With the beginning of a new year comes fresh starts, resolutions to do better and, especially exciting, new music. This year, fans can look forward to albums from established stars like Charli XCX as well as rising talents like Cecile McLorin Salvant. Below, find the albums that music listeners are most looking forward to in 2022. 

Charli XCX: Crash

Charli XCX, of “Boom Clap” fame, is releasing Crash on Mar. 18. Charli XCX’s musical career cannot be easily categorized – her sound has ranged from mainstream, radio-friendly pop to punk to hyperpop music – but Crash is reportedly inspired by 80s hits. It follows Charli XCX’s How I’m Feeling Now (2020) and features several collaborators, including A.G. Cook and Ariel Rechtshaid.

 Cardi B: TBA

Although Cardi B has not announced an official title or drop date for her upcoming album, she did say in Feb. 2021 that she had “like 50 songs recorded, [but she’s] just still not satisfied.” However, since then, she has lent verses to Normani’s “Wild Side” and Lizzo’s “Rumors” and is well aware that fans are eagerly awaiting her next album.

Lizzo: TBA

Speaking of Lizzo: the star is also planning on releasing an album in 2022, although the exact release date and title are unknown. Fans have high hopes for the follow-up to her last album, Cuz I Love You, which earned her eight Grammy nominations and made her the most-nominated artist at the 2020 Grammys. In August 2021, she released “Rumors,” her first song in two years, hinting at an upcoming album. 

Tears for Fears: The Tipping Point

You know how “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” is one of those iconic 80s songs that everyone knows? Well, its creator, Tears for Fears, will not be relegated to the 80s – the band is releasing The Tipping Point on Feb. 25, their first album in 17 years. Initially, the group tried collaborating with some of the top modern producers and songwriters but found it was not quite working. To make this album, they returned to Charlton Pettus, one of their former collaborators, and are even planning on touring this year.

 Mitski: Laurel Hell

On Feb. 4, Mitski is scheduled to release Laurel Hell, the follow-up to her 2018 album Be the Cowboy. Laurel Hell will include songs like “Working for the Knife” (a Pitchfork “100 Best Songs of 2021”), “The Only Heartbreaker” and “Heat Lightning.” Mitski, who listeners frequently compare to that of Phoebe Bridgers, has become increasingly popular over the past few years; her tour for Laurel Hell is already sold out.    

Cecile McLorin Salvant: Ghost Song

Less well-known but equally talented, winner of the 2020 MacArthur “Genius Grant” Cecile McLorin Salvant is releasing Ghost Song on Mar. 4. Keeping with the title, Ghost Song is a ghost-themed album featuring a cover of Kate Bush’s “Wuthering Heights.” Salvant acknowledges the rather unusual nature of the album, noting that it reflects her “personality as an eclectic curator.”