On The Record: The Music Superlatives of 2026, So Far, From Number_i to Charli xcx

At the end of each month, we go On the Record to share the newest songs on our playlist. Bringing the international music scene straight to your device, each list contains a combination of established and up-and-coming artists from around the world.

Whether you can believe it or not, the first quarter of 2026 has come and gone. The first months of the year were packed with catchy releases, from bold bangers by international supergroups to rising soloists’ introspective tracks.

To welcome April, No Manners reviews 2026 Q1 with a finely curated list of superlatives—“most” and “best” titles—that best fit some of the year’s most notable releases to date.

Superior String Arrangement

“Click Clack Symphony” by Raye featuring Hans Zimmer

Whether she’s belting her heartbreak or looking for a husband, Raye has developed a sense for engaging, moving performance. In “Click Clack Symphony,” Raye works with Hans Zimmer to create an orchestral masterpiece with tangible depth. The song includes spoken-word segments that introduce an added layer of vulnerability alongside Raye’s soaring vocal performance and bare-all lyricism.

Best Soundtrack Album

Wuthering Heights by Charli xcx

Though Emily Brontë’s 1847 novel Wuthering Heights might not inspire thoughts of electronic dance-pop, Charli xcx created a 12-track album that merges the worlds of classical romance and modern music for Emerald Fennell’s controversial film adaptation. Adopting tones from the novel, Charli xcx delves into melancholic Gothic romance over a combination of her signature instrumental and classical strings.

Most On Repeat

“DRACULA” by Tame Impala and JENNIE

Nearly half a year after the initial release of “DRACULA,” Tame Impala tapped South Korean singer JENNIE for a tantalizing remix. Hypnotic in all the right ways, the gloomy disco-pop track draws lyrical inspiration from the fabled Dracula. Jennie’s enchanting vocals complement frontman Kevin Parker’s timbre as the two exchange stanzas, breathing new life into a song that has rightfully become a social media favorite.

Most Unexpected Rap Duo

“DON’T DIE” by Odetari featuring SOYEON

In a multicultural collision, Palestinian American rapper Odetari brought South Korean artist SOYEON onto his latest fast-tempo EDM release “DON’T DIE.” While Odetari is known for his high-energy music, this collaboration is new territory for SOYEON, who rides the beat effortlessly. SOYEON’s recognizable twang complements Odetari’s lower register as the two trade verses on this electric instrumental.

The Audience Pick

“3XL” by Number_i

Number_i’s first musical release of 2026 set an energetic tone for the Japanese trio’s year. Titled “3XL,” the track is a journey through synth-packed electro-pop, suitable for a group reaching new heights—the group recently signed with WME, hinting at forthcoming overseas promotions. It isn’t any wonder that among all the songs featured on “On The Record” so far, Number_i’s whimsy-filled single has been the most-upvoted song by our audience.

Best K-pop to Watch

“Catch Catch” by YENA

Since her debut as a soloist, YENA has maintained a consistently distinguishable sound. With a combination of vocaloid effects, colorful visuals and energetic instrumentals, YENA has created a signature reminiscent of second-generation K-pop artists. “Catch Catch” off her latest mini album is a refreshing hit of nostalgia for long-time K-pop fans who may have missed the electronic hits from the early to mid aughts.

Best Film Theme Song:

“BANG!!” by Snow Man

Nine-member group Snow Man closed the year’s first quarter with a, pun intended, bang. The Japanese ensemble was tapped for SAKAMOTO DAYS’ theme song “BANG!!” The upcoming film, based on the anime series of the same name, features Snow Man member Ren Meguro as protagonist Taro Sakamoto. This jazzy city pop is packed with unrelenting energy and an allegro tempo, seeing the group effortlessly rap and belt over sweeping brass instruments.

Proof of Versatility

“Emoji” by SB19 and JOLIN

Filipino group SB19 has garnered a reputation for its ability to adapt to various instrumentals, often hopping between genres across consecutive releases. “Emoji” is no exception. Featuring Taiwanese vocalist JOLIN and set to a groovy instrumental, the Brazilian phonk-infused track explores the complexities of masking off emotions in SB19’s signature style—that is, merging dynamic vocals, strong rap performance and polished choreography.

Best Funk For The Girls

“BOTA” by Ludmilla, Emilia and Latto

Legendary Brazilian singer Ludmilla tapped Argentine star Emilia and US rapper Latto for an international funk crossover. “BOTA” is laden with the self-confident and assured spirit each artist has become synonymous with. This three-woman collaboration is set to a classic Brazilian funk rhythm, playing to Ludmilla’s strengths and giving Emilia and Latto room to showcase their sonic flexibility.

Most Fashionable Performance

“KAWASAKI” by Santos Bravos

A few months after the group’s debut, Santos Bravos made a special appearance at Paris Fashion Week. The quintet, consisting of Drew, Alejandro, Gabi, Kauê, and Kenneth, performed on the runway of the Willy Chavarria Fall/Winter 2024 show. Their appearance honored their roots in a show dedicated and inspired by the Latin American community. “KAWASAKI,” teased and released shortly thereafter, is an electronic Latin pop hit, with a fast-paced rhythm, multilingual lyrics and, as you might imagine, the fashion to match. The music video was creative directed by Lorenzo Posocco, who fittingly dressed the group in Willy Chavarria pieces for a style-packed performance.

Best Genre Fusion

“PONGO” by Rvssian, Rauw Alejandro and Wizkid

Jamaican producer Rvssian reprised his partnership with Rauw Alejandro and first-time collaborator Wizkid for an innovative fusion of genres. In “PONGO,” Wizkid’s husky tone balances Rauw Alejandro’s sultry vocals to Rvssian’s tastefully merged instrumental. The reggaeton-Afrobeats combination is effortlessly rhythmic, drawing synths and catchy percussion from its sources.

Best Latin Team-Up

“CAMBIARÉ” by Luis Fonsi and Feid

Luis Fonsi leans wholeheartedly into the salsa genre in “CAMBIARÉ,” alongside Colombian superstar Feid, who has officially stepped into a new era in 2026. The accompanying arrangement of salsa’s signature conga drums, bongo drums and brass complements the Puerto Rican singer’s vocals, while Feid deviates from his characteristic rap performances with an unexpected smooth vocal showcase.

Best For A Dose of Hope:

“WORSHIP” by Asake and DJ Snake

DJ Snake joins singer Asake on “WORSHIP,” an Afrobeats and EDM merge, whose instrumental builds up as Asake sings about hope and faith. The Nigerian crooner dominates the verses, while DJ Snake’s production shines in the post-chorus instrumental drops.

Best of Yearning

“Yours” by Win Metawin

Thai darling Win Metawin took the 2026 theme of yearning in stride with “Yours.” This groovy single is a swoon-worthy recollection of falling into a relationship, in which the singer seamlessly shows off his vocal range. The accompanying music video delves deeper into the yearning man trope, showcasing the star’s acting chops as he bares himself—figuratively and literally.

The Most Anticipated

ARIRANG by BTS

There’s no question that BTS’ return to the music scene is one of the year’s most anticipated pop culture events. The supergroup’s absence was deeply felt as group members Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook completed their compulsory military service in South Korea. With ARIRANG, the 7-piece act boldly reclaims their spot at the forefront of global music. The album, whose title track “SWIM” currently leads global charts, is an eclectic puzzle of musical influences, leaning into notes of hip hop, a range of synths and even house elements.