Sun Devils may not be blasting music in their AirPods on the way to class, but the music rollout hasn't stopped. Our favorite artists have been hard at work to deliver the songs of the summer.
As the days heat up and summer kicks into full swing, here are the releases to keep on your radar over break.
Ariana Grande
After two years, Ariana Grande has finally begun teasing a new album, and it looks like a more mature version of her previous work.
Grainy, black-and-white promos tease the world of the pop star's new project. The melancholy aesthetic suggests a pivot in her career.
The first single, "hate that i made you love me," sets the tone with its mid-tempo and ambient instrumentals. As Grande prepares for the Eternal Sunshine tour, fans are excited to hear old favorites and new songs alike.
The full album "petal" is set to release on July 31.
Olivia Rodrigo
Rodrigo's third studio album, "you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love" has piqued the attention of Olivia Rodrigo fans — and not just because the title is longer than a four-letter word.
Singles "drop dead" and "the cure" gave us emotional whiplash and a taste of what to expect.
The beginning half of the two-part concept album promises love songs, while the latter appears to give us classic Rodrigo breakup ballads.
One thing’s for sure: this era promises to suit both the lovers and the heartbroken this summer.
The Strokes
The rock band announced their newest project, "Reality Awaits," set to be released on June 26.
This will mark their first album since 2020, a true blessing to all "Call It Fate, Call It Karma" fans.
The group balances their signature upbeat, indie sound with slower songs on the first two singles. "Going Shopping" and "Falling out of Love" gave a sneak peek into what the rest of the album will sound like, classic fun from a beloved band.
KATSEYE
The girl group’s newest EP "Wild" has received attention after mixed reactions to its single, "Pinky Up"earlier this year.
The era promises over-the-top visuals and sounds as Katseye dips their toes into a blend of K-pop and hard techno.
"Wild" will define the future direction of this currently trending group. Whether they stick the landing will be determined on August 14.
Madonna
It's a big moment for pop culture.
The iconic Madonna will return July 3 with her newest album "CONFESSIONS II". It is a direct continuation of "Confessions on a Dance Floor," her wildly successful album from 2005.
"Bring Your Love," a collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter, was released on April 30 as a lead single. The duo brought high-energy house music back to the dance floor.
"CONFESSIONS II" will be Madonna's 15th record and first album in seven years. The long-reigning queen of pop is returning to leave her lasting imprint on the music industry.
Charli xcx
After dropping two singles, "Rock Music" and "SS26", Charli xcx has confirmed a new album is upcoming.
In the aftermath of "Brat," Charli xcx seems to be making a drastic turn, keeping her sound fresh. Rock influences in her latest singles have strayed away from the synthpop and electronic elements she’s become known for.
Always experimental and never expected, Charli xcx's upcoming unnamed project is a mystery waiting to be unraveled.
ROLE MODEL
ROLE MODEL's third album is releasing on August 7. "Chuck Timely & The Hourglass" continues the pop star’s quirky persona and leaves us wondering what he has to offer following previous success.
"Sally, When the Wine Runs Out" accumulated over 200,000,000 streams since its release in 2025 and skyrocketed ROLE MODEL into the mainstream.
His new album will have 12 songs, with the first single coming out on June 3.
Music fans are sure to be well-fed over break.
Whatever song you might be bumping, from pop to rock, this summer music season won't disappoint. Sun Devils can stay connected by enjoying the new releases from across genres.
Edited by Dhemi Bell, Natalia Jarrett and
Reach the reporter at ajanusee@asu.edu and follow @lexijanusee on X.
Like The State Press on Facebook and follow @statepress on X.
Lexi Janusee is in her second semester with the State Press. She is a freshman studying Journalism and Mass Communications with a minor in Theatre. Lexi also works for Blaze Radio, and is an on-air host for Open Mic.
