On December 22, 2025, music publication Pitchfork released its latest “Pitchfork Selects” playlist, offering a curated collection of standout tracks that reflect the editorial team’s current favorites. The weekly playlist has become a go-to for music lovers seeking an alternative to algorithm-driven recommendations, relying instead on the insight of Pitchfork’s editors and writers to highlight songs they believe truly stand out. As the year draws to a close, this week’s selections reflect a particularly eclectic blend of genres, voices, and moods, representing the diversity and creativity shaping contemporary music as 2026 approaches.
Leading the playlist is Colombian-American artist Kali Uchis with her vibrant track “Muévelo.” Known for her ability to fuse reggaeton, R&B, and pop with a dreamy aesthetic, Uchis brings an irresistible energy to this song. “Muévelo” continues her tradition of bilingual, genre-crossing music, capturing the warmth and movement of Latin rhythms while remaining unmistakably modern. It’s a track that showcases both her vocal versatility and her vision as an artist unafraid to transcend stylistic boundaries.
Also featured is the intimate and moody “3am@Tony’s” by Niontay, featuring Lerado Khalil. The track carries the late-night introspection of a confessional diary entry, wrapped in subdued production and emotive vocal delivery. It speaks to a growing trend in underground hip-hop and alternative R&B where atmosphere and vulnerability take precedence over bombast. Niontay and Khalil’s collaboration adds a layer of texture to the playlist, offering a compelling contrast to some of the more rhythmically driven songs.
One of the most unique inclusions this week is a collaborative piece from Lucrecia Dalt and Y La Bamba, with support from Spanish experimental artists Niño de Elche and Victor Herrero. Their track, “Caes (U Suerte),” melds avant-garde soundscapes with folkloric influences, creating an immersive sonic experience that challenges the listener’s expectations. This type of experimentation is central to the ethos of Pitchfork Selects, where editorial curation often means elevating boundary-pushing work that may not receive mainstream attention but represents the cutting edge of musical artistry.
BEA1991’s “Almost a Lover” continues the introspective thread with a soulful and minimalist approach. Her hushed vocals and spacious production offer a meditative pause in the playlist, evoking themes of longing and quiet reflection. BEA1991 has been gaining traction in indie pop circles for her ability to create sound worlds that are emotionally nuanced and deeply personal. This track is a prime example of her subtle but powerful songwriting.
Elsewhere on the playlist, Xaviersobased brings a burst of energy with “Walk to Me,” combining indie production with catchy, melodic hooks that make the track instantly replayable. Triples’ “Be Around” offers a similarly fresh sound, blending emotional vulnerability with upbeat instrumentation. These songs represent a generation of artists redefining indie music by incorporating elements of hip-hop, lo-fi pop, and electronic production.
More experimental and energetic selections include Twisted Teens’ “100 Bill Is Gone!”—a chaotic and frenetic piece that delivers punk-inflected energy with a modern twist—and 3doly’s “Bushwick,” a song that embodies the grit and vitality of the Brooklyn neighborhood it references. These tracks bring urgency and edge to the playlist, reflecting the diverse textures of urban music culture today.
The playlist also features artists such as ST6 JodyBoof, Dragnutz, and Jaeychino, whose track injects bold regional flair, and a joint effort from Rubberband OG and Baby Mel, who bring a streetwise authenticity to the mix. These contributions ground the playlist in the real-world narratives of emerging talent, often overlooked by mainstream coverage but spotlighted here through Pitchfork’s editorial lens.
Pitchfork Selects has developed a reputation not just for highlighting what’s popular, but for uncovering what’s next. By combining big names like Kali Uchis with lesser-known but equally innovative acts, the playlist provides a balanced and adventurous listening experience. It reflects a broader shift in music culture toward discovery, diversity, and authenticity, all at a time when listeners are craving deeper, more meaningful connections to the art they consume.
Unlike platform-generated playlists that often rely on listening habits and data trends, Pitchfork’s editorial model prioritizes musical integrity and emotional resonance. The selections are made by humans who are immersed in the global music scene, constantly exchanging recommendations and refining their picks based on genuine appreciation. This personal, handcrafted approach is what sets Pitchfork Selects apart and keeps it relevant in an ever-expanding digital music landscape.
As 2025 comes to an end, this latest edition of Pitchfork Selects offers a fitting soundtrack for reflection and transition. Whether listeners are winding down the year with nostalgia or looking ahead with curiosity, the playlist serves as a reminder of the richness and variety of music being made right now. From introspective ballads to danceable bangers, avant-garde collaborations to genre-defying indie gems, these tracks not only capture the mood of the moment but also hint at the evolving sound of the year to come.