If you’re anything like us, we see an interesting headline during our daily scroll—pause to read it—but then keep scrolling without reading the actual story. So at the end of each week, we’re rounding up all the buzziest, news-worthy headlines you might have missed. Think of it like the “saved” feature on Instagram but for news instead of aesthetically pleasing photos. Ice Spice had her first SNL performance, Summer Walker released 5 new versions of “Girls Need Love”, and Troye Sivan dropped a steaming hot album—this is what you missed.
#1
Ice Spice SNL Season Opener Performance
The 2023 IT girl Ice Spice made her debut as a musical guest and host on Saturday Night Live during the season opener & Pete Davidson’s first hosting opportunity, the 49th season premiere. She performed two tracks, “In Ha Mood” and brand new “Pretty Girl” with collaborator Rema. Her bestie Taylor Swift introduced her for the second performance and it gave everything. Ice Spice has risen to fame this year, finally gaining recognition for her songs and collaborations, validated by her win for Best New Artist at the 2023 MTV VMAs.
#2
Summer Walker Releases “Girls Need Love” 5-Year Anniversary EP
If five years later, you find you still can’t get enough of Summer Walker’s “Girls Need Love”, then good news! Summer Walker has blessed us with 5 different versions of everyone’s favorite song, a song for each birthday, commemorating her acclaimed debut mixtape, Last Day of Summer, by releasing the Girls Need Love (Girls Mix) EP. Walker collaborated with Victoria Monét, Tyla, and Tink, who contributed guest verses on three of the tracks. The EP also includes an acoustic version of the song and the original version. In addition, she’s releasing an exclusive cobalt blue vinyl of “Last Day of Summer” and limited-edition merch.
#3
Troye Sivan Drops New Album ‘Something To Give Each Other’
Troye Sivan’s latest album, “Something to Give Each Other,” reflects his journey as a pop artist and as an openly gay individual. The album explores themes of sex, relationships, and the emotions surrounding them, with a particular focus on the fleeting nature of human connections. When listening to the album you’ll feel like you’re higher than ever, falling in love — maybe even falling in love high. Sivan’s growth and confidence as a pop singer and his commitment to pushing boundaries while staying true to himself is something we’re all proud to witness. The album is a testament to Sivan’s journey, suggesting that even when one is at their most honest, there is always room for growth and self-discovery.
#4
Sabrina Carpenter Covers Taylor Swift’s “I Knew You Were Trouble”
Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor Swift are officially the sister duo of the pop industry that we didn’t even know we needed. Sabrina Carpenter, a longtime fan of Taylor Swift, has just released a Spotify singles cover of Swift’s 2012 hit “I Knew You Were Trouble”. Sabrina has also accompanied Taylor on her ‘Eras’ Tour, opening up the show at various locations. This collaboration has been a dream come true for Carpenter, who has admired Swift for years and even covered one of her songs in her first-ever YouTube video. Taylor Swift praised Carpenter’s rendition on Instagram saying, “Well, she nailed it”.
#5
Charli XCX and Sam Smith Release Single “In The City”
If you need another absolute banger on your pop playlist, do not hesitate to add this single. Charli XCX and Sam Smith have released their first collaborative single, “In the City.” The song was co-produced by Charli XCX, Ilya, A. G. Cook, Omer Fedi, and George Daniel of The 1975. It’s a track that celebrates finding genuine connections with people through wild nights out and partying in magical places. The song captures the sense of acceptance and the beauty of being welcomed into queer spaces, as well as the extraordinary individuals one encounters in such environments. While this is their first official collaboration, Charli XCX and Sam Smith have been connected for years, and we’re hoping this is just the start of their collabs.
#6
Dolly Parton Covers “Wrecking Ball” With Miley Cyrus
Our favorite Hollywood relatives just released a cover single of Miley’s song “Wrecking Ball” together amidst the release of Dolly’s new rock album soon to be out. With two icons singing this iconic song, there’s no doubt that it will rock your world. Both of their vocals on the single complement each other as well as lime with tequila.