Ariana Grande has cemented her position as one of the most influential and successful pop artists of the 21st century. With a powerhouse voice that defies her petite frame, and a signature mix of pop, R&B, and soul, she has delivered hit after hit, captivating audiences around the world. From her early days as a Nickelodeon star to becoming a Grammy-winning musical icon, Ariana’s evolution as an artist is nothing short of remarkable. Her songs have dominated the charts, soundtracked millions of lives, and become anthems of empowerment, heartbreak, and resilience.
In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Ariana Grande songs of all time. Whether you’re a longtime “Arianator” or just discovering her music, these tracks represent the very best of her discography, showcasing her incredible vocal range, catchy melodies, and personal, relatable lyrics. From breakout singles that first put her on the map to the chart-topping bangers that have defined her career, these songs are essential listening for any fan of pop music. So, grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to revisit some of the most iconic tracks from the one and only Ariana Grande!
1. “Thank U, Next” (2018)
“Thank U, Next” was more than just a song for Ariana Grande—it was an anthem of self-love, growth, and empowerment. Released in November 2018, it followed a period of significant personal upheaval for the pop star, including the abrupt end of her engagement to Pete Davidson. But rather than sulking in heartbreak, Ariana turned her pain into strength. The song, with its infectious hook and candid lyrics, finds Ariana reflecting on her past relationships and, rather than bitterness or regret, expressing gratitude for the lessons each person taught her. The catchy chorus, paired with its unflinchingly positive message, resonated deeply with fans, as it encouraged them to embrace personal growth and the wisdom that comes from their own experiences. In its release, Ariana redefined the narrative around breakups, urging her listeners to move forward with grace and self-assurance. The song’s success was undeniable: it debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Ariana’s first time in the top spot and breaking multiple streaming records in the process. “Thank U, Next” wasn’t just a song—it was a cultural phenomenon that solidified Ariana Grande’s place as an icon of resilience and personal strength. It became a rallying cry for those who choose to see the silver lining in the face of adversity, and for anyone who has ever struggled to leave the past behind.
2. “7 Rings” (2019)
“7 Rings” became one of Ariana Grande’s most defining moments as an artist, and it dropped at the beginning of 2019 with an energy that couldn’t be ignored. Inspired by a spontaneous shopping spree Ariana had with six of her closest friends, the song is a celebration of luxury, self-worth, and independence. The track’s lyrics emphasize the value of having strong friendships and knowing your own worth, with the seven rings symbolizing the unbreakable bond between Ariana and her friends. Musically, the song combines elements of pop, hip-hop, and trap with a catchy and memorable hook that instantly sticks in your head. One of the most distinct aspects of “7 Rings” is its use of the famous melody from “My Favorite Things” from *The Sound of Music*, which Ariana flips into a bold, modern anthem about materialism, confidence, and enjoying the fruits of success. The accompanying music video, drenched in pink hues, diamonds, and bling, only added to the lavish atmosphere of the song, and it quickly became a visual spectacle in itself. With its vibrant energy, self-assured message, and Ariana’s flawless vocal delivery, “7 Rings” rocketed to the top of the charts, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song encapsulates the essence of celebrating success, embracing self-reliance, and unapologetically living life to the fullest, all while surrounded by those who support and uplift you. “7 Rings” isn’t just a celebration of material wealth—it’s a declaration of empowerment and independence.
3. “No Tears Left to Cry” (2018)
“No Tears Left to Cry,” released in April 2018, marked a new chapter for Ariana Grande after the tragic Manchester Arena bombing in 2017, which had a profound impact on both her and her fans. The song was an emotional and powerful return to music, serving as a message of resilience, hope, and strength in the face of tragedy. Musically, it blends upbeat, feel-good pop with elements of house music, creating a bright and almost euphoric sound that contrasts with the heavier emotions Ariana was grappling with at the time. Lyrically, the song focuses on the idea of finding inner peace and moving forward even when life feels overwhelming. Ariana’s soaring vocals and emotive delivery express a sense of perseverance and personal growth. “No Tears Left to Cry” quickly became a global hit, topping charts around the world, and its upbeat, danceable rhythm made it an instant fan favorite. But beneath the vibrant production, there is a deep sense of vulnerability and emotional depth that resonates with anyone who has faced hardship. The track also showcases Ariana’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with a more experimental, futuristic sound, and it cemented her as one of the top artists of her generation. “No Tears Left to Cry” is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to rise above tragedy and continue to move forward, a message that resonated with millions of listeners around the world.
4. “God Is a Woman” (2018)
“God Is a Woman,” released in July 2018, is both a sensual and powerful celebration of feminine strength and spirituality. In this bold anthem, Ariana Grande redefines traditional notions of power and divinity, suggesting that the divine can be found in the strength, complexity, and sensuality of women. The song’s production combines moody, atmospheric pop with subtle elements of R&B, giving it a mystical and seductive quality. Ariana’s sultry vocals weave through the track with a sense of confidence and control, commanding attention while making a statement about the divine feminine. The lyrics reflect themes of empowerment and confidence, with Ariana suggesting that the divine essence of love, power, and creation resides within women. The accompanying music video, rich with religious and mythological imagery, further solidifies the song’s message of transcendent feminine power. From the imagery of the Madonna to the references to the natural world, “God Is a Woman” is a visual and sonic exploration of the female experience. With its bold statement and undeniable charisma, the song quickly became one of Ariana’s most iconic moments, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and cementing its place as one of the most provocative feminist anthems of the decade. “God Is a Woman” is a testament to the complexities of womanhood, challenging the listener to reconsider the intersection of power, sexuality, and spirituality.
5. “Side to Side” (featuring Nicki Minaj) (2016)
Released in August 2016, “Side to Side” is a reggae-infused pop track that quickly became one of Ariana Grande’s most memorable summer anthems. Featuring a standout verse from rapper Nicki Minaj, the song is a playful and sultry exploration of romance and physical attraction. With its catchy beat, infectious hook, and tropical vibe, “Side to Side” is the kind of track that makes you want to dance, yet the lyrics suggest a more nuanced story about the push and pull of a complicated relationship. Ariana’s smooth, breathy vocals and Nicki Minaj’s fiery, confident rap verses create an exciting blend of pop and hip-hop, while the song’s rhythm and energy make it an undeniable earworm. The music video, set in a neon-lit gym, became an iconic visual moment for Ariana, with its playful and sexy choreography that mirrored the fun and flirtatious tone of the song. “Side to Side” reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it was one of the standout tracks from Ariana’s *Dangerous Woman* album. More than just a summer hit, the song is a celebration of confidence, sensuality, and unapologetically enjoying the chemistry between two people. Ariana and Nicki’s chemistry on the track is palpable, and together they created a collaboration that remains one of the most memorable in Ariana’s catalog. “Side to Side” captures the thrill of love and attraction with a laid-back yet catchy vibe that continues to make it a fan favorite.
6. “Problem” (featuring Iggy Azalea) (2014)
Released in April 2014, “Problem” marked a pivotal moment in Ariana Grande’s career, propelling her from a rising star to a global pop sensation. The track’s bold, brassy production, driven by a catchy saxophone riff, blended elements of jazz, pop, and hip-hop, creating a sound that was fresh, energetic, and instantly memorable. Featuring rapper Iggy Azalea, “Problem” became a high-energy anthem about breaking free from a toxic relationship, empowering listeners to let go of unhealthy attachments and take control of their lives. Ariana’s powerful vocal delivery was complemented perfectly by Iggy’s confident rap verses, creating a dynamic contrast that made the song even more compelling. The infectious chorus—”I got one less problem without you”—became an instantly recognizable line, and the song quickly climbed to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The track’s success was also helped by its dynamic music video, which showcased Ariana’s playful yet confident persona, set against a backdrop of retro, glamorous visuals. “Problem” quickly became a summer anthem and solidified Ariana’s place as one of pop’s biggest stars. The song is a perfect example of Ariana’s ability to blend diverse genres and influences, creating a track that’s both radio-friendly and uniquely her own. “Problem” wasn’t just about love—it was about liberation, finding strength after heartache, and moving on with confidence. With its infectious energy and empowering message, the song continues to be a fan favorite and remains one of Ariana’s most iconic hits.
7. “Break Free” (featuring Zedd) (2014)
“Break Free,” released in July 2014, marked a major shift in Ariana Grande’s sound, as she ventured into the world of electronic dance music (EDM) with the help of producer Zedd. The song’s pounding synths, energetic tempo, and anthemic vibe made it an instant club hit, encouraging listeners to throw caution to the wind and break free from whatever is holding them back. The empowering lyrics speak to the feeling of liberation—whether it’s breaking free from a controlling relationship, societal expectations, or personal doubts—and finding the strength to take control of your own destiny. Ariana’s powerful, soaring vocals shine throughout the track, delivering an uplifting message of freedom and independence. The accompanying music video, which featured Ariana in a futuristic, sci-fi-inspired world, added an extra layer of excitement to the song. The visuals, filled with high-energy dance sequences and visually striking settings, helped “Break Free” become a visual and musical spectacle. Peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, the song became one of the most prominent tracks of 2014 and remains a standout in Ariana’s catalog. It was a bold statement of independence, self-expression, and breaking through limitations, and it resonated with fans around the world. “Break Free” is more than just a dance anthem—it’s a declaration of empowerment and the courage to embrace your true self. It marked Ariana’s transition from pop star to pop powerhouse, solidifying her ability to cross genres and create timeless hits.
8. “Into You” (2016)
“Into You,” released in May 2016, is a high-energy, sultry track that remains one of Ariana Grande’s most electrifying songs to date. With its driving beat, seductive lyrics, and playful energy, the song captured the essence of infatuation and lust. The track’s infectious chorus and pulsating production make it the perfect summer anthem, and Ariana’s commanding vocal performance only adds to its allure. “Into You” blends pop and dance influences, creating a sound that’s both contemporary and timeless. The song’s lyrics explore the intoxicating feeling of being completely captivated by someone, and the passion and desire that come with being “into” someone. Ariana’s vocal delivery is smooth and confident, capturing the intensity of the emotions she sings about. The track’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody made it an instant fan favorite, and it quickly became a mainstay on pop radio. The music video, which features Ariana in a series of glamorous and provocative outfits, matches the song’s seductive vibe and adds to its overall appeal. “Into You” became a commercial success, peaking at No. 13 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it continues to be a staple of Ariana’s live performances, where its energy and infectious chorus always get the crowd moving. The song’s irresistible rhythm, captivating lyrics, and Ariana’s vocal mastery make “Into You” one of her most unforgettable hits. It’s a song that demands to be played loud, and its euphoric energy and unapologetic confidence continue to make it a fan favorite.
9. “Dangerous Woman” (2016)
“Dangerous Woman,” the title track from Ariana Grande’s 2016 album, is a defining moment in the pop star’s evolution as an artist. Released in March 2016, the song marks a significant shift in Ariana’s image and sound, as she embraces a more mature and sultry persona. With its slow-burning groove, seductive lyrics, and a blend of pop, R&B, and rock elements, “Dangerous Woman” showcases Ariana’s vocal prowess and her ability to take on a more confident and assertive character. The song is a declaration of strength, independence, and unapologetic femininity, with Ariana singing about embracing her power and owning her sexuality. The track’s atmospheric production, which is at once sensual and empowering, complements Ariana’s deep, smoky vocals, creating a magnetic vibe that sets the song apart from her previous work. “Dangerous Woman” became an instant hit, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it solidified Ariana’s place as one of the most versatile and captivating pop stars of her generation. The music video, which features Ariana in a series of glamorous and powerful visual moments, reinforces the song’s themes of empowerment and confidence. The track is a celebration of strength, self-assurance, and embracing one’s own identity, making it a defining moment in Ariana’s career. With “Dangerous Woman,” Ariana Grande proved that she was more than just a pop princess—she was a fierce and independent woman who had come into her own.
10. “The Way” (featuring Mac Miller) (2013)
Released in March 2013, “The Way” was Ariana Grande’s breakout hit and the song that introduced her to the world as a serious musical talent. Featuring the late Mac Miller, the track is a throwback to ’90s-inspired R&B, blending fresh pop melodies with nostalgic vibes. The song is a playful, sweet, and romantic track about falling in love, with Ariana and Mac Miller’s chemistry undeniable. Their voices complement each other perfectly, with Ariana’s airy, sweet vocals meshing with Mac’s laid-back, smooth delivery. “The Way” quickly became a fan favorite, with its catchy chorus and infectious energy making it an instant hit on the radio and social media. The song’s lyrics are lighthearted and fun, capturing the excitement and giddiness of a new romance. “The Way” reached No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and set the stage for Ariana’s meteoric rise to stardom. The music video, which features Ariana and Mac Miller in an intimate, carefree setting, further highlights the song’s warmth and charm. “The Way” remains one of Ariana’s most beloved songs and was a defining moment in her early career, marking the beginning of what would become a truly iconic pop career. It proved that Ariana was not just a former TV star turned pop singer—but a true artist with staying power.
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.
