Spotify Wrapped 2022 Recap

Story posted December 6, 2022 in CommRadio, Arts & Entertainment by CommRadio Arts & Entertainment Department

It is officially Spotify Wrapped season!

Spotify Wrapped gives every Spotify user their listening statistics throughout the year. Here is some insight on what members of our CommRadio Arts & Entertainment were listening to this year.

Top Song: “Any Other Way” - Tomberlin
Top Artist: Peach Pit
Minutes Listened: 24,450

This year’s Spotify Wrapped was amazing. I was super happy with my top artists and songs this year. I listened to way too much Peach Pit this year, listening to almost 2,500 minutes worth of their music. This makes perfect sense to me since I saw them live  twice this year, and they are without a doubt my favorite band of all time.

Other artists on my top five this year were Gigi, who had three out of my five most listened to songs of the year, Tomberlin, who has my most listened to song of the year as well as my fourth most listened to song, Wet Leg, who I discovered this year and absolutely fell in love with their music, and Noah Cyrus, who released an amazing album this year.

All five of these artists were absolute standouts of the year for me, and I was happy to see that they were in fact my most listened to artists.

I listened to “Any Other Way” by Tomberlin 150 times this year, which made sense since it is an incredibly relaxing song that I listened to all the time while walking to classes. Her song “Stoned,” which was my fourth most listened to song, had a similar vibe and I truly loved listening to both songs of hers this year.

Gigi, who had my most listened to song last year, made three more incredible tracks this year that I absolutely overplayed. She is quickly becoming one of my favorite artists of all time, and I can’t wait to hear more new music from her.

Overall, I am incredibly happy with my Spotify Wrapped this year, and can’t wait to listen to a whole lot more new music next year! - Jack Freiser

Top Song: “Me and Your Mama” - Childish Gambino
Top Artist: 5 Seconds of Summer
Minutes Listened: 20,592

I’ll be honest; I found my top song off of TikTok back in 2021. Call me a fake Childish Gambino fan, but my love for “Me and Your Mama” is anything but fake.

Gambino’s longing voice combined with the dreamy beginning and electric main portion of the track creates some of the best sounds to ever hit my ears. I think I float a little bit every time the tone of the song switches.

It may have faded from TikTok’s trending audios, but it hasn’t faded off of my playlists and won’t for a long time to come.

My top artist was 5 Seconds of Summer, which I’m not surprised about. Their new album, “5SOS5” was on repeat for me (and probably will continue to be). They’ve been my top artist for the past two years. - Chloe Rey

Top Song: “Boyfriends” - Harry Styles
Top Artist: Taylor Swift
Minutes Listened: 25,545

This is probably the most embarrassing Spotify Wrapped I have ever had.

This year has been crazy busy for me. Don’t get me wrong, I love being busy. But unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time to listen to as much music as I wanted. Not sure if anyone else is like this, but when I listen to music, I like to become one with the music.

I want to listen to all the instruments, lyrics and vocals. The only way I could do that this year is through the artists I am already obsessed with and social media, specifically TikTok.

I am a loud and proud Harry Styles fan. When “Harry’s House” dropped this past year, I lost it. The album flows so poetically, both musically and lyrically. It is an emotional rollercoaster.

I am confused by Taylor Swift being my top artist this year. Of course, there is nothing wrong with this. I thought I listened to other artists more than her, but again, I am not mad. Swift also released another album, “Midnights,” in 2022. I don’t remember listening to the album that much but again, she has a huge discography.

Maybe next year I will take more time to listen to find music I truly enjoy instead of following along with the trends. - Emily McGlynn

Top Song: “New Romantics”- Taylor Swift
Top Artist: Taylor Swift
Minutes Listened: 27,649

I promise I listen to music other than Taylor Swift. That said, she is solely responsible for 23% of the minutes I listened to this year.

I can’t be ashamed, though, “New Romantics” is witty, energetic and bold; simply put it’s a banger and a half. Even while I’m not listening to this perfect pop song while driving with the windows down, I feel like I am.

Artists like Bleachers, Lorde, Phoebe Bridgers and Beyoncé were responsible for many of my top songs but never stood a chance at putting up the same minutes as Dr. Swift in my household. - Sophia D’Ovidio

Top Song: “Hell N Back” - Bakar
Top Artist: Steve Lacy
Minutes Listened: 33,723

I was not expecting this to be my top song, at all.

However, obviously I enjoyed it. “Hell N Back” is a great song to listen to if you’re walking, if you want to sing your heart out, if you’re driving and if you’re studying. It was one of those songs that I knew I could turn on during any mood: happy, sad, bored, or tired. It was definitely a go-to song in my playlists this year.

Before this song, I had never listened to any of Bakar’s music, but after finding it I have listened to many of his songs. His album, “Will You Be My Yellow?” is one of my favorites to play, which is the album that contains “Hell N Back.” Bakar is similar to Steve Lacey’s vibe, who is my top listened to artist of the year.

Steve Lacy released “Gemini Rights” in the summer of 2022 and after that I could not stop listening to him. I did a deep dive into Lacy’s discography, but upon reflection, “Mercury” from “Gemini Rights” is definitely my favorite.

Throughout the year, I shared “Hell N Back” with so many of my friends and family and have never heard bad things. Long story short, I would go to “Hell N Back” to keep listening to this song. - Natalie Simone

Top Song: “As It Was” - Harry Styles
Top Artist: Taylor Swift
Minutes Listened: 61,609

I was not surprised by my top artist, but my top song shocked me.

I looped “As It Was” as a single and then only listened to Harry’s House for a solid two months. I love the simple yet catchy lyrics and the bells during the last chorus.

I knew Taylor Swift would be my top artist: there are 10 albums to choose from for all different kinds of moods. No matter what I was feeling, there was a Taylor Swift song to help me along the way. - Adrianna Gallucci

Top Song: “30/90” - Andrew Garfield, Vanessa Hudgens, Joshua Henry, Alexandra Shipp, and the tick, tick…BOOM! Original Motion Picture Cast
Top Artist: Taylor Swift
Minutes Listened: 42,799

Stop the clocks… I listened to the “tick, tick… BOOM!” soundtrack way too much this year. It’s no surprise that “30/90” is my number one track, with “Therapy” coming in second and “Louder Than Words” at third.

“30/90” is, in my humble opinion, one of the best numbers in movie musical history. Lin-Manuel Miranda put together my dream cast for his big-screen adaptation of Jonathan Larson’s lesser-known musical, and blessed me with the knowledge that Andrew Garfield can sing.

“30/90” is not only extremely catchy, but a beautifully candid look into Larson’s inner struggle with his attempts at creating something meaningful before his time runs out.

The lyrics are so relatable to me, especially the line “The world is calling / It's now or Neverland / Why can't I stay a child forever?”

Sometimes college can be a lot, and listening to this song reminds me that everyone goes through the process of wanting to accomplish something great in their lives, even if it’s extremely stressful sometimes. - Kaitlyn Murphy

Top Song: “Blossom” - Coletta
Top Artist: Coletta
Minutes Listened: 19,985 minutes

Is “Blossom” a straight banger? Yes. Am I surprised it is my most listened to song? No.

Standing in my top five bands of all time, Coletta gets the psychedelic post-hardcore fusion just right to make some wonderful chaotic tranquility. “Blossom” is their most recognizable song with its xylophone-esque intro and phenomenal representation of inner turmoil.

Chances are if you have even the faintest recollection of Coletta, it is probably because Spotify (or fanatic friend) played this unhinged bop. - Luca Miceli

Top Song: “Ex-Wives” - Six: The Musical (Studio Cast Recording)
Top Artist: Eminem
Minutes Listened: 26,325

So I feel like this is kind of confusing, right? My top song is from a musical and my top artist is Eminem, a rapper who by the way is my number one for the second year in a row and I am in the top 2% of his listeners.

I first discovered “Six: The Musical” at the end of 2021. I am a big English history nerd so naturally I was attracted to the album as a whole and it’s apparent I became in love with it.

Eminem has been one of my favorite artists since my mom first played me his “Recovery” album when it dropped in 2010. Eminem is one of those artists that has such an elaborate discography that I can’t seem to get enough or get tired of. Next year, I think I’m going to try to get in his top 1% of listeners. - CheRanda Hammond

Top Song: “I Don’t Want to Talk” by Wallows
Top Artist: Tyler, the Creator
Minutes Listened: 14,588 minutes

I am so satisfied with my top song and top artist this year.  However, I was not expecting my minutes listened to be so low. 14,588 minutes? So disappointing of me.

My top song is “I Don’t Want to Talk” by Wallows, and although I don’t remember listening to it abundantly, I am not surprised by the result. I think I listened to it so much because it not only has amazing instrumentals, but I also got to see Wallows in concert this past summer so I was a little obsessed for a while.

Naturally, since he’s one of my favorite artists, Tyler, the Creator makes sense as my top artist of 2022. He took this position in my “Spotify Wrapped” last year as well.

I don’t think I will ever get sick of Tyler, as he is consistently making unique and cohesive music. “SWEET / I THOUGHT YOU WANTED TO DANCE” by Tyler, the Creator was my second most listened to song - absolutely no surprise there. It will always be the best vibe with its flawless instrumentals, lyrics and vocals. - Cassie Baylis

Top Song: “Greek Tragedy” by The Wombats
Top Artist: Quinn XCII
Minutes Listened: 32,566

I was surprised with my top song when this year's Spotify Wrapped came out. Who knew I listened to the song “Greek Tragedy” so much this year? Not me!

I discovered the song a few years ago when I was surfing Spotify and saw it in my Discover Weekly. I was obsessed after my first listen and immediately added it to one of my playlists.

Quinn XCII being my top artist didn’t surprise me in the slightest. I’ve had his 2021 album “Change of Scenery II” on repeat since it came out (I’m literally listening to it as I’m writing this) and will never get tired of it. There’s just something about the storytelling in his lyrics and the fun melodies that will bring me back to it every time.

I highly recommend everyone give Quinn XCII’s music a listen and stay tuned for his fifth studio album, “The People’s Champ,” coming out on January 27, 2023. - Morgan Brown

Top Song: “Hate Me” - Trippie Redd, YoungBoy Never Broke Again
Top Artist: Trippie Redd
Minutes Listened: 17,382

This year, to my surprise, I had a bit of a rap takeover. Trippie Redd’s 2019 album “A Love Letter To You 4” was one of my favorites at the time, and a lot of the rap hits from prior years had resurfaced in my queue in 2022.

While I was also rather shocked with my top song, I know that I played “Hate Me” far more than any other rap song or song from the album. The beat is incredibly catchy, and playing it on repeat is not tiring but mesmerizing.

This year I definitely switched up from listening to predominately rock, and instead reverted back to the comforting songs of my teenage years. - Rachel Fisher


Jack Freiser is a third-year majoring in telecommunications. To contact him, email jef5614@psu.edu.

Chloe Rey is a first-year majoring in telecommunications. To contact her, email ckr5449@psu.edu.

Emily McGlynn is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email esm5378@psu.edu.

Sophia D’Ovidio is a second-year majoring in digital and print journalism. To contact her, email sgd5184@psu.edu.

Natalie Simone is a first-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email nvs5790@psu.edu.

Adrianna Gallucci is a first-year majoring in journalism. To contact her, please email amg7989@psu.edu.

Kaitlyn Murphy is a first-year majoring in digital and print journalism. To contact her, email kvm6255@psu.edu

Luca Miceli is a first year student majoring in telecommunications. To contact him please email lfm5592@psu.edu.

CheRanda Hammond is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To Contact her, email clh5932@psu.edu.

Cassie Baylis is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email ceb6085@psu.edu.

Morgan Brown is a third-year majoring in digital and print journalism. To contact her, email mkb6529@psu.edu.

Rachel Fisher is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism.  To contact her, email rlf5481@psu.edu.

About the Contributors

Emily McGlynn's photo

Emily McGlynn

Third-year / Broadcast Journalism

Emily McGlynn is a third-year from Birmingham, Michigan majoring in broadcast journalism at Penn State. She is the Co-General Manager alongside Alex Rocco and Dylan Price. She is involved in the news, arts and entertainment, sports and production department. In the news department, she is one of the news producers. She frequently writes reviews for the Arts Department as well. Listening to music, watching movies, and staying updated with news and pop culture are some of her favorite things to do. To contact her, email her at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Jack Freiser's photo

Jack Freiser

Third-Year / Telecommunications

Jack Freiser is a third-year student in the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications at Penn State University studying telecommunications. He is very passionate about both music and film. He aspires to impact the music business as a successful A+R by signing artists who will be culturally relevant and will leave an impact on the world, and through keeping a strong relationship with the artist and their team. Email him at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

Sophia D'Ovidio's photo

Sophia D'Ovidio

First-Year /

Sophia D’Ovidio is a first-year from Allentown, New Jersey. She is now a communications (undecided) major at Penn State University. Sophia intends on pursuing a career in journalism. Sophia writes for the CommRadio Arts department.

Rachel Fisher's photo

Rachel Fisher

2025 /

Rachel Fisher is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. She is the DJ Coordinator of the Arts and Entertainment Department and an involved member, focusing on music and TV news. She is from Ocean, New Jersey, and is interested in singing, food, music, and audio production.  Follow her on Instagram @rachelfisherrr_

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CheRanda Hammond

Third Year / Broadcast Journalism

CheRanda Hammond is a third-year majoring in Broadcast Journalism with minors in sports studies and marketing. She is a first-year member of CommRadio and After The Whistle and a second-year member in Penn State Sports Night. I am involved in Penn State’s THON with the organization FOTO. She is also a member of Minorities in Sports: Next and Association for Women in Sports Media national and Penn State Chapter.

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Adrianna Gallucci

Sophomore /

Adrianna Gallucci is a sophomore majoring in broadcast journalism and is one of CommRadio’s New Member Coordinators. She is also a broadcaster, journalist, podcaster and talk show guest. In addition, Adrianna is also a part of PSSN, TDAY Sports and AWSM. She hosts her own independent podcast, She’s All Bat: A New York Mets podcast. She is a huge Mets and Rangers fan and will always talk about pro wrestling. Adrianna wants to work in MLB, NHL or WWE as a journalist or an anchor. You can find her on Twitter at @agallucci17 or email her at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

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Kaitlyn Murphy

Freshman /

Kaitlyn Murphy is a first-year student at Penn State majoring in digital and print journalism. She is a member of the Arts and Entertainment Department of CommRadio and is passionate about reviewing films, television shows, and music. Follow her on twitter at @kaitlynmurph and email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) with any inquiries.

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Cassie Baylis

Third Year /

Cassie Baylis is a third-year broadcast journalism student attending Penn State University. She minors in English. This is Cassie’s first year in CommRadio, as she transferred to PSU this year. She is a member of the Friday CommRadio Newscast, and she writes for the Arts & Entertainment department. Cassie enjoys music and ranting about the plot of books she is reading. To contact her, email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

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Morgan Brown

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Morgan Brown is a third-year student at Penn State University majoring in digital and print journalism. She is a part of the arts department at CommRadio where she enjoys writing listicles and other editorial and opinion pieces. Outside of CommRadio, Morgan serves as Penn State’s Campus Content Manager for the Bumble Honey program where she creates content for social media, performs marketing stunts, and overall attempts to drive more downloads and use of the app Bumble on Penn State’s campus. Morgan is also a part of the Student Minority Advisory and Recruitment Team (S.M.A.R.T.) where the goal is to help recruit and retain underrepresented students to Penn State University. Morgan’s career goal is to work for either a travel or fashion magazine writing articles or creating social media content.

Natalie Simone's photo

Natalie Simone

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Natalie Simone is a first-year majoring in broadcast journalism. She is from Cohasset, Massachusetts where she graduated from Cohasset High School. Simone is a member of the news, arts and entertainment, and production departments of CommRadio. She is responsible for a weekly newscast, a weekly talk show, called The CommRadio Table, a weekly DJ set, along with news and arts articles.

Luca Miceli's photo

Luca Miceli

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Chloe Rey's photo

Chloe Rey

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Chloe Rey is a first-year majoring in telecommunications. This is her first semester in CommRadio in the Arts and Entertainment department. Other than CommRadio, she is a member of Penn State’s Student Programming Association. To contact her, email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).