Ariana Grande has taken the music world by storm, captivating millions with her powerhouse vocals, undeniable charm, and chart-topping hits. From her early days as a Nickelodeon star to becoming one of the most influential pop icons of the decade, Ariana’s evolution as an artist has been nothing short of extraordinary. With a career marked by viral singles, record-breaking albums, and unforgettable live performances, she has cemented her place as a global sensation. But which of her songs have truly defined her legacy?
In this list, we’re counting down the Top 10 Most Popular Ariana Grande Songs of All Time—the tracks that have not only dominated the charts but also left an indelible mark on pop culture. Whether it’s an infectious anthem that had you singing along all summer or an emotional ballad that tugged at your heartstrings, these songs encapsulate the very best of Ariana’s artistry. Prepare to revisit some of her most iconic moments, from her early pop hits to the sultry, R&B-infused sound that has become her signature. So grab your headphones and get ready to dive into the Ariana Grande songs that have shaped her career and won over fans around the world!
1. “Thank U, Next” (2018)
When Ariana Grande released “Thank U, Next” in November 2018, it instantly captured the cultural zeitgeist, becoming an anthem of empowerment for anyone who’s experienced heartbreak. Following a series of highly publicized breakups, Grande transformed her personal struggles into a powerful message of gratitude. Instead of dwelling on bitterness, she expresses appreciation for her exes, acknowledging the lessons learned from each relationship. The song’s infectious mid-tempo beat and catchy chorus quickly resonated with fans, propelling it to the top of charts around the globe. Its music video, a nostalgic homage to early 2000s rom-coms like Mean Girls and Legally Blonde, became a viral sensation, further fueling its popularity. “Thank U, Next” was more than just a song; it marked a pivotal moment in Grande’s career, showcasing her growth and resilience not only as an artist but also as an individual. The track became a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless memes and discussions around themes of empowerment, self-love, and moving on. With this release, Ariana solidified her place in pop history, demonstrating that vulnerability can be a source of strength, and encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys of healing and growth.
2. “7 Rings” (2019)
In January 2019, Ariana Grande unleashed “7 Rings,” a lavish anthem that celebrates self-empowerment and indulgence. The song was inspired by a spontaneous shopping spree with her closest friends, where they all bought matching rings, symbolizing their bond and collective success. The infectious chorus and catchy melody echo a sense of independence and confidence, with Grande proclaiming her ability to obtain whatever she desires. Musically, the song features a clever sample from “My Favorite Things” from The Sound of Music, blending it seamlessly with trap beats and contemporary pop sensibilities to create a fresh, unique sound. The hook “I want it, I got it” resonated with listeners, capturing the essence of self-love and determination. “7 Rings” quickly became one of Grande’s most-streamed tracks, dominating charts and radio airwaves alike. The song not only reinforced her status as a pop powerhouse but also showcased her ability to infuse personal experiences into universally relatable themes. Its celebration of wealth, friendship, and individuality struck a chord with fans worldwide, making “7 Rings” a defining moment in Grande’s illustrious career and further establishing her as a formidable force in the music industry.
3. “Side to Side” (feat. Nicki Minaj) (2016)
Ariana Grande teamed up with Nicki Minaj once again for the irresistibly catchy “Side to Side,” which debuted in August 2016. Blending reggae-pop elements with playful lyrics, the song quickly emerged as a summer anthem. With a bouncy beat and sultry vocals, Grande narrates a passionate love story that leaves her feeling a bit sore the next day—a clever nod to the exhilarating aftermath of romance. Minaj’s fierce verse adds a layer of attitude and excitement, making this collaboration one of the most memorable in contemporary pop music. The infectious nature of “Side to Side” encourages listeners to move and dance, embodying the spirit of summer fun and carefree romance. The accompanying music video, set in a neon-lit gym, is visually captivating and became iconic in its own right, showcasing both artists in stunning choreography that perfectly matched the song’s vibe. The vibrant aesthetics and playful themes made “Side to Side” a standout track from Grande’s Dangerous Woman era, further solidifying her reputation as a pop icon who effortlessly blends musicality with captivating visuals. Its success and appeal continue to resonate with fans, marking it as a quintessential summer hit.
4. “No Tears Left to Cry” (2018)
“No Tears Left to Cry,” released in April 2018, marked Ariana Grande’s powerful return to music following the devastating Manchester Arena bombing in 2017. This song beautifully combines elements of dance-pop, house, and R&B, resulting in an uplifting anthem that resonates with themes of resilience and moving forward after tragedy. The track opens with a captivating blend of piano and electronic beats, gradually building into an empowering chorus that encourages listeners to embrace healing and positivity. Grande’s soaring vocals shine throughout the song, delivering a message that feels especially poignant in light of its context. The lyrics inspire hope, urging fans to let go of past pain and look towards brighter days ahead. Accompanied by a visually stunning music video featuring gravity-defying imagery, “No Tears Left to Cry” encapsulates the essence of perseverance and optimism. This track quickly became a fan favorite, capturing the hearts of millions around the world. Its infectious melody and powerful message solidified its place as one of Grande’s most iconic songs, reminding listeners of the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of embracing life, even after hardship.
5. “God is a Woman” (2018)
Released in July 2018, “God is a Woman” stands out as a sultry, empowering anthem that skillfully blends pop and R&B with deeper spiritual themes. The song showcases Ariana Grande’s powerful vocal abilities, delivering a compelling message of feminine strength, sexuality, and independence. The lush production features a gospel-like chorus, rich bass lines, and intricate melodies that beautifully highlight Grande’s impressive vocal range. The provocative title and thought-provoking lyrics challenge traditional notions of divinity, celebrating the divine power inherent in women. Grande’s confident delivery invites listeners to embrace their own power and identity. Accompanying the track is a visually striking music video filled with symbolic imagery that further amplifies the song’s message, solidifying its status as a feminist anthem. “God is a Woman” quickly became one of the standout tracks from her acclaimed Sweetener album, earning both critical praise and widespread fan devotion. The song’s cultural impact and empowering message have made it a significant part of Grande’s artistic identity, encouraging women everywhere to recognize and celebrate their worth. This empowering anthem remains a cornerstone of her repertoire, inspiring a sense of unity and strength among listeners.
6. “Problem” (feat. Iggy Azalea) (2014)
When Ariana Grande released “Problem” in April 2014, it marked a defining moment in her career, catapulting her into the mainstream pop scene. Featuring Australian rapper Iggy Azalea, the song is a sassy, saxophone-driven anthem that tackles the theme of breaking free from a toxic relationship. With its catchy whisper-chorus—”I got one less problem without ya”—the track quickly became an earworm, dominating radio airwaves and topping charts worldwide. The infectious beat, combined with Grande’s soaring vocals and Azalea’s sharp verses, created a dynamic collaboration that resonated with listeners. The song’s playful yet assertive lyrics encourage empowerment and independence, making it a favorite among fans seeking motivation to move on from negative experiences. The vibrant music video, filled with bold visuals and energetic choreography, perfectly captures the song’s essence and spirit. “Problem” not only solidified Grande’s status as a pop heavyweight but also paved the way for her future successes. This track remains a fan favorite, serving as an anthem of empowerment and self-liberation, and demonstrating Grande’s ability to blend catchy melodies with meaningful messages that resonate with audiences across the globe.
7. “Break Free” (feat. Zedd) (2014)
Released in July 2014, “Break Free” is an electrifying EDM-pop anthem that signifies Ariana Grande’s exciting venture into dance music. Produced by the talented Zedd, the track features pulsating beats, futuristic synths, and a powerful message of liberation. Lyrically, “Break Free” tells the story of breaking away from the constraints of a toxic relationship and finding strength in independence. Grande’s powerful vocals harmonize perfectly with the high-energy production, creating a track that not only dominated dance floors but also became a radio favorite. The song’s infectious energy and empowering lyrics make it a perfect anthem for anyone seeking to reclaim their personal power. The futuristic, space-themed music video adds to the song’s appeal, showcasing Grande’s charisma and commanding stage presence. “Break Free” quickly became a fan favorite, often featured in her live performances, where its exhilarating vibe resonates with audiences. This track played a crucial role in shaping Grande’s artistic identity, highlighting her versatility as an artist and her ability to create music that encourages listeners to embrace their independence and celebrate their freedom.
8. “Into You” (2016)
Ariana Grande’s “Into You,” released in May 2016, is a sultry, high-energy pop track that quickly became a fan favorite. The song features a pulsating beat, seductive lyrics, and an infectious chorus that captures the thrill of deep attraction. Grande’s vocals shine brightly as she expresses the intoxicating rush of desire, making the listener feel every bit of the emotional intensity. The production flawlessly blends dance-pop and electro-pop elements, creating an irresistible sound that invites listeners to dance. The accompanying music video takes viewers on a cinematic journey through a thrilling love story set against a stunning desert backdrop. Its visually captivating scenes amplify the song’s steamy vibe, making it an unforgettable experience. “Into You” has been praised for its sleek production, with Grande’s commanding vocal performance leaving a lasting impression. The track’s ability to evoke feelings of passion and excitement ensures its place in the hearts of listeners, solidifying it as one of her standout songs. “Into You” remains a staple in Grande’s catalog, often celebrated for its irresistible energy and emotional depth, encapsulating the rush of romance and attraction.
9. “Dangerous Woman” (2016)
Released in March 2016, “Dangerous Woman” marked a bold declaration of Ariana Grande’s evolving sound and persona. This sultry ballad blends elements of pop, R&B, and rock, with Grande’s powerful vocals taking center stage and exuding confidence. Lyrically, the song explores themes of independence, strength, and self-assurance, embracing a more mature and empowered image. The transition from her earlier, more innocent sound to this confident, assertive anthem was a significant moment in her career, showcasing her artistic growth. The song’s slow-burning intensity, coupled with seductive guitar riffs and a captivating melody, makes it an instant hit that captures listeners’ attention. “Dangerous Woman” became the title track of her critically acclaimed album, representing a new chapter in Grande’s musical journey. Its allure and empowering message resonated deeply with fans, solidifying her reputation as a pop icon unafraid to explore her sexuality and strength. The track’s impact continues to be felt, as it remains a defining moment in Grande’s career, illustrating her ability to blend sensuality and empowerment in her music.
10. “Positions” (2020)
Released in October 2020, “Positions” is a smooth, sultry R&B-pop track that highlights Ariana Grande’s versatility as an artist. The song explores the balancing act of juggling personal relationships and career responsibilities, presenting a relatable narrative for many listeners. With its laid-back beat, orchestral strings, and catchy melody, “Positions” captures the essence of dedication and effort in love while managing other life commitments. The track’s sensual lyrics reflect Grande’s effortless vocal delivery, creating an intimate connection with her audience. The music video further emphasizes these themes by portraying Grande as a fictionalized version of the U.S. president, cleverly showcasing her ability to multitask and navigate various roles. This visual storytelling adds depth to the song’s message about balancing love and ambition. “Positions” quickly climbed the charts, becoming yet another chart-topping hit for Grande and reinforcing her status as a dominant force in the pop music scene. The song resonates with fans, reminding them of the importance of love, commitment, and the effort required to maintain relationships, making it a noteworthy addition to her already impressive discography.
Edward Tomlin 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.
