15 Riveting Songs About People | Playlist 🎧

1. Kings of Leon, “100,000 People”

💿 When You See Yourself • 🏷 RCA • 📅 2021

Grammy-winning rock collective Kings of Leon released a new album in 2021, When You See Yourself. KOL released two promo singles simultaneously, including the people-driven “100,000 People”.  The successful offering ends up running nearly six minutes in duration.  No worries as it’s an intriguing six minutes.  The record commences with a hypnotic sound – groovy, moderately-slow paced, and poised.  It features a simple harmonic progression, which initially gives “100,000 People” a minimalistic feel.  “100,000 People” has a cool, measured energy.

Caleb Followill exhibits restraint from the onset. Even pulling back, he’s an incredibly effective front man. “100,000 People” progressively picks up more steam musically.  There’s a nice addition of some electronic sounds that are definitely unexpected from Kings of Leon.  As the instrumental picks up steam, likewise Caleb becomes progressively edgier as well.  The best section of the song is the chorus, specifically the constantly repeated “You do,” backed sweetly by an expanded sound palette.  Obviously, the lyric “You do” isn’t profound but no worries – there’s plenty of strong songwriting throughout.

Also Appears On 🔽:

🔗 🎧 People: 3BOPS No. 25 (2021)

2. Demi Lovato, “Lonely People”

💿 Dancing with the Devil… The Art of Starting Over • 🏷 Island • 📅 2021

Grammy-nominated pop artist Demi Lovato delivers an authentic, personal, and incredibly intriguing pop album with her seventh studio album, Dancing with the Devil… The Art of Starting Over.  Given the trials and tribulations she’s experienced, what better way than sharing her story with the world through her music?  The results are positive all in all, with “Lonely People” ranking among the crème de la crème of the LP.

Within the context of Dancing with the Devil… The Art of Starting Over, “Lonely People” continue to check off boxes.  What makes it such a bop? Well, there’s great production from Oak, “Downtown” Trevor Brown, and Zaire Koalo, specifically the drum programming, rhythmic guitar, and backing vocals.  Furthermore, there’s a big, soaring chorus, and as always, great vocals by Lovato. Lovato shows control on the verses while she rises to the occasion on the chorus.  Once more, she adds the cherry on top with some excellent ad-libs.

“Guess we’re all lonely people
Guess we’re all lonely people
Romeo has no sequel
Guess we’re all lonely people.”

Also Appears On 🔽:

🔗 🎧 People: 3BOPS No. 25 (2021)

3. Eric Church, “People Break”

💿 Heart • 🏷 UMG Recordings Inc. • 📅 2021

“People break people try / Things happen people cry / Someone leaves love dies / Someone changes their mind,” Grammy-nominated country standout Eric Church sings on “People Break.” “People Break” appears as the fourth track on the first of two albums he released in 2021, Heart.  “People Break” is a sincere, beautifully penned (Church and  Luke Laird), mid-tempo country ballad.

The chorus, excerpted above, continues as follows:

“Baby, I get it, I really do
But now I gotta go and do the hardest part
Break the news to a broken heart.”

In addition to fine songwriting from Church and Laird, we get great production by Jay Joyce. I love the rhythmic identity of the record, even as a ballad of sorts. Of course, Church blesses us with his lovely, expressive, nuanced vocals, unafraid to unveil some of that twang (tastefully).   Furthermore, he sings with incredibly ease, quite effortlessly. Some other highlights include the lovely instrumental interlude prior to the bridge, where lush, smooth backing vocals shine.  Also, the bridge is incredibly strong, finding Church dig in a bit more.

“And where I’m going now man, I don’t really know
This truck felt hungry and she’s chewing up this road.”

4. Selena Gomez, “People You Know”

💿 Rare • 🏷 Interscope • 📅 2020

“You were runnin’ through me like water / Now the feeling’s leavin’ me dry.”  Damn. On her 2020 studio album, Rare, Selena Gomez delivered some of the best music of her career.  The album wasn’t game changing mind you, and arguably, people who weren’t hip to her in the first place likely didn’t become hip to her now, but it marked more maturity – improvement.  Fitting the people-driven theme of this particular compendium is the seventh track on the album, “People You Know.”

“When it was good, we were on fire / Now I’m breathin’ ashes and dust.” “People You Know” is produced by a team comprised of Jason Evigan, Billboard, and Alex Hope. Now that’s some buff, production muscle right there 💪. The background is incredibly sleek, yet never too busy to crowd Gomez’s thin but colorful vocals.  As has been the case through much of Rare itself, an emotionally charged script continues. Specifically, two people have drifted apart.

“We used to be close, but people can go
From people you know to people you don’t.”

Those lines are simple but honestly, quite relatable and ultimately, quite complex.  Two lovers, who knew every intimate detail about one another eventually grow apart for various reasons and become strangers.  Just think about it 🤔.

5. Demi Lovato & Sam Fischer, “What Other People Say”

💿 Dancing with the Devil… The Art of Starting Over • 🏷 Island • 📅 2021

To refresh your memory, Demi Lovato returned with a fine seventh studio album, Dancing with the Devil… The Art of Starting Over in 2021. “Lonely People” wasn’t the sole record on the album that addresses a crowd.  Another highlight, “What Other People Say”, also does an awesome job in the department, if I do say so myself.

“What Other People Say” marked another advance single from Dancing with the Devil… The Art of Starting Over. Here, pop artist Sam Fischer joins Lovato, serving as a formidable duet partner. She takes first blood on this particular track. The resulting vocals are big and commanding – powerhouse! The falsetto that she delivers at the end of the chorus is awesome. As for Fisher, he delivers awesome vocals in his own right. They sing together on the pre-chorus and it is truly a thing of beauty. Furthermore, they join together on the chorus exhibiting exceptional vocal chemistry.

“I used to call my mom every Sunday
So, she knew her love wasn’t far away
But now I’m all fucked up out in LA
‘Cause I care more about what other people say
I used to not take chances with God’s name
But it’s been so long since I last prayed
And now I’m all fucked up and my heart’s changed
‘Cause I care more about what other people say.”

The message of this song is very appropriate – on-point! And those vocal ad-libs, well, they’re out of this world.

6. Kid Cudi, “Sad People”

💿 Man on the Moon III: The Chosen • 🏷 Republic • 📅 2020

“In the dead of the night, I have these dreams / What’ll happen to me? Will I burn out?” Obviously, the title of the song, “Sad People,” the 10^th track from Man on the Moon III: The Chosen, says it all about what Kid Cudi is feeling.  Clearly, the rapper is depressed.  Both the minor-key backdrop, produced by Cudi, Dot Da Genius, Take A Daytrip, and Dennis Cummings, and anguished lyrics confirm this depression.

He states on the second verse, “I swim in pain.”  Well, that’s a bummer.  He adds, however, “Never drown, keep my head up above the waves.”  That’s more positive – could be worse!  Another perfectly emo lyric from the Kid: “Scars on my heart, woah.” “Sad People” is definitely a vibe, albeit more of a depressed, emo vibe.

7. Ed Sheeran, “Beautiful People” (Ft. Khalid)

💿 No.6 Collaborations Project • 🏷 Atlantic • 📅 2019

“We don’t fit in well ‘cause we are just ourselves / I could use some help gettin’ out of this conversation…” Grammy winner Ed Sheeran commences his 2019 album, No.6 Collaborations Project, respectably with “Beautiful People”.  No 6 Collaborations Project marks Sheeran’s fourth studio album.  It notably follows up a lesser-known 2011 EP, 💿 No.5 Collaborations Project.  Keying in on the song at hand, “Beautiful People” is about being socially uncomfortable, awkward – not fitting in with the crowd.

Sheeran blesses the track with clear, boyish vocals, showcasing a great tone and lovely falsetto.  He sings the first verse, the initial aforementioned excerpted pre-chorus, and the catchy chorus. There’s also a post-chorus (“That’s not who we are (we are, we are, we are) / We are not beautiful”).  As for the featured guest, Grammy-nominated R&B standout Khalid, he sings the second verse and pre-chorus with his ever beautiful, distinct tone.  The production (Sheeran, FRED, Max Martin, and Shellback) is solid, if not extraordinarily ear catching. The opener could’ve used a smidge more oomph mind you, but overall, it’s a success for Ed and Khalid.

8. Florida Georgia Line, “People are Different”

💿 Can’t Say I Ain’t Country • 🏷 Big Machine • 📅 2019

On “People Are Different” (Can’t Say I Ain’t Country), early on, Florida Georgia Line throws a lot at the listener rhythmically and lyrically.  On the first verse, the ‘differences’ of people are quickly highlighted – “White collar, blue collar, hillbilly, high dollar / Hot head, pot head, non-believer, holy water.” The second verse embraces a similar script: “Left wing, right wing, jail house, freedom ring / Old school, new school, everything in-between.” On the chorus, the duo summarizes their point, which is all about acceptance and tolerance

Florida Georgia Line definitely delivers a respectable message, with their hearts in the right place.  Execution can be debated, particularly the heaviness of the twang, and arguably, the production, which is a bit heavy-handed during the biggest moments.  Still, give the Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard credit where credit is due.

Also Appears On 🔽:

🔗 🎧 12 Captivating Same & Different Songs

9. John Legend, “Ordinary People”

💿 Get Lifted • 🏷 Getting Out Our Dreams / Sony Music Entertainment • 📅 2004

Get Lifted (2004) was one of the best R&B albums of the 00s.  It arrived in a time where neo-soul was still commercial to an extent, and people embraced ‘throwback’ vibes. John Legend owns this Grammy-winning contemporary soul album through and through, flaunting his gospel-infused pipes. Filled with genuine hits, one that stands out tallest among the trees is the piano ballad, “Ordinary People.”  Folks, you won’t find many records that are classier than this one – a surefire masterpiece.

While a 🏆 Grammy win for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance wasn’t necessary to validate the elite nature of “Ordinary People,” it was definitely a bonus.  Written by Legend and 🎼✍ William Adams (aka will.i.am), John sings about being in love yet seeks to take things slow so they don’t mess up a good thing.

“We’re just ordinary people
We don’t know which way to go
‘Cause we’re ordinary people
Maybe we should take it slow
Take it slow, oh-oh, this time we’ll take it slow
Take it slow, oh-oh-this time we’ll take it slow.”

Honestly, this is a very wise perspective.  If you believe you’ve found something truly special, you should totally enjoy it, not force or rush things, and simply see where it goes.  Yeah, it could still end up disappointing (“Maybe we’ll live and learn / Maybe we’ll crash and burn”), but, enjoy the ride and see what happens with L-O-V-E.

10. Harry Styles, “Treat People with Kindness”

💿 Fine Line • 🏷 Columbia • 📅 2019

“Maybe, we can / Find a place to feel good / And we can treat people with kindness / Find a place to feel good.” YES – say that, say that!!! “Treat People with Kindness,” the exuberant, soulful penultimate record from Fine Line, is quite an unexpected surprise from Harry Styles.  The message is simple but definitely heartfelt and true to the nth degree.  The dashing Grammy winner sings sensationally, as he has throughout the course of Fine Line.  Even so, it should be noted he gets a substantial lift from his supporting choir – can I get an amen?

“Giving second chances
I don’t need all the answers
Feeling good in my skin
I just keep on dancin’.”

First and foremost, this is among the most thoughtful numbers to grace the album, even if it plays second (or third) fiddle to the likes of the untouchable “Watermelon Sugar” or the LGBTQ+ 🏳️‍🌈 gem, “Lights Up”.  Beyond its thoughtfulness, the sound (production by Jeff Bhasker) really makes the ears perk up, with its blend of 70s, socially conscious soul with cues from beloved rock collective, Queen.  The point is this is the way to sell an important message!

11. Confetti, “People Suck”

🎵 “People Suck” • 🏷 Confetti • 📅 2018

From first world problems, to taking a shot at Donald Trump (“And Hillary sucks too”), “People Suck” is nothing short of awesome.  This 2018 debut single by Confetti is surefire bop: infectious and tongue-n-cheek.  “I hate people, I hate people ‘cause people suck, man,” Confetti state on the intro, continuing, “People suck and they keep on fucking sucking.” FACTS!

After setting the tone, Confetti serve up the centerpiece, the chorus.  It’s not only fun but also gives the audience the chance to put their fists in the air and drop the bomb (or flip the bird).

“People suck, people suck, people suck…
They say what goes around comes back around
But sometimes, you get fucked
‘Cause people suck, people suck, people suck.”

The backdrop is a mix between pop, rock, and old-school hip-hop (over a dusty beat).  Perfect fuel for the fire.  The thing is, that Confetti remain relatively even keel, but the cleverness, hilarity, and truth of the lyrics pack a punch.  For good measure, throughout the course of the verses, some colorful, salty language is thrown in.

“If you walking too slow, get out the way (Get out the way)
If you smell like BO, it’s not okay (Take a shower)
I got another parking ticket, I mean, are you fucking kidding?
Better get that stupid shit out of my face, man.”

 12. Robert John Ardiff, “People Talking”

💿 Between the Bed and Room • 🏷 RJA • 📅 2018

“People talking / People strange / Crack the code to / The female brain.” Singer/songwriter Robert John Ardiff penned a truly radiant ballad with “People Talking.” The song appears on the Modern Love: Season 1 soundtrack (music from the Amazon original series) as well as Ardiff’s 2018 album, Between the Bed and Room.  Did I already mention it’s radiant?

What makes “People Talking” so radiant, you ask? First and foremost is the sweet, intimate sounding vocals by Ardiff.  He sings expressively in nuanced fashion.  His upper register, specifically his falsetto is incredibly ripe and honestly, to die for.  Beyond those awesome vocals, there’s incredibly poetic and thoughtful songwriting, as excerpted above and below.

“If you want it, play the game
If you feel it, try to stay
I’ve been wondering will you stay the same
People talking
People change.”

Ardiff keeps the language simple, but the words carry weight, nonetheless, amplified further by his elite performance.  Finally, the production – the overall sound – makes “People Talking” a joy to partake of.  Nothing too crazy – mostly standard instrumentation with guitar, bass, drums, and some subtle synths.  Ultimately, “People Talking” is a must hear gem.

13. Slipknot, “People = Shit”

💿 Iowa • 🏷 The All Blacks U.S.A., Inc.• 📅 2001

According to Corey Taylor and Grammy-winning metal collective Slipknot, “People equal shit.” Now that, indeed, is ‘some shit’ right there 😂…  Anyways, the aggressive, wild shouted metal cut appears as second track (and first full-length track) from the band’s 2001 album, Iowa.  Honestly, “People = Shit” is a record you just have to hear in order to fully experience it.  The title isn’t subtle in the least, but the record is even more overt – quite wild to say the least.

As to be expected from a Slipknot record, particularly one from the earlier part of their career, the sound makes it clear the band ‘doesn’t give two shits or one fuck.’  The guitars are distorted and noisy, the rhythm is crazy, and the vocals by Corey Taylor are aggressive to the nth degree.  The sound is B-R-U-T-A-L, and we wouldn’t have it any other way! Lyrically, Taylor is bold and unapologetic, dropping bombs (f-bombs) freely.  “Come on down and see the idiot right here,” he ‘sings’ on the first verse, continuing, “Too fucked to beg and not afraid to care.” Woo.  Later, he adds, “I feel like a wound like I got a fucking gun against my head,” before showing of more of his IDGAF attitude when he asserts, “Everybody hates me now, so fuck it.” Of course, one of my personal favorite lines, other than the titular lyrics, is when Taylor states, “Contagion, I’m sitting t the side of Satan.” “People = Shit” is still one of the hardest joints you’ll ever hear.

14. George Ezra, “Pretty Shining People”

💿 Staying at Tamara’s • 🏷 Sony UK • 📅 2018

In 2018, deep-voiced British singer-songwriter George Ezra released an impressive sophomore album with Staying at Tamara’s.  One of the best moments from the album arrives at the top with standout “Pretty Shining People”. Here, Ezra shows off those distinct, powerful, and robust vocals in all their glory. Beyond the voice, the narrative songwriting is excellent – incredibly fun as well as thoughtful.

On the first verse, Ezra struggles with fear and change. On the second, he focuses on “what ifs.” The pre-chorus comes from the perspective of his friend, Sam:

“He said: ‘Why, why, what a terrible time to be alive
If you’re prone to over thinking and
Why, why, what a terrible time to be alive
If you’re prone to second guessing.”

Another pro is the production, shining brightest on the powerful, enthusiastic chorus.  During this particular section, there is heavy use of acoustic guitars, and pummeling drums. Also, worth noting, melodically, it’s simply beautiful.

Also Appears On 🔽:

🔗 🎧 People: 3BOPS No. 25 (2021)

15. The Impressions, “People Get Ready”

💿 People Get Ready • 🏷 Geffen • 📅 1965

“People get ready, there’s a train a-comin’ / You don’t need no baggage, you just get on board.”  Curtis Mayfield is considered an iconic soul musician and songwriter.  One of his greatest songs is “People Get Ready,” which he recorded with The Impressions. The beloved chorus of the record, excerpted above, continues as follows: “All you need is faith to her the diesels hummin’ / Don’t need no ticket, you just thank the Lord.”  Those lyrics are absolutely perfect.

Stylistically, “People Get Ready” is a mix of everything.  At its core, it’s a protest soul anthem, perfectly tailored to the turbulent 60s and the Civil Rights Movement.  Also, however, “People Get Ready” also became a beloved gospel song, with numerous references to spirituality.  Mayfield cites faith on the chorus, and it continues on throughout the verse.  “So, people get ready for the train to Jordan,” he sings, later singing, “There ain’t no room for the hopeless sinner / Who would hurt all mankind just to save his own / Have pity on those whose chances grow thinner / For there’s no hiding place against the kingdom’s throne.” Man, that’s deep! Of course, Bob Marley famously covered portions of “People Get Ready” in his own masterpiece, “One Love / People Get Ready – Medley”.  There’s no more fitting way to conclude this people-centric list.