Over six years ago, we were the first (that we know of) to share Lorde, who became an overnight success and inspired an entirely new wave of bedroom-pop. Three years later, we were the first to come across Billie Eilish, who has experienced a similar sort of trajectory. However, there seems to be something way bigger and more daunting about her ascension, and we're happy to get into it here. Since XXXTENTACION's passing, Billie has become the young artist with the most cultural sway and cult power in the industry—an icon who appears to speak for an entire generation. The most baffling thing about her, though, is that she has achieved her status without any traditional radio hit. Rather than offering structured pop anthems, Billie makes dance-inspired ballads and highly creative, left-field pop alongside her genius brother, Finneas, all from the comfort of their home. There isn't a big team of writers and producers here; it really is just them, and their formula is unable to be compared. As the whole world knows, Billie just released her debut album, and it's every bit as cinematic, dark, edgy, exciting, original, gorgeous and resounding as it should be. Playing like the sonic equivalent of a Jordan Peele horror film, the project is more cohesive than dont smile at me, and Finneas deserves just as much acclaim as Billie for this achievement. Each track has Billie's bold, magnetic personality, and that has proven to be a far more valuable commodity than a radio hit. So, without further adieu, check out this one, and understand you're witnessing the pop paradigm shift before your very eyes.
Billie Eilish