B96 MUSIC CHECK: 3 Songs Making Noise This Week

From rising pop hits to a Texas-sized wildcard, these are three songs we're keeping our ears on at B96.

There's always something happening in hit music. Some songs grab your attention immediately. Others take a few listens before they really click. And every once in a while, a song comes along that doesn't quite fit the usual formula—but somehow, it just works.

Welcome to B96 MUSIC CHECK, our Wednesday look at the songs making noise, building momentum, and catching our attention on Dallas/Fort Worth's NEW Hit Music.

This week, we're checking in on three very different records. One is a fresh release from a familiar hitmaker, another is making its presence felt at pop radio, and the third brings a little North Texas flavor to the playlist.

THE ONE TO WATCH: Tate McRae — "Housewife"

Tate McRae knows how to make a pop record that gets people talking, and "Housewife" is another one we're watching closely.

Tate has built a reputation for combining catchy hooks, attitude, and just enough edge to stand out. It's a sound that fits right into today's hit music landscape.

The big question now? Can "Housewife" become another one of those songs you find yourself turning up every time it comes on?

It's still early, but this one has our attention.

THE ONE GETTING LOUDER: KATSEYE — "Animal"

KATSEYE continues to make its mark on pop music, and "Animal" is a record worth paying attention to.

There's an energy to this song that makes it feel right at home alongside today's biggest hits. It's polished, catchy, and has the kind of attitude that can help a record stand out in a crowded playlist.

For B96, it's exactly the kind of song that makes watching the charts interesting. The group has been building its audience, and "Animal" is another opportunity to turn casual listeners into fans.

Could this become one of the group's defining hits? We're watching.

THE WILDCARD: BigXThaPlug featuring Ava Max — "BURN"

Now here's a collaboration you might not have seen coming.

Dallas rapper BigXThaPlug teams up with pop hitmaker Ava Max for "BURN," bringing two very different musical styles together on one record.

BigX delivers his unmistakable Texas rap sound, while Ava Max adds the kind of pop hook that can introduce a song to an entirely different audience.

And there's a local connection. BigXThaPlug is from right here in Dallas, giving North Texas another reason to pay attention.

The timing couldn't be better, either. His new album, Better Over Time, arrives this Friday, October 30.

For B96, "BURN" is exactly the kind of wildcard worth watching. It's different, it's got hometown appeal, and it brings something unexpected to the hit music mix.

Could a Dallas rapper and a pop star have one of the next big crossover hits?

We're keeping our ears on this one.