Alt, Indie Music Highlights of 2023

Indie-alternative supergroup boygenius – consisting of Julien Baker, Lucy Dacus, and Phoebe Bridgers – made their much anticipated return to music in January , 2023. The release of their first LP, the record, after their 2018 self-titled EP, had their popularity skyrocketing, and they took the stage on their world tour throughout the summer and fall. Simultaneously, Baker and Dacus joined Bridgers as a supporting act on Taylor Swift’s “The Eras Tour,” only pushing their name farther out there. While the record brought us many incredible songs, from memorable rock numbers to folk ballads, “Not Strong Enough” has to be my pick for their best song of 2023. It has been extremely influential in the world of indie music, showcases the versatility and compatibility of Baker’s, Dacus’, and Bridgers’ vocals, and disguises stunningly sad lyrics with infectiously fun guitar (and it was the best to scream live).

It’s safe to say that 2023 was Taylor Swift’s year. Besides the media’s obsession with her relationship with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, she began a tour that she announced in 2022 which will end in December 2024, as well as releasing two re-recorded albums and numerous other songs such as “Hits Different” and “You’re Losing Me” off the deluxe editions of the 2022 album, Midnights. 1989 (Taylor’s Version) was released in October after being announced on the last night of the 2023 U.S. leg of the tour, and with it came five new songs known as vault tracks. “Now That We Don’t Talk” combines classic pop, which the original 1989 was so known for, with honest, bold, and witty lyrics. The song is reportedly Swift’s shortest song to date, yet it quickly became a personal favorite of mine and others alike.

The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, Chappell Roan’s debut album, was wildly successful immediately upon its release- it was named as one of the best albums of the year by several music magazines, with Business Insider naming the hit single “Red Wine Supernova” as Song of the Year. And it’s well deserving of the title: Roan is not afraid of showing her true self, bringing a fun and carefree feel to her music, as well as being open about her life as a queer woman. She has kept a pretty small fanbase over the years since she began releasing music in 2017, aiming to make her shows and internet presence feel like a safe-space for those who find relatability in her music. “Red Wine Supernova’s” catchy and bright lyrics caught the attention of many, making Roan a name to remember in pop and alternative music. This year, she’s going to be joining Olivia Rodrigo on her tour for the 2023 album GUTS, which makes it no doubt that she’s well on her way to a level of popularity that is going to change the music industry for many.

Throughout 2023, Noah Kahan probably broke a record for fastest rising artist. Before the release of the folk anthem “Stick Season,” and the 2022 album by the same name, Kahan had released two albums and a number of other songs – but only one song ever reached the charts. His folk-pop sound is consistent, as are his tear-jerking lyrics; but he really got recognized this past year for songs that you have most likely heard by now, including “Stick Season,” “Northern Attitude,” and the critically acclaimed Stick Season deluxe track, “Dial Drunk.” “Dial Drunk” is a storytelling song, admirably putting Kahan’s rural and clever lyrics on display. He’s always been one to show the bleakness and reality of his life in New England through his music, and this song is a fan-favorite just for that reason, connecting singer and listener through experience. 

Hozier has received a steady stream of love in the folk, blues, and alternative music scene since his self-titled debut album was released in 2014. He’s always used his music to express political views and personal feelings, while taking on a very identifiable sound that really vitalizes his vocals. He made his post-pandemic return to music with the 2023 album Unreal Unearth, introduced with lead single Eat Your Young. The album is a perfect demonstration of Hozier’s eccentric ability as a lyricist- as the album takes inspiration from religious themes, he is able to craft beautiful instrumentals and unique songs that cover a variety of dark yet delicate topics. Brandi Carlile, American folk-rock artist (you might know her from her song featured in Barbie (2023)), is featured on one such song, Damage Gets Done. Hozier’s collaborations with female artists (such as In a Week with Karen Cowley and Nina Cried Power with Mavis Staples) are some of his best songs to date- Damage Gets Done is one of the best off Unreal Unearth in my opinion, using both artist’s energy to create a youthful, vulnerable love story which highlights the freedom of living.