TRACK BY TRACK: Addison Rae's 'Addison'

Viral TikTok sensation and "Diet Pepsi" singer Addison Rae released her debut album Addison earlier this month, and it's already a massive success. Her journey to pop stardom wasn’t easy; early on, she faced skepticism due to her TikTok roots. But the breakout hit "Diet Pepsi" and a collaboration with Charli XCX helped shift public perception. With Addison, Rae delivers a shimmering tribute to early-2000s pop, blending glitter, heartbreak, and the magic of Summer nights. Let's break it down track-by-track!

1. "New York"

The album kicks off with a club banger that channels heavy Charli XCX and Y2K rave-pop energy. It’s a pulsating anthem for freedom. It’s perfect for an escape in the city that never sleeps.

Favorite Lyrics: "Feel so free, feel so free / Feel so free, it's my religion..."

2. "Diet Pepsi"

This is Addison’s viral hit and the track that earned her serious pop clout. "Diet Pepsi" is a fun, flirtatious ode to young love. It takes us back to late-night drives with our high school sweetheart.

Favorite Lyrics: "When we drive in your car, I'm your baby / Losing all my innocence in the backseat / Say you love, say you love, say you love me..."

3. "Money is Everything"

“Money is Everything” is a cheeky reflection on wealth and what really matters. Addison blends satire and sincerity in this track, poking fun at fame culture while still enjoying its perks.

Favorite Lyrics: "But money's not coming with me to heaven / And I have a lot of it / So, can't a girl just have fun?"

4. "Aquamarine"

An ocean-inspired pop ballad that lives up to its name. The track is sensual and showcases Addison in full siren mode: sexy, radiant, ethereal, and magnetic.

Favorite Lyrics: "The world is my oyster / Baby, come touch the pearl..."

5. "Lost & Found (Interlude)"

This interlude captures the cyclical nature of fame. The soft synths and layered vocals make it feel like we are listening to Addison’s inner thoughts.

Favorite Lyrics: “I lost myself and found myself again..."

6. "High Fashion"

“High Fashion” doubles as a love song and a declaration of self-worth. Addison makes it clear that she doesn’t settle for anything less than luxury when it comes to love or life.

Favorite Lyrics: “I don't want cheap love / I'd rather get high fashion..."

7. "Summer Forever"

A sun-drenched love song that sounds like golden hour on the beach. It captures the intoxicating feeling of falling in love during Summer.

Favorite Lyrics: “My 11:11, would you fly with me to Paris? / We could get real romantic and never, ever stop dancing / The edge feels safer when I'm standin' on it with you...”

8. "In The Rain"

Moody and introspective, this song delves into the darker parts of fame and the emotional toll of constantly performing. Addison shows raw vulnerability beneath her pop star persona.

Favorite Lyrics: “Misunderstood but I'm not gonna sweat it / Isn't it all for the show?”

9. "Fame is a Gun"

Since the album dropped, this has become a fan favorite, and for good reason. This track serves as commentary on how fame can both empower and destroy someone.

Favorite Lyrics: “Nothing makes me feel as good / As being loved by you...”

10. "Times Like These"

This fast-paced track mirrors the chaotic thrill of life in the 2020s. Addison opens up about the pressure of living in the spotlight while trying to stay grounded.

Favorite Lyrics: “My life moves faster than me / Can't feel the ground beneath my feet...”

11. "Life’s No Fun Through Clear Waters"

This interlude delves deep, suggesting that, without struggles, life would lose its meaning. While the track is brief, it prompts deep reflection. 

Favorite Lyrics: “Life's no fun through clear waters...”

12. "Headphones On"

This track is the perfect closer to this fantastic album. With soft electro-pop production, this track is all about surrendering to the moment and letting music be your escape.

Favorite Lyrics: “You can't fix what has already been broken / You just have to surrender to the moment...”

From club anthems to ballads, the album is both a nostalgic nod to the early-2000s and a bold declaration of her artistic identity. It’s playful, sexy, vulnerable, and meticulously crafted. It's the perfect album for a pool day, beach vacation, or a late-night cruise. Addison Rae has arrived, and she’s proving she is not just here for the moment; she’s here for the long haul.