The Archive: Chris Brown, Tori Kelly & The Chainsmokers
Discover the best new music this week on The Archive. Dive into new EPs and albums from Chris Brown, Tori Kelly, The Chainsmokers, and spotlight artist Jenevieve.
Welcome back to The Archive, your ultimate guide to the week’s best new music. As we hit the middle of May 2026, the industry is dropping serious heat just in time to build out those early summer playlists. From highly anticipated veteran returns to rising stars making their mark, here is everything you need to be listening to right now.
Staff Picks: The 7 Essentials You Need to Hear
Here is a breakdown of the week’s heaviest hitters and what the critics are saying about them:
‘Brown’ by Chris Brown
“BROWN is basically an hour and a half of sensual slow jams, emotional confessions, relationship drama, and yearning, all turned up to 11... It gives you heartbreak, lust, vulnerability, and romance all in one package. Nicely done, C. Breezy.” — Ratings Game Music
‘icymi’ by Isaiah Kaleo
“A raw, uncompromising look at the intersections of modern heartbreak and ambition. With intricate production and sharp penmanship, Kaleo solidifies his spot as a rising star to watch.” — Indie Pulse
‘Love Is Kind’ by The Chainsmokers & Oaks
“Across the EP, Oaks’ voice carries the more vulnerable parts of the writing, while The Chainsmokers keep the production close to the emotional dance-pop sound that has defined some of their biggest releases.” — EDM House Network
‘El Amante’ by Dariel Amant
“Bringing infectious Reggaeton energy to the forefront, Amant delivers a project that is simultaneously romantic, lyrical, and effortlessly club-ready.” — Global Beat
‘The Gift’ by Mishon
“A rewarding, relaxed listening experience that showcases gritty, soulful vocals over adventurous, R&B-steeped arrangements.” — Sonic Soul Reviews
‘Control / Drive’ by Tori Kelly
“A masterclass in vocal agility and emotional depth. Kelly finds her absolute groove by steering through intricate R&B sensibilities with unmatched, breathtaking precision.” — Pop Crave
“Encore (Big Dreamers)” by Norma Jean Martine
“A high-octane blend of euphoric pop-dance energy that feels practically tailor-made for peak festival hours and late-night drives alike.” — DJ Mag
In Rotation: Tracks to Add to Your Playlist
Looking to freshen up your daily rotation? Here are the singles and deep cuts making waves this week.
Here They Go - Jonojono
highway robbery - DE’WAYNE, Lenny Kravitz
ENCORE! (BIG DREAMERS) - Norma Jean Martine
Mirror - MOD SUN
What I Do - Aaron Doucette
Therapy at the Club - FLO
Chakzilla - Chaka Khan
Jeep - Kim Petras
Hold Me In The Dark - Myles Smith
AYE - Zuchu
Fallin’ Easy - Maddox Batson
Plastic Water Bottles - Skylar Grey
Tied Up - Khalid & Lauv
Better Days - Naomi Sharon
If Only - Diamond Cafe
Satisfy - Calvin Harris, Jazzy
Predictable (Remix) - Paradise
SWEET LOVE - Stephen Sanchez
Certified Lover Girl - H3rizon
Open Arms - Little Simz, DEELA
Moment - Annie Tracy
This Is Love - D’yani, Compass
Partycrasher - Jenevieve
No Pressure - JYT
Champagne Tears - Taylor Bennett
Blue Fire - Adekunle Gold, Simi
BIG BANK! - JELEEL!
#BODYGOALS / Call Your Name - Chris Brown feat. Sexyy Red & GloRilla
Coconut Water - Trim
Water - Brandon Lott and Deener
Mother - DYLN
Drink & Smoke (feat. E-40 & Tyga) - Too $hort, E-40, Tyga
Bandi Legs (Raw) - Beenie Man
2 Step - Taylor Bennett
FEELIN IT - Flyana Boss
Game On - Little Simz, JT
Too Established/Maybelline - DreamDoll
Can I? - Rubi Rose
[PRESS] - Armani White
Polaroid - Monsieur Nov
Bed of Roses - Teyana Taylor, Wale
DOWN4ME - Lyfe Harris
MR HIM - T.I.
Motion - SAHENE
Explain Myself / Celebrate 2026 Remaster - RuPaul
Time Is Up - Saucy Santana
Hit 4 Free (feat. Faith Leazae) [Remix] - Kidd Kenn & Faith Leazae
Signal - VINCINT
In Rotation: Pick of the Week:
‘Crysalis (Coda)’ by Jenevieve
This week, we are shining a light on Jenevieve. Blending nostalgic R&B rhythms with a futuristic pop edge, her sound is uniquely her own. Her latest offering, ‘Crysalis (Coda)’, is a stunning showcase of her airy vocals and hypnotic groove. It is an atmospheric, late-night anthem that cements her status as one of the most exciting alternative R&B voices in the game right now. Don’t sleep on her catalog… she’s just getting started.
To dive deeper into these curated collections, head over to Audiomack. Whether you’re sinking into the smooth, melodic flows of Liquid Vibes, catching the undeniable heat of The A-List, or taking a moment for yourself with The Check In, plus stay in the loop of queer talent with PRISM. We’ve got your soundtrack covered. Tap in and stay connected.