Although music has always been important to our society and culture, it is now more than ever. The days of running to your nearest record shop to listen to your favorite artist’s new album are long gone, and in today’s world of streaming services, a song is at the fingertips of the listener the moment it is released. Although new music is a common joy for many, one question sparks many opinions- when is the best time for an artist to release a new project?

To avid music lovers, the term “New Music Friday” is familiar.  Also referred to as “global release day”, the phrase refers to the influx of new music that is typically released on any given Friday at midnight. These releases are usually announced far in advance, giving listeners something to look forward to over a period of time. As well as making Friday an even more exciting day of the week, the concept of a global release day allows music lovers from around the world to connect as they all receive the new release together rather than on their own national day. Many love Fridays for this reason, and view New Music Friday as a great way to end the week. However, Friday is not the only day a new song or album can be released. 

While the concept of Global Release Day has been around over the last 10 years, some artists chose to go against the grain and release albums on any day of their choosing, or even unannounced. Although most artists tend to enjoy creating a sense of anticipation for their fans, others find the thrill in releasing projects without a hint of what’s to come. One of these artists includes Kendrick Lamar, whose most recent album, GNX, was a surprise to hip hop lovers across the US. Although the album was released on a Friday (November 22), it was also released at noon, without any sense of what was to come. This exciting new release created a thrill for dedicated fans of Kendrick Lamar. Another recent release, Tyler, The Creator’s Chromakopia, may have been announced in advance, but was released on a Tuesday morning rather than . Kylie Krokus (12), states, “I like when music is released in the middle of the week- it gives me a chance to listen to it during work and school, making it a part of my daily routine.”

Regardless of when a song is released, new music keeps pop culture running, giving people from all walks of life something to connect over. Although controversy surrounds the best time to release new music, all music lovers can agree that new music is always exciting- no matter what time or day.