A year in which R&B, soul, dance/electronic music, jazz and hip hop topped my personal pop charts. If you'll indulge me, a few favourites...
Solange's "Losing You" is the the pop song of the year. Love its 80s Madonna influences, beautiful melody, and stunning video.
Chromatics - Kill For Love - a late in the year discovery and by christ, better late than never. Love their mix of melody, mood, mystery, and low-key menace (bit like the film Drive which they helped soundtrack).
Thank fuck for fearless Frank in 2012. I love this song, but could have picked any track from the sensational Channel Orange (CO). CO re-sparked my interest in long players - every track was a winner, even the preposterously long Pyramids (a nine minute + single that didn't suck). God, Allah, Jah, Buddah etc bless Frank Orange.
An insanely catchy, clever, tune that puts a smile on my face whenever I hear it. The video is pretty wonderful as well.
Finally, a slow-burning charmer (a Miguel cover) that provided a perfect accompaniment for crowded sky train rides home during the rainy season - some songs fit certain moods/scenes/activities. Look forward to listening to more of their good stuff.
