1. “Young Blood” by Bea Miller
X-Factor finalist Bea Miller is the powerhouse vocals behind “Young Blood,” an empowerment anthem that is showcases Miller’s stunning vocals from beginning to end. At just fifteen, Miller proves she has a lot to offer and will surely wow new and old listeners alike in the new year. The young singer-songwriter joined Demi Lovato on a few dates of her world tour this past fall. “Young Blood” has earned rave reviews and is the most underrated song of 2014.
2. “Appreciated” by Rixton
English four-piece pop/R&B band Rixton’s upcoming album “Let the Road” is set to release in 2015 but the band released their song “Appreciated” on YouTube earlier this year and even did a special live performance of it on Vevo sponsored by McDonald’s. However, the best version of the song is the acoustic version the band posted on their YouTube channel. The soulful track produced by Benny Blanco and Ross Golan didn’t see nearly enough recognition this year, but I can only hope that once the band’s upcoming album is released it’ll get the attention it deserves.
3. “Paradise” by Big Sean
Aside from his radio hit, “I Don’t F*ck With You,” which sat well with fans with its catchy chorus, Big Sean focused on substance in his song “Paradise” which will hopefully see its place on the charts.
4. “Do What U Want” by Lady Gaga Ft. Christina Aguilera
It’s been quite awhile since we’ve heard a track this good from Gaga in recent years. With Christina Aguilera lending her vocals on the track in place of R. Kelly’s feature, it’s disappointing this song didn’t get much attention. Perhaps an accompanying music video could have fueled some success.
5. “Left Hand Free” by Alt-J
Although “Left Hand” wasn’t as much of a commercial hit as was anticipated since the commercial success of the band’s songs “Tessellate” and “Breezeblocks” the song didn’t fail to deliver. In fact, it served well on the charts and peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard’s Alternative Songs.
6. “Octahate” by Ryn Weaver
Ryn Weaver disappeared after releasing this infectious song penned alongside the Fault In Our Stars songstress, Charli XCX. The track which was co-produced by Benny Blanco and Passion Pit frontman Michael Angelakos received a rave response over the summer and was recently remixed by Cashmere Cat.
7. “I Luh Ya Papi” by Jennifer Lopez Ft. French Montana
This is perhaps J. Lo’s best work we’ve seen in awhile and the accompanying music video is genius to put it simply. The video features the beauty queen sitting on the edge of a bed surrounded by flawless men and champagne bottles, a visual that turns stereotypes upside down.
8. “Say You Love Me” by Jessie Ware
Jessie Ware delivered an impressive sophomore album this year that charted at No. 50 on the Billboard 200. This love-song penned with fellow Brit, Ed Sheeran was a potential slow-jam hit but never did get very far.
9. “My Light” by Mike Posner
A preview from Mike Posner’s forthcoming album “Pages” which was said to release sometime this year but never did actually dropped, “My Light” is an anthem of self-confidence and a testament to being yourself. I can only hope that Mike Posner returns and releases Pages in 2015.
10. “Thanks for Nothing” by Brandyn Burnette
Brandyn Burnette released three impressive mixtapes this year and “Thanks For Nothing” is a stand-out track that is radio friendly. The lyrics turn heartbreak into an upbeat anthem that instantly makes you smile when you’re captivated by its infectious beat. Burnette has honed a formula that captures his immaculate songwriting as well as soulful instrumentals that brings each track alive.
