Best Songs of 2018

This isn’t about what was played on repeat on a top 40 radio station. This isn’t about the chart-toppers or the bands pushed into fame by major record label’s infinite bank accounts. You won’t find Cardi B, five Drake songs or Maroon Five on this list of best songs of 2018. This is about music that speaks to you on a personal level, that grips you right away and won’t let go. The songs that were at the top of every personal playlist. Songs that you pull into your driveway and wait to finish before getting out of your car. These are the best songs of 2018 according to the MusicFestNews staff.

Each staff member was asked to name just one song that they loved. One that captured the spirit of 2018 for them more than any other song. Choosing your favorite song is never an easy thing to accomplish, but somehow we managed to pull through. These are the best songs of 2018 chosen by music lovers, for music lovers.

Zach Sander’s Top Song of 2018 – “It Gets Better” – Griz Featuring Dram

“First of all, GRiZ is one of my favorite artists in general. Almost anything he touches is gold in my opinion. Second, I’m a sucker for songs with positive messages, especially with it coming out at the start of the winter/holiday season when a lot of people are dealing with tough emotions and SAD.” – Zach Sanders – Writer/Photographer

Dalia Jakubauskas’ Top Song of 2018 – “Oh No” – The Revivalists

“It reminds me of how much pleasure I take in pure rock – the kind of uninhibited sound that has to be played loud and sung louder (especially at stoplights idling next to bemused strangers). This song does that for me. It picks me up on a sonic wave every time I play it and reinforces the fact that great rock & roll is still being made out there.” – Dalia Jakubauskas – Writer

Phil Skroa’s Top Song of 2018 – “Anne Frank Part II” – Moscow Death Parade

“Moscow Death Brigade’s new album, Boltcutter, is a must-have for anyone discontent with the state of affairs in the world today. The crowning song of their LP, in my eyes, is their Anne Frank Army, Pt. II, with its militant defiance against bigotry by breaking through any sense of defeatism and inspiring one to throw a brick of one’s own. This album deviates from their previous metal stylings to a more electronic-based and hip-hop inspired sound that does not disappoint.” Phil Skroa – Writer

Yvonne Gougelet’s Top Song of 2018 – “Painkillers” – Rainbow Kitten Surprise

“Both the album and song were released just a few days before my mother went into the hospital for a potentially life-threatening spinal surgery, after nearly two decades of being in severe pain (and long-term use of painkillers). It is very rare that a song has come into my life at the exact moment I needed it to. It helped me mentally prepare for her surgery and the difficult time post-operation. If anyone has lost a loved one due to painkiller addiction or knows anyone struggling with severe pain, I think this song can help them through tough times.” – Yvonne Gougelet – Writer Photographer

Leila Katelynn’s Top Song of 2018 – “Real Love” – Flint Eastwood

“It’s pretty much an anthem for the LGBTQ community. It’s her coming-out ballad. It’s beautiful, cathartic and danceable. It’s a good and pinnacle jam that reflects a lot of what I think people are feeling after the mess that is 2018.” – Leila Katelynn – Writer/Photographer

John Ferreira’s Top Song of 2018 – “All My Shades of Blue” – The Ruen Brothers

“When I first heard this song I thought it was a Roy Orbison track that I somehow had never heard before. I was hooked right away. I’m a die-hard Roy Orbison fan; this song made me fall in love with the Ruen Brothers. This track is gorgeous and heartbreaking. It’s catchy and familiar, but unique. Plus my wife and I love attempting to sing like them, which is always a good and embarrassing time.“ – John Ferreira – Writer/Photographer

Alexa Paradis’ Top Song of 2018 – “New Birth in New England” – Phosphorescent

“It is the perfect combo of Indie/Dance and just puts me in a great mood! I can definitely see the song turning into a festival rager.” – Alexa Paradis – Director of North East Operations

Scott Hopkin’s Top Song of 2018 – “Mojo” – Joe Marcinek Band

“The sound is so perfect, so pure, so in the tradition. All three players have the chance to stand out. This is organ trio jazz at its best.” Scott Hopkins Editor-in-chief