By: Jaida Dent and Amira Turner
As 2025 comes to a close, the Vanguard presents our own 2025 Recap! Read through to hear our Eboard’s favorite music, television, and movie recommendations, fashion trends, and pop culture moments that kept us entertained throughout the year!
Music
Amira Turner, Layout Editor
“La Perla” by Rosalia (Song)
I have listened to this song so much since this release that, despite knowing next to no Spanish, I have caught myself mumbling phrases like “una de mucho cuidado” and “El mayor desastre mundial” under my breath. This track does an incredible job of balancing playful melodies with scathing lyrics that read like Tea App warnings. Rosalia perfectly blends the flamenco and art-pop elements of her previous hits with the more operatic tone of LUX.
Rami Mansi, Editor-in-Chief
“Abracadabra” by Lady Gaga (Song)
“In her tongue she said, ‘Death or love tonight’/ ABRACADABRA!” Lady Gaga returned to her dark pop roots with her newest album, “Mayhem.” With a thumping bassline and lyrics that depict going through the challenges life throws at you, Mother Monster has never been more comfortable in her skin and sound, and for that, we are eternally grateful.
T’Neil Gooden, Features Editor
“The Start Chapter: Together” by TXT (Album)
I recently got into the group this year after being exposed to them by my friends and fell in love with the variety of vocals and emotions that filled the album. This album allowed the boys to not only have songs displaying their vocals as a group, but they all had solos that showcased a new version of their vocal talents. I recommend this album for people who are looking to think deeply and clear their minds at the same time. There is a genre of music in this album that everybody will love
Key Jones-Ford, Content Creator
“Princess of Power” by Marina (Album)
Princess of Power serves as a reminder of who Marina was when we called her “Marina and the Diamonds.” For old listeners, this album feels like Electra Heart has grown up and is entering our reality. The album’s electronic dance sounds mesh with Marina’s lyrical dissonance and clichés that she’s been loved for, and even features interpolations from major pop hits “Hollaback Girl” and “I Will Survive.” My standout tracks: “Cuntisimo,” “Digital Fantasy,” and “Final Boss.”
Movies and TV
T’Neil Gooden, Features Editor
Dancing with the Stars Season 34
I really enjoyed the Dancing With The Stars season this year, as Robert Irwin was someone I grew up watching. Seeing him win gave me all the feels. I remember when Bindi Irwin won, and it was just a full circle moment for me this year. I enjoy competitions, so Dancing With The Stars was a repeat watch for me this year!
Serena Edwards, Opinions Editor
“Stranger Things” Season 5 Volume 1
Being able to see the growth of each character and to also see the end of an era was amazing. The dynamic of each character’s stories was engaging, and I can’t wait to see Volume 2.
Amira Turner, Layout Editor
“Eddington” directed by Ari Aster
This film is the first depiction of the pandemic I’ve seen that handles the absurdity and political tension of 2020 artfully and realistically. The film’s neo-western influences help explore heavy themes (BLM, quarantine, political violence, alt-right internet rabbit holes) that other filmmakers haven’t been brave enough to explore head-on, while still having some laugh-out-loud moments. If you aren’t a fan of Ari Aster’s previous work, the tone of this film may not be for you, but if you’re into absurdist political satire, thrillers, and westerns, I highly recommend you check this one out.
Mars Marte, Content Creator & Manuel Polanco, Sports Editor
“The Long Walk” directed by Francis Lawrence
A haunting tale that warns us of a future that’s given into entertainment.
It’s a Stephen King adaptation and about a group of men who embark on a long walk for millions of dollars and glory. Good film
Style Trends
Khalailah Bynoe, Arts Editor
Cheetah print
I love that it made a comeback this year. It brought me back to my favorite era of fashion, the early 2000s.
Adrian Skeans, Digital Editor
Baggy Pants
Baggy pants are back, and for me, they are perfect. They’ve got that grungy ‘90s vibe that makes you feel like the main character. They’re super comfortable, and you can style them however you want, whether you’re going for a laid-back look or something a little more out there. And my favorite thing is its functionality, I have so many pockets and space to carry all of my essentials with me in style.
Key Jones-Ford, Content Creator
Perfumes
While not specifically something you can see, perfume and scents were a big part of the beauty sphere in 2025. We were learning how to layer, how to find your “signature scent,” and how to make your tiny sample last for weeks. Ranging from the growth in popularity of “dupe houses” to the interest in gourmands and warmer scents, there’s a scent for just about everyone. It’s been exciting seeing and smelling all the new scents that have come out!
Amira Turner, Layout Editor
Heavy blush
Growing up as a Black girl, one of the most common makeup tips I had received over the years was to wear minimal, neutral/dark blushes. But after Ayo Edebiri’s iconic Met Gala beat, and the rise of MUA Painted by Esther, I’ve embraced the blush. There’s something so playful and lively about a bright, rosy cheek, and I don’t care if I look like a clown, at least I’m a cute one!
T’Neil Gooden, Features Editor
Babydoll blouse over long skirts or jeans
I know this is very generic, but when you are someone who is learning about fashion trends, you tend to take it nice and slow (like myself). I enjoy this style because it allows me to be simple yet have a little something extra. I also would say I really enjoy the Zara Larsson 2025 Barbie pop of color that has been going around on my TikTok page. One more thing, I really love the matching sweats vibes because it is another subtle trend that makes you stand out!
Pop Culture Moments
Serena Edwards, Opinions Editor
Anok Yai winning Model of the Year at The British Fashion Awards
Her statement in her speech, “Your color is not a curse,” not only gave confidence to the dark skinned women who got picked on for their skin in school or lacked opportunity because of their appearances, but also showed that they can do anything.
T’Neil Gooden, Features Editor
Zara Larson fan interactions
I really enjoy wholesome interactions, and seeing Zara Larsson dance with her fans on stage is something that I feel like is so pop and a perfect way to end the year. Zara Larsson is coming back, and I am so happy and proud of her for that!
Rami Mansi, Editor-in-Chief
Adela’s “Superscar” music video
When rising pop singer Adela released the music video for her second single, “Superscar,” and the dance break in the video went semi-viral on Twitter, it was a moment in time. The girl who was eliminated from the competition show that would go on to create the girl group Katseye has become a performer. Vogue Magazine called her “born to be a pop star.” A Slovakian girl, based in LA, with big dreams and a talent for dancing, mixed with a love of electronic music; from the moment I watched that music video, I knew Adela was the pop music provocateur of my dreams.
Manuel Polanco, Sports Editor
“6-7”
6-7 has been the greatest meme of 2025, and its simplicity and childlike humor are what make it funny and also generational.
Key Jones-Ford, Content Creator
Cynthia Erivo’s “The concept of” meme
Cynthia Erivo’s “The concept of” meme is possibly the funniest thing to happen in the latter half of the year. It’s so simple, and yet effective at communicating confusion at an otherwise impressive feat. Bonus points when someone who does it is also bald.
Luis Angel Martinez, Staff Videographer
John Cena Turning Heel
My favorite pop culture moment of 2025 has to be John Cena turning to the dark side in March. When the Rock came out with Travis Scott to talk down to Cody Rhodes, it felt like the whole of pop culture was aligned with the big stars. Then, when Cody said “Go F*ck yourself,” that is when the whole crowd and people at home were happy. When Cena hugged him, and the Rock gave the finger on the throat gesture, that’s when the wrestling world was shaken. Cena has never been a bad guy in his career, and this happened during his retirement tour, which made me feel both excited and shocked from that moment. Seeing The Rock, John Cena, and Travis Scott standing side by side while Cody’s blood is on the floor is a sight to be seen.