Binge-Watching, Jamming, and Surviving: The Villain’s Guide to 2024
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As the year comes to a close, here’s my roundup of the moments, songs, films, and events that not only captured my attention but also left a lasting impact on our society and the future. This list has morphed more times than I can count—mostly due to my unpredictable moods and the sheer chaos of 2024—but after much deliberation, we've finally landed here. Some of these picks might resonate with you (because, let’s be real, you have excellent taste), while others might be new to you. If that’s the case, I hope you give them a try and enjoy them as much as I did. Or, at the very least, I hope they get you thinking about the moments that shaped this wild year.
Here’s a rundown of the albums that made the most noise in 2024—whether they captured my soul, made me think, or simply had me hitting repeat like a maniac. These are the records that ruled my headphones, ignited conversation, or just left a damn mark.
1. Cowboy Carter x Beyoncé
Beyoncé did the impossible—she made a country album that felt both deeply personal and universally powerful. Cowboy Carter blends her love for country with her own signature style, from soulful tracks like “16 CARRIAGES” to pop-country anthems like “RIIVERDANCE.” As a Black kid raised in the South, this album hit me on another level. It’s versatile, bold, and proof that Beyoncé can do absolutely anything. My only gripe? “DESERT EAGLE” should’ve been longer.
2. Alligator Bites Never Heal x Doechii
Doechii’s Alligator Bites Never Heal solidified her as one of the most exciting voices in rap. The album is a rollercoaster of genre-bending beats and powerful storytelling, with Doechii refusing to be confined to any box. From the introspective “DENIAL IS A RIVER” to the biting “NISSAN ALTIMA,” she proves that she’s not just a rapper, but a master of creating moments that stay with you. The Tampa native is making a serious case for one of rap’s top new voices.
3. Born in the Wild x Tems
Tems takes us through an intimate journey in Born in the Wild, an album that dives into the highs and lows of her rise to fame. Over the 18 tracks, she grapples with imposter syndrome and self-doubt, offering a window into her personal growth. Tracks like “Born in the Wild” and “Free Fall” showcase her maturity as a storyteller, while “You in My Face” stands out for its honest conversation with her inner child. Tems isn’t just growing in her career—she’s blossoming as an artist, and this album is proof.
4. GNX x Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar’s GNX is a full-throttle celebration of his genius. The 12-track album is an unpredictable ride, kicking off with the vibrant “wacced out murals” and never slowing down with the explosive “tv off.” The album blends hard-hitting rap with smooth collaborations, like his Luther Vandross-sampled track “luther” with SZA. Kendrick isn’t just rapping—he’s flexing every bit of his versatility, and GNX cements him as one of the greatest of all time. This is Kendrick at his peak, and we’re just lucky to witness it.
5. MEGAN x Megan Thee Stallion
Megan Thee Stallion’s MEGAN is a raw, unfiltered statement. The Houston rapper poured her heart into this album, navigating the aftermath of trauma, public scrutiny, and personal growth. Tracks like “Accent” (a playful country-inspired track featuring GloRilla) are filled with her signature energy, while she flexes her anime muscles on tracks like “Otaku Hot Girl” aand showing off her versality. From start to finish, MEGAN is a mix of fiery comebacks and introspective moments, proving that Megan is here to stay and is more than just a “Hot Girl” on the mic.
P.S. You’re probably wondering why no Chappell. That’s because this list is for 2024 releases—The Rise and Fall of a Midwestern Princess dropped in 2023.
Here’s a look at the singles that dominated my playlist, sparked conversations, and just made an impact in 2024. From diss tracks to emotional anthems, these are the songs that had me hitting repeat.
1. HISS x Megan Thee Stallion
THIS. IS. A. DISS. TRACK. Megan, in full snake mode, kicks off the year with venom in every line. No hook, no chorus—just bars for days as she takes down every person who’s dared to speak against her. She clearly came to "get this shit off [her] chest," and as a Hottie, I was all in. It's ruthless, scathing, and fun as hell. I found myself dissecting every line, trying to decode the shade and figuring out exactly who was getting dragged. A perfect storm for any diss-track lover.
2. 16 CARRIAGES x Beyoncé
I’m obsessed with “TEXAS HOLD ’EM,” but “16 CARRIAGES” is the real heart of Cowboy Carter for me. Beyoncé’s voice is pure bliss here, effortlessly blending country with her signature style. She takes us through her early life, navigating fame from a young age, and the song is so beautifully done that it sets the tone for the entire project. As a country lover, I was ecstatic to hear Beyoncé blend soulful, old-school country with her own essence. Honestly, I’ve always argued that Lemonade was her first country album, but this is proof she’s always had it in her.
3. Not Like Us x Kendrick Lamar
As I said, I love a good diss track, and Kendrick’s “Not Like Us” is an absolute banger. The most danceable rap diss track ever? You bet. This song took over the summer—played everywhere from bars to house parties—and it never got old. Kendrick doesn’t just drop a fire track; he still manages to deliver his usual layers of storytelling and insight while absolutely slapping. Believe I was shouting "OV-ho" at full volume for weeks after the track dropped.
4. eternal sunshine x Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande’s “eternal sunshine” is the perfect title track for her latest album, full of life, humor, and that signature airy vibe she nails every time. Ariana is the queen of blending lightness with depth, and this song feels like a warm embrace. It’s fun, clever, and makes you feel like you're sipping tea while watching the golden hour light pour through your windows. I can’t get enough of how she injects humor into her lyrics—it’s like a subtle wink to the listener that makes her music feel even more personal.
5. DENIAL IS A RIVER x Doechii
Doechii’s “DENIAL IS A RIVER” is the track that broke through the noise this year. The clever lyrics, unique storytelling, and captivating flow make it a perfect showcase of why she’s such a standout. This song is quintessential Doechii—an absolute force of nature in rap, delivering bars with such originality and style that you can’t help but pay attention. She’s carving her own lane, and this song is a testament to that.
[honorable mention] Happy For You x Dua Lipa: This song makes me so happy I could cry. It’s a heartfelt anthem about love and letting go, packed with raw emotion. The way it captures the bittersweet feeling of wanting nothing but the best for someone you’ve loved is pure magic. This song has played on repeat by the pool and just in general—it’s a beautiful reminder that growth, love, and letting go are all part of the journey.
From surprise shows to festival headliners, these performances stand out as the most memorable moments in music this year. Each artist brought their unique style and energy, leaving fans in awe and proving why they deserve the spotlight.
1. Beyoncé Bowl
Beyoncé’s performance at the Christmas Day Texans vs. Ravens game was nothing short of legendary. She flawlessly delivered Cowboy Carter, proving what the great Wendy Williams once said that “Beyoncé is the greatest performer: living or dead. yep.” From the conceptual perfection to her fierce catwalks and jaw-dropping dance breaks, Beyoncé owned that stadium like it was her house. And her vocals, especially a new, impossible vocal scale at the end of “TEXAS HOLD ’EM,” left the audience in awe. It was pure perfection from start to finish, and now more than ever, I need to see a Cowboy Carter tour—at least three times.
2. Doechii (LIVE on The Late Show)
Doechii's live performance on The Late Show was a revelation. Performing a medley from her album Alligator Bites Never Heal, she proved her place as one of the most exciting artists of the year. The set was minimal, but Doechii’s presence was magnetic, performing with two other women who were linked by elaborate braids connecting them throughout the entire set. The choreography, which she pulled together in just four days, was mind-blowing, making this one of the most impressive live performances I’ve ever seen on a late-night show.
3. Chappell Roan Lollapalooza Set
2024 was a monumental year for Chappell Roan, who went from opening for Olivia Rodrigo to headlining Lollapalooza in Chicago. Her set was a true display of her rising stardom, with a stage presence and personality that captivated the audience. What impressed me most was her ability to translate the energy and vibrancy of her studio recordings into a live performance, proving that her talent isn’t just studio magic. Chappell Roan’s ascent to the top is a testament to her unique voice and captivating charisma, and I can’t wait to see where she goes next.
4. Dua Lipa Live from the Royal Albert Hall
Dua Lipa’s Live from the Royal Albert Hall performance was a stunning display of growth, both vocally and as a stage presence. While she didn’t dive into any heavy choreography, her performance was still cinematic in its grandeur, especially with the orchestral backing of strings and horns. Her album Radical Optimism took on new depth in this setting, and her commanding stage presence proved that she’s far beyond the “Dua dancing meme” phase. This performance felt like a triumphant moment in her career, a perfect reflection of her evolution as an artist.
From animated revivals to thrilling competition reality, this year's TV landscape delivered unforgettable moments. Here are the standout shows that captivated me and kept me coming back for more.
1. X-Men '97
Marvel TV has had its ups and downs, but X-Men '97 was an undeniable triumph. For many queer and marginalized viewers and readers, the X-Men were the ultimate allegory for being on the fringes of society, and this series hits that theme with perfection. From the voice acting to the storylines and animation, everything about this show is flawless. It stayed true to the heart of the original series while pushing the boundaries of what we love about the X-Men, and I can't find a single thing to criticize.
2. Agatha All Along
I love Marvel, women, queerness, and witches—so Agatha All Along was tailor-made for me. This show was a beautiful mix of excellent set work, captivating storytelling, and powerhouse performances, featuring Kathryn Hahn, Patti LuPone, and Aubrey Plaza. “The Ballad of the Witches' Road” has become an iconic TV anthem, and I’m still not over how brilliant this show was. It restored my faith in Marvel’s TV universe and I miss getting a new episode of these women and their little token gay each week.
3. The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City/Beverly Hills
Okay, I’m breaking the rules and counting these two as one, but these two Bravo franchises absolutely delivered this year. Every episode was packed with drama, delusion, and jaw-dropping moments. Whether it was Dorit Kemsley navigating her separation news in a highway car chase lighting up a cigarette or Mary Cosby’s emotional heart-to-heart with her son about addiction, these women embodied what makes The Real Housewives so addictive. This is Bravo at its best, and yes, I’m counting them as one because I can.
4. Abbott Elementary
Let’s be real: Abbott Elementary is the sitcom savior of our time, and Quinta Bronson is the genius behind it. As someone who’s not typically a sitcom fan, I can’t deny that Abbott has become an instant classic. It balances humor with hard-hitting social issues, offering a sharp, heartwarming look at the struggles of public schools. The show humanizes teachers and reminds us just how much they do and sacrifice for their students. Huge thanks to Quinta, the cast, and everyone involved—this is easily one of the best shows of the year.
5. Survivor
Even after over 20 years on TV, Survivor continues to impress. Survivor 46 gave us memorable characters and some of the best gameplay in the show’s new era, with my personal favorite moments being the unforgettable villains and emotional breakdowns (Liz’s “I’m pissed!” moment is iconic). While Survivor 47 didn’t quite reach the heights of 46, it still delivered the blindsides, rivalries, and idol fake-outs that I love. Plus, it introduced me to Genevieve, who has quickly become one of my favorite characters. Survivor is still king in reality competition for me.
[honorable mention] The Traitors: Although not quite making the top list, The Traitors is a thrilling and twisted competition show that kept me on the edge of my seat. And I loved being able to see my old favs like Parvati Shallow be able to play another game. So if you’re into strategic gameplay, deception, and a lot of fun chaos, this is definitely worth the watch.
Here’s my roundup of the films that had me glued to my seat, left me questioning everything, or simply provided pure cinematic joy in 2024. From intergalactic epics to mind-bending thrillers, these are the movies that defined the year for me.
1. Dune: Part Two
2024 was the year of "beware the twinks," and Dune: Part Two set that into motion early on. After loving the first Dune, I was cautiously optimistic for the sequel—but my doubts were quickly dashed. With Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya leading the stellar cast, and Denis Villeneuve at the helm, Part Two surpassed every expectation. This film is a visual masterpiece, with breathtaking cinematography, an epic score, and a narrative that doesn’t just move fast—it zooms. At nearly 2 hours and 46 minutes, it’s an immersive journey that doesn’t waste a second. The storytelling and character arcs are stellar, and the sound design alone deserves its own award. This is a fucking movie.
2. Anora
Anora is a masterclass in storytelling. Mikey Madison delivers an unforgettable performance as Ani, a strong-willed exotic dancer navigating ambition, love, and heartbreak. What I didn’t expect was just how funny this film would be. Director Sean Baker perfectly balances humor with raw emotion, and the cinematography is absolutely stunning—especially the lighting, the cuts, and the clever use of bookends. The supporting cast brings even more depth to this already incredible story. But it’s the film’s tonal shift at the end that hits you like a ton of bricks, making it a must-watch that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
3. Wicked: Part One
I walked out of Wicked: Part One asking, “Has there ever been a better Broadway-to-film adaptation?” And after a few more viewings, the answer was a definitive "no." Every moment, from “No One Mourns the Wicked” to “Defying Gravity,” felt fresh, joyful, and emotionally charged. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande are the only possible choices for these roles—no debate. John M. Chu has proven to be the perfect director to bring this iconic show to the screen, staying true to its heart while adding depth and cinematic flair. And Stephen Schwartz's music, paired with an 80-piece live orchestra, elevates it all to another level. I’m obsessed—and I can’t wait for Part Two.
4. The Substance
The Substance is a bold, provocative film that pulls no punches when addressing issues of beauty standards, self-perception, and aging, particularly for women. From the first 30 minutes, you know this film is here to make you uncomfortable—and it does so brilliantly. Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley are absolutely magnetic in their roles, and the body horror elements are both grotesque and fascinating—although watching Dennis Quaid devouring a platter of shrimp was somehow the most unsettling part. This film is wild, it’s messy, and it’s impossible to forget. The Substance is a must-see for its unapologetic, off-the-wall storytelling.
5. Challengers
Zendaya and her twinks clinch another spot on my list with Challengers. This film, directed by Luca Guadagnino, is a sexy, suspense-filled ride that redefines romance and competition. The dynamic between Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O’Connor is complex and compelling, and their interactions create a perfect storm of tension and desire. The film is equal parts provocative and thrilling, with Guadagnino’s signature homoeroticism running through every frame. The camera work is playful, and the music choices are both haunting and humorous. Watching this film felt like I was experiencing a live-action tennis anime—and I loved every second of it.
6. Deadpool & Wolverine
Deadpool & Wolverine is the chaotic, action-packed joyride we needed. Not that I needed it, but I love a 2 hour long reminder of how absolutely hot Hugh Jackman is—but this film is so much more than that. It’s fun, it’s ridiculous, and it embraces the pure absurdity of comic books. Marvel absolutely crushed it with this one, showing that they can still push the limits. With amazing music choices, incredible cameos, and a creative use of the multiverse, this film stands as a comic book triumph. Director Shawn Levy, Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and the entire cast give it their all, making this one of the best Marvel films to date.
[honorable mention] Smile 2: Horror films rarely get the love they deserve, especially when it comes to awards season. While Smile 2 didn’t make my top list, it’s still worth the shoutout for its mind-bending twists and Naomi Scott’s standout performance as Skye Riley. The film's ending? Absolutely broke my brain. This twisted, unsettling sequel shows just how far the horror genre can go, and it left me equally disturbed and impressed.
These are the podcasts that kept me entertained, educated, and sometimes even laughing until I cried. Whether you want to dive into pop culture, Marvel news, or true crime, these shows had me coming back for more.
1. Fear&
It’s no secret that I’m a Hasanabi head, so naturally, his show made the list. But it’s not all politics, I promise—Hasan and his co-hosts (Will Neff, QTCinderella, and Austin Show) manage to dive into pop culture of today and past. The dynamic between them is hilarious and electric, and with segments like “Girly Pop Nation” and “America Me Up,” you’ll find yourself laughing out loud while also accidentally picking up a little knowledge here and there. Their friendship is pure gold, making this podcast a highly recommended listen.
2. The Read
I’ve been a fan of The Read since they broke down Beyoncé’s Renaissance album track-by-track, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Kid Fury and Crissle have an undeniable chemistry that makes their pop culture commentary a must-listen every week. They are unapologetically opinionated, funny, and always ready to throw some shade (when it’s deserved). What I love most is their openness about mental health and their ability to normalize those conversations, all while bringing the perfect mix of humor and shade into every episode.
3. Crash Dummies Podcast
Sometimes you just need to switch off and laugh, and Crash Dummies is perfect for that. Hosts Pat and Mike, along with some occasional guests, make fun of each other, discuss pop culture, and take absurd listener calls. It’s a no-pressure, laugh-out-loud good time that makes you feel like part of the crew. If you’re looking for a podcast that’ll give you an hour of gut-busting laughs and zero mental effort, Crash Dummies is the one for you.
4. Phase Hero
After Phase Zero collapsed, I found myself desperately searching for a new superhero podcast to fill the void. Enter Phase Hero. The podcast is hosted by comic book experts Jenna Anderson, Brandon Davis, Jamie Jarik, and Aaron Perine. Their insightful takes on the latest Marvel and DC news and their passion for the expanding world of comic book films and TV shows make this podcast a must-listen for fans of the genre. It’s like sitting in on a conversation with your most knowledgeable, funny friends who are also deep into the comic book universes.
5. The Alley
Okay, I’m self-promoting a bit here, but I have to mention The Alley, the award-winning and featured Apple New and Noteworthy podcast I co-produce. This show follows the decades-long fight for justice for eight Black men wrongfully convicted of a murder in DC in 1984. The podcast shares stories from the wrongfully accused, their lawyers, journalists, and advocates, shedding light on the ongoing battle for a pardon. It’s a powerful, eye-opening series that explores the intersection of law, race, and justice, and I’m proud to be a part of it.
1. The Year of BRAT
Charli XCX broke into the mainstream in 2024, marking a moment every queer person both feared and anticipated. Charli, a staple in queer culture, is part of a trend where queer icons eventually make their way into the mainstream—much like Tinashe and Sabrina Carpenter, who also rose to new heights this year. However, 2024 was undeniably Charli’s year, and the BRAT album and memes became a viral sensation. It swept through pop culture, politics (kamala is brat), and social media, with the slime green color everywhere. Whether people understood it or not, "brat" was inescapable.
2. Rap Beef is Back in a Big Way
Rap beefs were back with a vengeance in 2024. From Megan Thee Stallion’s diss to Nicki Minaj’s flop diss track, to the epic showdown between Kendrick Lamar and Drake (with J. Cole bowing out early), this year delivered some legendary rap drama. While female rap still reigns supreme in my heart, Kendrick Lamar’s battle with Drake brought me back to boy rap in a big way. The result? One of the greatest diss tracks of all time: Kendrick’s “Not Like Us.” A truly once-in-a-generation rap beef.
3. “Send It to Me, Rachel”
If you’ve ever desperately wanted to see something on your friend’s phone—be it a viral video, a celebrity thirst trap, or some absurd content like Jesus sighted in Ohio—then you’re probably familiar with the iconic line, “Send it to me, Rachel.” Originating from a viral TikTok trend in late 2022, Rachel Thanasoulis’ mother Colleen tearfully pleading to see “content” became an Internet sensation in 2024, creating a meme that would never die.
4. “High Body Count Hair”
Angie Katsanevas, you’re a star! For those of you who aren’t Bravo fans, Angie K became an unexpected icon in 2024 thanks to her standout moment on The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City. The phrase “high body count hair” lives rent-free in my head. You may not fully understand it, but you absolutely do at the same time. It was an iconic moment that made Angie K a rising star on the Bravo scene.
5. “This Is Going to Ruin the Tour”
Ugh, I hate giving Justin Timberlake any credit, but it feels right knowing that his downfall made this list. In 2024, Timberlake made waves after being arrested for a DUI, during which he dramatically asked the officer if they knew who he was (he didn’t LOL), followed by the now-infamous line: "This is going to ruin the tour." While I couldn’t care less about the tour, this phrase quickly became a meme that dominated social media and became a go-to comedic reference for all things inconvenient.
1. Luigi Mangione’s Standom & Government Response
In an early morning twist in New York City, United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson was murdered, but the internet’s response was less about Thompson's death and more about the glaring issues with the healthcare insurance industry. As the manhunt went on, the public rallied behind the assassin, long before the main suspect as identified as Luigi Mangione—who was, notably, quite attractive. This support for Mangione did not sit well with the government, which labeled anyone who expressed anything but condemnation as an “extremist.” and charged Mangione with terrorism. This moment sparked a real sense of class consciousness, as it highlighted the divide between the elites and the public’s growing dissatisfaction with the system.
2. The Democrat’s Defeat
2024 was a disastrous year for the Democrats: with Joe Biden’s cringe-worthy debate performance, which set the tone for Kamala Harris’s eventual downfall. Despite some early momentum, Harris’s campaign spiraled into a series of missteps, making her loss feel inevitable. The Democratic Party's obsession with maintaining a gerontocracy became painfully clear, especially when they prioritized older candidates like Rep. Connolly over younger, progressive leaders like Rep. Ocasio-Cortez. Democrats continued to miss the mark on what the people wanted: real, transformative change. Instead, they doubled down on the status quo, a major miscalculation.
3. The MAGA Civil War
In the latest drama within the pro-Trump internet community, a civil war erupted over immigration, sparked by a debate on H-1B visas. The fight quickly escalated into a larger discussion about America’s reliance on foreign tech workers, dividing the MAGA base into two factions. One side, led by president-elect Trump’s DOGE co-chair picks Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, leaned into the idea of supporting skilled foreign workers, while the other side—Trump loyalists and former GOP presidential candidates—took a more hardline approach. I questioned how long exactly the Musk and Trump fronts could last in each other’s good graces, and I guess I’ve gotten my answer,
4. Intensifying Climate
2024 saw the continuing devastation of climate change, with multiple storms and wildfires ravaging the country. The impacts were felt beyond the coastal areas, with communities across the nation suffering. As someone who grew up in North Carolina, and went to school in Boone, the tale of Hurricane Helene was particularly heartbreaking. Helene took so much from these communities and left a trail of heartbreak in its path. This followed closely on the heels of Hurricane Milton, which wreaked havoc in Florida. For many, this year marked a turning point in realizing that climate change is no longer an abstract concern but a real, daily threat.
5. America & the Middle East
Throughout the year, I’ve found myself consistently speaking out about the apartheid and genocide occurring in Palestine. The murder of countless Palestinian men, women, and children by Israel, the destruction of hospitals, and the ongoing bombardment of innocent civilians were compounded by the political persecution faced by those who criticized U.S. support of Israeli actions (add it to the Democrats’ 2024 loser tally). Despite facing backlash, I stand firm in my belief that all people deserve the chance to live freely, without the oppressive arm of foreign intervention. This is an issue that has tested my relationships but, ultimately, I can sleep at night knowing I’ve remained true to my humanity.
[honorable mention] Trump Assassination Attempt: This moment made the list for what it revealed about the state of American politics. Despite multiple assassination attempts on Donald Trump, the race remained virtually unchanged. The attempts, rather than fueling public outrage or altering his polling numbers, only underscored the polarization of American politics. In fact, Kamala Harris even gained support in some areas after the incidents, showing just how entrenched political allegiances had become. This surreal moment demonstrated the extent to which nothing—not even violence—could break the political deadlock.
A collection of my most-loved, go-to pieces this year that have seamlessly woven themselves into my daily style.
1. Betty One Pearl Necklace
My absolute everyday must-have. I can hardly leave the house without this necklace (and a couple of rings). A single freshwater pearl on a gold coin chain, it’s simple yet elegant. It’s the perfect finishing touch that elevates any outfit and makes it feel complete.
2. Los Campeones Gym Ranger Hat
I’m a big lover of hats, and this camo ranger hat from Los Campeones Gym is my latest addition. It’s versatile and pairs with just about everything. The beauty of camo is its ability to blend into any outfit effortlessly, so sorry to all my friends and followers on social for all the gym pics in the same hat for days on end.
3. COLLUSION Distressed Knit Sweater
This isn’t a sweater that is for everyone, but in the right hands it can be a wonderful addition to your closet. With its unique see-through knit paneling, it adds a bold, fashionable edge to any outfit. Whether you’re dressing down for a casual look or pairing it with a suit or even styling it for a club night, this piece is incredibly versatile and eye-catching.
4. Los Campeones Gym Red Boxer Style Short
These mesh shorts have become a staple in my workout wardrobe, combining style and function perfectly. The bold red color adds a pop of energy, while the breathable fabric is ideal for high-intensity training. They’ve quickly become my go-to for everything from gym sessions to casual streetwear.