's beauty standards.

Olivia Rodrigo, Guts

Rapp's versatile talent as an actress in both theater (Mean Girls: The Musical) and film (The Sex Lives of College Girls) is matched by the depth of emotion and personality in her intimate debut album. Though the album delves into heavy themes like breakups and mental health struggles, Rapp's delivery is infused with humor and authenticity. In the song "Talk Too Much," inspired by a dream of killing her girlfriend, she candidly sings about the complexities of relationships. Snow Angel is a raw and honest reflection of Rapp's emotions, leaving no topic untouched. - S.S.

Standout Track: “Tummy Hurts,” an anthem for anyone whose ex has fallen in love with someone new

Reneé Rapp, Snow Angel

Shooter Jennings and the Werewolves of Los Angeles, Do Zevon

Travis Scott made a return to the music scene with the release of his first album in five years, Utopia, after the tragic events at the 2021 Astroworld Music Festival. The album showcases his moody aesthetic and Western flair, along with his artistic growth. It features clever and potentially pointed lyrics, unexpected song transitions, and collaborations with stars like Beyoncé, Drake, Kid Cudi, and Bad Bunny, giving listeners a feeling of partying alongside their favorite A-listers.

Standout Track: “Delresto (Echoes),” which feels like Scott merged his ambient world with Beyoncé’s disco era

Travis Scott, Utopia

Paras Griffin/Getty Images

Monét has long been recognized as the mastermind behind some of Ariana Grande’s chart-topping hits (“Pete Davidson,” “7 Rings,” and “Needy,” to name a few), but this year marked her own spotlight moment. She unveiled her first full-length album, Jaguar II, in August after teasing tracks “Smoke” and “Party Girls,” enchanting listeners with her velvety vocals and infectious beats. While the album scored her a Best New Artist nomination at the 2024 Grammys (in addition to nods for Best Engineered Album and Best R&B Album), Monét is anything but a newcomer. From “On My Mama” to “Alright,” her songs exude confidence and a skillful ability to effortlessly transition from risqué to sweet lyrics. Monét’s debut solidifies her as a promising force in the world of R&B. — R.M.

Standout Track: “On My Mama,” a slinky bop that samples the 2009 hit “I Look Good” by rapper Chalie Boy, who also appears in the music video

Victoria Monét, Jaguar II

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Deal of the Day

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Bryan's latest album, which comes as a highly anticipated follow-up to 2022’s American Heartbreak, was entirely self-produced and announced just weeks before its August release. Bryan modestly cautioned fans not to expect a “chart-topper," but the record defied expectations and debuted at No. 1. Despite the self-titled album, Bryan showcases the talents of others, collaborating with Kacey Musgraves, The Lumineers, and more, reflecting his authentic brand of heartland heartbreak. In the track “Hey Driver” with The War and Treaty, Bryan takes a supportive backseat to his fellow artist, sincerely telling Michael Trotter Jr., “This is your song.” With a mix of weighty and uplifting tracks, the 16-song collection confirms that Bryan’s viral success with “Something in the Orange” was no fluke. — M.N.

Standout Track: “East Side of Sorrow,” a bittersweet reminder to “let it be, then let it go” even after life-changing loss