NPR's Tiny Desk Concerts have become a treasure trove for music lovers. There's something magical about seeing artists step away from big stages and studio polish to deliver something raw, intimate, and entirely their own. With so many incredible sessions, it's hard to pick favourites, but these are mine. This isn't about what's the most popular or critically acclaimed — just the ones I keep coming back to.

1. Mac Miller

Mac Miller's Tiny Desk is unforgettable — and bittersweet. Watching him perform tracks from Swimming with a live band felt so personal, as if he was letting us in on something special. His delivery on "2009" is pure magic— emotional, reflective, and heartbreakingly beautiful. It’s a performance that sticks with you, a moment that feels even more significant now.

2. Sting and Shaggy

Who knew Sting and Shaggy would make such a great team? Their chemistry is so natural, and their Tiny Desk is a joy. Sting's iconic voice and Shaggy's laid-back vibe blend perfectly, creating this fun, feel-good set. Tracks like “Englishman in New York" felt fresh and vibrant, and the energy between them was contagious—it's impossible not to smile through this one.

3. Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals

Anderson .Paak is just electric. His energy is off the charts, and watching him drum and sing simultaneously is mesmerising. With The Free Nationals keeping everything so tight, his set feels like a mini funk party in a tiny office. Songs like "Come Down" hit so hard — it's one of those sessions where you can't sit still.

4. Tyler, The Creator

Tyler, The Creator's Tiny Desk is everything you'd expect — creative, quirky, and completely captivating. He performed tracks from Flower Boy, bringing in a live band and lush arrangements that gave his music a whole new dimension. Tyler's humour and personality shone through, making it feel less like a performance and more like hanging out with an old friend who happens to be a genius.

5. Doechii

Doechii's Tiny Desk is bold and unforgettable, showcasing a completely different side of her artistry. Known for her high-energy rap and genre-bending sound, she switched things up by performing with a soulful backing band comprised entirely of female musicians at the top of their game. The lush arrangements gave her music a fresh and dynamic edge, perfectly complementing her sharp delivery and sultry vocals.

6. Jorja Smith

Jorja Smith's performance feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket. Her voice is soothing, and her set has a calm, intimate energy. Songs like “Blue Lights” and “On My Mind" wash over you, and you can’t help but get drawn into her world. It’s the kind of session you put on when you need to take a breath and reset.

7. Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys' Tiny Desk is nothing short of uplifting. She's got this warmth that makes you feel like you're right there with her, sharing in the moment. Whether she's belting out an emotional ballad or playing something more upbeat, her voice and piano are pure magic.

8. Tom Misch

Tom Misch's set is like sunshine in musical form. His chilled-out grooves, jazzy guitar riffs, and smooth vocals make it impossible not to relax while watching. “It Runs Through Me” is a standout, and his ability to blend genres so effortlessly makes his performance feel fresh and timeless. It’s the kind of session you can play on repeat and never get bored.

9. Adele

Adele's Tiny Desk is all about her voice — and what a voice it is. She performed this session before she became the global powerhouse she is today, and it’s so refreshing to see her in such a stripped-back setting. “Someone Like You” is especially stunning, and her cheeky, self-deprecating humour in between songs is just the cherry on top.

10. Khruangbin

Khruangbin’s Tiny Desk feels like a dreamy little escape. Their hypnotic grooves pull you in from the first note, creating this calm, meditative atmosphere that’s hard to shake. There are no vocals — just pure, intricate instrumentals that say more than words ever could. It’s a performance you can lose yourself in, over and over.