Top Songs of the 2010s: 20 Tracks That Defined a Decade

Last updated on July 7th, 2023

The 2010s marked a significant turning point in music. The shift in sentiment and artistic expression served as the perfect catalyst for genre-defining and even genre-blending pop songs and alternative tracks.

Artists were bolder and exercised experimentation with various genres and styles, resulting in a diverse and colorful collection of irresistibly catchy and iconic songs that have defined a generation of listeners.

A Throwback to the Top Songs of the 2010s

Take a trip back to memory lane and revisit the 20 songs that defined the 2010s.

“Gangnam Style”
“We Found Love”
“Somebody That I Used to Know”
“Rolling in the Deep”
“Shake It Off”
“Someone Like You”
“Radioactive”
“Blank Space”
“Uptown Funk”
“Shape of You”
“Royals”
“Thinking Out Loud”
“Happy”
“This Is America”
“All About That Bass”
“Call Me Maybe”
“Bad Guy”
“Hotline Bling”
“Get Lucky”
“Sorry”

Gangnam Style

Listen:

Artist:

Psy

Album:

Psy 6 (Six Rules) Part 1

Description

Yep, we’re starting with this one. What better way to celebrate the new decade than with the hit South Korean pop song. Psy’s “Gangnam Style” helped define the 2010s with its unprecedented global and cultural impact. Released in 2012, the song became a viral sensation, accumulating billions of views on YouTube and introducing K-pop to a mainstream international audience. Its catchy melody, humorous lyrics, and iconic dance moves that have forever engrained itself into pop culture. ”Gangnam Style” perfectly showcased the power of internet and social media in promoting and disseminating pop culture. “Gangnam Style” symbolized the global reach and influence of pop music in the digital age, leaving a lasting imprint on the music industry of the 2010s.

We Found Love

Listen:

Artist:

Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris

Album:

Talk That Talk

Description

Rihanna and Calvin Harris teamed up for one electrifying fusion of pop and electronic dance music that dominated the decade. The song dropped in 2011 and quickly overtook the world’s attention with its infectious beats, powerful vocals, and relatable lyrics that captured the essence of love, heartbreak, and the euphoria of youthful experiences. It became a massive hit, topping charts worldwide and solidifying the EDM-infused pop sound as a dominant force in mainstream music. “We Found Love” epitomized the sonic and cultural landscape of the 2010s, showcasing the era’s vibrant and energetic musical direction.

Somebody That I Used to Know

Listen:

Artist:

Gotye ft. Kimbra

Album:

Making Mirrors

Description

Gotye came and left the decade with a chart-topping banger that practically cemented his status in the zeitgeist of the 2010s. Gotye and Kimbra’s “Somebody That I Used to Know” exemplified the raw emotion and vulnerability that resonated with listeners during the decade. The song’s haunting melodies, introspective lyrics, and unique blend of indie pop and alternative rock created a distinct sound that stood out in the music landscape. Its exploration of love, heartbreak, and the complexities of relationships struck a chord with audiences worldwide, reflecting the more personal nature of the 2010s. “Somebody That I Used to Know” became a beacon of emotional authenticity and personal connection that still manages to move listeners nearly a decade later.

Rolling in the Deep

Listen:

Artist:

Adele

Album:

21

Description

Adele’s “Rolling in the Deep” magnificently showcased the English diva’s powerful and heartfelt vocals and relatable lyrics. Adele entered 2010 with an emotionally charged song with an infectious melody and empowering message that resonated with audiences worldwide. It became a massive hit, earning critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying Adele’s status as a powerhouse vocalist and establishing a resurgence of soul-infused pop music in the 2010s.

Shake It Off

Listen:

Artist:

Taylor Swift

Album:

1989

Description

Taylor Swift exudes confidence and charisma with the energetic melody and feel-good lyrics of “Shake It Off.” “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift encapsulated the spirit of self-acceptance and resilience. Released in 2014, the song’s catchy pop sound, empowering lyrics, and unapologetic attitude resonated with listeners worldwide. It became a chart-topping hit, showcasing Taylor Swift’s evolution as an artist and her ability to connect with a broad audience. “Shake It Off” represented a cultural shift towards embracing individuality and overcoming negativity, making it a defining anthem of the 2010s.

Someone Like You

Listen:

Artist:

Adele

Album:

21

Description

Adele positively radiates with the raw emotion and vulnerability of heartbreak with 2011’s “Someone Like You”. The song’s soulful vocals and introspective lyrics tugged at the hearts of millions of listeners. It became a global phenomenon, resonating with individuals navigating love and loss. Adele continues prove herself as an unmatched and pioneering voice in a decade filled to the brim to with unique and awe-inspiring vocals.

Radioactive

Listen:

Artist:

Imagine Dragons

Album:

Night Visions

Description

Imagine Dragons blended alternative rock with electronic elements, creating an anthemic song in “Radioactive.” Released in 2012, the song’s powerful instrumentation, evocative lyrics, and dynamic energy reflected the turbulent times and a desire for change. Its massive commercial success and widespread popularity solidified Imagine Dragons’ presence in the mainstream music scene. It captured the shifting paradigm of the 2010s with its creative beats and provocative lyrics.

Blank Space

Listen:

Artist:

Taylor Swift

Album:

1989

Description

Taylor Swift showed of her mastery of storytelling and ability to navigate the complexities of love and relationships with the ever-iconic “Blank Space.” The 2014 song boasted catchy pop melodies, clever lyrics, and tongue-in-cheek portrayal of Swift’s public image that has practically crawled its way into minds of listeners. It became a chart-topping hit, exemplifying the era of social media culture and Swift’s evolution as a pop superstar, making “Blank Space” an iconic song of the 2010s and one of Swift’s finest song to date.

Uptown Funk

Listen:

Artist:

Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

Album:

Uptown Special

Description

The duo of Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars revitalized the sound of funk and brough it to the mainstream in the 2010s with “Uptown Funk.” Released in 2014, the song’s infectious groove, energetic vocals, and retro-inspired production captured the attention of listeners worldwide. It became a global phenomenon, dominating the charts and solidifying the collaboration between Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars as a force to be reckoned with in contemporary pop music. “Uptown Funk” embodied the spirit of fun, nostalgia, and funk.

Shape of You

Listen:

Artist:

Ed Sheeran

Album:

÷

Description

“Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran merged pop, R&B, and dancehall influences into one of the decade’s catchiest and most infectious pop song. The song’s catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and infectious rhythm resonated with a diverse audience in 2017. It achieved unprecedented success, topping charts worldwide and becoming one of the best-selling singles of the decade. “Shape of You” showcased Ed Sheeran’s versatility as an artist and represented the era’s embrace of genre-blending that defined the 2010’s highly creative musical identify.

Royals

Listen:

Artist:

Lorde

Album:

Pure Heroine

Description

Lorde challenged the conventional notions of fame and materialism with 2013’s “Royals.” The song’s minimalist production, introspective lyrics, and Lorde’s unique voice captivated audiences. Lorde’s unchallenged lyrical prowess and her restrained but impactful vocals juxtaposed the more brash and in-your-face style of song making that dominated pop culture. It became a global sensation, resonating with a generation seeking authenticity and rejecting the excesses of mainstream culture. “Royals” represented a shift towards a more alternative and introspective pop sound in the early 2010s.

Thinking Out Loud

Listen:

Artist:

Ed Sheeran

Album:

x

Description

“Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran captured the timeless essence of love and romance. Released in 2014, the song’s soulful vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and acoustic melodies resulted in a beautiful and heartwarming ballad that couples can relate with. It became a wedding anthem and a symbol of enduring love, showcasing Ed Sheeran’s ability to create deeply personal and relatable songs. “Thinking Out Loud” exemplified the era’s focus on emotional connections and meaningful storytelling that became a vital proponent of the 2010s.

Happy

Listen:

Artist:

Pharrell Williams

Album:

G I R L

Description

“Happy” by Pharrell Williams helped define the positive side of the 2010s by spreading joy and positivity worldwide. The 2013 song exudes an infectious rhythm, uplifting lyrics, and feel-good energy that became an anthem of happiness. It transcended cultural boundaries, inspiring people to embrace optimism and celebrate life. “Happy” became a global phenomenon, resonating with a wide audience and serving as a reminder of the power of music to uplift spirits and unite people. It’s the kind of feel good song that radiates an irresistible charm that can brighten up even darkest of days.

This Is America

Listen:

Artist:

Childish Gambino

Album:

This Is America

Description

Childish Gambino serves a catchy and infectious track with a side of scathing social commentary. The 2018 song delivers a powerful and provocative critique on the state of America and its societal issues. The song’s blunt lyrics, haunting visuals, and layered symbolism sparked conversations about gun violence, racism, and cultural identity. It challenged listeners to confront uncomfortable truths and ignited a wave of activism and awareness. “This Is America” epitomized the era’s call for social justice and cultural introspection.

All About That Bass

Listen:

Artist:

Meghan Trainor

Album:

Titled

Description

Meghan Trainor’s “All About That Bass” broke barriers with a catchy and empowering melody. The 2014 song’s upbeat tune, empowering lyrics, and inclusive message resonated with audiences worldwide. It sparked discussions about body image and self-acceptance, inspiring individuals to embrace their curves and celebrate diversity. “All About That Bass” became song of power that represented self-love and confidence.

Call Me Maybe

Listen:

Artist:

Carly Rae Jepsen

Album:

Call Me Maybe

Description

Then rising-star Carly Rae Jepsen delivered one of the decade’s catchiest and iconic pop songs. “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen captured the essence of catchy pop music and viral sensations. Released in 2011, the song’s infectious melody, relatable lyrics, and memorable chorus became a cultural phenomenon. It propelled the young singer to global success and marked a shift towards internet-driven pop culture. “Call Me Maybe” still serves as nostalgic throwback to the youthful romance of the 2010s.

Bad Guy

Listen:

Artist:

Billie Eilish

Album:

When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?

Description

Billie Eilish takes an edgier approach with her now iconic pop song “Bad Guy.” The 2019 song challenged traditional pop music conventions and embracing a darker, edgier aesthetic without skimping out on the catchy vocals and melody. The song’s unconventional production, haunting vocals, and rebellious lyrics resonated with a generation that has grown tired of the early barrage of pop songs. Much like her earlier contemporaries, Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy” captured the spirit of change and innovation with a track that pushed the genre’s boundaries.

Hotline Bling

Listen:

Artist:

Drake

Album:

Views

Description

Drake’s “Hotline Bling” helped define the 2010s for very different and bizarre reasons. It’s still a pop song through and through but come on. Let’s be honest, it’s the memes that came after that catapulted it into the stratosphere. The pop song perfectly showcased the influence of viral dances and the rise of meme culture. The 2015 song flaunts an infectious rhythm, catchy hooks, and Drake’s distinctive vocals that became an internet sensation. Its accompanying dance moves sparked countless parodies and created a cultural moment.

Get Lucky

Listen:

Artist:

Daft Punk ft. Pharrell Williams

Album:

Random Access Memories

Description

The world got lucky in 2013 with the release of much-loved “Get Lucky.” Daft Punk and Pharell William’s pairing helped revitalized the disco and funk sound in the 2010s. Released in 2013, the song’s infectious groove, retro-inspired production, and Pharrell’s smooth vocals captured the essence of feel-good, timeless music. It became a global hit, dominating the charts and serving as a symbol of the decade’s nostalgia for the past while infusing it with a modern touch. “Get Lucky” represented the era’s love for danceable, funky tunes.

Sorry

Listen:

Artist:

Justin Bieber

Album:

Purpose

Description

The Canadian pop star has come along way from his humble beginnings. Justin Bieber’s “Sorry” showcased the artist’s growth and maturity, both musically and personally. The 2015 song bears the artist’s signature infectious pop sound, honest lyrics, and catchy chorus resonated with audiences worldwide. It marked a turning point in Bieber’s career, solidifying his transition from teen pop idol to a more adult and respected artist. “Sorry” represented the era’s embrace of second chances and the power of self-reflection.

A Decade’s Worth of Memories

The 2010’s will remain as one of the most memorable eras in song writing. It’s a time when the line between pop songs and indie tracks were blurred. Pop songs became unconventional while indie genres permeated the mainstream.