Ariana Grande is a global pop sensation whose music has captured the hearts of millions around the world. With her powerhouse vocals, iconic high ponytail, and a knack for creating unforgettable hits, she has cemented her place as one of the most influential artists of our generation. From empowering anthems to heartfelt ballads, Ariana’s discography is a treasure trove of songs that have dominated charts, broken records, and become the soundtrack to countless moments in our lives.
In this article, we’re diving into the crème de la crème of Ariana Grande’s music career—her top 10 most popular songs of all time. These are the tracks that have not only topped playlists but have also defined pop culture, sparked viral trends, and showcased Ariana’s unmatched talent and versatility. Whether you’re a long-time Arianator or a casual listener, this list is sure to remind you why Ariana’s music continues to resonate with fans across the globe.
So, get ready to relive the magic, belt out those high notes, and maybe even discover a new favorite as we count down the hits that have made Ariana Grande a true pop icon. Let the music take over! 🎤✨
1. Thank U, Next (2018)
When Ariana Grande dropped “Thank U, Next” in November 2018, it wasn’t just a breakup anthem—it was a cultural moment. The track flipped the typical heartbreak narrative on its head by turning past relationships into stepping stones for growth and self-love. With its sleek production, catchy melody, and conversational tone, Ariana’s lyrics felt like a personal diary entry that the whole world got to read. She name-checks her exes not out of spite, but out of gratitude, thanking them for the lessons they taught her. It was refreshing, raw, and empowering in a way that resonated across generations. The chorus—”Thank u, next / I’m so grateful for my ex”—quickly became a mantra for anyone embracing their journey and moving forward stronger. Beyond just the lyrics, the timing of the release, following a whirlwind year of personal challenges for Ariana, gave the song an added emotional depth. Paired with a playful, nostalgia-filled music video that paid homage to early 2000s rom-coms, “Thank U, Next” was more than a hit—it was a declaration of independence, a pop culture reset, and proof that healing can be both messy and beautiful.
2. 7 Rings (2019)
“7 Rings” is Ariana Grande in her boss era—glamorous, unapologetic, and dripping with confidence. Released in January 2019, this track took inspiration from a real-life shopping spree Ariana had with six of her closest friends after a tough period in her life. What started as a spontaneous moment of retail therapy turned into a fierce anthem about reclaiming power and redefining success. Sampling “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music, Ariana flipped a classic into a trap-pop flex that celebrates friendship, wealth, and self-sufficiency. The production is sleek and bass-heavy, with Ariana’s vocals gliding effortlessly over braggadocious lyrics like “I want it, I got it.” But what really gives “7 Rings” its edge is the attitude—equal parts playfulness and defiance. It wasn’t just a song; it was a whole vibe. Critics and fans alike praised the track’s boldness, though it also sparked conversations about cultural appropriation, which added layers to its reception. Still, “7 Rings” remains a standout for its sheer swagger and its message: sometimes the best way to get over heartbreak is to remind yourself who you are—and spoil yourself a little along the way.
3. No Tears Left to Cry (2018)
“No Tears Left to Cry” marked a powerful turning point in Ariana Grande’s career and personal journey. Released in April 2018, it was her first single after the devastating Manchester Arena bombing in 2017, an event that shook the world and deeply affected her. Rather than release a somber ballad, Ariana surprised everyone with a track that started with melancholy but quickly shifted into a hopeful, uplifting dance-pop anthem. It was a sonic representation of resilience—grieving, processing, and then choosing joy. The production is a genre-blending mix of dreamy pop and energetic beats, echoing the emotional transition from sorrow to strength. Lyrically, Ariana makes it clear: she’s done crying and is ready to rise, singing, “I’m pickin’ it up, pickin’ it up / Lovin’, I’m livin’, I’m pickin’ it up.” The song is both delicate and defiant, showcasing her vocal agility and emotional depth. “No Tears Left to Cry” isn’t just a bop—it’s a beautifully layered piece of music that helped both Ariana and her fans begin to heal. It’s the sound of someone choosing to move forward without forgetting where they’ve been, and it’s one of her most important artistic moments.
4. Into You (2016)
“Into You” is pure pop electricity. Released in May 2016, the song captures the simmering tension and intoxicating thrill of undeniable attraction. From its pulsating beat to its hypnotic chorus, it’s the kind of track that demands movement—whether on a dance floor or in your own bedroom at 2 a.m. The production is sleek and seductive, building a sultry atmosphere that perfectly complements Ariana’s airy, yet powerful vocals. Lyrically, it’s all about that moment when flirtation turns into something deeper and more desperate—when the chemistry is so strong you can’t hold back any longer. Lines like “So, baby, come light me up / And maybe I’ll let you on it” are bold, direct, and perfectly in tune with the track’s sensuous vibe. “Into You” doesn’t shy away from its own heat; it leans in, fully aware of its own allure. Critics hailed it as one of Ariana’s most polished pop songs, and fans still consider it a go-to for when they want to feel confident and irresistible. It’s seductive, sophisticated, and endlessly replayable—proof that Ariana knows exactly how to turn emotion into a sonic experience.
5. Dangerous Woman (2016)
“Dangerous Woman” is where Ariana Grande fully stepped into her power. Released in March 2016 as the title track of her third studio album, the song was a bold departure from her earlier bubblegum pop sound. With a sultry blend of R&B, pop, and a touch of rock, the track oozes sensuality and confidence. From the moment the first notes hit, you can feel the shift—this is a woman who knows who she is and isn’t afraid to own her desires. The lyrics speak to embracing vulnerability as a source of strength, with Ariana singing lines like, “Something ’bout you makes me feel like a dangerous woman.” It’s a nod to the idea that true power often comes from embracing every side of yourself—especially the ones society tells women to hide. Her vocal performance is rich, controlled, and dripping with attitude, climbing to emotional heights in the soaring chorus. “Dangerous Woman” redefined her public image and marked a pivotal moment in her evolution as both an artist and a feminist icon. It’s not just a song—it’s a statement. One that says power isn’t something you wait for. It’s something you claim.
6. Break Free (2014)
“Break Free” is the ultimate liberation anthem—pure, unapologetic pop freedom. Released in July 2014 and featuring EDM heavyweight Zedd, the track marked a bold shift in Ariana Grande’s sound. It combined her powerhouse vocals with futuristic, synth-heavy production, creating an explosive dance-pop moment that demanded attention. The song is all about reclaiming control—over your life, your heart, and your narrative. With lyrics like “This is the part when I say I don’t want ya / I’m stronger than I’ve been before,” Ariana tells a story of breaking away from a toxic relationship and finding strength in independence. Her delivery is fierce and fearless, a perfect match for the pulsating beats that drive the song forward. “Break Free” quickly became a summer smash and a club staple, with fans screaming the chorus at the top of their lungs. But it wasn’t just a dance track—it was empowering. It gave people a reason to celebrate letting go, to feel strong in their decisions, and to dance their way through hard times. It solidified Ariana’s transition into a pop superstar and remains a go-to track when you need a boost of confidence and clarity.
7. Side to Side (2016)
“Side to Side” is Ariana Grande at her most playful and provocative. Released in August 2016, the reggae-pop fusion track features none other than rap queen Nicki Minaj, and together they created a sizzling hit that dominated the charts—and the gym playlists. From its island-inspired beat to its sultry lyrics, the song oozes confidence and flirtation. Ariana’s vocals are smooth and teasing as she sings about the kind of night that leaves you, well, walking “side to side.” It’s cheeky, bold, and completely unforgettable. Nicki’s verse brings her signature sass and fire, elevating the song into a certified anthem. On the surface, it’s a fun, sexy bop, but it also marks a moment where Ariana shed any remaining innocence in her image and took full ownership of her womanhood and artistic voice. The chemistry between the two women is undeniable, and the song became an instant fan favorite—not to mention a viral sensation. Whether you’re dancing in your room or blasting it in your car, “Side to Side” is the kind of track that makes you feel fierce, flirty, and completely unstoppable.
8. Positions (2020)
“Positions” is sleek, sexy, and effortlessly smooth—a reflection of Ariana Grande’s growth as both a vocalist and a woman. Released in October 2020 as the lead single from her sixth studio album, the track blends soft R&B textures with elegant string arrangements, creating a refined yet intimate soundscape. Lyrically, Ariana explores the balance between love and responsibility, shifting between roles with ease—whether in the kitchen, the boardroom, or the bedroom. It’s a celebration of emotional and sensual versatility, wrapped in a velvet-soft melody. Her vocals are restrained yet intricate, layering harmonies that glide over the production like silk. The message? Women can be everything—powerful, romantic, nurturing, and strong—without sacrificing any part of themselves. “Positions” is less about pleasing someone else and more about owning every aspect of your identity with pride and grace. The song debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, further cementing Ariana’s status as a chart-topping queen. It’s mature, confident, and undeniably catchy—proof that Ariana’s artistry continues to evolve while staying true to the emotional honesty that’s always defined her work.
9. Problem (2014)
“Problem” was a game-changer for Ariana Grande. Released in April 2014 and featuring a fiery verse from Iggy Azalea, the song became an instant pop phenomenon. It opens with that now-iconic saxophone riff—bold, brassy, and totally unforgettable—setting the tone for a track that’s all about empowerment in the aftermath of a messy breakup. Ariana belts out lyrics about shedding a toxic love, delivering lines like “I’ve got one less problem without ya” with a mix of sass and relief. The song captures that head-spinning moment of realization when you finally let go of someone who’s no good for you—and feel amazing about it. With its punchy beats, catchy hook, and whispery vocals from Big Sean (yep, that whisper is him), “Problem” has all the ingredients of a perfect pop hit. It skyrocketed to the top of the charts and helped Ariana break into the upper echelon of mainstream music. More than that, it gave fans a fierce soundtrack to reclaim their power after heartbreak. Bold, brash, and undeniably fun, “Problem” is a high-energy kiss-off wrapped in glitter and gold.
10. God is a Woman (2018)
“God is a Woman” is one of Ariana Grande’s boldest and most mesmerizing statements. Released in July 2018, the song blurs the lines between sensuality and spirituality, creating a lush soundscape where femininity reigns supreme. The track fuses R&B, trap, and pop into something hypnotic, with Ariana’s voice gliding effortlessly over the melody like liquid light. But it’s the message that truly makes the song stand out. In “God is a Woman,” Ariana reclaims divine power as feminine, asserting that love, intimacy, and strength are sacred forces embodied in women. Lines like “You’ll believe God is a woman” challenge old paradigms and celebrate the divine feminine with grace and audacity. The accompanying music video—with its rich symbolism and striking visuals—elevated the track to a near-mythical status. Critics hailed it as visionary, while fans embraced it as an anthem of empowerment. It’s bold, it’s beautiful, and it’s deeply personal, showcasing Ariana at her most artistically fearless. “God is a Woman” isn’t just a song—it’s a spiritual experience, wrapped in sensuality and strength, proving once again that Ariana Grande doesn’t just make pop music—she redefines it.
Edward Tomlin 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.
