In the words of Sabrina Carpenter, “I’m a busy woman.” And nothing gets me through the day like an exquisitely curated playlist. And during this Women’s History Month, my playlists are full of anthems by the girls and for the girls.
Over the past few weeks, I’m not the only one getting inspired by girly pop anthems. I went to a pilates class on International Women’s Day, where the instructor only played hits by our favorite pop girls. I’ve never been so motivated in a Pilates class. I got a second wind like no other and the vibes were so immaculate — plus, listening to Gracie Abrams while trying to get Gracie Abrams abs works wonders for your intentionality and resilience.
It also doesn’t hurt that we kicked off the month on the heels of a female-artist-dominated Grammys ceremony. The girls are girling and the industry is recognizing it. The 2025 Grammy Awards felt like the slumber party scene in The Princess Diaries 2 — girls across all genres celebrating each other and looking amazing while doing it. Women didn’t just sweep major categories; they defined the sound of the year (that’s country pop if you’ve been under a rock), dominated the charts, and set new cultural heights.
Maybe it’s because Drake met his downfall and his songs are no longer dominating the radio that there’s finally space at the top of the charts. Maybe it’s because of the horrible political state that culture has been popping off to recompense. Maybe it’s something to do with astrology. The stars are aligning for pop girls to get their flowers in all sections of the industry, from Charli XCX’s long overdue party girl anthems to Chappell’s Sapphic belters.
The Grammys recognized this range. The night’s top honors went to women across genres: Beyoncé claimed Album of the Year for Cowboy Carter, a genre-bending sequel to her dance-inspired oeuvre. Sabrina Carpenter took home Best Pop Vocal Album of the Year for Short N Sweet. Charli XCX left with the Grammy Award for Best Dance Pop Recording. Doechii is the second woman ever to win Best Rap Album with Alligator Bites Never Heal — and stole everyone’s heart with her dazzling personality. In one thrilling turn, Chappell Roan won Best New Artist and used her platform to speak up for healthcare in the industry.
The night was a testament to the creative risks women are taking — and the overwhelming impact of their artistry. From pop powerhouses to genre-blurring innovators, female artists are finally taking center stage and acknowledging the work it took to climb the mountain.
This is what resonates most with me about the current music landscape. These female artists didn’t come out of nowhere. Charli has been behind the biggest hits for a decade and was beloved in niche music communities before finally becoming a household name. Sabrina released six studio albums before finally capturing the world’s attention last summer — landing a cover on Vogue — by embracing her role as pop’s Polly Pocket Princess. Chappell Roan’s inspiring story took her through the industry’s highs before a banner year — all without having to compromise her vision. Doechii is similar — exploding onto the scene after years of effort. And Queen Bey — who’s been a singular sensation since her teenage years— finally got her due.
This year women are claiming their space and basking in their success. They’re not playing small while inspiring me not to settle.
From the return of icons like Lady Gaga and Beyonce to the dawn of fresh faces like Gracie Abrams and Rachel Chinouriri — who got their start opening for Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter before popping off — we’re getting soooo much amazing music. And I have it all on repeat.
24/7, I’m listening to bangers by the girls and only the girls. Here’s a look at the standout songs that are on my Women’s History Month playlist and will definitely end up on my Spotify Wrapped:
Sabrina Carpenter – “15 Minutes”
In “15 Minutes”, Sabrina Carpenter talks directly to the haters and people who think she’s destined for only 15 minutes of fame. In her signature suggestive style, she sings: “I can do a lot with 15 minutes.” It’s a testament to her self-awareness and a shimmering, pop-infused middle finger to those who doubt her longevity. It’s inspiring to anyone who’s ever been underestimated — so pretty much all women the world over.
Chappell Roan – “The Giver”
Wake up, girls! The latest Chappell Roan just dropped. Fresh and fun, “The Giver” gives exactly the lush, Sapphic vibes we expect from our favorite artist’s favorite artist. Fresh off performing at Elton John’s Oscar Party, Chappell delives. She taps into her famous theatrics, blending synth-pop energy with self-revelatory storytelling. The track underscores her ability to weave personal narratives with catchy hooks.
Doechii – “Anxiety”
Doechii’s “Anxiety” is a frenetic track that mixes rap, punk, and alternative influences. It’s also the viral hit that has solidified her past year as one of the most iconic debut runs. The soundtrack to every Fashion Week TikTok, it’s a reminder of Doechii’s versatility. The song’s chaotic energy mirrors the mental spirals described in her lyrics, creating a visceral experience that speaks to anyone who’s struggled with overthinking and self-doubt. Her fearless experimentation cements her as one of 2025’s boldest voices. The track samples the iconic 2012 track “Somebody That I Used to Know,” which she famously covered on her YouTube channel years ago. Who else is doing it like Doechii?
Charli XCX, Lorde – “Girl, so confusing featuring lorde”
This remix blends Charli XCX’s hyperpop aesthetic with New Zealand singer-songwriter Lorde’s moody introspection. The result? A mesmerizing track that captures the messiness of being a girl and our constant confusion about adult friendship. The duo’s contrasting styles merge seamlessly, creating a song that will forever be an anthem for girlhood. Here’s to working it out on the remix!
Gracie Abrams – “Risk”
The latest nepo baby on the scene — Gracie Abram s— was an indie-pop fan fave before her recent album and an opening spot on the Era Tour made her famous. Risk sees Gracie Abrams trade her signature sad-girl sound for something brash and mighty. The track’s driving beat give her soft-spoken vocals real weight, transforming her vulnerability into power. It’s a standout for Abrams, marking her evolution from bedroom pop darling to full-fledged pop powerhouse. It also encapsulates her life philosophy: taking headline-making risks like her transparent lyrics and her relationship with Paul Mescal.
Billie Eilish – “Birds of a Feather”
Billie Eilish’s “Birds of a Feather” is the pop ballad we’ve always wanted from our resident sad girl. Yes, it’s still a haunting exploration of love and attachment, but with her belting choruses, Eilish takes it to the next level. Find me at karaoke or in the car belting: “I’ll love you til the day that I die.”
Tate McRae – “It’s OK, I’m OK”
They’re trying to make Addison Rae the new It Girl. But after the release of her latest album — on the heels of multiple successful singles — it’s clear the title goes to Tate McRae. The lead single and music video, “It’s OK, I’m OK,” make it clear that pop is back. She’s giving Britney and Nelly Ferraro while being undeniably Gen Z. And I love that her songs are about never needing a man. The “I don’t want him anyway, girl, take him” outro makes me laugh out loud while singing along.
Rachel Chinouriri – “I’m Not Perfect But I’m Trying”
Rachel Chinouriri’s infectious pop track “I’m Not Perfect, But I’m Trying” leans into her introspective lyrics and incandescent vocals. The song deftly captures the complexities of trying to be perfect for someone but in a lighthearted way.
Olivia Dean – “It’s Not Perfect But It Might Be”
Olivia Dean’s soulful voice shines in “It’s Not Perfect But It’s Mine,” a track about embracing imperfection. She wrote it for the Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy movie. The song’s warm instrumentation and soaring lyrics remind listeners that self-acceptance is a journey. Her stage presence is everything, so I channel her diva energy every single time I listen to this song.
Ravyn Lenae – “Love Me Not”
Of course, it took a TikTok song for people to get the memo about Ravyn Lenae. But I’m not mad about it. As a die-hard fan for close a decade, I can’t blame people for grooving to “Love Me Not” from her new album. It showcases Ravyn Lenae’s ethereal vocals but keeps things lifted with a funky beat. The track’s delicate balance of R&B and alternative pop creates an intoxicating soundscape that’s surprisingly catchy.
Beyoncé – “Bodyguard”
The Queen of Pop — and now country — can do no wrong. In “Bodyguard,” Beyoncé reminds us that she’s strong and sexy at the same time — and we can be, too. Over a country beat? Is there anything this woman can’t do? Seems not!
Cat Burns – “GIRLS!”
Cat Burns is a shining Sapphic star in the British indie pop scene. In GIRLS!, she celebrates her love for girls in an anthem about female desire. The track’s catchy beat and uplifting lyrics create a feel-good vibe that will get you out on the dance floors and into *her* arms.
Lady Gaga – “Perfect Celebrity”
Tell a friend to tell a friend that Gaga is back! In MAYHEM, Mother Monster returns. And for “Perfect Celebrity,” Lady Gaga goes all in with provocative lyrics and edgy production. Little Monsters, let this song inspire you to get back to your — and the Goddess of Pop’s — rebellious roots. We need more weirdos!
JENNIE, Dua Lipa – “Handlebars”
The new JENNIE album has a superstar surprise: a collaboration with Dua Lipa. The two pop stars joined forces for a certified banger. This collaboration blends JENNIE’s sultry vocals with Dua Lipa’s disco-inspired grooves. “Handlebars” might finally be the summer hit that proves Dua Lipa is so back.
Taylor Swift – “Guilty As Sin”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OOYlWF6V8t8
Taylor Swift’s “Guilty As Sin” is a sad banger. With the Jack Antonoff background beats, it’s a 1989-era sound with Taylor’s new carefree élan. “Oh, what a way to die,” Swift wails. It’s a song about regret, but also about following your heart. Had to have a sad girl song on here to round it out for the girls — all the girls.
