BTS took home the Song of the Summer award for their hit Swim at the 52nd American Music Awards on May 25, 2026, in Las Vegas. In the same week, Olivia Rodrigo released a 13-track album featuring a collaboration with Robert Smith of The Cure, while RUEL, Infinity Song, and several other artists also delivered new projects. according to the source report, this New Music Friday is one of the busiest of the season.

BTS's "Swim" wins Song of the Summer at the 52nd AMAs — their third major accolade of 2026

The win for Swim at the 52nd American Music Awards, held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, adds to a remarkable year for BTS. As the source notes, the group also hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with Drop Dead and had another top-five hit, The Cure, at No. 5.. The Song of the Summer victory is not just a trophy; it underscores the band's sustained dominance in pop music, as the award is voted by fans and reflects cultural impact over the warmer months.

Olivia Rodrigo's 13-track album includes a Robert Smith collaboration — "What's Wrong With Me"

Olivia Rodrigo, working again with longtime producer Dan Nigro, delivers what the source calls "13 gut-wrenching indie rock and pop-informed songs." The standout track is What's Wrong With Me, featuring Robert Smith of The Cure — a pairing that bridges generations of alternative rock and confessional songwriting. The album adds to Rodrigo's string of critically acclaimed projects, following her Grammy-winning debut Sour and sophomore Guts.

RUEL's "Kicking My Feet & Screaming" marks a new partnership with EMPIRE

RUEL's sequel album is her first since signing with EMPIRE. the source reports that the album, titled Kicking My Feet & Screaming, follows her earlier single New Religion. The move to a larger independent label signals a potential shift in distribution and promotion for the Australian-born artist. Industry watchers will be curious whether this partnership expands RUEL's global reach.

Infinity Song and other notable releases — Baauer's anniversary, Jack White's new single, and more

Infinity Song, the Detroit-based alt-rock family band, released their eponymous LP this week. Meanwhile, Baauer shared a deluxe vinyl-exclusive bonus track on streaming platforms to celebrate the 13th anniversary of his debut, as noted in the source. Jack White dropped Dollar Bill, a preview of his newly announced album due July 10. jamaican dancehall star Ayetian released a scathing single Chip, and Grammy-winning North Carolina MC Rapsody collaborated with the Karabo yaMorena Choir on God Gotta Afro. The source also lists new tracks from Nipsey Hussle, Zacari, Roy Woods, Tove Lo, and Stromae.

Who decides Song of the Summer — and why the award still matters

The AMAs Song of the Summer award is voted entirely by fans, making it a direct gauge of social media buzz and streaming numbers. BTS's win, as reported, reflects their massive global fanbase (ARMY) and the enduring popularity of Swim. But the award also raises questions: does it capture genuine seasonal listening habits, or is it merely a popularity contest? The source does not provide voting data or methodology, leaving room for debate about what the award truly measures.