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Next Big Thing: New summer tracks that could be party anthems this season

The weekly Next Big Thing column highlights what’s bubbling under the surface in entertainment with a look at rising stars in the world of music, as well as standout TV shows, movies and web series that would be a shame to overlook.

Summer is nearly here, which means the music industry is calling on their biggest performers — and a bunch of hopeful newcomers — to deliver their catchiest material in a race for the big hit of the season. This week we’re looking at fresh songs that could become big summer anthems.

MO – “Final Song”

Danish singer MO — pronounced Mou — already knows what it feels like to be a part of a big hit.

She lent her voice to last year’s summer smash “Lean On,” from duo Major Lazer and DJ Snake, helping it achieve the rare feat of surpassing one billion views on YouTube.

The pop hit was a long way from MO’s early days when she lived in an anarchist commune.

These days MO is aiming directly for the mainstream with her infectious “Final Song,” a euphoric celebration with bursts of electronic goodness.

She worked on the song with producer Noonie Bao, who has collaborated with Carly Rae Jepsen on “Run Away With Me,” and British singer MNEK.

The trifecta of pop gurus give “Final Song” a good chance of being one of this summer’s biggest hits.

Listen to “Final Song”: http://bit.ly/25kdnMb

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Flume – “Never Be Like You (feat. Kai)”

Australian producer Flume recently snuck onto the Billboard Hot 100 with “Never Be Like You,” a downbeat electronic song with a dash of hip-hop flavour that appears to be just getting started on its rise to popularity.

Bringing an almost mystical sound to the track is Kai, a Toronto-born singer who has also become a favourite of producer Diplo, recently appearing on his single “Revolution” and also on a track from Jack U, his side project with Skrillex.

Watch the music video for “Never Be Like You”: http://bit.ly/1RtTA38

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Zara Larsson – “Lush Life”

Summer looks particularly good for Zara Larsson.

The 18-year-old Swedish singer has risen from international obscurity to global stardom in a matter of months, helped by the success of “Never Forget You,” a duet with MNEK.

That song’s success has given an extra push to “Lush Life,” a track that was a big summer hit in Scandinavia at this time last year, but fizzled when it was initially released in North America.

Another push for the single could give it a second life as listeners become more familiar with Larsson’s name, and the carefree dance vibes of “Lush Life,” which evoke the spirit of early Rihanna.

Watch the music video for “Lush Life”: http://bit.ly/1TGYpL1

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