Ariana Grande has indisputably carved her name into the annals of pop music history, captivating audiences worldwide with her powerhouse vocals, infectious melodies, and unwavering charisma. As one of the most prominent figures in contemporary music, Grande has continually raised the bar with her chart-topping hits and genre-defying sound. From her early days as a Nickelodeon star to her meteoric rise as a bona fide pop sensation, Grande’s discography is a testament to her unparalleled talent and versatility. In this article, we embark on a journey through the sonic landscape of one of pop’s brightest stars as we countdown the top 10 best Ariana Grande songs of all time. Each track on this list represents a masterful blend of captivating lyrics, mesmerizing vocal performances, and innovative production, showcasing Grande’s evolution as an artist and her ability to resonate with audiences on a profound level. Whether it’s the euphoric anthems that dominate the airwaves or the soulful ballads that tug at the heartstrings, Grande’s music transcends boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the fabric of popular culture. As we delve into each song, we’ll explore the stories behind the music, the emotions they evoke, and the impact they’ve had on fans around the globe. From her early hits like “The Way” to her more recent chart-toppers such as “Positions,” each track serves as a testament to Grande’s enduring influence and her status as a pop icon for the ages. So, join us as we celebrate the extraordinary career of Ariana Grande and countdown her top 10 greatest songs that have solidified her place in the pantheon of music legends.
1. Rain On Me (Collab with Lady Gaga)
Ariana Grande’s “Rain On Me,” a dynamic collaboration with Lady Gaga, stands as a timeless masterpiece that transcends genres and captivates listeners with its infectious energy. Released in 2020 as part of Lady Gaga’s “Chromatica” album, the song effortlessly merges Grande’s powerhouse vocals with Gaga’s unique artistry, creating a pop anthem that has become an emblem of resilience and empowerment. The track not only showcases the vocal prowess of both artists but also explores themes of overcoming challenges and finding strength in vulnerability. With a pulsating beat and a catchy chorus, “Rain On Me” solidifies its place among the top Ariana Grande songs, earning critical acclaim and amassing a dedicated fan base.
The collaboration between Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga in “Rain On Me” goes beyond a mere musical partnership; it represents a convergence of two iconic artists at the height of their creative powers. The song’s success is marked not only by its commercial triumph but also by its impact on pop culture, making it an enduring favorite among fans worldwide. “Rain On Me” is a testament to the artistic synergy between Grande and Gaga, blending their distinctive styles to create a track that resonates with authenticity and emotion. As a result, this collaboration stands out as one of Ariana Grande’s best songs, embodying the spirit of perseverance and triumph in the face of adversity.
2. God Is A Woman
Ariana Grande’s “God Is A Woman” is an enchanting and bold anthem that showcases her vocal prowess and artistic ingenuity. Released in 2018 as part of her fourth studio album, “Sweetener,” the song is a fusion of pop and R&B elements, with Grande’s sultry vocals taking center stage. The track’s provocative title and empowering lyrics explore themes of female empowerment and sensuality, as Grande asserts her autonomy and control in both love and life. The accompanying music video, with its visually stunning and symbolic imagery, further enhances the song’s impact, solidifying “God Is A Woman” as a visual and auditory masterpiece.
The song’s production, characterized by its dreamy atmosphere and intricate arrangements, adds depth to Grande’s captivating performance. The chorus, where Grande effortlessly reaches high notes, has become iconic and serves as a testament to her vocal range and skill. “God Is A Woman” not only earned critical acclaim but also became a commercial success, making it one of Ariana Grande’s standout tracks. Beyond its musical achievements, the song has become a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its celebration of femininity and the empowerment of women. With its blend of artistic innovation and social relevance, “God Is A Woman” remains a defining moment in Ariana Grande’s discography.
3. Into You
Ariana Grande’s “Into You” stands as a pop gem that effortlessly combines infectious melodies with a danceable rhythm, showcasing Grande’s versatility and undeniable charisma. Released in 2016 as part of her third studio album, “Dangerous Woman,” the song exudes a sense of longing and desire, with Grande’s vocals delivering a perfect blend of vulnerability and sensuality. The track’s production, featuring pulsating beats and shimmering synths, creates an irresistible sonic landscape that complements the narrative of intense romantic attraction.
“Into You” became an instant favorite among fans and critics alike, praised for its catchy hooks and Grande’s ability to convey the excitement and passion of a budding romance. The chorus, marked by its anthemic quality, became a signature moment in Grande’s repertoire, and the song’s infectious energy has made it a staple on playlists and dance floors. The accompanying music video, with its sleek and cinematic visuals, further elevated the song’s allure, solidifying “Into You” as one of Ariana Grande’s standout tracks. As a testament to Grande’s evolution as an artist, “Into You” remains a timeless piece in her discography, celebrated for its pop sensibilities and its ability to evoke the thrill of falling headlong into love.
4. Problem (Featuring Iggy Azalea)
Ariana Grande’s “Problem,” featuring Iggy Azalea, marked a pivotal moment in her career, catapulting her into the mainstream and showcasing her ability to effortlessly blend pop and R&B influences. Released in 2014 as the lead single from her second studio album, “My Everything,” the song is characterized by its catchy saxophone riff, energetic beats, and Grande’s powerful vocals. Teaming up with rapper Iggy Azalea, the collaboration added a layer of hip-hop flair to the track, creating a dynamic and unforgettable pop anthem.
“Problem” quickly became a commercial juggernaut, reaching the top of charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim for its catchy hooks and infectious energy. The song’s chorus, with Grande confidently proclaiming, “I got one less problem without ya,” became an instant pop culture catchphrase. The music video, featuring a retro aesthetic and Grande’s charismatic performance, further solidified the song’s impact. “Problem” not only established Ariana Grande as a force in the music industry but also showcased her evolving sound and style. As a defining moment in her career, “Problem” remains a fan favorite and a testament to Grande’s ability to craft pop hits that resonate across genres.
5. Bang Bang (Featuring Jessie J and Nicki Minaj)
Ariana Grande, alongside Jessie J and Nicki Minaj, delivered an explosive collaboration with “Bang Bang,” a high-energy pop anthem that dominated the airwaves upon its release in 2014. Featured on the deluxe edition of Grande’s second studio album, “My Everything,” the song is a powerhouse showcase of vocal talent and infectious charisma. With Jessie J’s soulful delivery, Grande’s impressive vocal acrobatics, and Nicki Minaj’s fierce rap verses, “Bang Bang” became an instant hit, blending pop, R&B, and hip-hop elements seamlessly.
The track’s catchy hooks, dynamic arrangement, and the undeniable chemistry between the three artists propelled it to the top of charts worldwide, earning widespread acclaim. The collaboration brought together three distinct voices, each contributing to the song’s vibrant and playful energy. The music video, featuring the trio in a visually striking and glamorous setting, further amplified the song’s impact. “Bang Bang” not only solidified Ariana Grande’s position as a pop powerhouse but also showcased her ability to collaborate with other artists seamlessly. As a chart-topping success with cross-genre appeal, “Bang Bang” remains a standout moment in Grande’s discography and a testament to the song’s enduring popularity.
6. The Way (Featuring Mac Miller)
Ariana Grande’s “The Way,” featuring Mac Miller, marked a significant milestone in her career, serving as the lead single from her debut studio album, “Yours Truly,” released in 2013. The song is a blend of R&B and pop, featuring a smooth and nostalgic vibe that showcases Grande’s vocal prowess and the chemistry between her and Mac Miller. “The Way” not only introduced Grande as a solo artist but also established her as a formidable force in the music industry.
The track’s catchy melody, soulful vocals, and Mac Miller’s rhythmic contributions created a captivating and radio-friendly hit. The song’s chorus, where Grande pays homage to Big Pun’s “Still Not a Player,” became an instantly recognizable hook. The success of “The Way” was not only reflected in its commercial performance but also in its critical acclaim, with many praising Grande’s vocal range and the song’s overall production. The accompanying music video, featuring playful and romantic scenes between Grande and Miller, added a visual dimension to the song’s charm. As a breakout single that set the stage for Grande’s subsequent success, “The Way” remains a beloved and influential track in her discography, highlighting her early artistry and undeniable talent.
7. Break Free (Featuring Zedd)
Ariana Grande’s “Break Free,” featuring Zedd, emerged as a dance-pop anthem that showcased her versatility and ability to seamlessly transition between genres. Released in 2014 as the second single from her second studio album, “My Everything,” the collaboration with Zedd infused the track with electronic and dance elements, elevating Grande’s sound to new heights. “Break Free” is characterized by its infectious beats, futuristic production, and Grande’s powerhouse vocals, creating a high-energy and empowering atmosphere.
The song’s lyrics, encouraging liberation and breaking free from constraints, resonated with audiences, contributing to its widespread popularity. “Break Free” not only achieved commercial success, reaching the top of charts globally, but also garnered praise for its catchy hooks and the synergy between Grande’s vocals and Zedd’s production. The accompanying music video, featuring Grande in a sci-fi-inspired setting, further enhanced the song’s futuristic vibe and added a visually captivating element.
As one of Ariana Grande’s notable hits, “Break Free” marked a departure from her earlier sound and showcased her willingness to experiment with different musical styles. Its impact extended beyond the charts, solidifying Grande’s status as a pop sensation with a penchant for reinvention and innovation.
8. Dangerous Woman
Ariana Grande’s “Dangerous Woman” serves as a defining title track for her third studio album, released in 2016, showcasing a mature and empowered evolution in her musical journey. The song encapsulates Grande’s transition into a more sultry and confident persona, marked by its smoldering vocals and a powerful, bluesy melody. The title track’s lyrics explore themes of embracing one’s sensuality and the allure of a fearless love, portraying Grande as a self-assured and captivating artist.
The production of “Dangerous Woman” is characterized by its moody and seductive atmosphere, providing a perfect backdrop for Grande’s emotive delivery. The track not only became a commercial success but also garnered critical acclaim for its departure from conventional pop, incorporating elements of rock and R&B. The accompanying music video, featuring Grande in various cinematic and enigmatic settings, further emphasized the song’s empowering narrative.
“Dangerous Woman” stands as a pivotal moment in Ariana Grande’s discography, marking her artistic maturity and willingness to explore new musical territories. The song’s blend of vulnerability and strength resonated with audiences, solidifying Grande’s reputation as a multifaceted artist capable of delivering both chart-topping hits and emotionally resonant performances.
9. No Tears Left To Cry
Ariana Grande’s “No Tears Left To Cry” emerged as a triumphant return to the music scene, serving as the lead single from her fourth studio album, “Sweetener,” released in 2018. The song not only showcases Grande’s resilience in the face of adversity but also introduces a fresh sonic direction in her discography. “No Tears Left To Cry” is an uplifting pop anthem characterized by its dynamic production, melodic intricacies, and Grande’s signature vocal prowess.
The track opens with an ethereal chime before seamlessly transitioning into an upbeat, danceable rhythm. Lyrically, the song reflects Grande’s journey towards healing and finding joy after difficult experiences. The chorus, with its optimistic refrain of “Right now, I’m in a state of mind, I wanna be in like all the time,” became an empowering mantra for listeners.
The accompanying music video, directed by Dave Meyers, features visually stunning and gravity-defying scenes, adding a surreal dimension to the song’s message of resilience and renewal. “No Tears Left To Cry” not only became a commercial success but also earned critical acclaim for its innovation and emotional depth. As a pivotal track in Ariana Grande’s career, it marked her ability to transform personal challenges into artistry, resonating with fans worldwide.
10. Thank U Next
Ariana Grande’s “Thank U, Next” stands as a defining moment in her career, released in 2018 as both a single and the title track of her fifth studio album. The song’s lyrics, an ode to gratitude and self-love, garnered immense attention for Grande’s candid and introspective approach to addressing past relationships. In a moment of vulnerability, she expresses gratitude for the lessons learned from each ex-partner, emphasizing personal growth and resilience.
The track’s production seamlessly combines pop and R&B elements, creating an infectious and empowering anthem. The chorus, with its catchy refrain of “Thank you, next,” became a cultural phenomenon, resonating with listeners and inspiring a wave of memes and social media references. The song not only achieved commercial success but also received widespread critical acclaim for its authenticity and Grande’s vocal performance.
The accompanying music video pays homage to iconic teen movies, further solidifying “Thank U, Next” as a pop culture moment. The song not only became one of Ariana Grande’s biggest hits but also showcased her ability to navigate fame with grace and authenticity. “Thank U, Next” remains a testament to Grande’s artistry, transforming personal experiences into a universally relatable and empowering message for listeners worldwide.
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.
