The depth and complexity of Taylor Swift's lyrics provide a rich tapestry for interpretation, leading to ongoing debates and discoveries within her discography. Here's the Dukes' guide to prepare for listening to her newest album, “The Tortured Poets Department.”

The annual Purple Reign music festival featured student bands, a dj, a student a capella group and headliner Dayglow. Community and togetherness were through lines for the event. 

Not a Saint, an indie funk-rock band made of JMU students, is coming out with a new song and EP. This being their first studio release, the band members have worked to maintain their status as well as their student work.

Conan Gray put his heartbreak in writing and sent it right to listener's ears in the form of his third studio album, “Found Heaven.” The album was released on Friday consisting of dance tunes and classic Gray piano ballads with an ’80s production twist.

As temperatures being to rise in the valley, songs begin to sound even sweeter. Here are the best albums to soundtrack your Shenandoah Spring. 

The University Program Board (UPB) holds an annual competition to determine which student bands will open for the headliner at the Purple Reign festival. This year, South House and Von Berger will open for Dayglow.

After four years since her last album, “Positions,” Ariana Grande released her uptempo, mature album “Eternal Sunshine.” The album ranked No. 1 on the Billboard 200 post release, making this the sixth time Grande has accomplished this impressive feat. 

The MACROCK music festival returns to Harrisonburg on April 5 and 6. The event will feature sets from 60 different bands at venues downtown.

Located 25 minutes away from JMU, Sill & Glade Cabin operates as a studio, a photo location, a yoga studio and more. Local artists, including JMU students have recorded music at the studio, which is placed in a scenic part of Shenandoah Valley.

‘COMING HOME’ is USHER’s ninth studio album and debuted prior to the artist’s halftime performance at the Super Bowl on Feb. 11. With a tour on the horizon, this project is both nostalgic and revealing for the now independent artist. 

JMU alum band Palmyra played a set in a cave at the Grand Caverns’ new Subterranean Sound series. The series debuted earlier this month, and it is the first phase in several ventures planned to revitalize the area as a venue space.

Junior media arts and design (SMAD) major and music industry minor Grace Lastova released her latest single, “Lovesick,” on Jan. 20. With dreams of moving to Los Angeles after graduating, she looks to study in the city this summer.

Local “discodelic space funk” band The Norms played a set at Restless Moons Brewing in Staunton, Virginia, on Friday. The group consists of two JMU faculty members, with philosophy professor Mark Piper on drums and adjunct art professor Dan Hall on guitar. 

Isaac Weissmann committed to the JMU 2020 freshman class after seeing the Marching Royal Dukes perform in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Upon his entry, the widespread pandemic made for an abnormal semester, stripping Weissmann of band performance opportunities until the spring.

Nicki Minaj released her new album, “Pink Friday 2” on Dec. 8, as a continuation to her first album, “Pink Friday,” which was released in 2010. Reviewer Mallory Evans writes “Minaj is a songwriting and musical genius who unites her profound compositions with the ever-evolving socio-cultural landscape of the 21st century.”

In AJR's fifth studio album, the brothers explore the hardships and changes that come along with their coming of age. Created in the midst of grief from their father’s passing, “The Maybe Man” is some of the group's most impressive work to date. 

“Equal Strain On All Parts” is Jimmy Buffet's final studio album following his passing in September. Fans can expect the classic ol' Jimmy on the project, with upbeat instrumentals and relaxing lyrics. 

"1989 (Taylor's Version)" raises the bar for Taylor Swift's re-recordings, reviewer Kaiden Bridges writes in her review of the album. Naming it the second-best re-recording so far, Bridges says the album manages to show Swift's growth while still embodying the music's original feeling.

After last year's controversy over Ticketmaster's handling of tickets for Taylor Swift's "The Eras Tour," people interested in buying tickets for various live performance have noticed little improvement. JMU music industry instructor Mikael Glago weighs in on the best path forward for making tickets to concerts more accessible.

At Late Night Breakfast on Thursday, JMU's University Program Board announced that music artist, Yung Gravy, will be headlining the Homecoming Concert this month. Students share their expectations for the concert and a concert coordinator tells the process of selection. 

After being accused of worshiping the devil and time spent trolling her fanbase online, Doja Cat returns with her fourth studio album, "Scarlet." Doja pushes the boundaries of the pop genre with the project.

Shady Trace, a band consisting of former and current JMU students, is set to perform Friday night. This will be the first time a JMU Underground Sound performance will be listed among the Family Weekend festivities.

After working with artists like Celine Dion, Taylor Swift and Shania Twain, Miguel Perez is now working as a visiting assistant dance professor at JMU. Perez, who has danced since he graduated high school, is teaching classes on jazz musical theatre style and modern dance and is working on a production that will be staged at JMU in December.

The Steel Wheels, originally formed in 2005, is a Harrisonburg-based band that has made a name for themselves in the folk scene. The band recently held the 11th annual Red Wing Music Festival in western Virginia. 

"GUTS," Olivia Rodrigo's sophomore album, comes off of the major success of her first album "SOUR" in 2021. Leaning into her rock edge, Rodrigo shows signs of maturity in her production and lyrics on the new project.  

Contemporary jazz musician Laufey released her third album, "Bewitched," on Sept. 8. The album, which features collaboration with the Philharmonia Orchestra, has a jazz-pop sound and is described by reviewer Mateo Csernecky as "a love letter to the romantic jazz genre." 

Student band Cartwheels debuted its first single, "Palace of Wonder" over the summer and plans to release a second single at the end of September. The band, whose members all met as students at JMU, plans to move to Athens, Georgia, where they hope to pursue a full time music career.

Following the artist's 2020 debut album, "Jaguar," R&B artist Victoria Monét  delivers a respectful sequel, "Jaguar II." Released Aug. 25, the star-studded project combines live instrumentation, strong wordplay and varied production styles.

After graduating from JMU as a political science major in 2017, Maddie Lenhart is set to release her first single, “Sober” in early September. The up and coming country artist discusses her move to Nashville, how JMU shaped her career choices and the path that got her to where she is today.

This summer, Harrisonburg has played host to the Levitt AMP Music Series, a project by the Levitt Foundation to promote community development through music. The series hosts music of diverse genres and works to utilize underused spaces to help bring attention and diverse cultures to underprivileged communities.

In his review of Taylor Swift's "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)" Morgan Blair calls the project "the best re-recording Swift has done thus far." According to Blair this re-recording along with Swift's past two re-recorded albums "have proven that [Swift's] music, really, is timeless."

'Car Keys,' released on June 30, is the latest collaboration from Brazilian DJ Alok and American singer-songwriter Ava Max. While the track furthers the resurgence of the "trance" sub-genre, it stands out for the wrong reasons.

In his review of Bob Dylan's new compilation album "Shadow Kingdom," culture editor Evan Moody says the album "provides like no other." The album centers around many themes including love, vices and time.

As the semester winds down, staff writer Gracie Brogowski looks at the most anticipated upcoming summer concerts of Virginia. Alicia Keys, Paramore and Chris Stapleton are just a few of the names mentioned.

Culture Editor Morgan Blair covers Mary Kate Connor, a committed JMU student who competed on the latest season of "The Voice." Connor made it to the Playoffs round on Blake Shelton's team before her elimination.

Staff writer Gracie Brogowski dissects Jonas Brother's latest single, "Waffle House," and the themes surrounding the track. 

Culture editor Evan Moody discusses Nicholas Maoury's (Lilac Wars) pursuit of a musical career, the artist's time in Harrisonburg and what's expected for the future.

At this year's Purple Reign Festival, Stephen Glickman, formerly Gustavo on the television show, "Big Time Rush," emceed and welcomed headliners Briston Maroney and Del Water Gap. Accompanying performances included Project Serenity, Not a Saint and Rescored A Capella of JMU, K. Mauser writes.

MACROCK, an independent music festival that occurs annually in Harrisonburg had its biggest year in recent history this year. Featuring both local bands as well as bands from across the nation, the festival saw not only an increase in crowds but an increase in its social media following as well.

In his review of Tyler, the Creator's deluxe version of their album CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST culture editor Evan Moody calls the project "high quality." The album, according to Moody, revisits themes of a tumultuous relationship from their past.

Doghouse band, formed by five bothers of Phi Gamma Nu, have secured an entertainment spot at the Relay for Life main event. Culture Editor Evan Moody discusses the group's beginning, a recent show and the band's future.

In her ninth studio album, Lana Del Rey explores personal loss and family as well as love and lust. Keeping with the mysterious and natural ambiance of her music, Gracie Brogowski describes this album as "a deep album that means more than just music."

At UPB's Battle of the Band's event, JMU students were able to demonstrate their musical talents to compete for a spot at the Purple Reign festival, Mateo Csernecky writes. Project Serenity and Not A Saint Band stood out.

JMU Alum and Fulbright recipient Ellen Atwood ('18) discusses her time at James Madison and her transition to the music scene in Germany, K. Mauser writes.

In her eighth studio album, "Endless Summer Vacation," Miley Cyrus mixes pop and other genres despite many fans expecting her to move to a more rock-and-roll style. Reviewer K. Mauser writes Cyrus manages to tell the story of all the trials and tribulations that come with love and loss "to create a great collection of works."

Staff Writers Evan Moody and Morgan Blair take a look at the student experience within JMU's School of Music. Students shared stories of stress and heavy courseloads with frequent classes counting for zero or one credit. However, students and faculty commended the supportive environment one can also find within the School of Music.

JMU business professor William Ritchie is also the faculty advisor to the Association of Supply Chain Management club which recently shipped two containers full of medical supplies to Ethiopia. A nonprofit created by Virginia doctors supply the club with various medical equipment that the club loads and ships to countries in need. Since August 2020, the club has worked with 10 shipments. 

Ava Max's new album "Diamonds and Dancefloors" is full of catchy hooks, sassy lyrics and songs that let the artist's let the artist's voice shine, reviewer Jake Dodohara writes. Though it lacks depth, the album's entertaining nevertheless.

David Newman, adjunct voice instructor, is "iconic," as some of his students say. Known for his caring personality, uncommon abilities and the rainbow suspenders he frequently wears, Newman is a treasured teacher among JMU music students.

Culture Editors Michael Russo and Avery Goodstine, joined by Breeze TV Senior Anchor Maggie Rickerby and Culture Staff Writer Jack Calabrese, discuss the music that landed at the top of their playlists throughout 2022.

Jackson Hephner reflects on his experience as a part of the Marching Royal Duke's trip to Italy to play in the Rome New Year's Day parade at the Vatican. 

The Marching Royal Dukes' return to Italy has been years in the making. Though the death of Pope Benedict XVI nearly interfered with the group's plans, the MRDs still performed in the Rome New Year's Day Parade, marking a historic moment for the world and the band as "Virginia's Finest" celebrated its 50th anniversary.

The Marching Royal Dukes (MRDs) are a staple of the JMU community. As they celebrate their 50th anniversary and prepare to perform abroad, students and leaders in the band share their thoughts on the culture and camaraderie within the group.

In his review of Weyes Blood's latest album, Evan Moody writes it's "ere-defining" for the singer-songwriter and shows a new maturity through her vocals and lyrics. 

Rihanna's latest single, "Lift Me Up," is her first new music in six years and part of the soundtrack for the upcoming film "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever." Reviewer Gracie Brogowski writes that the song is "raw and genuine" — an emotional tune that reflects the themes of the new Marvel movie.

In "Takin' It Back," Meghan Trainor returns to her doo-wop roots with uplifting songs that keep it real and focus on her life, marriage and motherhood. Reviewer Gracie Brogowski calls the album "sassy," "nostalgic" and full of "groovy" sounds for fans to enjoy.

With the release of her 10th studio album, "Midnights," Taylor Swift continues to demonstrate her hold on pop culture and audiences around the world. Culture Editor Avery Goodstine calls the project "a complete surprise" that blends previous eras of Swift's music with a more mature, wiser perspective.

In this week's "A Wealth of Health," columnist Hannah Lifrieri looks at the science behind music therapy and music's effect on the mind.

Sabine Soltys provides an inside look into one of Harrisonburg's most secretive locations: The Crayola House. Part of a string of D.I.Y. houses along the East Coast, Crayola is a local music venue that books bands to put on concerts. The catch is it operates only on word-of-mouth. 

In five months, four first-year friends transformed into a full-fledged band and a musical staple of Harrisonburg. With an indie-pop and alternative punk sound, the members of Project Serenity appreciate their humble beginnings and are excited for what lies ahead as they work on releasing their first EP.

The Forbes Center for the Performing Arts is returning in full force for its 2022-23 season of events. From student concerts to faculty recitals and touring artists, this year has plenty to offer the JMU and Harrisonburg communities.

Harry Styles' latest work, "Harry's House," is an intimate collection of songs that blend "funky ... childlike lyricism" and "fashionable production," as reviewer Jake Dodohara puts it. While the album is enjoyable, Jake writes, Styles' mimicry of other indie-pop sounds hinders originality.

Griffin Evans, also known by his stage name Griff.ith, is a DJ with a growing presence in JMU, Harrisonburg and Washington, D.C. Over the past eight months, he's established himself in the area with a residency at Dukes Bar & Grill in downtown Harrisonburg and booking gigs with Relay for Life and JMU's  University Program Board.

"Metal Lords" follows two friends, Kevin (Jaeden Martell) and Hunter (Adrian Greensmith) as they start a heavy metal band at their school. The film's a nice addition to Netflix's collection of films but isn't the most memorable, must-watch movie out there, resident reviewer Gracie Brogowski writes.

After releasing two singles — "Don't Go Yet" and "Bam Bam," which features Ed Sheeran — Camila Cabello returns at full force and with her third album, "Familia." Reviewer Taylor St. Pierre calls the project "extremely refreshing" with Cabello's connection to her Latin roots and "gratifying" use of both English and Spanish throughout the album.

"Better Nate Than Ever" is a fun, light-hearted feature that follows the story of Nate Foster and his best friend Libby as they run off to New York City to follow Nate's dreams of being on Broadway.

Four JMU students formed the band Back Up Kid in 2020 with a rock ’n' roll sound. After the pandemic, the musicians are looking forward to going on tour and seeing what the future holds. 

Rex Orange County is back and better than ever. Alex O'Connor's newest album, "WHO CARES?" explores the duality of the statement and places emphasis on the beauty of being alone.

At this year's Purple Reign Festival, Stephen Glickman, formerly Gustavo on the television show, "Big Time Rush," emceed and welcomed headliners Briston Maroney and Del Water Gap. Accompanying performances included Project Serenity, Not a Saint and Rescored A Capella of JMU, K. Mauser writes.

MACROCK, an independent music festival that occurs annually in Harrisonburg had its biggest year in recent history this year. Featuring both local bands as well as bands from across the nation, the festival saw not only an increase in crowds but an increase in its social media following as well.

In his review of Tyler, the Creator's deluxe version of their album CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST culture editor Evan Moody calls the project "high quality." The album, according to Moody, revisits themes of a tumultuous relationship from their past.

Doghouse band, formed by five bothers of Phi Gamma Nu, have secured an entertainment spot at the Relay for Life main event. Culture Editor Evan Moody discusses the group's beginning, a recent show and the band's future.

In her ninth studio album, Lana Del Rey explores personal loss and family as well as love and lust. Keeping with the mysterious and natural ambiance of her music, Gracie Brogowski describes this album as "a deep album that means more than just music."

At UPB's Battle of the Band's event, JMU students were able to demonstrate their musical talents to compete for a spot at the Purple Reign festival, Mateo Csernecky writes. Project Serenity and Not A Saint Band stood out.

JMU Alum and Fulbright recipient Ellen Atwood ('18) discusses her time at James Madison and her transition to the music scene in Germany, K. Mauser writes.

In her eighth studio album, "Endless Summer Vacation," Miley Cyrus mixes pop and other genres despite many fans expecting her to move to a more rock-and-roll style. Reviewer K. Mauser writes Cyrus manages to tell the story of all the trials and tribulations that come with love and loss "to create a great collection of works."

Staff Writers Evan Moody and Morgan Blair take a look at the student experience within JMU's School of Music. Students shared stories of stress and heavy courseloads with frequent classes counting for zero or one credit. However, students and faculty commended the supportive environment one can also find within the School of Music.