First Listen Fridays – Samm Henshaw, Cleo Sol and More New Music (23/1/26)

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Welcome back, First Listen Friday fans, to the first instalment of 2026! We are thrilled to have you with us as our Editors, Tom and Kloe, delve into the hottest tracks of the week. It’s a new year, and some key artists have decided to kick off their year with some really strong singles. Tom tells us Misha and BeMyFiasco are worth listening to, whilst Kloe fangirls over Cleo Sol, among others. Let’s get right to it.

Tom’s Picks

Ari Lennox – High Key

After a four-year wait, Ari Lennox’s new album is finally here, the first of the new chapter of her career. Having heard a preview of some of the soundscapes on her Instagram the other day, I was excited to delve in. ‘High Key‘ is so soothing and wavey on the production front, thanks to J White Did It and Elite, but Ari is killing it here. Showcasing that ‘high keeey’, various vocal styles, and catchy songwriting, this is a masterstroke in seductive R’n’B. I can’t wait to delve into the rest of the record.

Buy the track here.

Barry Can’t Swim FT. Aster Aweke – Chala (My Soul Is On Loop)

Fresh off his BRIT Award nomination for British Breakthrough Artist, this Scottish producer is starting the year in style. That keyboard melody is stuck in your head from the get-go, before Aster Aweke’s sampled vocals and the whirring synths give this beat its mojo. Aweke’s vibrating singing matches the bass so nicely, creating a somewhat tranquil, yet also moveable number.

Buy the track here.

Arctic Monkeys – Opening Night

Today marks the 20th anniversary of this band’s iconic debut album, so it seems fitting that they drop new music. However, this is one of a stellar list of tracks from some top-tier artists for an upcoming compilation by War Child Records. I am happy to report that after the disappointment of ‘The Car‘, this is a return to form. Alex Turner sounds as great vocally as you expect, but the guitar playing of Jamie Cook and Tom Rowley, alongside Nick O’Malley on bass are top-tier. This has also been immaculately produced by James Ford, sounding clean as hell. A nice taste of what will hopefully be great music for a great cause.

Buy the track here.

Misha and BeMyFiasco FT. cocabona – Back To Myself

The second collaboration between Finnish producer Misha and Grammy-nominated BeMyFiasco is sure to get you grooving. The drum pattern and guitar playing is so mesmerising and finger-clicking good, while the singing is sensational. This is two artists bringing the best out of one another, with top-tier chemistry on display. The production additions from cocabona are the cherry on top that leaves you wanting more. But do not worry, a full project is on the way.

Buy the track here.

Charlotte Plank – crybby blue

After a relatively quiet 2025, one of the biggest vocalists in the rave scene is back to start 2026 with a bang. The heavily autotuned vocals mark a fresh approach, matching the more poppy and bass house/UKG beat. This feels just right for clubs, raves, and anywhere with a dancefloor, really. Certainly, this will be added to a few pre-drinks playlists this evening.

Buy the track here.

Kloe’s Picks

Samm Henshaw – Closer

The perpetually creative Samm Henshaw is back with his sophomore album, the humorously titled ‘It Could Be Worse‘. This marks a new chapter for the British singer-songwriter, whose cathartic and deeply heartfelt tracks have found a place in my heart. This new record is more mature, focused, and showcases a newfound mental strength in this artist’s life. ‘Closer‘ particularly stands out, showcasing his killer voice and ability to make songs that feel deeply intimate. This South London star has a lot to give.

Buy the track here.

Ragz Originale FT. Budgie – same bed

Ragz Originale is severely underrated. His newest album, ‘keepsake‘ is out, and whilst I haven’t had time to delve into the entire project yet, this song has given me a taste. Frankly, I am impressed by his smooth vocals and hypnotising melodies. Furthermore, this record has been produced by one of my favourite producers, Budgie, whose previous close collaboration with Alchemist has been the ultimate bootcamp into flipping samples. “Do you really think it’s fair what you’re doing?” the sample croons. Chefs kiss.

Buy the track here.

Cleo Sol – Nothing Is Impossible With You

My girl is back. I am one of the many who feel like this is exactly what they needed to hear to kick off their 2026. Cleo delivers her trademark slow-paced, angelic vocals with stripped-back production that is instantly calming. This is an uplifting track, perfect for when everything feels a bit much. It’s about putting your trust in God and recognising that with His guidance, everything will be alright.

Buy the track here.

Jessie Ware – I Could Get Used To This

Pure feel-good, indulgent, and hedonistic, that is how Jessie Ware’s music can best be described. Today, she has blessed our eardrums yet again with a new single that embodies that aesthetic. Paired with an epic music video where she’s cosplaying as a Greek goddess, this is a silky, luxurious slice of pop.

Buy the track here.

Precious Pepala – Love Bombs

Precious Pepala is the up-and-coming songstress to watch this year, and she has made that very clear with her new single. The Sheffield singer-songwriter offers the world a darkly seductive, alt-pop anthem that is laced with her edgy, cool-girl sound. Always relatable and exceptionally catchy, this is a strong start for the girl who is sure to shoot to superstardom soon.

Buy the track here.

Follow IndustryMe on Instagram, Threads, X, or YouTube. Press play on our First Listen Fridays playlist below to enjoy all our top picks. Don’t forget to follow the playlist on Spotify below or Apple Music.

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