The 2010s were a decade of musical innovation and experimentation, with new genres and styles emerging and capturing the attention of audiences around the world. From the rise of EDM and dubstep to the resurgence of R&B and soul, the 2010s were a time of constant evolution and change in the music industry. With so much new music being released, it’s easy to forget about some of the amazing songs that shaped the decade. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top songs from the 2010s that you may have forgotten about. From one-hit wonders to overlooked gems, this list showcases the diverse and dynamic musical landscape of the 2010s. Whether you’re a fan of pop, rock, hip hop, or electronic music, there’s something here for everyone. So join us as we revisit some of the best songs from the 2010s that deserve to be remembered and appreciated once again.
1. “Drunk In Love” by Beyoncé & Jay-Z
“Drunk In Love” by Beyoncé and Jay-Z is a sensual, upbeat R&B ballad that celebrates the deep love and affection between a couple. The track features a catchy beat, smooth and soulful vocals, and sexually charged lyrics that explore the joys and challenges of a passionate relationship. The song’s production is marked by its use of smooth bass lines, synths, and percussion that blend together to create a groovy, upbeat vibe. Throughout the track, both Beyoncé and Jay-Z deliver confident and powerful vocals, showcasing their undeniable chemistry and chemistry. The song’s catchy chorus and memorable hooks are sure to stick in your head long after the first listen. With its powerful vocals, electrifying production, and relatable lyrics, “Drunk In Love” is a standout track that embodies the essence of true love and passion.
2. “Troublemaker” by Olly Murs ft. Flo Rida
“Troublemaker” by Olly Murs featuring Flo Rida is an energetic pop and hip-hop track that showcases the fun-loving, carefree spirit of its performers. The song features a lively, dance-friendly beat and catchy, upbeat melodies that are sure to get listeners moving. The lyrics of the song revolve around the idea of breaking free from the daily grind and letting loose, embracing the thrill of being a troublemaker. Flo Rida delivers a high-energy, rap-style verse that adds to the track’s already dynamic sound. Throughout the song, Olly Murs’s infectious vocals and catchy hooks drive the rhythm and keep the energy level high. Whether you’re looking for a motivational pick-me-up or simply in the mood to dance, “Troublemaker” is sure to get you moving and put a smile on your face.
3. “Levels” by Avicii
“Levels” by Avicii is a pulsing electronic dance music (EDM) track that showcases the producer’s skills and genre-defining sound. The song is driven by a pounding beat and an infectious, repetitive piano riff that is guaranteed to get stuck in your head. The lyrics of the song are simple and repetitive, but their repetition only adds to the song’s catchiness. Throughout the track, Avicii weaves together a variety of sounds and textures to create an infectious, energetic soundscape. Whether you’re a fan of EDM or just looking for an upbeat, dance-friendly track, “Levels” is sure to get you moving. With its pulsing energy, infectious melodies, and memorable hooks, this song is a testament to Avicii’s talent as a producer and a standout track in the world of electronic dance music.
4. “We Found Love” by Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris
“We Found Love” is a song by Barbadian singer Rihanna, featuring Scottish DJ and record producer Calvin Harris. It was released in September 2011 as the lead single from Rihanna’s sixth studio album, “Talk That Talk”. The song is an uptempo, dance-pop and electronic dance music (EDM) track that incorporates elements of techno, house, and Europop. The lyrics depict a passionate and tumultuous relationship, with Rihanna singing about how love can be a source of both happiness and pain. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one in over 25 countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. Its catchy chorus and infectious beat make it a dancefloor staple and a fan favorite. The accompanying music video, which was directed by Melina Matsoukas, features Rihanna in a tumultuous relationship and highlights the ups and downs of love. Overall, “We Found Love” is a dynamic and upbeat song that captures the intense emotions of a passionate relationship.
5. “XO” by Beyoncé
“XO” is a song by American singer and songwriter Beyoncé, taken from her fifth studio album, “BEYONCÉ”. The song was released in December 2013 as one of the lead tracks from the album. “XO” is a mid-tempo pop and R&B ballad that incorporates elements of electronic dance music. The lyrics of the song express the feelings of love and longing, with Beyoncé singing about cherishing and valuing her lover. The song features a simple and straightforward production, with a memorable melody and a catchy chorus that emphasizes Beyoncé’s powerful and soulful vocals. The music video for “XO” features scenes of Beyoncé enjoying life and having fun with her friends, showcasing her carefree and energetic personality. The song has been well received by audiences and critics alike, with many praising its uplifting message and Beyoncé’s powerful vocal performance. Overall, “XO” is a heartfelt and upbeat ballad that celebrates the joys of love and life.
6. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
“Uptown Funk” is a song by English producer Mark Ronson, featuring American singer and songwriter Bruno Mars. The song was released in November 2014 as the lead single from Ronson’s fourth studio album, “Uptown Special”. “Uptown Funk” is a funky, retro-inspired dance-pop track that blends elements of R&B, funk, and soul music. The lyrics of the song are about dancing and having a good time, with Bruno Mars singing about letting loose and having fun. The song features a catchy beat, memorable melody, and a memorable saxophone riff that has become one of the song’s defining features. The music video for “Uptown Funk” features Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars performing the song in a colorful, funky, and high-energy manner, showcasing their respective musical abilities. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the charts in several countries and becoming one of the biggest hits of the decade. Overall, “Uptown Funk” is a fun and upbeat track that gets audiences moving and grooving to its infectious beat.
7. “Pumped Up Kicks” by Foster The People
“Pumped Up Kicks” is a song by American indie pop band Foster The People. The song was released in September 2010 as the lead single from the band’s debut studio album, “Torches”. “Pumped Up Kicks” is a mid-tempo indie pop track that features a catchy and infectious melody, as well as a repetitive chorus that has become one of the song’s defining features. The lyrics of the song deal with the issue of gun violence and the psychology of a school shooter. The song has been both praised and criticized for its controversial subject matter, with some listeners finding its subject matter insensitive and others finding it thought-provoking. The music video for “Pumped Up Kicks” features a dream-like visual style that contrasts with the dark themes of the song. Overall, “Pumped Up Kicks” is a memorable and thought-provoking indie pop track that combines a catchy melody with an important message.
8. “Super Bass” by Nicki Minaj
“Super Bass” is a song by American rapper Nicki Minaj. The song was released in April 2011 as the second single from Minaj’s debut studio album, “Pink Friday”. “Super Bass” is a pop-rap track that features a catchy and upbeat melody, as well as a playful and confident vocal performance from Nicki Minaj. The lyrics of the song are about a confident and sassy woman who is unapologetically herself and knows what she wants in a relationship. The song has been praised for its infectious beat and catchy chorus, as well as for Nicki Minaj’s charismatic performance. The music video for “Super Bass” features Minaj performing the song in a brightly-colored and playful setting, showcasing her playful and confident persona. Overall, “Super Bass” is a fun and upbeat pop-rap track that showcases Nicki Minaj’s musical abilities and confident personality.
9. “Shake It Out” by Florence & The Machine
“Shake It Out” is a song by English indie rock band Florence + the Machine. The song was released in September 2011 as the lead single from the band’s second studio album, “Ceremonials”. “Shake It Out” is an upbeat indie rock track that features a powerful vocal performance from Florence Welch, as well as anthemic, gospel-inspired backing vocals. The lyrics of the song deal with the theme of letting go of regrets and negative emotions, and encourages listeners to “shake it out” and move on from their past. The song has been praised for its empowering message and cathartic energy, as well as for Florence Welch’s passionate vocal performance. The music video for “Shake It Out” features Florence Welch performing the song in a variety of dream-like and fantastical settings, showcasing the song’s themes of letting go and moving on. Overall, “Shake It Out” is a powerful and cathartic indie rock track that encourages listeners to let go of their past and embrace a positive future.
10. “Turn Down For What” by DJ Snake & Lil Jon
“Turn Down for What” is a song by French DJ and producer DJ Snake and American rapper Lil Jon. The song was released in 2013 and quickly became a hit, reaching the top 10 on charts around the world. “Turn Down for What” is an energetic and high-energy track that features Lil Jon’s signature crunk-style rap vocals over a driving dance beat and a pulsing bassline. The lyrics of the song are energetic and celebratory, encouraging listeners to “turn down for what” and party hard. The music video for “Turn Down for What” features surreal and over-the-top imagery, including fire and explosions, as well as scenes of people dancing and partying. Overall, “Turn Down for What” is a high-energy and unforgettable party anthem that has become a staple of electronic dance music and club culture.
11. “Mr. Saxobeat” by Alexandra Stan
“Mr. Saxobeat” is a song by Romanian singer-songwriter Alexandra Stan. The song was released in 2011 and became a huge hit in many countries around the world, reaching the top 10 in several charts. “Mr. Saxobeat” is a lively and upbeat dance track that features a driving beat and infectious saxophone hooks. The lyrics of the song are simple and repetitive, encouraging listeners to dance and move to the music. The music video for “Mr. Saxobeat” features Alexandra Stan performing the song in a variety of colorful and playful settings, surrounded by backup dancers and saxophonists. Overall, “Mr. Saxobeat” is a feel-good and energetic dance track that is sure to get people on their feet and moving.
12. “Royals” by Lorde
“Royals” is a song by New Zealand singer-songwriter Lorde. The song was released in 2013 and became a global hit, reaching the top of charts in many countries and earning Lorde widespread critical acclaim. “Royals” is a melancholic and introspective track that features Lorde’s haunting vocals and atmospheric production. The lyrics of the song reflect on the gap between the luxurious lifestyles depicted in popular culture and the reality of everyday life, with Lorde singing “And we’ll never be royals (royals) / It don’t run in our blood.” The music video for “Royals” features simple and minimalist imagery, with Lorde performing the song against a black background. Overall, “Royals” is a thought-provoking and powerful track that showcases Lorde’s musical talent and lyrical prowess.
13. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
“Shake It Off” is a song by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. Released in 2014, the song is upbeat, energetic and features a pop-oriented sound. The song’s lyrics are about embracing one’s individuality and not letting negative comments or criticism get you down. Swift sings about shaking off the haters and focusing on being positive, with lines like “I stay out too late / Got nothing in my brain / That’s what people say / Mm-mm, that’s what people say / I go on too many dates / But I can’t make ’em stay / At least that’s what people say / Mm-mm, that’s what people say.” The music video for “Shake It Off” features Swift dancing with a variety of different groups of people, including ballerinas, cheerleaders and breakdancers, and highlights her playful and carefree spirit. “Shake It Off” is a classic example of Taylor Swift’s pop-inspired sound and her empowering messages.
14. “All Of Me” by John Legend
“All of Me” is a song by American singer-songwriter John Legend. The ballad, which was released in 2013, is a love song that expresses the deep love and devotion that the singer has for his significant other. The song’s lyrics describe how the singer would give everything he has, including his heart and soul, to the person he loves. The song’s emotional and heartfelt lyrics are backed by a simple piano melody that perfectly captures the tenderness of the message. The music video for “All of Me” features John Legend and his wife, model Chrissy Teigen, and showcases the couple’s real-life love story. “All of Me” was a commercial success, reaching the top of charts around the world and earning multiple awards and nominations. The song has become one of John Legend’s most iconic and enduring works, and is widely recognized as a classic love song.
15. “Rolling In The Deep” by Adele
“Rolling in the Deep” is a song by British singer Adele. Released in 2010, it was the lead single from her second studio album, “21”. The song is a powerful, blues-inspired anthem that showcases Adele’s incredible vocal range and emotional delivery. The lyrics describe a tumultuous relationship that has ended, with Adele expressing anger and frustration at being used and manipulated. The song’s upbeat and driving beat is a perfect match for the intense emotion of the lyrics, making “Rolling in the Deep” a memorable and impactful track. The song was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of charts around the world and earning multiple awards and nominations. Adele’s powerful vocal performance and the song’s unforgettable chorus have made “Rolling in the Deep” a classic in her discography and a staple of modern pop music.
16. “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran
“Perfect” is a song by English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran. Released in 2017, it was the fourth single from his third studio album, “÷”. The song is a romantic ballad that showcases Ed Sheeran’s signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and melodic acoustic guitar. The lyrics describe a deep and intimate love that is rare and unbreakable, with Ed expressing his gratitude and commitment to his significant other. The song’s simple and stripped-down production allows Ed’s emotive vocal performance to shine through, making “Perfect” a powerful and touching love song. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of charts around the world and earning numerous awards and nominations. With its timeless melody and heartfelt message, “Perfect” has become one of Ed Sheeran’s signature songs and a modern classic of pop music.
17. “One Dance” by Drake ft. WizKid and Kyla
“One Dance” is a song by Canadian rapper Drake, featuring WizKid and Kyla. It was released in 2016 as the lead single from Drake’s fourth studio album, “Views”. The song is a mid-tempo, uptempo track that blends together elements of Afrobeat, dancehall, and R&B music. The lyrics describe a desire for a night of intimate dancing and connection with a love interest, with the chorus imploring the listener to “give me one dance.” WizKid and Kyla provide smooth vocal accents throughout the song, complementing Drake’s charismatic and confident delivery. “One Dance” was a major commercial success, reaching the top of charts in over 15 countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. With its catchy melody, infectious rhythm, and infectious energy, “One Dance” remains one of Drake’s defining tracks and a staple of modern pop music.
18. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
“Happy” is a lively and upbeat song by Pharrell Williams. Released in 2013, it quickly became a worldwide hit and one of the most recognizable pop songs of the decade. The song features a cheerful melody and an infectious beat that’s sure to put a smile on your face. The lyrics of “Happy” encourage listeners to be joyful and to spread positivity and kindness. The message of the song is simple, but powerful: be happy, no matter what. The song has been covered by numerous artists and has been used in commercials and movies, becoming a timeless classic. Pharrell Williams’ smooth vocals and the upbeat instrumentals make “Happy” an irresistible and uplifting song that will have you tapping your feet and singing along in no time.
19. “Wrecking Ball” by Miley Cyrus
“Wrecking Ball” is a powerful and emotional ballad by Miley Cyrus. The song was released in 2013 and quickly became a hit, reaching the top of charts worldwide. The lyrics of “Wrecking Ball” tell the story of heartbreak and the aftermath of a failed relationship. Cyrus’ powerful vocals showcase her raw emotions and convey the pain and sadness she feels. The song features a haunting melody and a simple, but effective production that emphasizes Cyrus’ voice and the lyrics. The music video for “Wrecking Ball” features Cyrus swinging naked on a demolition ball, further emphasizing the themes of destruction and heartbreak. The song is a powerful and moving expression of love, loss, and the consequences of broken relationships.
20. “Just Give Me A Reason” by P!nk ft. Nate Ruess
“Just Give Me a Reason” is a ballad performed by American singer-songwriter P!nk, featuring Nate Ruess of the band fun. The song was released in 2013 and it was included in her sixth studio album “The Truth About Love”. The song expresses a desire for reconciliation in a relationship and highlights the importance of communication and understanding. The melody is driven by a soft piano, accompanied by strings, while the lyrics are delivered with emotion and intensity by P!nk and Ruess. The song was well received by audiences and critics, becoming a hit around the world, reaching the top 10 in several countries, and earning P!nk and Ruess a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.
April Johnson 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.
