Yes, this year brought chaos like none other in recent history. But music saw us through it all. In the midst of a global pandemic, a racial justice reckoning, and the most nerve-wracking election in generations, we turned to the bands and artists we love for solace, for inspiration, for hope, for catharsis. Here, Pitchfork looks back at the music that got us through, with lists of the best songs, the best albums, the best videos, and more.
The albums that got us through this chaotic year, featuring Fiona Apple, Bad Bunny, Lil Uzi Vert, Phoebe Bridgers, and more
The tracks that defined this bizarre year, featuring Megan Thee Stallion, the Weeknd, Christine and the Queens, Noname, Waxahatchee, and more