In an unexpected turn of events, Trent Reznor, the legendary frontman of one of the most influential industrial bands, revealed that his favorite song of 2024 is neither a rock nor metal track, but rather a pop sensation that has captured the hearts of millions. This revelation highlights Reznor’s eclectic taste in music, demonstrating his appreciation for diverse genres. During a candid interview at the 2025 Golden Globe Awards with Los Angeles’ renowned alternative rock station, Alt 98.7, he shared that the track that resonated with him the most was Sabrina Carpenter’s chart-topping hit “Espresso.”

Reznor’s choice took the interviewer by surprise when he confidently stated, “I’m going to have to go with ‘Espresso’.” This moment not only showcases Reznor’s evolving musical preferences but also emphasizes the impact that contemporary pop music can have, even on those who primarily create within the rock and metal realms.

Check out the clip below to see the interview segment where Reznor discusses his favorite song of the year.

As of early December, “Espresso” has emerged as the most-streamed song worldwide in 2024 on Spotify, amassing an astounding total of over 1.6 billion streams, according to Billboard. Released in April 2024, “Espresso” serves as the lead single from Carpenter’s highly anticipated sixth studio album, Short n’ Sweet. The song’s infectious melody and catchy lyrics contributed to its viral success on platforms like TikTok, further solidifying its place in the pop music landscape.

Though it may have been unexpected for Reznor to select “Espresso” as his favorite, the track’s widespread appeal and streaming success make it clear why it stands out. This is not the first instance of the Nine Inch Nails mastermind expressing admiration for a pop song, indicating a broader trend of genre crossover in music appreciation.

READ MORE: 10 Rock Artists Who Successfully Transitioned to Pop

In June 2023, Reznor opened up during an episode of the Tetragrammaton podcast about a particularly moving experience he had while listening to a song by Dua Lipa. He admitted he “teared up” at the quality of the songwriting, a stark contrast to his previous belief that pop music lacked depth. Initially, he tried to protect his children from the genre, but his daughter introduced him to Lipa’s music, ultimately changing his perspective.

Reflecting on the challenges of songwriting, Reznor stated, “It’s difficult [to write a good song]. I don’t know how to do that, because when I’m trying to think of what to say or how to say it, I’m saying it from the unvarnished me.” This insight reveals the complexities artists face in expressing their innermost thoughts and feelings, further emphasizing the emotional weight behind crafting impactful music.

Discover Sabrina Carpenter’s Hit ‘Espresso’