Ariana Grande, a vocal powerhouse and pop sensation, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with her unparalleled talent and captivating performances. As we embark on a musical journey through her illustrious career, it becomes evident that selecting the top 10 best Ariana Grande songs is no easy feat. From her early days as a Nickelodeon star to her evolution into a global pop icon, Grande has consistently delivered chart-topping hits that resonate with fans worldwide. This article aims to celebrate her artistry by delving into the sonic masterpieces that have defined her career. Whether it’s the soulful ballads that showcase her vocal range or the infectious pop anthems that dominate the airwaves, Grande’s discography is a testament to her versatility and enduring influence. Join us as we explore the melodies and lyrics that have shaped her musical legacy, counting down the top 10 best Ariana Grande songs of all time, each a testament to her undeniable talent and lasting impact on the world of music.
1. The Way (Featuring Mac Miller)
Ariana Grande’s “The Way” featuring Mac Miller stands as a timeless gem in her discography, marking a pivotal moment in her musical journey. Released in 2013 as the lead single from her debut album “Yours Truly,” the track showcased Grande’s incredible vocal range and ability to seamlessly blend pop and R&B elements. The chemistry between Ariana and Mac Miller is palpable, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the song. The catchy melody, accompanied by a smooth and soulful production, made “The Way” an instant hit, earning it a spot as one of Grande’s best songs. The success of this collaboration laid the foundation for Ariana’s subsequent musical endeavors and cemented her status as a powerhouse vocalist in the industry.
“The Way” not only captivates listeners with its infectious hooks but also serves as a testament to Ariana Grande’s growth as an artist. The song marked a departure from her earlier Nickelodeon image, allowing her to express a more mature and sophisticated musical style. The playful lyrics and the undeniable chemistry between Ariana and Mac Miller create a memorable listening experience, making “The Way” a standout in Ariana Grande’s impressive repertoire. As a breakthrough hit, this track remains a fan favorite, showcasing Ariana’s ability to transcend genres and deliver music that resonates with a diverse audience.
2. Bang Bang (Featuring Jessie J and Nicki Minaj)
Ariana Grande’s collaboration with Jessie J and Nicki Minaj in “Bang Bang” is nothing short of a musical powerhouse. Released in 2014, the track is a high-energy anthem that showcases the distinct styles of these three formidable artists. Opening with a bang, the song immediately grabs attention with its infectious beats and lively instrumentation. Ariana’s vocals effortlessly blend with Jessie J’s and Nicki Minaj’s, creating a dynamic and memorable trio that dominates the pop landscape.
“Bang Bang” not only became an instant chart-topper but also solidified Ariana Grande’s standing as a versatile artist who could seamlessly collaborate with other industry heavyweights. The song’s catchy chorus and empowering lyrics make it a go-to anthem for moments of celebration and confidence. Ariana’s vocal acrobatics in the bridge, complemented by Jessie J’s soulful verses and Nicki Minaj’s rap prowess, contribute to the song’s overall charisma. “Bang Bang” remains a fan favorite, serving as a testament to the collaborative magic that can happen when powerhouse talents unite. As one of Ariana’s standout hits, “Bang Bang” continues to resonate with listeners, leaving an indelible mark on her illustrious career.
3. Break Free (Featuring Zedd)
Ariana Grande’s “Break Free,” featuring Zedd, stands as a testament to her evolution as a pop sensation. Released in 2014 as part of her second studio album “My Everything,” the track marked a departure from Grande’s earlier sound, venturing into the realms of electronic dance music (EDM). The collaboration with Zedd, a renowned EDM producer, elevated the song’s production value and gave it an electrifying energy that resonated with a broader audience.
“Break Free” not only captured attention with its pulsating beats but also showcased Ariana’s vocal prowess as she effortlessly navigated the infectious melody. The futuristic and space-themed music video added a visually stunning dimension to the song, further solidifying its impact. The track’s empowering lyrics, coupled with the euphoric drop in the chorus, made “Break Free” an anthem of liberation and self-empowerment.
The success of “Break Free” marked a pivotal moment in Ariana Grande’s career, showcasing her versatility and willingness to experiment with different musical genres. The collaboration with Zedd not only resulted in a chart-topping hit but also expanded Ariana’s artistic boundaries, setting the stage for her continued growth as a pop icon. As one of her standout tracks, “Break Free” remains a fan favorite and a milestone in Ariana’s musical journey.
4. Problem (Featuring Iggy Azalea)
Ariana Grande’s “Problem,” featuring Iggy Azalea, emerged as a defining moment in pop music, solidifying Grande’s status as a chart-topping force. Released in 2014 as the lead single from her sophomore album “My Everything,” the song immediately captured attention with its irresistibly catchy saxophone riff and Ariana’s confident vocal delivery. The collaboration with Australian rapper Iggy Azalea added a layer of edgy charm to the track, creating a perfect blend of pop and hip-hop influences.
“Problem” not only dominated the charts but also showcased Ariana’s ability to experiment with different sounds and genres. The sleek production, combined with the song’s infectious chorus, made it a radio staple and a dance floor favorite. The music video, featuring a vintage aesthetic, further added to the song’s allure. Ariana’s vocal acrobatics and Iggy Azalea’s rap verse complemented each other seamlessly, creating a dynamic and memorable duet that left a lasting impact on the pop landscape.
The success of “Problem” marked a turning point in Ariana Grande’s career, propelling her to new heights of fame. The song’s commercial success, coupled with critical acclaim, established Ariana as a pop powerhouse with an undeniable ability to create hits. “Problem” remains a standout in Ariana’s discography, capturing the essence of her evolving artistry and setting the stage for her subsequent musical triumphs.
5. Dangerous Woman
Ariana Grande’s “Dangerous Woman” serves as a bold and sultry declaration of independence, showcasing a more mature and empowered side of the pop sensation. Released as the title track of her third studio album in 2016, the song marked a departure from her earlier, more bubbly image. Opening with a bluesy guitar riff, the track immediately sets a seductive tone, and Ariana’s vocals take center stage, delivering a powerful and evocative performance.
The lyrics of “Dangerous Woman” explore themes of self-confidence, sensuality, and embracing one’s individuality. The chorus, in particular, with Grande’s declaration of being a “dangerous woman,” exudes a sense of liberation and strength. The accompanying music video, featuring moody visuals and Ariana in various glamorous yet edgy looks, further emphasizes the song’s theme of empowerment.
“Dangerous Woman” not only showcases Ariana Grande’s vocal versatility but also highlights her artistic growth. The track’s fusion of pop, R&B, and rock elements contributes to its distinctive sound, setting it apart as a standout in her discography. As a single, it resonated with fans and critics alike, solidifying Ariana’s reputation as an artist unafraid to explore new musical territories while maintaining her signature style. “Dangerous Woman” stands as a pivotal moment in Ariana’s career, illustrating her evolution as both a vocalist and a fearless performer.
6. Into You
Ariana Grande’s “Into You” stands as a testament to her ability to deliver infectious pop anthems with a touch of sensuality and vulnerability. Released in 2016 as part of her third studio album, “Dangerous Woman,” the song quickly became a fan favorite and a staple in her repertoire. “Into You” is a dance-pop masterpiece that seamlessly blends catchy melodies, pulsating beats, and Ariana’s soulful vocals.
The song’s narrative revolves around the intoxicating excitement and chemistry of a budding romantic connection. The lyrics, paired with the energetic production, create an irresistibly alluring atmosphere. Ariana’s vocal performance is both powerful and nuanced, capturing the passion and intensity of the song’s theme. The chorus, in particular, with its soaring vocals and infectious hook, became a defining element of “Into You.”
The accompanying music video further enhances the song’s allure, featuring Ariana in glamorous and cinematic scenes that mirror the track’s romantic and electrifying vibe. “Into You” received widespread critical acclaim, with praise for its production, vocals, and overall infectious energy. The track’s success on the charts solidified Ariana Grande’s position as a pop powerhouse and showcased her ability to deliver not just catchy tunes but also emotionally resonant performances. “Into You” remains a standout in Ariana’s catalog, celebrated for its timeless appeal and contribution to the pop music landscape.
7. No Tears Left To Cry
Ariana Grande’s “No Tears Left To Cry” is a triumph of resilience and strength, released in 2018 as the lead single from her fourth studio album, “Sweetener.” The song marked Ariana’s return to the music scene after facing personal challenges, and it resonated as both a powerful anthem of healing and a celebration of newfound optimism. The track’s innovative production, with its shifting beats and gravity-defying vocal acrobatics, showcased Ariana’s artistic maturity.
The lyrics of “No Tears Left To Cry” reflect a message of moving forward and refusing to be defeated by adversity. The chorus, with its uplifting refrain, became an anthem of self-empowerment. The accompanying music video, directed by Dave Meyers, added a visually stunning dimension to the song, featuring surreal and gravity-defying scenes that mirrored the track’s theme of overcoming challenges.
As a departure from her previous sound, “No Tears Left To Cry” demonstrated Ariana’s willingness to experiment with her musical style while maintaining her signature vocal prowess. The song received widespread acclaim for its catchy hooks, emotional depth, and the resilience it symbolized. “No Tears Left To Cry” not only dominated the charts but also became a symbol of Ariana Grande’s personal and artistic triumph, solidifying her reputation as a resilient and innovative force in the pop music landscape.
8. God Is A Woman
Ariana Grande’s “God Is A Woman” stands out as a bold and empowering anthem that blends spirituality, sensuality, and unapologetic confidence. Released in 2018 as part of her fourth studio album, “Sweetener,” the song is a testament to Ariana’s artistry and her ability to push creative boundaries. “God Is A Woman” is a fusion of R&B, pop, and trap elements, featuring a sultry beat and Ariana’s soulful vocals at their finest.
Lyrically, the song explores themes of female empowerment and the reclaiming of one’s power. The title itself challenges traditional gender norms, positioning a woman as a divine force. The track’s chorus, with its catchy refrain, adds a playful and anthemic quality to the overall composition. Ariana’s vocal delivery is both commanding and expressive, enhancing the song’s emotional depth.
The music video for “God Is A Woman” is a visual spectacle, featuring surreal and artistic imagery that complements the song’s themes. The iconic visual of Ariana Grande literally holding the universe in her hands became an iconic representation of the song’s bold message.
As a single, “God Is A Woman” received critical acclaim for its innovative production, empowering lyrics, and Ariana’s vocal performance. The track’s success further solidified Ariana Grande’s status as a trailblazer in pop music, unafraid to explore complex themes and deliver music that resonates on both artistic and cultural levels. “God Is A Woman” remains a standout moment in Ariana’s career, celebrated for its creativity and the empowering impact it had on listeners.
9. Thank U Next
Ariana Grande’s “thank u, next” became an instant cultural phenomenon upon its release in 2019, standing as a powerful testament to resilience, self-love, and personal growth. The song served as the lead single from her fifth studio album of the same name and quickly became an anthem of empowerment for listeners navigating the complexities of heartbreak and self-discovery.
Lyrically, “thank u, next” reflects on Ariana’s past relationships, expressing gratitude for the lessons learned and the personal growth achieved through challenging experiences. The chorus, with its catchy refrain, not only resonated with fans but also became a universal mantra for embracing one’s own journey. Ariana’s candid and vulnerable approach to songwriting added authenticity to the track, making it relatable to a wide audience.
The song’s success was not only due to its emotionally charged lyrics but also its catchy melody and Ariana’s impressive vocal delivery. The accompanying music video, paying homage to iconic teen movies, added a playful and nostalgic touch to the song, enhancing its overall appeal.
“thank u, next” broke records, topped charts, and earned Ariana Grande widespread acclaim for her vulnerability and openness in addressing personal experiences. Beyond its commercial success, the song became a cultural touchstone, sparking conversations about self-love and resilience. Ariana’s ability to turn personal adversity into a source of strength and creativity in “thank u, next” solidified her status as a pop icon with a profound impact on both the music industry and popular culture.
10. Rain On Me (Collab with Lady Gaga)
Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga’s collaboration, “Rain On Me,” released in 2020, is a dynamic and uplifting anthem that brought together two powerhouse vocalists in a celebration of resilience and overcoming adversity. The song, featured on Lady Gaga’s “Chromatica” album, combines elements of dance-pop and house music, creating an infectious and energetic vibe that captivated audiences worldwide.
“Rain On Me” is not just a collaboration in sound but also a meeting of two artists who share a common narrative of overcoming personal struggles. The lyrics convey a message of embracing pain and using it as a source of strength. The chorus, with its catchy repetition of the title, adds a cathartic and empowering quality to the track.
The collaboration showcased the seamless blend of Ariana and Gaga’s vocals, with both artists delivering powerful performances. The accompanying music video, filled with vibrant and futuristic visuals, complemented the song’s themes of renewal and resilience.
“Rain On Me” received widespread acclaim for its catchy hooks, danceable beats, and the chemistry between the two pop icons. The song’s success on the charts and its positive reception solidified it as a standout moment in both Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga’s illustrious careers. “Rain On Me” not only dominated the airwaves but also became a symbol of triumph and solidarity, resonating with fans as a beacon of hope during challenging times.
Samuel Moore 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.
