Lyrical Muse

New Music Friday is here, and it’s a packed lineup you don’t want to scroll past. From global collaborations and genre experiments to surprise drops and long-awaited returns, this week’s releases offer a little something for every kind of listener. Whether you’re into dancefloor anthems, moody ballads, or cross-cultural bangers (hi, Ed Sheeran), we’ve rounded up the standout tracks you need to add to your playlist right now. Let’s dive right in.

Sabrina Carpenter — “Manchild”

Sabrina Carpenter is back to ruffle a few feathers—and maybe some fragile egos—with her new single “Manchild,” dropped just in time for the summer playlists. Packed with sharp wit, ‘80s-inspired synths, and lines like “half your brain just ain’t there” and “I like my men all incompetent,” it’s a loving eye roll set to music. Co-written with Amy Allen and Jack Antonoff, the track channels the same biting humor and pop polish that made “Please Please Please” and “Espresso” instant fan favorites.

Though the music video doesn’t premiere till Friday morning (10 a.m. EST), the teaser and cover art—Sabrina hitchhiking in sky-high heels and short-shorts—already scream main character energy. Whether it’s the official start of a new album era or just a summer surprise, “Manchild” makes a bold entrance, and we wouldn’t be surprised if it’s already cruising toward Song of the Summer status.

Mariah Carey — “Type Dangerous”

The elusive chanteuse is officially back. Mariah Carey kicks off a new era with “Type Dangerous,” her first solo single since 2019, and it’s every bit the glittery warning sign the title suggests. Sampling Eric B. & Rakim’s iconic Eric B. Is President, this slick, percussion-heavy track blends throwback hip-hop with classic Mariah flair as she calls out a roster of red-flag lovers in rhyme.

She’s been teasing it all week, and now the song’s out with a sleek lyric video to match. Produced by Carey herself with N.W.I. and Daniel Moore, it’s the first taste of her long-awaited 16th studio album. With playful bars and a beat that bites, “Type Dangerous” is a sassy reminder that Mariah’s pen is still sharp and she’s got stories to tell.

Jackson Wang — “Hate To Love”

Jackson Wang taps into full emotional drama mode with the official music video for “Hate to Love,” released this Friday. Drenched in moody R&B and cinematic intensity, the video captures the inner turmoil of being stuck in a love that hurts. It’s haunting, stylish, and unapologetically raw, matching the tone of Jackson’s vocals perfectly.

Whether it’s the shadowy lighting or symbolic storytelling, every frame feels personal. A bold visual chapter in his ever-evolving artistry, “Hate to Love” hits hard and lingers long after.

Ed Sheeran — “Sapphire”

Ed Sheeran is back with a brand-new single, and this one’s got a desi twist. “Sapphire” is the first official taste of his upcoming album Play, and it’s already making waves. The track features Indian musical icon Arijit Singh on vocals and sitar, along with a music video shot across India, with a surprise appearance by Shah Rukh Khan.

Sonically, it’s full of South Asian rhythms and Sheeran’s smooth vocals, blending cultures in a way that feels both fresh and celebratory. He’s called it his favorite song on the album and even teased a full Punjabi version dropping soon. If this is how Play begins, we’re all ears for what’s next.

What’s your favorite release this New Music Friday? Let us know on X and Instagram (@lyricalmuseblog). Missed last week’s drop? Catch up here.

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