That Year in Music 2017
In 2017, the music scene was on fire with an eclectic mix of sounds and styles, making it a year to remember for both British and American artists. British acts dominated the charts with their infectious tunes, while American musicians continued to push boundaries and break new ground.
In the UK, artists like Ed Sheeran, Stormzy, and Dua Lipa were ruling the airwaves with their catchy tracks. Sheeran's album "Divide" was a massive hit, with hits like "Shape of You" and "Castle on the Hill" becoming instant classics. Stormzy's album "Gang Signs & Prayer" brought grime to the mainstream, earning him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. Meanwhile, Dua Lipa's self-titled album showcased her powerhouse vocals and infectious pop beats.
Across the pond in the US, artists like Kendrick Lamar, Lorde, and Taylor Swift were making waves with their boundary-pushing music. Lamar's album "DAMN." was a critical and commercial success, earning him multiple Grammy awards and cementing his status as one of the greatest rappers of his generation. Lorde's album "Melodrama" was a raw and emotional journey through love and heartbreak, earning her widespread praise and a dedicated following. And Swift's album "Reputation" saw her embracing a darker, edgier sound, proving that she was as relevant as ever.
2017 also saw the birth of some future music legends, with artists like Khalid, Billie Eilish, and Lil Pump all entering the world. Khalid's soulful R&B sound quickly made him a rising star, while Eilish's haunting vocals and relatable lyrics captivated audiences worldwide. And Lil Pump burst onto the scene with his high-energy trap beats and charismatic personality, becoming a controversial but undeniably popular figure in the hip-hop world.
In Britain, the music scene was buzzing with excitement as artists like Sampha, J Hus, and The xx continued to push boundaries and experiment with new sounds. Sampha's debut album "Process" was a soulful and introspective journey through love and loss, earning him critical acclaim and a Mercury Prize win. J Hus's album "Common Sense" was a vibrant mix of grime, Afrobeat, and dancehall, showcasing his versatility and unique sound. And The xx's album "I See You" saw them embracing a more electronic and experimental sound, proving that they were as innovative as ever.
Overall, 2017 was a year of creativity, innovation, and boundary-pushing music, with British and American artists leading the way. From chart-topping hits to underground gems, the music of 2017 will always hold a special place in the hearts of fans around the world.
