Melanie Martinez has claimed the top spot in this week’s fan-driven music poll with her unexpected new single, “POSSESSION.”
In a survey launched by Billboard on Friday, January 30, enthusiasts were asked to identify their favorite arrival from a crowded field of new releases. Martinez emerged as the definitive winner, securing a massive 80% of the total vote.
The track arrived during a busy week for the industry, which also featured fresh material from Bruce Springsteen, Noah Kahan, Cannons, and Labrinth. Despite the stiff competition, Martinez’s latest offering achieved a landslide victory.
According to promotional materials, “POSSESSION” explores the unsettling ways that control and power can be disguised as affection. The song is described as a haunting and satirical piece that highlights Martinez’s distinctive artistic fusion of dark whimsy and sharp social commentary.
Lyrically, the song tackles the complexities of an unhealthy relationship. During the chorus, Martinez sings: “Baby, I’m your possession, handle me like a weapon/ Gaslight me right, tell me, ‘Keep quiet’/ I’ll go along, di-di-dum/ Put me up like a prize, I’ll be a good housewife/ You won’t see me cry when women come by.”
“POSSESSION” marks the first glimpse into Martinez’s forthcoming studio album. It serves as the successor to her 2023 project, Portals, which enjoyed a two-week run at No. 1 on the Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart and peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200.
The artist recently wrapped a busy 2024, which included her ambitious arena-spanning “Trilogy Tour” and a high-profile performance at Lollapalooza.
Following far behind Martinez in the poll were Bruce Springsteen’s “Streets of Minneapolis,” which earned 8% of the vote, and Cannons’ “Starlight,” which garnered 6%. Noah Kahan’s “The Great Divide” rounded out the top contenders with 3%.
Weekly Poll Results:
- Melanie Martinez, “POSSESSION”: 80%
- Bruce Springsteen, “Streets of Minneapolis”: 8%
- Cannons, “Starlight”: 6%
- Noah Kahan, “The Great Divide”: 3%
