Exploring Helena Gao’s Musical Journey and This Week’s Top Tracks

Helena Gao, the Chinese-Danish artist behind Zara Larsson's hit album, is making waves with her own bold solo project, blending heavy bass, trance, and Mandarin vocals. Plus, check out this week's top tracks from Saul Williams, Lily Seabird, and more.

The music world is abuzz with the evolution of Helena Gao, the Chinese-Danish artist who co-wrote nine tracks on Zara Larsson’s Midnight Sun album, earning a Grammy nomination in the process. Now, Gao is stepping into the spotlight with her own solo projectshowcasing a fearless blend of heavy bass, stuttering trance, and pitch-bending vocals in both English and Mandarin.

Born in Aarhus to a Chinese mother and Danish father, Gao’s musical journey has been as diverse as her heritage. From studying classical jazz in Copenhagen to immersing herself in the club scenes of London and Shanghai, her experiences have shaped a sound that is both innovative and deeply personal.

This week, we also highlight some of the most compelling new tracks from artists like Saul Williams, Lily Seabird, and Tierra Whack.

Helena Gao’s Artistic Transformation

Gao’s musical style has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few years.

Her early single Pretty Pleasereleased in 2026, was a glittering, new-agey rhapsody with a touch of innuendo. However, her latest track, Lao Shi 老师 (which translates to “teacher”), marks a significant shift. The song’s iridescent synths and contemplative lyrics reflect a period of personal awakening and a reconnection with her Chinese identity.

“It’s more innocent than it sounds,” Gao has said about Lao Shi 老师which was written during a time of personal growth. The track’s exploration of “new positions” and “optimising pleasure” is a far cry from the sweetness of her earlier work, signaling a bold new direction for the artist.

This Week’s Must-Listen Tracks

Beyond Gao’s groundbreaking work, this week’s music scene is brimming with standout tracks that cater to a variety of tastes. Here are some of the most notable releases:

Saul Williams – Conspiracy (ft Moor Mother and Gonjasufi)

The legendary performance poet Saul Williams returns with Conspiracya riveting track that combines fortifying wisdom with an amapiano beat. The song feels like a rallying cry for a new generation of revolutionaries, making it a standout in this week’s lineup.

Lily Seabird – Election Day

Lily Seabird’s Election Day delivers a powerful ultimatum: “Love me or leave me the fuck alone.” With squalling alt-country guitar and a voice primed for a breakout in 2026, Seabird’s track is a must-listen for fans of raw, emotive music.

Yushh – Petty Vengeance

West Country dance producer Yushh brings the heat with Petty Vengeancea track designed to course through the bodywork of an aggressively souped-up hatchback. Its bass-heavy beat makes it an ideal secret weapon for festival season.

Case/lang/veirs – Accidental Tattoo

Marking a decade since their one-off album, Neko Case, kd lang, and Laura Veirs reunite for the devotional, groovy bonus track Accidental Tattoo. This heavenly collaboration leaves listeners hoping for a Volume 2.

Tierra Whack – Candle Wax

Tierra Whack’s Candle Waxfrom her new mixtape Whack’s Museumshowcases her brilliant craft with a tight, repeated vocal melody that evokes a downbeat yet tenacious mood. The track is a standout in her growing discography.

Whether you’re a fan of Helena Gao’s evolving sound or looking to discover new music, this week’s releases offer something for everyone. Stay tuned for more updates on the ever-changing music landscape.