Ariana Grande has taken the world by storm with her powerhouse vocals, infectious melodies, and unforgettable performances. From her early days as a Nickelodeon star to becoming one of the biggest pop sensations of the 21st century, she’s captured the hearts of millions and dominated the charts with hit after hit. But what are the songs that have truly defined her career? Which tracks have made fans sing at the top of their lungs, dance like nobody’s watching, and feel every emotion under the sun?
In this article, we take a deep dive into the Top 10 Most Popular Ariana Grande Songs of All Time. We’ll explore the tracks that not only topped the charts but also became anthems for a generation. Whether you’re a long-time “Arianator” or just discovering her music, these songs represent the very best of Ariana’s unique ability to blend pop, R&B, and soul with deeply personal lyrics. So, get ready to take a trip down memory lane as we countdown some of the most iconic and defining moments in Ariana Grande’s impressive music career. From breakout hits to fan favorites, these are the songs that made Ariana Grande the pop legend she is today!
1. “Thank U, Next” (2018)
“Thank U, Next” became an instant anthem of empowerment and personal growth when it dropped in 2018. Released in the aftermath of public breakups and personal challenges, this song saw Ariana Grande taking control of her own narrative. In a refreshing twist on breakup songs, she expresses gratitude for her exes while highlighting the importance of self-love and personal development. The catchy chorus, paired with a laid-back R&B beat, resonated with fans worldwide. It also made waves for its iconic music video, which paid homage to classic 2000s films like Mean Girls and Legally Blonde. This track cemented Ariana’s position as a pop culture icon and spent seven weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100.
2. “7 Rings” (2019)
Ariana Grande’s “7 Rings” is an unapologetic ode to friendship, wealth, and independence, with a sleek trap beat that’s impossible to forget. The track, which samples “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music, was a bold declaration of Grande’s confidence and resilience. Released in 2019, the song quickly became a club banger, with its infectious chorus and luxurious themes. “7 Rings” topped global charts, including the Billboard Hot 100, and its lavish music video, filled with pink hues and opulence, mirrored the song’s spirit of indulgence and camaraderie. It’s a celebration of treating yourself and those closest to you.
3. “No Tears Left to Cry” (2018)
After the heart-wrenching tragedy of the Manchester bombing, Ariana Grande returned stronger with “No Tears Left to Cry” in 2018, a song that beautifully captured the spirit of resilience. The song begins with a slow, emotional introduction before transitioning into an uplifting, dance-pop anthem. It signifies Ariana’s determination to move forward and find hope amid darkness. The song’s unique blend of pop, dance, and UK garage elements, combined with her soaring vocals, made it an instant hit. It debuted at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a fan favorite for its message of healing and perseverance.
4. “Problem” (feat. Iggy Azalea) (2014)
“Problem” was a game-changing moment for Ariana Grande in 2014, marking her transition from a rising star to a full-fledged pop sensation. With its sax-driven beat and catchy hooks, this sizzling collaboration with Iggy Azalea was everywhere that summer. The song’s lyrics are about breaking free from toxic relationships, and the infectious chorus, along with the whispering “One less problem without ya,” became a signature for Ariana. “Problem” peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped set the stage for her future chart-topping success.
5. “God is a Woman” (2018)
“God is a Woman” is a powerful feminist anthem that showcases Ariana Grande’s ability to fuse sensuality with spirituality. Released in 2018, this track highlights the divine strength and empowerment of women, with sultry vocals and a mesmerizing beat that blends pop and R&B. The song’s bold lyricism, paired with its visually stunning music video — featuring religious and mythological imagery — made it an instant sensation. It was praised for its innovative sound and message, earning Ariana a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Solo Performance.
6. “Into You” (2016)
“Into You” is a masterclass in pop perfection. Released in 2016 as part of her Dangerous Woman album, the song is an electrifying blend of pulsating beats and sultry lyrics. The track, driven by a throbbing bassline and a hypnotic chorus, is about the intoxicating pull of desire. Ariana’s sultry vocals elevate the song to new heights, making it a standout in her discography. A critical and commercial success, “Into You” became a dance-floor favorite and solidified Ariana’s position as one of pop’s leading voices.
7. “Side to Side” (feat. Nicki Minaj) (2016)
Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj’s collaboration on “Side to Side” in 2016 was a perfect fusion of pop and reggae influences. The song’s playful lyrics and infectious rhythm made it a summer hit, with its suggestive undertones sparking plenty of conversation. The song peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100, and its sultry music video — featuring Ariana and Nicki in a high-energy gym setting — only added to its allure. “Side to Side” is a fun, flirty track that showcases Ariana’s versatility and ability to deliver chart-toppers across different genres.
8. “Break Free” (feat. Zedd) (2014)
“Break Free” is an explosive electro-pop anthem that’s all about liberation and empowerment. Released in 2014, this collaboration with EDM producer Zedd became an instant hit in clubs and on the charts. The song’s pulsing energy and Ariana’s soaring vocals create a euphoric atmosphere, making it a fan favorite for anyone who’s ever wanted to break free from limitations. It reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains one of Ariana’s most iconic tracks for its infectious chorus and danceable beat.
9. “Dangerous Woman” (2016)
“Dangerous Woman,” released in 2016, marked a turning point in Ariana Grande’s musical evolution. The sultry, slow-burn anthem is all about embracing one’s inner strength and femininity. With its seductive guitar riffs and Ariana’s powerhouse vocals, the song exudes confidence and sophistication. It became an anthem of empowerment for many fans and was nominated for Best Pop Solo Performance at the Grammys. “Dangerous Woman” showed the world that Ariana was ready to take risks, both musically and personally.
10. “Positions” (2020)
“Positions,” released in 2020, is a sleek, R&B-infused track that showcases Ariana Grande’s growth both as an artist and as a person. The song is about balancing the complexities of love, career, and personal life. With its sultry melody and Ariana’s effortlessly smooth vocals, “Positions” quickly became a fan favorite. It debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, proving Ariana’s continued dominance in the music industry. The accompanying music video, which features her as the U.S. President, added a playful twist to the song’s themes of versatility and ambition.