2025 is already shaping up to be an iconic year for album drops in all genres. From long-awaited returns by massive stars like Lady Gaga and Rihanna, to bold, creative offerings from risk-takers FKA twigs and Ethel Cain, expect an eclectic mix of songs and stories. Whether you’re into genre-defying pop, haunting Southern Gothic melodies, or nostalgic synth beats, here are 7 highly-anticipated releases that are sure to take over your 2025 playlist.
Lady Gaga – [Title TBA]
Expected Release: February 2025
Why We’re Excited: Lady Gaga’s first album in nearly five years promises a return to her pop roots, following the success of 2020’s Chromatica. Fan theories are swirling around the album’s possible vibe, with the artist’s “Little Monsters” eager for a return of her “Mother Monster” persona. We look forward to a mix of dance-floor anthems, deeply emotional ballads, striking visuals, and Gaga’s always fearless artistry.
Nicki Minaj – Pink Friday 3
Expected Release: TBA 2025
Why We’re Excited: The queen of razor sharp rap returns with the third installment of her beloved Pink Friday series. On September 15th, Nicki minaj revealed she would do an entire new album, instead of simply releasing a deluxe edition of Pink Friday 2, as previously announced. Her proven ability to adapt and lead trends, along with her latest singles, suggest an innovative direction, while still honouring her classic sound.
Rihanna – [Title TBA]
Expected Release: TBA 2025
Why We’re Excited: After a long hiatus, Rihanna’s highly-anticipated return to music is finally within reach. While details are sparse, insiders hint that R9 could span reggae, pop, and alt-R&B influences, staying true to her genre-fluid style. As her first LP since 2016’s ANTI, Rihanna’s comeback has fans (and the RAC team) on the edge of their seats.
Miley Cyrus – Something Beautiful
Expected Release: TBA 2025
Why We’re Excited: Following 2020’s Plastic Hearts, Miley Cyrus continues her musical evolution with Something Beautiful, a visual album she says is inspired by Pink Floyd’s The Wall, but “more glamorous”. Describing the project as “a concept album that’s an attempt to medicate somewhat of a sick culture through music”, the artist may be moving towards her boldest endeavour yet. Even more intriguing: the visuals will be directed by Panos Cosmatos, the horror movie director behind indie favourites like Mandy.
FKA twigs – EUSEXUA
Expected Release: January 24, 2025
Why We’re Excited: FKA twigs never fails to push creative boundaries, and her next album promises to be no different. Early hints suggest a deeply introspective exploration of resilience and transformation, paired with her signature ethereal production. Her recent avant-garde single “Eusexua” and its accompanying music video promise a creative offering that’s as daring as it is captivating.
Ethel Cain – [Perverts]
Expected Release: January 8, 2025
Why We’re Excited: After Ethel Cain’s breakout album Preacher’s Daughter captured hearts with its Southern Gothic narratives, her upcoming effort promises to deepen that haunting aesthetic. Fans speculate about themes of love, loss, and redemption, accompanied by atmospheric production and vivid storytelling to explore the even darker side of Americana.
The Weeknd – Hurry Up Tomorrow
Expected Release: January 24, 2025
Why We’re Excited: The Weeknd is set to continue his reign as a master of cinematic soundscapes with his next project, Hurry up Tomorrow. The album includes confirmed guest appearances from Playboi Carti and Anitta. We predict a mix of his signature moody aesthetic, hypnotic R&B vocals, and raw lyrics, infused with innovative experimental elements (and likely, lots of driving synths).
Don’t miss our previous articles: NYE 2025 Girly Pop Playlist: 10 Perfectly-Timed Party Hits and Tuned In: November’s 5 Must-Hear Canadian Music Releases.
Written by Maryse Bernard
Illustration by Holly Li
