Building Anticipation for New Music in 2023

2022 was an outstanding year for music. Numerous superstars are making grand returns, such as Kendrick Lamar (Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers), SZA (SOS), The Weekend (Dawn FM), and Beyoncé (Renaissance), just to name a few. Music has a way of transforming and carrying energy throughout the year for many people. Thus a question is raised: how will 2023 compare to a star-studded 2022 in terms of upcoming releases?

So far, based on official announcements, rumors, and speculation, 2023’s music forecast is looking just as lively as its predecessors. Currently, we have confirmed releases from major industry names such as Lana Del Rey, Gorillaz, and Sam Smith. However, that lineup only scratches the surface, as rumors, speculation, and teasers lead many to believe that Childish Gambino, Lil Uzi Vert, Playboi Carti, Selena Gomez, Travis Scott, Ed Sheeran, and several more are preparing to release new albums throughout the year. With the pretense building for another solid year of musical releases, we turn to the Wheeler Community to see what artists they’re looking forward to.

Senior Adrian Aswani says, “I think the one I am most personally excited about is the potential Tyler, The Creator album. He is known to drop an album every odd year, and this is one of those odd years.”Aswani goes on to mention how Tyler, The Creator is truly one of his favorite artists of all time, a list joined by Michael Jackson and Bruno Mars. Adrian also included another drop he is patiently waiting for, commenting, “I am also looking forward to Baby Keem; he’s rumored to drop an album this year. I really love his music, and I really believe he’s going to be a frontrunner of rap in this upcoming era.”

In a mini-survey conducted, students Adrien Angelrune (11), Madeleine Steel (11), Jazmin Rivera (11), Skyler Loignon (10), and Will Tucker (10) are all mutually awaiting a new release from Grammy-winning singer Kali Uchis. The multifaceted singer from Northern Virginia hasn’t released a studio-length album since 2020, though that doesn’t mean she’s been avoiding the studio. Since her last full project Sin Miedo, Kali Uchis has released a few singles and featured on several other projects.

All in all, 2023 is shaping out to be an unprecedented year in terms of comebacks from major names. Naturally, when they eventually release, the wonderful team at the Wheeler Catalyst will be prepared to deliver full-fledged reviews with student opinions on them. Until then, let’s look forward to an exuberating year of new releases from across the globe.