Repetition has been a staple in popular music for centuries, serving as a memorable and catchy tool for songwriters to convey their message. From the simple repetition of a chorus to the repetition of a single phrase, repetition has the power to make a song instantly recognizable. Whether it’s the repetition of a melody, lyrics, or beat, songs with repetition have a unique ability to stick in our heads and become earworms. This technique can also help convey a strong emotional message, as the repetition reinforces the themes of the song. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous and beloved songs that use repetition in various forms, and how they’ve helped to define the musical landscape of different genres and eras. From classic rock anthems to modern pop hits, repetition has proven to be an enduring and versatile tool in the songwriter’s arsenal.
1. “Around The World” by Daft Punk
“Around the World” is a popular electronic dance music (EDM) song by the French duo Daft Punk. Released in 1997, the song features a repetitive and hypnotic beat, accompanied by a robotic vocal chant of the song’s title. The track is considered a classic of the French house genre and was a huge commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries. The music video for “Around the World” features a group of robots dancing and performing various tasks, further solidifying the song’s place in the world of electronic dance music. To this day, “Around the World” remains a popular staple of dance clubs and a classic in the Daft Punk discography.
2. “Best Of You” by Foo Fighters
“Best of You” is a power ballad by American rock band Foo Fighters. The song was released in 2005 as the lead single from their fifth studio album “In Your Honor.” “Best of You” features a driving guitar riff, an anthemic chorus, and raw, emotive vocals from lead singer Dave Grohl. The lyrics of the song deal with themes of personal strength and perseverance, and the chorus, with its repetition of the phrase “Best of you,” serves to reinforce the message of the song. “Best of You” was a commercial success for the Foo Fighters, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning the band their first Grammy nomination. To this day, “Best of You” remains a staple of Foo Fighters’ live shows and a favorite among fans.
3. “Get Low” by Dillon Francis & DJ Snake
“Get Low” is an electronic dance music (EDM) track by American DJ and producer Dillon Francis and French DJ and producer DJ Snake. Released in 2014, the song features a catchy, repetitive hook that instructs listeners to “get low” over a driving beat and a quirky synth line. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 in several countries and earning widespread recognition in the EDM community. The music video for “Get Low” features Dillon Francis and DJ Snake performing the song in front of a colorful and energetic crowd, further solidifying the track’s place in the world of dance music. To this day, “Get Low” remains a staple of dance clubs and a favorite among fans of both Dillon Francis and DJ Snake.
4. “Désolé” by Gorillaz
“Désolé” is a track by British virtual band Gorillaz, featuring French-Canadian artist Kali Uchis. The song was released in 2018 as part of the album “The Now Now.” “Désolé” features a smooth, atmospheric instrumental backing, with Kali Uchis’ hushed, ethereal vocals and repetitive chorus adding to the track’s dreamlike quality. The lyrics, sung in both English and Spanish, deal with themes of regret and apology. The music video for “Désolé” features animated versions of Gorillaz members Murdoc and Russel in a surreal and colorful setting, further enhancing the dreamlike atmosphere of the song. “Désolé” was well-received by fans and critics, solidifying its place as a standout track from Gorillaz’s discography.
5. “Pump Up The Jam” by Technotronic
“Pump Up the Jam” is a classic dance track by Belgian act Technotronic. Released in 1989, the song features a repetitive and energetic beat, coupled with a catchy chorus and distinctive rap verses. “Pump Up the Jam” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning widespread recognition as a seminal dance track. The music video for “Pump Up the Jam” features a high-energy dance party, further solidifying the song’s place in the world of dance music. To this day, “Pump Up the Jam” remains a staple of dance clubs and a classic of the dance and hip-hop genres. Its influence can be heard in numerous contemporary dance and electronic music tracks, making it a lasting and important part of popular music history.
6. “Drip” by Cardi B
“Drip” is a rap track by American rapper Cardi B, featuring Atlanta-based rapper Migos. The song was released in 2018 as part of Cardi B’s debut studio album “Invasion of Privacy.” “Drip” features a repetitive and energetic beat, with Cardi B and Migos delivering confident and charismatic verses over the track’s hard-hitting instrumental. The lyrics of “Drip” deal with themes of luxury and opulence, with the artists boasting about their wealth and success. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning widespread recognition as a standout track from Cardi B’s debut album. To this day, “Drip” remains a favorite among fans of both Cardi B and Migos, and is considered a defining track in the world of contemporary hip-hop.
7. “The Rockafeller Skank” by Fatboy Slim
“The Rockafeller Skank” is a classic dance track by British DJ and producer Fatboy Slim. Released in 1998, the song features a fast-paced and energetic beat, along with a catchy, repetitive hook and distinctive synth riff. “The Rockafeller Skank” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and earning widespread recognition as a seminal dance track. The song was also a critical success, with its innovative blend of styles and upbeat energy being praised by music fans and critics alike. To this day, “The Rockafeller Skank” remains a staple of dance clubs and a classic of the dance and electronic music genres. Its influence can be heard in numerous contemporary dance and electronic music tracks, making it a lasting and important part of popular music history.
8. “Gimme Dat” by Ciara
“Gimme Dat” is a R&B and dance track by American singer and dancer Ciara. The song was released in 2010 as part of her fourth studio album “Basic Instinct.” “Gimme Dat” features a repetitive, infectious beat, coupled with Ciara’s smooth and confident vocals. The lyrics of “Gimme Dat” deal with themes of desire and attraction, with Ciara declaring her affection for a potential love interest. The song was well-received by fans and critics, with its catchy melody and upbeat energy earning widespread recognition. The music video for “Gimme Dat” features Ciara performing dance moves with her backup dancers, further showcasing her skills as a performer. To this day, “Gimme Dat” remains a fan-favorite among Ciara’s discography, and is considered a standout track from her fourth studio album.
9. “Watch Me” by Silento
“Watch Me” is a pop and hip-hop track by American rapper and singer Silentó. The song was released in 2015 and quickly gained widespread recognition for its catchy chorus and distinctive dance moves. “Watch Me” features a repetitive beat, with Silentó delivering a rap verse over the track’s upbeat instrumental. The chorus of “Watch Me” invites listeners to dance along, with its simple and repetitive hook of “Watch me (whip/nae nae)” becoming a viral sensation. The music video for “Watch Me” features Silentó performing the “Whip” and “Nae Nae” dance moves, which quickly became popular among fans and spawned numerous viral videos and dance challenges. To this day, “Watch Me” remains a fan-favorite among Silentó’s discography, and is considered a defining track in the world of contemporary hip-hop and pop music.
10. “Golden” by Harry Styles
“Golden” is a pop rock track by English singer-songwriter Harry Styles. The song was released in 2020 as part of his second studio album “Fine Line.” “Golden” features a light and upbeat instrumental, with a catchy and repetitive guitar riff driving the track’s rhythm. The lyrics of “Golden” deal with themes of love and longing, with Styles delivering his vocals with a sense of dreamy nostalgia. The song was well-received by fans and critics, with its upbeat energy and infectious melody earning widespread recognition. The music video for “Golden” features Styles performing the track in a variety of idyllic locations, further emphasizing the song’s themes of love and longing. To this day, “Golden” remains a fan-favorite among Harry Styles’ discography, and is considered a standout track from his second studio album.
11. “Funky Town” by Lipps, Inc.
“Funky Town” is a disco track by American dance-pop group Lipps, Inc. The song was released in 1979 and quickly gained widespread recognition for its upbeat and energetic sound. “Funky Town” features a repetitive and infectious beat, with a funky bassline and horns driving the track’s rhythm. The lyrics of “Funky Town” deal with themes of urban life and the desire to escape to a place where people can “dance their troubles away.” The song was well-received by fans and critics, and became a defining track in the world of disco music. The “Funky Town” is considered a classic of its genre and continues to be popular among fans of dance and pop music. Its catchy melody, upbeat energy, and memorable chorus have earned “Funky Town” widespread recognition and a place in music history.
12. “Chain Of Fools” by Jimmy Smith
“Chain of Fools” is a soul track by American jazz organist Jimmy Smith. The song was originally recorded by Aretha Franklin in 1967, but Jimmy Smith’s version, released in 1968, features a distinctive organ solo and upbeat groove. “Chain of Fools” features repetitive and soulful horns, driving the track’s rhythm, with Smith’s virtuosic organ playing adding a dynamic layer to the song. The lyrics of “Chain of Fools” deal with themes of love and heartbreak, with the song’s narrator singing about being caught in a “chain of fools.” Jimmy Smith’s version of “Chain of Fools” is widely considered one of his best recordings, and has earned recognition as a classic in the world of soul and jazz music. The song’s infectious energy and soulful sound have cemented its place in music history, and it remains a popular track among fans of jazz, soul, and R&B music.
13. “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root
“Send Me On My Way” is a worldbeat song by American rock band Rusted Root. The song was released in 1994 and quickly gained recognition for its catchy and upbeat sound. “Send Me On My Way” features repetitive and percussive instrumentation, with driving drums, hand percussion, and worldbeat influences. The song’s lyrics deal with themes of journey and self-discovery, with the song’s narrator singing about being “sent on their way” and seeking their place in the world. “Send Me On My Way” was well-received by fans and critics, and became a defining track in the world of worldbeat and jam band music. The song’s upbeat energy, catchy melody, and memorable chorus have earned “Send Me On My Way” widespread recognition and a place in music history. It remains a popular track among fans of worldbeat, jam band, and alternative rock music.
14. “Surfin’ Bird” by The Trashmen
“Surfin’ Bird” is a surf rock song by American rock and roll band The Trashmen. The song was released in 1963 and quickly gained recognition for its catchy and upbeat sound. “Surfin’ Bird” features repetitive and energetic instrumentation, with driving surf rock guitar, lively drums, and upbeat organ. The song’s lyrics are based on two earlier R&B songs, with the song’s narrator singing about a popular dance craze. “Surfin’ Bird” was well-received by fans and critics, and became a defining track in the world of surf rock and early rock and roll. The song’s upbeat energy, catchy melody, and memorable chorus have earned “Surfin’ Bird” widespread recognition and a place in music history. It remains a popular track among fans of surf rock, early rock and roll, and classic rock music.
15. “Jingo” by Santana
“Jingo” is a Latin rock song by Mexican-American rock band Santana. The song was recorded in 1969 and quickly gained recognition for its infectious and danceable rhythm. “Jingo” features repetitive and percussive instrumentation, with driving conga drums, Latin percussion, and rock guitar. The song is based on a traditional African rhythm, and its lyrics deal with themes of celebration and unity. “Jingo” was well-received by fans and critics, and became a defining track in the world of Latin rock and fusion music. The song’s infectious rhythm, catchy melody, and memorable chorus have earned “Jingo” widespread recognition and a place in music history. It remains a popular track among fans of Latin rock, world music, and fusion genres.
16. “Alone” by Marshmello
“Alone” is a electronic dance music (EDM) track by American DJ and producer Marshmello. Released in 2016, the song became a commercial success and one of Marshmello’s signature tracks. “Alone” features a repetitive, upbeat dance rhythm and synth melody, combined with emotional and introspective lyrics about feeling isolated and disconnected from the world. The song’s music video, which features Marshmello traveling through an abandoned futuristic city, also gained attention and was widely shared on social media. “Alone” has become a staple of EDM and dance music, and has been performed live by Marshmello at festivals and concerts around the world. Its catchy beat, relatable lyrics, and upbeat energy continue to make it a popular choice among fans of electronic dance music.
17. “Going Down Slowly” by The Pointer Sisters
“Going Down Slowly” is a soulful ballad performed by the legendary American R&B and pop vocal group, The Pointer Sisters. Originally released in 1979, the song showcases the sisters’ powerful harmonies and soulful vocal delivery. “Going Down Slowly” is a melancholic love song, with lyrics about the pain of a failing relationship and the sense of helplessness that comes with watching it slowly fall apart. The song features a slow, bluesy arrangement, with emotive piano, soulful horns, and gentle drumming that provides the perfect backdrop for the sisters’ powerful vocals. The Pointer Sisters’ rendition of “Going Down Slowly” remains one of their most memorable tracks, and continues to be celebrated as a classic of the R&B genre.
18. “You Make Me” by Avicii
“You Make Me” is a dance-pop song by the Swedish DJ and producer, Avicii. Released in 2013, the song features the soulful vocals of Salem Al Fakir, and is built around a catchy piano hook and upbeat electronic production. “You Make Me” is a feel-good, up-tempo track that invites listeners to let loose and dance, with its upbeat energy and infectious rhythm. The song’s lyrics, which express the joy and excitement that comes with falling in love, are simple and straightforward, making the track easily accessible and relatable. With its upbeat energy, catchy hook, and memorable production, “You Make Me” is a standout track from Avicii’s discography and a classic of the dance-pop genre.
19. “Macarena” by Los Del Rio
“Macarena” by Los Del Rio is a Spanish dance song that was released in 1993 and became an international hit. The upbeat and catchy song is characterized by its simple, repetitive lyrics and upbeat rhythm that encourage listeners to dance along. The song’s dance routine, which involves intricate hand and hip movements, has become a staple at parties and events worldwide. Despite its age, “Macarena” remains a popular party song and continues to be played at clubs and events around the world. It has become an iconic song of the 1990s and is considered one of the most memorable dance tracks of all time.
20. “Turn Down For What” by DJ Snake & Lil Jon
“Turn Down For What” by DJ Snake and Lil Jon is an energetic dance-pop track that was released in 2013. Featuring Lil Jon’s signature shout-rap vocals, the song’s catchy hook, heavy bass, and high-energy beat make it a standout hit in the EDM genre. The track is characterized by its high-energy rhythm, bold horns, and explosive drops that keep audiences on the dance floor. The accompanying music video features a wild party scene with people dancing, breaking things, and causing chaos. This electrifying hit quickly gained popularity and has since become a staple in dance clubs and party playlists around the world.
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.
