As 2026 begins, Pitchfork has reaffirmed its role as a key tastemaker in contemporary music with the release of its weekly Pitchfork Selects playlist, published on January 5. The curated collection highlights a wide-ranging selection of tracks from across the globe, offering a window into the songs and artists currently sparking excitement among critics and audiophiles. Known for its discerning editorial voice, Pitchfork’s weekly playlist continues to serve as a guidepost for listeners eager to explore new music beyond the mainstream.
This week’s selection captures the dynamic spirit of early 2026, balancing contributions from legendary artists with bold new voices. Among the most notable inclusions is Peter Gabriel’s “Been Undone (Dark‑Side Mix),” a reworked version of a recent track that reflects the artist’s continued embrace of sonic innovation. Gabriel, whose career spans decades and includes groundbreaking work with Genesis and as a solo performer, has long explored the intersections of technology, world music, and experimental production. His latest remix carries that legacy forward, infusing the track with moody, electronic textures that feel both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
But Pitchfork’s playlist doesn’t dwell solely in the past. The inclusion of artists like Redda and Che signals the publication’s ongoing commitment to platforming emerging talent. Redda’s featured track blends ethereal production with emotionally raw lyricism, suggesting a maturing artist who is quickly finding her footing in the alternative R&B and electronic crossover space. Meanwhile, Che’s contribution brings a hard-hitting energy rooted in hip-hop, with layered beats and unflinching verses that explore personal and political themes. Their presence on the playlist not only gives listeners access to artists still building their followings but also places these acts in conversation with more established figures.
The broader playlist spans multiple genres, moving from experimental electronic pieces to understated indie rock, global pop fusions, and introspective folk-inflected ballads. This genre-defying approach mirrors contemporary listening habits, as audiences increasingly gravitate toward mood, message, and sound over traditional musical boundaries. The playlist’s diversity reflects Pitchfork’s broader mission: to champion compelling artistry, regardless of origin or commercial viability.
In an era dominated by algorithm-driven music recommendations, Pitchfork Selects remains a rare human-curated alternative. Rather than relying on data trends alone, the playlist is shaped by music journalists and critics whose selections draw on deep cultural knowledge, aesthetic sensibilities, and personal engagement with the art. This gives the playlist a unique flavor that differentiates it from the sea of user-generated and corporate-curated lists flooding streaming services.
Released across major platforms including Spotify and Apple Music, the playlist is designed for wide accessibility. Each week’s update functions as a touchpoint for music lovers seeking a shortcut to what’s fresh, interesting, or off the beaten path. For listeners, it’s not just about hearing the newest singles — it’s about discovering tracks that might otherwise escape notice, often from regions or genres underrepresented in commercial charts.
The January 5 release also coincides with a moment in the year when audiences are especially open to discovering new sounds. With the holidays behind and a new year ahead, many listeners are actively seeking fresh music to accompany their resolutions, travels, or return to routines. Pitchfork’s timing and editorial consistency make the playlist an ideal entry point for those hoping to refresh their audio landscapes in the new year.
For featured artists, inclusion in Pitchfork Selects can be more than a moment of recognition — it often signals a rising trajectory. The playlist has previously helped catapult underground acts into broader public consciousness and has been cited by labels and agents as an early marker of an artist’s breakout potential. For Peter Gabriel, it serves as a reminder of his continued relevance. For Redda, Che, and other up-and-comers, it represents a meaningful step toward larger platforms and audiences.
As 2026 unfolds, Pitchfork’s weekly selections are expected to continue functioning as both a cultural barometer and a source of musical inspiration. In an industry increasingly shaped by digital noise and fleeting attention spans, the publication’s steady curation provides listeners with a space to pause, reflect, and truly engage with new work. More than a playlist, Pitchfork Selects is a weekly ritual for those who see music not just as background, but as a vital part of the cultural conversation.