Adele is a British singer-songwriter who has captured the hearts of millions with her powerful and emotive voice, deeply personal lyrics, and timeless melodies. Since bursting onto the scene with her debut album “19” in 2008, Adele has become one of the most successful and celebrated artists of our time, earning critical acclaim and commercial success with each of her releases. Known for her soulful and heartfelt ballads, Adele’s music is characterized by its raw emotion, relatable lyrics, and soaring vocals that are instantly recognizable. With countless hit singles and numerous awards to her name, Adele has cemented her place as one of the greatest artists of our generation. In this list, we will explore the best Adele songs, showcasing her talent as a songwriter, her incredible vocal range and power, and her ability to capture the essence of the human experience in her music. From powerful ballads to soulful anthems, Adele’s music is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who listens.
1. ‘Chasing Pavements’
“Chasing Pavements” is a soulful and introspective track by British singer-songwriter Adele, taken from her debut album “19”. The song features a driving and rhythmic arrangement, with Adele’s powerful and emotive voice soaring above the instrumentation. The lyrics describe the uncertainty and complexity of love, with Adele singing about the difficulties of communication and the fear of taking risks. The chorus is a powerful and anthemic declaration of determination, with Adele singing about the importance of following one’s own path and not getting stuck in the same old routines. “Chasing Pavements” is a standout track from Adele’s debut album, and it showcases her incredible talent as a songwriter and vocalist. The song is a testament to the power of perseverance, with Adele using her voice and music to inspire listeners to take chances and pursue their dreams. “Chasing Pavements” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the world, and it is sure to be remembered as one of Adele’s most iconic and memorable tracks.
2. ‘Someone Like You’
“Someone Like You” is a hauntingly beautiful and deeply emotional ballad by British singer-songwriter Adele, taken from her second album “21”. The song features a simple and understated piano melody, which provides the perfect backdrop for Adele’s raw and emotive vocals. The lyrics describe the pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship, with Adele singing about the difficulty of moving on and the lingering feelings of love and regret. The chorus is a soaring and powerful declaration of acceptance, with Adele singing about finding peace and resolution in the midst of heartache. “Someone Like You” is a standout track from Adele’s second album, and it is widely regarded as one of her most iconic and beloved songs. The song is a testament to Adele’s incredible talent as a songwriter and vocalist, and it showcases her ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. “Someone Like You” is a timeless classic that continues to touch the hearts of listeners around the world, and it is sure to be remembered as one of Adele’s most powerful and memorable tracks.
3. ‘Best For Last’
“Best for Last” is a soulful and romantic track by British singer-songwriter Adele, taken from her debut album “19”. The song features a stripped-down and intimate arrangement, with Adele’s powerful and emotive voice taking center stage. The lyrics describe a deep and meaningful connection between two people, with Adele singing about the importance of taking things slow and savoring each moment. The chorus is a soaring and heartfelt declaration of love, with Adele’s vocals reaching new heights of emotion and intensity. “Best for Last” is a standout track from Adele’s debut album, and it showcases her incredible talent as a songwriter and vocalist. The song is a testament to the power of simplicity, with Adele using only her voice and a few basic instruments to create a powerful and moving musical experience. “Best for Last” is a beautiful and timeless love song that continues to resonate with listeners around the world, and it is sure to be remembered as one of Adele’s most intimate and heartfelt tracks.
4. ‘Rolling in the Deep’
“Rolling in the Deep” is an iconic and powerful track by British singer-songwriter Adele, taken from her second album “21”. The song features a driving beat, a catchy melody, and a raw and emotive vocal performance from Adele. The lyrics describe a relationship gone wrong, with Adele using powerful imagery to express her pain and frustration. The chorus is a memorable and powerful anthem, with Adele belting out the lyrics with passion and conviction. “Rolling in the Deep” is a standout track from Adele’s second album, and it showcases her ability to create music that is both personal and universal. The song is a testament to Adele’s talent as a songwriter and her ability to capture the pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship through her music. “Rolling in the Deep” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners around the world, and it is sure to be remembered as one of Adele’s most powerful and memorable songs.
5. ‘Send My Love (To Your New Lover)’
“Send My Love (To Your New Lover)” is a catchy and upbeat track by British singer-songwriter Adele, taken from her third album “25”. The song features a lively and energetic rhythm, a catchy melody, and a confident and empowering set of lyrics that describe Adele moving on from a failed relationship. Adele’s performance is full of attitude and conviction, and she sings with a raw and emotional intensity that is sure to get listeners dancing and singing along. “Send My Love (To Your New Lover)” is a standout track from Adele’s third album, and it showcases her ability to create music that is both personal and relatable. The song is a testament to Adele’s talent as a songwriter and her ability to turn heartbreak into a catchy and memorable song. “Send My Love (To Your New Lover)” is a fun and infectious track that is sure to put a smile on your face and make you feel empowered.
6. ‘Rumour Has It’
“Rumour Has It” is a bold and sassy track by British singer-songwriter Adele, taken from her second album “21”. The song features a lively and upbeat rhythm, a catchy melody, and a sassy set of lyrics that playfully poke fun at the rumors that surround Adele’s personal life. Adele’s performance is full of attitude and swagger, and she sings with a raw and emotional intensity that is sure to get listeners dancing and singing along. “Rumour Has It” is a standout track from Adele’s second album, and it showcases her ability to create music that is both personal and relatable. The song is a testament to Adele’s talent as a songwriter and her ability to take the rumors and gossip that surround her and turn them into a catchy and memorable song. “Rumour Has It” is a fun and infectious track that is sure to put a smile on your face and get you moving.
7. ‘Cold Shoulder’
“Cold Shoulder” is a powerful and soulful track by British singer-songwriter Adele, taken from her debut album “19”. The song features a haunting melody, a driving beat, and a powerful chorus, which showcases Adele’s raw and emotive vocals. The lyrics describe a relationship gone wrong, with Adele lamenting the coldness and indifference of her partner. Adele’s performance is both intense and vulnerable, and she sings with a raw and emotional intensity that is sure to leave listeners moved. “Cold Shoulder” is a standout track from Adele’s debut album, and it showcases her ability to create music that is both personal and relatable. The song is a testament to Adele’s talent as a songwriter and her ability to capture the pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship through her music. “Cold Shoulder” is a powerful and soulful track that is sure to resonate with anyone who has experienced the pain of a broken heart.
8. ‘My Same’
“My Same” is a lively and upbeat track from the debut album “19” by British singer-songwriter Adele. The song features a driving rhythm, a catchy melody, and a playful and witty set of lyrics that reflect on the ups and downs of a friendship. Adele’s performance is full of energy and attitude, and she sings with a raw and emotional intensity that is sure to get listeners tapping their feet and singing along. “My Same” is a standout track from Adele’s debut album, and it showcases her ability to create music that is both personal and relatable. The song is a testament to Adele’s talent as a songwriter and her ability to capture the essence of a relationship through her music. “My Same” is a fun and infectious track that is sure to put a smile on your face and get you moving.
9. ‘Skyfall’
“Skyfall” is a dramatic and powerful theme song for the James Bond film of the same name, performed by the British singer-songwriter Adele. The song was released in 2012 and went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song. The track features a sweeping orchestral arrangement, a driving beat, and a soaring chorus, which showcases Adele’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics reflect on the themes of the film, which center around espionage, intrigue, and danger. Adele’s performance is both epic and emotional, and she sings with a raw and powerful intensity that is sure to leave listeners on the edge of their seats. “Skyfall” is a tour de force of a song that showcases Adele’s incredible range and ability to create music that is both epic and personal. The song is a testament to her talent as a singer-songwriter and her ability to capture the essence of a film and its themes through her music.
10. ‘I’ll Be Waiting’
“I’ll Be Waiting” is an upbeat and soulful track by the British singer-songwriter Adele. The song was released in 2011 as a single from her album, “21”. The track features a lively and infectious rhythm, a driving horn section, and a catchy chorus, which showcases Adele’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics express a deep and abiding love for someone and the promise to always be there for them, no matter what. Adele’s performance is both joyful and powerful, and she sings with a raw and emotional intensity that is sure to get listeners moving and grooving. “I’ll Be Waiting” is a standout track from Adele’s celebrated album, and it showcases her ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally appealing. The song is a testament to Adele’s enduring appeal and her ability to connect with her audience through her music.
11. ‘Make You Feel My Love’
“Make You Feel My Love” is a poignant and soulful ballad originally written by Bob Dylan and covered by Adele on her album, “19”. The song features a simple and understated arrangement of piano and guitar, which serves to showcase Adele’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics express a deep and abiding love for someone and the desire to make them feel cherished and appreciated. Adele’s performance is both vulnerable and heartfelt, and she sings with a raw and emotional power that is sure to resonate with her fans. “Make You Feel My Love” is a timeless and enduring track that showcases Adele’s incredible talent as a singer and her ability to connect with her listeners on a deep and emotional level. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, but Adele’s version remains one of the most beloved and acclaimed renditions.
12. ‘Set Fire to the Rain’
“Set Fire to the Rain” is a powerful and emotional ballad by the British singer-songwriter Adele. The song was released in 2011 as the third single from her album, “21”. The track features a driving beat, an electrifying guitar riff, and a soaring chorus, which showcases Adele’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics reflect on a tumultuous and passionate relationship that has come to an end, and the pain and heartbreak that comes with letting go of someone you love. Adele’s performance is both vulnerable and intense, and she sings with a raw and emotional power that is sure to resonate with her fans. “Set Fire to the Rain” is a beautiful and moving track that showcases Adele’s incredible talent as a singer-songwriter and her ability to connect with her listeners on a deep and emotional level. The song was a massive commercial success, topping charts around the world and cementing Adele’s status as one of the most popular and influential artists of her generation.
13. ‘I Drink Wine’
“I Drink Wine” is a soulful and introspective ballad by the British singer-songwriter Adele. The song was released in 2021 as a single from her highly anticipated album, “30”. The track features a stripped-down arrangement of piano, guitar, and strings, which serves to showcase Adele’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics reflect on Adele’s journey of self-discovery and her struggles with fame and success. Adele’s performance is both vulnerable and honest, and she sings with a raw and emotional intensity that is sure to resonate with her fans. “I Drink Wine” is a powerful and evocative track that showcases Adele’s talent as a songwriter and her ability to create music that is both personal and universal in its themes. The song is a testament to Adele’s enduring appeal and her ability to connect with her audience through her music.
14. ‘Hello’
“Hello” is a powerful and emotional ballad by the British singer-songwriter Adele. The song was released in 2015 as the lead single from her album, “25”. The track features a haunting piano melody that is joined by a lush arrangement of strings and drums, which serves to showcase Adele’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics reflect on a past relationship that has ended, and the regret and longing that comes with trying to reconnect with someone from your past. Adele’s performance is both vulnerable and intense, and she sings with a raw and emotional power that is sure to resonate with her fans. “Hello” is a beautiful and moving track that showcases Adele’s incredible talent as a singer-songwriter and her ability to connect with her listeners on a deep and emotional level. The song was a massive commercial success, topping charts around the world and cementing Adele’s status as one of the most popular and influential artists of her generation.
15. ‘Hometown Glory’
“Hometown Glory” is a stunning debut single by the British singer-songwriter Adele. The song was released in 2007 and is featured on her album, “19”. The track begins with a simple piano melody that gradually builds into a lush and emotive arrangement of strings, guitar, and drums. The lyrics reflect on Adele’s love for her hometown of London, and her pride in its rich history and cultural heritage. Adele’s performance is full of passion and sincerity, and she delivers the lyrics with a raw and emotional intensity that is sure to resonate with listeners. “Hometown Glory” is a beautiful and evocative song that showcases Adele’s incredible vocal range and her ability to infuse her music with deep emotion and feeling. The song is a testament to Adele’s talent as a songwriter and her ability to create music that is both personal and universal in its themes. “Hometown Glory” remains a fan-favorite and a highlight of Adele’s impressive discography.
16. ‘One and Only’
“One and Only” is a soulful and romantic ballad by the British singer-songwriter Adele. The song was released in 2011 and is featured on her album, “21”. The track features a lush arrangement of piano, strings, and horns, which serve to showcase Adele’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics are a declaration of love and devotion to a significant other, and Adele’s performance is full of passion and sincerity. The chorus, which features the repeated line “You’re the one and only”, is sure to tug at the heartstrings of even the most hardened listener. “One and Only” is a beautiful and timeless love song that showcases Adele’s incredible vocal range and her ability to infuse her music with deep emotion and feeling. The song is a testament to Adele’s talent as a songwriter and her ability to create music that is both personal and relatable.
17. ‘Easy On Me’
“Easy On Me” is a moving and introspective ballad by the British singer-songwriter Adele. The song was released in 2021 as the lead single from her highly anticipated album, “30”. The track features a stripped-down arrangement of piano and strings, which serves to highlight Adele’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics reflect on the pain and challenges of a failing relationship and the need to let go and move on. Adele’s performance is both vulnerable and heartfelt, and she sings with a raw and emotional intensity that is sure to resonate with her fans. “Easy On Me” is a powerful and evocative track that showcases Adele’s talent as a songwriter and her ability to create music that is both personal and universal in its themes. The song is a testament to Adele’s enduring appeal and her ability to connect with her audience through her music.
18. ‘When We Were Young’
“When We Were Young” is a powerful ballad by the British singer-songwriter Adele. The song was released in 2015 and is featured on her critically acclaimed album, “25”. The track begins with a simple piano melody that gradually builds into a soaring and emotive chorus. The lyrics reflect on the passage of time and the bittersweet nostalgia that comes with growing older. Adele’s vocals are full of warmth and sincerity, and she imbues the song with a sense of longing that is palpable. “When We Were Young” is a beautiful and introspective track that showcases Adele’s impressive vocal range and her ability to connect with her listeners on a deep and emotional level. The song is a poignant reminder to cherish the memories of our youth and to hold onto the people we love as we grow older.
19. ‘Oh My God’
“Oh My God” is an infectious indie rock anthem by the English band Kaiser Chiefs. The song was released as a single in 2005 and is featured on the band’s debut album, “Employment”. The track features an upbeat and energetic rhythm that is driven by the band’s dynamic guitar and drum work. The lyrics, delivered with frontman Ricky Wilson’s distinctive vocals, are a playful take on the idea of a religious experience. The catchy chorus, which features the repeated line “Oh my God, I can’t believe it, I’ve never been this far away from home”, is sure to get stuck in your head. “Oh My God” is a fun and engaging song that showcases the Kaiser Chiefs’ unique sound and their ability to create music that is both catchy and substantive.
20. ‘Love in the Dark’
“Love in the Dark” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad performed by the British singer-songwriter Adele. The song was co-written by Adele and Samuel Dixon and is featured on her record-breaking album, “25”. The song’s sparse instrumentation, consisting of piano and strings, serves to highlight Adele’s soulful vocals and the emotional depth of the lyrics. The song is about the pain of a failing relationship and the struggle to move on from someone you still love. Adele’s raw and powerful performance conveys a sense of vulnerability and heartache that is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the pain of a breakup. “Love in the Dark” is a testament to Adele’s skill as a songwriter and her ability to connect with her audience on a deeply emotional level.
Jared Parker is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
