Music has always been a significant aspect of human life, acting as a source of entertainment, inspiration, and memories. From the 60s to the 90s, several timeless classics were created, which still hold a special place in the hearts of many music lovers. Throwback songs are an excellent way to revisit memories of the past and relive the moments that made us smile. In this article, we present to you the “Top 20 Best Throwback Songs“. These songs are handpicked based on their popularity, longevity, and impact on popular culture. From the groovy beats of Motown to the electrifying energy of rock and roll, this list has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a blast from the past or just want to enjoy some of the best music ever made, these throwback songs will not disappoint. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be transported back in time with the Top 20 Best Throwback Songs.
1. “The Real Slim Shady” by Eminem
“The Real Slim Shady” is a hit song by American rapper Eminem, released in 2000 as the lead single from his third studio album “The Marshall Mathers LP.” The song showcases Eminem’s signature style of witty, controversial, and sometimes shocking lyrics. The track is known for its catchy beat, humor, and social commentary, as Eminem pokes fun at the media, celebrity culture, and his own reputation. The song was well received by audiences and became a commercial success, reaching the top of charts in several countries and earning Eminem several awards and nominations. Today, “The Real Slim Shady” remains a classic in Eminem’s discography and a staple of hip-hop music.
2. “Yeah!” by Usher
“Yeah!” is a hit single by American R&B artist Usher, released in 2004. The song features rapper Ludacris and producer Lil Jon and is a blend of R&B, hip hop, and crunk music. “Yeah!” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the charts in several countries and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s catchy chorus, upbeat energy, and infectious beat made it a popular dance hit and a staple of club playlists. The music video for “Yeah!” features Usher and Ludacris performing in a packed club, further contributing to the song’s popularity. Today, “Yeah!” remains a classic of mid-2000s R&B and a testament to Usher’s lasting influence in the genre.
3. “Don’t Speak” by No Doubt
“Don’t Speak” is a hit single by American rock band No Doubt, released in 1996. The song, which was written by lead singer Gwen Stefani, is a ballad that reflects on the end of a romantic relationship. “Don’t Speak” became one of No Doubt’s most popular songs and one of the biggest hits of the 1990s, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The song’s emotionally charged lyrics and mellow, acoustic-driven sound made it a staple of adult contemporary radio and a favorite among fans of the band. The music video for “Don’t Speak” features footage of the band performing on a beach, adding to the song’s dreamy, nostalgic vibe. Today, “Don’t Speak” remains a classic of 1990s alternative rock and a highlight of No Doubt’s discography.
4. “Need You Tonight” by INXS
“Need You Tonight” is a hit single by Australian rock band INXS, released in 1987. The song was a major commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. “Need You Tonight” features a distinctive, funk-infused guitar riff and an infectious, danceable beat that helped it become a hit on dance floors around the world. The song’s sexually charged lyrics and upbeat energy made it a popular choice for radio and a staple of the band’s live performances. The music video for “Need You Tonight” features frontman Michael Hutchence performing in front of a backdrop of flashing lights and images, adding to the song’s energetic, high-octane vibe. Today, “Need You Tonight” remains a classic of 1980s rock and pop and a testament to INXS’s lasting influence on the genre.
5. “No Scrubs” by TLC
“No Scrubs” is a hit single by American girl group TLC, released in 1999. The song was written by Kandi Burruss, Tameka Cottle, and Kevin Briggs and features a strong, empowering message for women. “No Scrubs” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s catchy beat, sassy lyrics, and memorable melody made it a fan favorite and a staple of pop and R&B radio. The music video for “No Scrubs” features TLC performing in a futuristic, high-tech setting, further emphasizing the song’s strong and confident message. Today, “No Scrubs” remains a classic of 1990s pop and R&B and a testament to TLC’s lasting influence on the genre.
6. “Party in The U.S.A” by Miley Cyrus
“Party in the U.S.A.” is a hit single by American pop singer Miley Cyrus, released in 2009. The song was written by Jessie J, Dr. Luke, and Claude Kelly and features a catchy, upbeat melody and a feel-good message. “Party in the U.S.A.” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s upbeat energy and party-ready lyrics made it a popular choice for radio and a staple of pop music playlists. The music video for “Party in the U.S.A.” features Miley performing in a fun, lighthearted setting, further emphasizing the song’s carefree and celebratory vibe. Today, “Party in the U.S.A.” remains a classic of late 2000s pop and a testament to Miley’s lasting influence on the genre.
7. “It Wasn’t Me” by Rik Rok, Shaggy
“It Wasn’t Me” is a hit single by Jamaican reggae artist Shaggy featuring Rik Rok, released in 2000. The song was written by Shaggy and Orville Burrell and features a humorous and lighthearted take on infidelity. “It Wasn’t Me” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s catchy beat, memorable chorus, and humorous lyrics made it a fan favorite and a staple of reggae and pop radio. The music video for “It Wasn’t Me” features Shaggy and Rik Rok performing in a lighthearted, comical setting, further emphasizing the song’s tongue-in-cheek tone. Today, “It Wasn’t Me” remains a classic of early 2000s reggae and pop and a testament to Shaggy’s lasting influence on the genre.
8. “Just Dance” by Lady Gaga
“Just Dance” is a hit single by American pop singer Lady Gaga, released in 2008. The song was written by Lady Gaga, RedOne, and Akon and features a catchy, upbeat melody and a feel-good message. “Just Dance” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s upbeat energy and dance-ready beat made it a popular choice for radio and a staple of pop music playlists. The music video for “Just Dance” features Lady Gaga performing in a colorful, high-energy setting, further emphasizing the song’s celebratory vibe. Today, “Just Dance” remains a classic of late 2000s pop and a testament to Lady Gaga’s lasting influence on the genre.
9. “Say My Name” by Destiny’s Child
“Say My Name” is a hit single by American girl group Destiny’s Child, released in 2000. The song was written by LaShawn Daniels, Fred Jerkins III, Rodney Jerkins, and Beyoncé Knowles and features a powerful and assertive message about infidelity and the importance of communication in relationships. “Say My Name” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s catchy beat, memorable chorus, and empowering lyrics made it a fan favorite and a staple of R&B and pop radio. The music video for “Say My Name” features Destiny’s Child performing in a dramatic and stylish setting, further emphasizing the song’s strong message. Today, “Say My Name” remains a classic of early 2000s R&B and a testament to Destiny’s Child’s lasting influence on the genre.
10. “On My Own” by Patti LaBelle feat. Michael McDonald
“On My Own” is a hit duet by American R&B singer Patti LaBelle and American singer-songwriter Michael McDonald, released in 1986. The song was written by Burt Bacharach, Hal David, and Paul Clayton and features a soulful and emotional ballad about heartbreak and independence. “On My Own” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s powerful vocals, moving lyrics, and lush instrumentation made it a fan favorite and a staple of adult contemporary and R&B radio. The music video for “On My Own” features Patti LaBelle and Michael McDonald performing the song in a dramatic and intimate setting, further emphasizing the song’s emotional power. Today, “On My Own” remains a classic of late 1980s R&B and a testament to the lasting influence of Patti LaBelle and Michael McDonald on the genre.
11. “Wannabe” by Spice Girls
“Wannabe” is a hit single by English girl group the Spice Girls, released in 1996. The song was written by the Spice Girls and Richard Stannard and features a catchy, upbeat melody and a feel-good message about girl power and friendship. “Wannabe” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s energetic and danceable beat, memorable chorus, and empowering lyrics made it a fan favorite and a staple of pop radio. The music video for “Wannabe” features the Spice Girls performing in a colorful and high-energy setting, further emphasizing the song’s celebratory vibe. Today, “Wannabe” remains a classic of 1990s pop and a testament to the Spice Girls’ lasting influence on the genre.
12. “Milkshake” by Kelis
“Milkshake” is a hit single by American singer Kelis, released in 2003. The song was written by Kelis, Chad Hugo, and Pharrell Williams and features a catchy, upbeat melody and playful lyrics about female empowerment and confidence. “Milkshake” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s infectious beat, memorable chorus, and playful lyrics made it a fan favorite and a staple of dance and pop radio. The music video for “Milkshake” features Kelis performing in a fun and colorful setting, further emphasizing the song’s lighthearted and playful vibe. Today, “Milkshake” remains a classic of early 2000s pop and a testament to Kelis’ lasting influence on the genre.
13. “Meet Virginia” by Train
“Meet Virginia” is a hit single by American rock band Train, released in 1999. The song was written by Train’s lead singer, Pat Monahan, and features a catchy, upbeat melody and thoughtful lyrics about a long-distance relationship. “Meet Virginia” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s memorable chorus, catchy guitar riff, and heartfelt lyrics made it a fan favorite and a staple of rock and pop radio. The music video for “Meet Virginia” features a narrative story that showcases the song’s themes of longing and distance, further emphasizing its emotional impact. Today, “Meet Virginia” remains a classic of 1990s rock and a testament to Train’s lasting influence on the genre.
14. “Like a Virgin” by Madonna
“Like a Virgin” is a hit single by American pop icon Madonna, released in 1984. The song was written by Tom Kelly and Billy Steinberg and features a catchy, upbeat melody and provocative lyrics. “Like a Virgin” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s memorable chorus, iconic synthesizer riff, and sexual themes made it a fan favorite and a staple of dance and pop radio. The music video for “Like a Virgin” features Madonna performing in a wedding-themed setting, further emphasizing the song’s themes of sexual liberation and empowerment. Today, “Like a Virgin” remains a classic of 1980s pop and a testament to Madonna’s lasting influence on the genre.
15. “Baby One More Time” by Britney Spears
“Baby One More Time” is a hit single by American pop star Britney Spears, released in 1998. The song was written by Max Martin and produced by Martin and Rami Yacoub and features a catchy, upbeat melody and youthful lyrics. “Baby One More Time” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s memorable chorus, playful pop production, and iconic schoolgirl-inspired music video made it a fan favorite and a staple of pop radio. The music video for “Baby One More Time” features Britney in a school setting, further emphasizing the song’s themes of innocence and youthful longing. Today, “Baby One More Time” remains a classic of 1990s pop and a testament to Britney’s lasting influence on the genre.
16. “Baby” by Justin Bieber
“Baby” is a hit single by Canadian pop star Justin Bieber, released in 2010. The song features rapper Ludacris and showcases Bieber’s smooth, R&B-influenced vocals. “Baby” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of charts worldwide and becoming one of the biggest songs of the year. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat pop production helped to establish Justin Bieber as one of the biggest pop stars in the world. The music video for “Baby” features Bieber performing with his band and interacting with fans, highlighting his relatable and down-to-earth image. Today, “Baby” is considered a classic of late 2000s pop and a testament to Justin Bieber’s lasting influence on the genre.
17. “Turn Up the Music” by Chris Brown
“Turn Up the Music” is a dance-pop single by American R&B artist Chris Brown, released in 2012. The song is driven by a pulsing beat and features Brown’s powerful, high-energy vocals. “Turn Up the Music” is a upbeat and infectious party anthem, encouraging listeners to let loose and have fun on the dance floor. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of Chris Brown’s biggest hits. The music video for “Turn Up the Music” is a visually stunning affair, featuring Brown performing elaborate dance routines and showing off his impressive footwork. Today, “Turn Up the Music” is considered a classic of early 2010s pop and a testament to Chris Brown’s versatility and artistry as a performer.
18. “Replay” by Iyaz
“Replay” is a reggae-infused pop song by British Virgin Islands singer-songwriter Iyaz. It was released in 2009 and quickly became a hit around the world, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and earning Platinum certification in multiple territories. The song features Iyaz’s smooth, soulful vocals over a catchy, reggae-inspired beat, with lyrics that reflect on a past relationship and the desire to relive it. “Replay” is an upbeat and catchy track that is instantly memorable and has become a staple of party playlists and radio stations. Today, “Replay” is considered one of the biggest pop hits of the late 2000s and a standout track in Iyaz’s discography.
19. “Waterfalls” by TLC
“Waterfalls” is a hit song by American girl group TLC, released in 1995. The song features a blend of R&B, hip-hop, and pop music, with a powerful message about the dangers of chasing wealth and success at the cost of one’s well-being and relationships. The song topped charts in multiple countries and received critical acclaim for its socially conscious lyrics and smooth production. The accompanying music video features stunning visuals and iconic choreography, further solidifying TLC’s status as one of the most influential girl groups of the 90s. “Waterfalls” remains a fan-favorite and is considered a classic throwback hit.
20. “Any Way You Want It” by Journey
“Any Way You Want It” is a classic rock song by Journey, released in 1980 as the opening track of their album, “Departure.” The upbeat, energetic track features catchy guitar riffs and a memorable chorus that encourages listeners to take control of their own lives and do things “any way they want it.” The song was a major hit for Journey, reaching #23 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and remains a fan favorite to this day, frequently played at sporting events and other high-energy gatherings. With its upbeat vibe and catchy melody, “Any Way You Want It” continues to be a classic example of Journey’s signature sound, blending rock, pop, and AOR elements into a timeless, high-energy anthem.
Jason Smith 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.
