The Hit List

The Hit List: Amy Shark, Sam Smith, Olivia O’Brien, Almost Monday, Muse & Ellie Goulding…

By Neill Frazer · Managing Editor / Ent.Critic
Jun 27, 2026 · 2 min read

The Hit List: Amy Shark, Sam Smith, Olivia O’Brien, Almost Monday, Muse & Ellie Goulding… — Image Credit: @amyshark

featuring @amyshark @samsmith @oliviaobrien @almostmonday @museband @elliegoulding

Amy Shark – “It’s Kinda Hot”: Amy Shark makes her return with “It’s Kinda Hot,” a guitar-driven pop single that captures the essence of early romance. The song is built around bright hooks and those tiny moments that unexpectedly start to feel overwhelming. Taken from her upcoming soft pop album, set to be released on July 24 and available for pre-order now, the track showcases Shark’s talent for transforming everyday language into emotionally honest pop. Featuring lively riffs, a clear melodic lift, and her signature candid lyrics, the song remains playful without feeling superficial. “It’s Kinda Hot” keeps things simple—focusing on the initial spark of attraction before it turns into a complex emotional analysis. It’s about that look, that habit, or that oddly specific detail that suddenly feels irresistibly magnetic.

Sam Smith – “My Guy”: Sam Smith has announced their upcoming fifth album, titled “Hazel Eyes,” set for release on August 21 through Capitol Records. Smith co-produced the album alongside Simon Aldred and David Odlum, featuring 12 tracks created in collaboration with artists such as Feist, Shahzad Ismaily, and Rob Moose. Part of the recording took place at Electric Lady Studios. According to a press release, the album is described as “a heartfelt ode to the city of New York, which Sam now calls home.” To accompany the announcement, Smith has also released a new single, “My Guy,” co-written by Smith, Feist, and Ismaily, along with its music video.

Olivia O’Brien – “I Always Say I’m Leaving”: “I Always Say I’m Leaving” by Olivia O’Brien was written by Olivia O’Brien & Day Wave. It’s taken from her forthcoming album Pixie.

almost monday – “delicate”: Almost Monday has announced their new single and music video, “Delicate,” set to be released this Friday, June 26. Alongside the release, the band has also revealed their upcoming headline tour, titled THANK GOD IT’S ALMOST MONDAY, with tickets going on sale Friday, June 26 at 10 AM local time.
“Delicate” offers a fresh glimpse into the band’s upcoming second album, also titled THANK GOD IT’S ALMOST MONDAY, arriving on September 9. Building on the success of previous singles “Skinny Dip” and “No More Regrets,” the track emphasizes more storytelling and perspective while keeping the band’s signature energetic vibe.

Muse – “Hush (ft. Ellie Goulding)”: “Hush” stands out as a remarkable collaboration on Muse’s tenth studio album, The WOW! Signal, released on June 26, 2026, via Warner Records. Featuring the ethereal vocals of Ellie Goulding, the track offers a compelling blend of Matt Bellamy’s dramatic rock style with Goulding’s signature atmospheric pop sound. Co-written by Muse, Nicholas James Gale, and Rick, “Hush” is accompanied by an official visualizer that emphasizes its cinematic feel. While the album delves into cosmic themes and the quest for extraterrestrial signals, “Hush” shifts the focus inward, creating a sanctuary of silence amid the chaos of the world. It’s a song about seeking refuge in another person, highlighting the transformative power of quiet connection when everything around you is loud and overwhelming.