World Music Day Special – From Breakout Hits to Hidden Gems, Here’s the Music We’ve Loved So Far This Year

Not every song needs a chart-topping run or a viral dance challenge to make an impact. Some tracks find their audience slowly, slipping into playlists, soundtracking long commutes, late-night drives, and moments that don’t always make it to social media.
This World Music Day, we’re looking at five songs that have managed to stand out in a year overflowing with releases. Different in sound and style, each of them offers something worth returning to long after the first listen.

1. Lipstick
Sung, composed, and brought to life by Adnan Sami, Lipstick arrives with the confidence of an artist who understands exactly what makes a song memorable. Built around an infectious melody and polished production, the track effortlessly blends contemporary pop sensibilities with the musical richness listeners have come to associate with Sami’s work. What makes Lipstick particularly engaging is its ability to feel light-hearted without losing sophistication. It’s catchy without trying too hard, making it the kind of song that sneaks back into your head hours after you’ve heard it. In a year crowded with releases, Lipstick stands out by simply being fun, stylish, and irresistibly replayable.

2. Maskara
Composed by A.R. Rahman and sung by Vedang Raina and Nilanjana Ghosh Dastidar, Maskara is the kind of track that rewards repeat listens. Atmospheric and immersive, it showcases Rahman’s ability to create rich, layered soundscapes while retaining an emotional core. The song carries a cinematic quality that feels both timeless and contemporary, making it one of the more distinctive releases of the year.

3. Mashooqa
Composed by Pritam and sung by Raghav Chaitanya and Mahmood Ruaa Kayy, Mashooqa proves once again why romantic melodies continue to find an audience. The track strikes a balance between modern production and classic Bollywood charm, resulting in a song that feels instantly familiar. Its easy-going energy and memorable hook make it an effortless addition to any playlist.

4. Arzu
Sung by Noor, KHAN, and Madhurxo, and composed by Noor and KHAN, Arzu is a reminder that simplicity can often be a song’s greatest strength. Built around heartfelt vocals and understated production, the track leans into emotion without becoming overly dramatic. The result is a song that feels intimate, reflective, and quietly powerful.

1. Qinniya Soni
Created by QARAN and featuring vocals by Ash King, Qinniya Soni has all the ingredients of a song that refuses to stay confined to a single mood or setting. Equal parts romantic and celebratory, it captures the chaos and excitement of modern love with infectious energy. The track’s blend of contemporary production, memorable hooks, and wedding-season vibrance makes it instantly engaging. Whether heard on a dance floor, during a road trip, or through headphones on a quiet evening, Qinniya Soni has the kind of repeat value that keeps listeners coming back.