New Music Friday: Kacey Musgraves, Pussycat Dolls & Noah Kahan Lead the Releases

Friday’s new music arrivals are a study in contrasts, from the highly anticipated return of pop mainstays to the continued ascent of a modern folk hero. Billboard’s weekly music guide highlights releases from Kacey Musgraves, The Pussycat Dolls, and Noah Kahan, among others, signaling a busy weekend for music fans. Musgraves’ new single arrives alongside news of a full album, although Kahan continues to build momentum toward his April release, and, surprisingly, The Pussycat Dolls are back with a new track and tour plans.

A “Dry Spell” Broken: Kacey Musgraves Returns

After a playful campaign teasing her return with billboards referencing a “real decent time,” Kacey Musgraves has officially unveiled “Dry Spell,” the first single from her upcoming sixth studio album, Middle Of Nowhere, due May 1. The track, described as “cheeky and twangy,” explores Musgraves’ recent period of celibacy with a blend of witty lyrics and warm, Western instrumentation. The song’s playful nature has already sparked conversation, with some observers noting its potential for a cover by artists like Sabrina Carpenter. Billboard reports the single is already gaining traction on streaming platforms.

Musgraves’ return comes after a period of personal and professional evolution. Her last album, star-crossed (2021), explored the aftermath of her divorce from Ruston Kelly. Middle Of Nowhere appears to signal a shift in focus, with “Dry Spell” offering a lighthearted take on a different chapter in her life. The album title itself suggests a departure from the urban landscapes of her previous work, hinting at a more introspective and perhaps geographically removed creative space. Musgraves first gained widespread recognition with her breakthrough album, Same Trailer Different Park (2014), and has since established herself as a critically acclaimed and commercially successful artist, known for her honest songwriting and genre-bending approach.

Noah Kahan Deepens the Narrative with “Porch Light”

Noah Kahan’s highly anticipated album, The Great Divide, is drawing closer, and the singer-songwriter is steadily unveiling pieces of the puzzle. His latest single, “Porch Light,” offers another glimpse into the album’s sonic and lyrical landscape. True to Kahan’s folk roots, the song prioritizes storytelling, but as well showcases his evolving vocal abilities, particularly his seamless transitions into a higher register. The track’s emphasis on vocal performance suggests The Great Divide will be a showcase for Kahan’s growth as an artist, digging deeper into emotional territory than his previous work. A lyric video for the song was released alongside the single.

Kahan’s rise to prominence has been remarkable. His 2022 album, Stick Season, became a sleeper hit, propelled by viral TikTok trends and genuine word-of-mouth. The album’s raw honesty and relatable themes resonated with a wide audience, establishing Kahan as a leading voice in the contemporary folk scene. He’s known for his introspective lyrics, often exploring themes of mental health, small-town life, and the complexities of relationships. The Great Divide is expected to build on this foundation, further solidifying Kahan’s position as a significant artist.

The Pussycat Dolls: A Pop Reawakening

In a surprising turn of events, The Pussycat Dolls are back. Reunited as a trio – Nicole Scherzinger, Ashley Roberts, and Kimberly Wyatt – the iconic pop group has released “Club Song” and announced a tour kicking off this June with special guests Lil Kim and Mya. The single, as the name suggests, is designed for the dance floor, offering a bouncy and energetic vibe. The tour announcement adds another layer of excitement, promising a nostalgic trip for fans of the group’s early 2000s heyday. PopBase first reported the news on X (formerly Twitter).

The Pussycat Dolls originally rose to fame in the mid-2000s with a string of hit singles, including “Don’t Cha,” “Buttons,” and “I Don’t Need a Man.” The group’s blend of pop, R&B, and dance music, combined with their signature choreography, made them a global phenomenon. After a period of hiatus and internal conflicts, the group has attempted several reunions over the years, but this latest iteration – as a trio – feels particularly significant. The addition of Lil Kim and Mya to the tour lineup further enhances the nostalgic appeal, promising a high-energy show for fans of 2000s pop and R&B.

Beyond the Headlines: Momo Boyd, LANY, and a Diverse Friday

Friday’s releases extend beyond these three headliners. Singer-songwriter Momo Boyd, both as a solo artist and as part of Infinity Song, has released “Strong,” showcasing her versatility and inviting vocal style. Alternative-pop act LANY has unveiled a deluxe edition of their album Soft, featuring the standout track “When Did You Stop Loving Me?” which offers a more introspective and emotionally raw sound than much of their previous work.

What’s on the Horizon

For Kacey Musgraves, the focus is now on building anticipation for Middle Of Nowhere. Expect further singles, promotional appearances, and potentially a tour announcement in the coming weeks. Noah Kahan will likely continue to release singles leading up to the April release of The Great Divide, and fans can anticipate a full-scale tour to support the album. The Pussycat Dolls’ tour dates and potential television appearances will be key indicators of the group’s renewed success. The coming months will reveal whether this reunion can recapture the magic of their early years and resonate with a new generation of fans.