Top 40 of 2024 – My Favorite Songs of the Year!

It’s that time of year again! And as always, I had trouble putting together my list of favorite music from this year. Usually, I have trouble keeping my list to a reasonable number. But this year, it was quite easy to keep it at 40. (Or 50 as I will add another 10 songs next week lolol)

How did I put this list together? It’s really just songs I enjoyed, liked or even loved. Usually it’s just a gut feeling. Other times it’s a quantitative measure. (Which songs were on repeat?!) And for many, it’s their staying power on my playlist. Which songs did I love when I first heard them and love them even more now. There might even be songs I wasn’t a fan of on first listen, but months later have accumulated dozens of repeat plays. Then there’s even songs that I might have loved originally, but ended up fading away over time.

So without further ado, here are my 40 Favorite Songs of 2024!

40. “Girl Friend” by MCND

“Girl Friend” by MCND was a pleasantly surprising track. MCND is known for their big, groovy dance tracks. But “Girl Friend” is quite a different vibe from them. A pop-R&B track, it is MCND like I don’t think I’ve experienced them before. And I love it so much! I’d love to hear more from them with this sound and style. Of course, alongside their perfected signature sound too.

39. “Writing Love Song” by Boun

Another YouTube recommendation introduced me to Boun, formerly of the boy group TARGET. I had no idea he had embarked on a solo career either. But I’m so happy to know it now. His single “Writing Love Song” is such a great track. The pop-rock track offers wonderfully nostalgic vibes as Boun sings of the regrets of a first love.

38. “Want You Back” by SEVENUS

It was so great to see Heejae and Ireah of MASC redebut as SEVENUS last year. So it’s even more exciting to have them make their first comeback with album Spring Canvas. Title track “Want You Back” is another bright track. The pop-rock song has an addictive guitar line that delivers the emotions of separation and regret in a contradictory bright melody. But it comes together in one great package.

37. “Always Been You” by Henry Lau

So happy to have Henry back with fresh music. And “Always Been You” is just so good. This comforting track is so perfectly Henry. With his warm vocals effortlessly expressing the sincere feelings of the lyrics. Need more music from Henry Lau! But that just makes every release so special and welcome!

36. “Lighthouse” by TEMPEST

TEMPEST’s “Lighthouse” is a charismatic track with a hopeful message. The smooth melody offers up a dynamic and mature sound for the group. And it’s been a song that perks me up every time it comes along in my playlist.

35. “Badder Love” by EVNNE

I’ve really enjoyed EVNNE’s first two releases with their powerful, “bad boy” image. But they switch things up with a different and more refreshing side of themselves with “Badder Love”. The synth-infused track and its refreshing melody allow the rookie group to really showcase their range in both performance and personality. It’s a great release to complement their strong discography so far. I know I’ll be listening to this song a lot more this year and it could easily move up the list at the end of the year too.

34. “Glow” by TRENDZ

TRENDZ released their album Dreamlike. And title track “Glow” continued the refreshing vibes of their last release “Go Up” from earlier this year. The groovy pop track is indeed a bright and positive track, perfect for the summer months.

33. “Breathe in Love” by EPEX

I could easily include many other songs from EPEX on my list. But “Breathe in Love” emerged as my favorite track of theirs from this year. The dreamy, youthful track gives EPEX the opportunity for a different, yet charming performance. And it’s a great way to showcase the group’s growth in this their first full album.

32. “I Like the Way” by Kim Woojin

Kim Woojin embarked on the next chapter of his career with a fresh start under a new company. (An SM subsidiary purchased 10x Entertainment late last year.) And his first title track back was an amazing way to kick it off. “I Like The Way” is a groovy pop dance track that may be a bit different from what he has released so far. But it isn’t any less a showcase for Woojin’s vocal and performance talent. Not to mention his charisma as well. The vibes of the track give Woojin the opportunity to show off a refreshing side to his artistry.

31. “Somebody” by AIMERS

AIMERS made their first official comeback since debut. And from the bright “Bubble” came the charismatic “Somebody”. The rock and hip-hop-infused pop dance track is I think a much stronger performance and release overall. I enjoyed their debut and pre-release tracks. But “Somebody” allows the group to really deliver an attention-grabbing and charismatic performance.

30. “Whip” by LUN8

LUN8 can definitely “Whip” you up with this title track. The refreshing and funky track is so catchy and addictive. And the free flowing vibes of their performance really lend itself to being another great addition to your summer playlist! A song you won’t get tired of even on repeat!

29. “Beautiful Maze” by DRIPPIN

Its really great to have some fresh music from DRIPPIN. And their latest title track “Beautiful Maze” is really great. It is a great pop track that shows a little bit more maturity from this talented group. And it’s a nice step forward and an evolution of their sound.

28. “C’est La Vie” by CRAVITY

I enjoyed CRAVITY’s album Evershine and its title track “Love or Die”. (A track I could definitely have included on this list.) But I chose “C’est La Vie” as my favorite from the album. The MV for “C’est La Vie” perfectly captures the powerful and groovy vibe of the track with fun and creative visuals.

27. “In The Stars” by ORβIT

It was great to have ORBIT back as a full group this year. And they released a great album in Run. But my favorite track is definitely “In The Stars”. I think a perfect J-pop track with emotional lyrics and the group’s great performance. I wish there were a music video or live performance of it.

26. “KNT (Kanta ng Tanga)” by VXON

I could have several VXON tracks on my list. But one of my absolute favorites is “KNT (Kanta ng Tanga)”. A catchy track with the group delivering the playful and clever lyrics about an unrequited crush in a nostalgic and youthful pop vibe. The live performance elevates the track even more.

25. “Letter to Myself” by FTISLAND

FTISLAND released Serious in July and my favorite track from the album is the stunning ballad “Letter to Myself”. It is a midtempo track about not doubting yourself and accepting yourself as you are. And as much as I love the band rocking out, their ballads have always left a lasting impact.

24. “Gone” by BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON

It’s great to have B.A.P back after six and a half years. Though because of legalities, they are technically back as BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON (or in Korean, BANGYONGGUK&JUNGDAEHYUN&YOOYOUNGJAE&MOONJONGUP). The four members (minus Zelo who is serving in the military) make their long-awaited and much-welcomed comeback with the album Curtain Call and the excellent title track “Gone”. The nostalgic pop-rock track is such an easy and feel-good listen. Though the group is best known for their powerful performances, their excellent vocal talents are highlighted here. And they are able to perfectly express the emotional lyrics. Really love this track.

23. “Say Whatcha Wanna Say” by BILIB

So happy to see BILIB finally making their first official comeback since their strong debut last year. And “Say Whatcha Wanna Say” is an AMAZING track and performance worthy of the wait! Like their debut “Kabanata,” BILIB delivers a powerful and fierce performance of this rousing dance track. You’ll definitely find yourself singing the catchy chorus to yourself. The group’s confident and charismatic performance is one that pulls you in and definitely gets you to vibe along. The song has the group telling their haters to just keep yapping while they do what they want, especially when it comes to following their dreams. And funny enough, BILIB might just have left many fans and new fans alike speechless with this amazing track. Absolutely love it!

22. “Ocean” by Gemini

YouTube recommendations came through once again and it introduced me to Korean rapper and producer GEMINI. The MV that popped up was the title track of his latest release “Cloud Nine”. By my favorite track from the album was “Ocean”. This emotional ballad immediately drew me in and I definitely started following him after!

21. “California Love” by NOMAD

I didn’t know anything about rookie group NOMAD. But checking out their tracks “No Pressure” and “California Love” upon debut definitely made me take notice. NOMAD is another group who has several songs I could easily put on this list. But my favorite track from them this year was “California Love”. It is the perfect vibe of a song to listen to as you drive down the California coast at sunset. And I think a perfect introduction to this talented group! Their debut is one of the best debut albums I’ve enjoyed from a group.

20. “5!6!7!8!” by Nicole Jung

Hello one of my ults! Nicole returned after a year with her latest Korean single! “5!6!7!8!” is an exciting synth-infused dance song with an 80’s disco pop sound. You’ll find yourself getting up and dancing along in no time. Such a perfect song for Nicole’s effortless charm and charisma with vocal and dance talent to match. Always love getting to watch and enjoy Nicole Jung performing!

19. “XO (Only If You Say Yes)” by ENHYPEN

ENHYPEN’s “XO (Only If You Say Yes)” is a song I’ve been vibing to all year long. The synth-infused pop track has a sultry and dreamy melody with the group expressing the romantic lyrics with their always charismatic performance. Definitely one of my favorite go-to tracks of the year.

18. “Please” by BOY STORY

I loved “Alpha,” but if there is a track that officially showcases Boy Story’s maturity it is “Please”. The haunting and enchanting track is such an amazing performance from the talented guys. For anyone who has followed them all these years, this performance from them really shows how much they’ve grown and how far they’ve come. An amazing track and performance and so happy to see them more active in Korea as well this year!

17. “Take Off” by D82

I’ve been a fan of Han Seungyun since his LUNAFLY days. So I’m always happy to see him releasing new music. And he does so this time with his new band D82. Their album and title track of the same name, “Take Off” is such a great collection of songs. All eight tracks on the album are the perfect pop-rock sound that you can’t help but want to listen on repeat and never get tired of. Though I’m still learning more about the band, Take Off is the perfect introduction to them.

16. “Dito” by 1st.One

1st.One released this track last year and when I first watched their performance video back in November, I was wowed! The group has had some powerful performances since I first met them through “Shout Out”. But “Dito” is definitely something different from the talented group. This sultry pop/R&B ballad gets all the vibes just right with the group’s smooth vocals matching their smooth moves. They were able to properly promote the track this year. And the cinematic music video perfectly captures the song’s dramatic emotions.

I also consider “Dito” the start of this next era of the group. As much as I enjoyed their previous tracks, “Dito” and their two follow up tracks this year (one of which you might be seeing later in this list) have allowed the group to more effectively showcase their powerful vocals and charismatic performance skills. I am definitely excited to see what 2025 has in store for them!

15. “Way 4 Luv” by PLAVE

So I had seen and heard of PLAVE, but haven’t really checked them out. When I saw that they won a few music shows earlier this year, I thought it would as good a time as any to finally do so. And when I did, I was so upset. Because why in the world had I not listened to their music sooner?!?! Wowow! They’re amazing! I first checked out their music show-winning title track “Way 4 Luv”. And I definitely saw and heared why they were and increasinly getting lots of positive attention. What a great song and performance. Needless to say I followed PLAVE throughout the year and will do so into the future too!

14. “The Black Cat Nero” by BXB

I’m always rooting for BxB. They deserved so much more as TRCNG. But it’s great to see them doing well so far on this next chapter of their careers. And what a wonderful surprise they’ve released with their first official comeback since their re-debut. I enjoyed their songs last year, but I was really blown away by their track “The Black Cat Nero”. It is a track that is playful, dynamic and harkens back to the awesome K-pop of ten years ago while still sounding current and modern. The playful, flirtatious lyrics and performance of the group is so enjoyable and makes an immediate impact. You can’t help yourself from meowing right along with them. Really! They released the song back in January and I’m still doing the choreo to the song’s catchy chorus almost a year later! It’s a song you won’t get tired of no matter how many times you listen to it.

13. “Come Closer” by Leo

I really loved Leo’s “One Look” last year. So I was really looking forward to his first comeback. And he definitely did not disappoint. “Come Closer” is of similar, yet different and fresh sound from his debut. The R&B track offers up the perfect vibes and Leo’s performance is easily captivating.

12. “Sunshine” by Im Hyunsik

I could put every song from Hyunsik’s The Young Man and the Deep Sea on my list. But I’ll just say to check it out in its entirety, including this hopeful track “Sunshine”. The song presents a hopeful message of the feelings that come after emerging from a difficult journey. And the music video perfectly encapsulates its message. (Spoiler alert! This won’t be the last you’ll see of Hyunsik on my list. Hehe)

11. “Twist Ya” by Moon Jongup

Was very excited about Moon Jongup’s new album. And of course, he did not disappoint! Title track “Twist Ya” is an equally awesome track with a bit of a different vibe. The synth-powered dance track is a mesmerizing journey through self-discovery. The sound (and accompanying music video) very much evoke the vibes of the seminal manga and anime Akira which is also featured in some of the concept photos for the album Peter.

10. “Improvisation” by Jaehan

When I started the series Jazz For Two, I was absolutely stunned as soon as the theme song played. “What a great song this is,” I thought to myself. And it definitely instilled a positive feeling going into the series that carried through to the end. “Improvisation” is just a great pop track. A combination of nostalgic, innocence, youth, romance; it’s got it all. And OMEGA X’s Jaehan does so well with bringing the song to life. So good!

9. “Until the End of Time” by Xdrinary Heroes

Xdinary Heroes know how to rock out with their performances. But my favorite tracks from them have been their mellower rock ballads. “Until the End of Time” is another one from their first full album Troubleshooting. And it might be my favorite from them yet! The band gives a beautifully emotional performance and effortlessly express the bittersweet lyrics of the song.

8. “Paalam Na” by 1st.One

I liked 1st.One’s “Paalam Na” when I first listened to it, but didn’t love it. Then a few days passed and I grew to love it. It actually grew on my quite quickly. And so much so that it has been on regular repeat for me since. Along with its amazing music video which was released later, “Paalam Na” is probably one of the best examples of what P-pop can be. Something that appeals to an international audience in the way K-pop has. And all while still being distinctly Filipino. An incredibly catchy melody, an addictive hook, clever lyrics and one of the best choreographies I’ve seen from any pop group, Philippines or otherwise; 1st.One has really delivered this year and “Paalam Na” is their best showcase yet for how talented they truly are.

7. “Before I” by Corbyn

Corbyn, the multi-hyphenated talent, came back with some brand-new music earlier this year. And again, I could put all three tracks from his new EP on my list. “Galaxy Eyes” and “Bullet Through My Heart” are equally amazing. But title track “Before I” is just absolutely stunning. It is an emotionally-charged, rock-powered track with the personal and affecting lyrics so effortlessly expressed through Corbyn’s performance.

6. “Reason” by Lee Gikwang

A wonderful treat from one of my ults as Lee Gikwang released “Reason”. A catchy beat and appealing melody highlight Gikwang’s sweet vocals over bittersweet lyrics. Not only did the song get my looking forward to his upcoming photobook, but definitely has me hoping we get a new album in 2025!

5. “Feel Me” by Moon Jongup

Moon Jongup’s Peter is an excellent album, including title track “Twist Ya”. But my favorite song from it is “Feel Me”. An evocative track that allows Jongup to express honest feelings in a catchy melody. It’s been on repeat for me since the album’s release.

4. “Butterfly” by Sandeul

Sandeul delivered this amazing track for the OST of romcom Wedding Impossible. The refreshing pop-rock-R&B track is so good that it really even transcends the drama itself. Sandeul’s performance enhances the song’s fresh feelings of love that suit the drama as well being a strong and easily appealing track on its own too.

3. “Still Love” by Yoo Heedo

I absolutely love Yoo Heedo’s “Still Love”. It immediately made a big and impactful impression on me. So much that only a few days after its release, it made my midyear favorites list. And now at the end of the year, here it is at #3. This alternative rock song is perhaps not the kind of track I would have expected from Heedo. Though he is B.I.G’s rapper, it is so awesome to hear him singing here. And his vocals perfectly suit the easily appealing melody. His performance effortlessly expresses the bittersweet lyrics speaking of the complicated feelings of an ended relationship. Just an amazing track.

2. “Kalaw” by VXON

VXON is another artist whose songs I could easily use to fill my list with. “SSP (Saksak sa Puso)”, “KNT (Kanta ng Tanga)” and the group members’ solo tracks are all just so good and have been on repeat for me all year so far. But my favorite track from their excellent album 20:20 has to be “Kalaw”. And their live version just solidified it for me. The R&B-powered track has the boys fondly looking back at happy, but fleeting moments of a relationship. And the vibes are just perfect. VXON has released some great music. But this album is such a revelation. And I am so excited to see and hear more from them in the future.

1. “La Mar” by Im Hyunsik

Im Hyunsik is really my ultimate bias. So of course he’s going to take the top spot of my list. Hehe. The Young Man and the Deep Sea is another breathtaking album from Hyunsik. Hyunsik’s effortless vocals bring to life meaningful and personal lyrics while gliding across captivating melodies. The way Hyunsik is able to tell stories through his music and in full albums like this is just so amazing.

Title track “고독한 바다 La Mar” is absolutely stunning. The accompanying cinematic music video definitely adds to the experience. But the song itself is an ethereal and emotional performance about being able to move forward through the many rough seas one may encounter.

Hyunsik’s hard work and passion for his music has really been an inspiration and motivation for me in my daily life. And The Young Man and the Deep Sea is another perfect and excellent showcase of just what makes Hyunsik such a gifted and talented artist and person.