Best Music of 2024

As we look forward to the upcoming 2025 Grammy nominations, there's no denying that 2024 has been an extraordinary year for music. With so many talented artists shaping the soundtrack of our lives, it's exciting to see who will take home the coveted awards. Whether it's through genre-defying hits or heartfelt melodies, the music of this year has given us so much to celebrate. Be sure to stay tuned as the nominations are announced, and let's continue to support the incredible artists who make each year in music unforgettable. Thanks for joining us in this musical journey — we can’t wait to see what the future holds for the world of music!

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All of this music is available on Amazon Music! It offers an extensive library of millions of songs, playlists, and podcasts, making it a top choice for music lovers. With both free and premium subscription options, users can enjoy ad-free listening, high-quality audio, and personalized recommendations tailored to their tastes. Integration with Alexa allows for easy voice control, so you can enjoy your favorite tracks hands-free. Plus, with features like offline listening and curated playlists for any mood or occasion, Amazon Music makes it effortless to enjoy your music anytime, anywhere!

Here are Twelve & Co.’s nominations for Album of the Year:

Tara C. - Zach Bryan “Great American Bar Scene”

Zach Bryan’s “Great American Bar Scene” is a heartfelt journey through the highs and lows of everyday life, wrapped in his signature blend of country and folk. His evocative storytelling shines in tracks like "Open Road," where nostalgia and longing resonate deeply. With a perfect balance of raw emotion and polished production, the album feels both intimate and expansive, inviting listeners to share in the rich tapestry of experiences that define us. It’s a testament to Bryan's artistry and a must-listen for fans of authentic, relatable music.

Sarah U. - Sabrina Carpenter “Short n’ Sweet”

Sabrina Carpenter’s “Short N Sweet” is a vibrant showcase of her signature pop sound, blending catchy melodies with relatable lyrics. The album radiates energy and confidence, perfectly encapsulating the joys and trials of young adulthood. Carpenter’s vocal prowess shines as she navigates themes of love, self-discovery, and empowerment. With its infectious hooks and playful production, “Short N Sweet” is an enjoyable listen that highlights her growth as an artist while keeping the vibe fun and fresh.

Jessica W. & Joa M. - Taylor Swift “The Tortured Poets Department”

Taylor Swift's "The Tortured Poets Department" album is a masterful exploration of emotional depth and artistic vulnerability. Each track weaves together haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of the creative process. Swift's storytelling prowess shines as she navigates themes of heartbreak, identity, and resilience, inviting listeners into her world of profound introspection. With its rich production and evocative imagery, this album stands as a testament to her evolution as an artist, making it a captivating journey for both longtime fans and new listeners alike.

Morgan M. - Benson Boone “Fireworks and Rollerblades”

Benson Boone's "Fireworks and Rollerblades" is a captivating debut that showcases his unique blend of pop and rock influences. The album bursts with youthful energy and relatable themes, capturing the thrill of love and the nostalgia of carefree moments. Boone's emotive vocals shine throughout, drawing listeners into his vivid storytelling. With infectious melodies and a fresh sound, this album promises to resonate with anyone who cherishes the exhilaration of life's ups and downs.

Lydia P. - Johnny Blue Skies (Sturgill Simpson) “Passage du Desir”

Johnny Blue Skies' "Passage du Désir," the latest offering from Sturgill Simpson, is a stunning exploration of emotion and sound. The album beautifully intertwines rich melodies with introspective lyrics, creating a sonic tapestry that feels both personal and universal. Simpson's distinctive voice carries a sense of longing and nostalgia, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences of love and desire. With its eclectic influences and thoughtful arrangements, "Passage du Désir" solidifies Simpson's status as a masterful storyteller and a true innovator in contemporary music.

Nickie B. - Chappell Roan “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess”

Chappell Roan's "Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess" is a captivating blend of pop, country, and indie sensibilities, with a raw, theatrical flair that captures the complexities of identity and ambition. The track showcases Roan's striking vocal range, moving from soft vulnerability to powerful, almost anthemic moments. The lyrics, blending wit with deep emotional insight, tell the story of a small-town girl grappling with the pressures of fame and self-discovery. With its sharp storytelling and bold production choices, the song feels both cinematic and deeply personal, offering a glimpse into Roan's unique artistic vision.

Alex D. - Billie Eilish “Hit Me Hard and Soft”

Billie Eilish’s “Hit Me Hard and Soft” is a hauntingly intimate exploration of love, vulnerability, and emotional complexity. The track combines her signature ethereal vocals with minimalistic production, creating a raw, almost confessional atmosphere. Eilish's ability to balance delicate moments with intense emotional weight is on full display, as she navigates the delicate tension between desire and fear. The song’s subtle yet powerful progression draws listeners into its somber yet captivating narrative, solidifying Eilish’s talent for weaving dark, poetic storytelling into her music.

Kate T. - 49 Winchester “Leavin This Holler”

49 Winchester’s Leavin' This Holler is a remarkable album that blends the heartache of traditional country with the raw energy of Americana and Southern rock. Throughout the record, the band’s gritty sound and evocative lyrics paint a vivid picture of small-town life, yearning for escape, and finding redemption. Lead singer Isaac Gibson’s weathered yet soulful voice anchors each track, delivering tales of love, loss, and the pursuit of freedom with authenticity and depth. From the driving rhythms of "Leavin' This Holler" to the quieter, introspective moments, the album showcases 49 Winchester’s ability to craft songs that feel both timeless and deeply personal, establishing them as one of the most compelling voices in modern roots music.

Amanda A. - Jelly Roll “Beautifully Broken”

Jelly Roll’s Beautifully Broken is a powerful, genre-blurring album that combines elements of country, rock, and hip-hop, all wrapped in raw, emotional storytelling. The album explores themes of redemption, personal struggle, and resilience, with Jelly Roll’s gravelly, soul-bearing voice carrying a depth of feeling in every track. Songs like "Son of a Sinner" reflect his journey through pain and self-discovery, while others offer a sense of hope and healing. Beautifully Broken is a testament to Jelly Roll’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply human level, making it an authentic and compelling exploration of life's messiness and beauty.

Elisabeth W. - Ray LaMontagne “Long Way Home”

Ray LaMontagne’s Long Way Home is a beautifully crafted album that finds the singer-songwriter at his most introspective and emotionally raw. With his signature gravelly voice, LaMontagne weaves a tapestry of folk, soul, and rock, delivering songs that range from quiet, contemplative ballads to more spirited, bluesy tracks. The album’s lush instrumentation and poignant lyrics explore themes of self-reflection, love, and the passage of time, creating an intimate listening experience. Long Way Home showcases LaMontagne’s growth as an artist, reaffirming his ability to evoke deep emotion through both his songwriting and voice.

Hilly D. - Kasey Musgraves “Deeper Well”

Kacey Musgraves’ Deeper Well is a bold and captivating evolution of her sound, blending elements of country, folk, and Americana with her signature wit and vulnerability. The album's introspective lyrics explore themes of self-discovery, love, and the complexities of life, all delivered with Musgraves’ ethereal voice and sharp storytelling. Tracks like "Deeper Well" showcase her ability to balance melancholy with hope, creating a sound that feels both personal and universal. With this album, Musgraves continues to prove herself as one of the most compelling and versatile artists of her generation.

These twelve albums have captured our hearts and minds this year, offering a powerful mix of emotion, innovation, and storytelling. Each one represents a unique perspective and a standout moment in music. If you're eager to dive into these sonic journeys, why not give them a listen for yourself? Head over to Amazon Music to stream the albums and discover your next favorite track. Happy listening!