Pop music has always been the heartbeat of popular culture, captivating generations with its infectious melodies, relatable lyrics, and an uncanny ability to unite people from all walks of life. From the era-defining classics to the chart-topping hits that transcend time, pop music has undoubtedly shaped our collective musical landscape. As we delve into the vast tapestry of the genre, we embark on a journey to uncover the ultimate collection of the 15 best pop music songs of all time.
This curated list celebrates the songs that have left an indelible mark on the annals of music history, defying trends and standing the test of time. Each song serves as a testament to the power of pop music to connect deeply with listeners, evoking a myriad of emotions and leaving an enduring impact on society.
With an exquisite blend of innovation, craftsmanship, and sheer cultural significance, these songs have become the sonic milestones against which all other pop songs are measured. They have transcended mere popularity to become iconic anthems, etching themselves into the collective memory of generations past, present, and future.
From the vibrant beats that make us dance uncontrollably to the poignant ballads that bring tears to our eyes, the top 15 best pop music songs encapsulate the full spectrum of human experiences, universal emotions, and sonic excellence. So, brace yourself for a melodic voyage through time as we unravel the brilliance and everlasting allure of these unparalleled pop masterpieces.
1. “Despacito” By Luis Fonsi Ft. Daddy Yankee
This timeless classic is one of the most popular pop music songs of all time. The song “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee has become a global phenomenon due to its catchy tune, captivating lyrics, and incredible reggaeton beats that will have anyone dancing along.
The song was released in 2017 and quickly gained popularity around the world, thanks to its infectious beat and sensual vibes. The sensual lyrics and smooth vocals give the song an added allure that makes it impossible not to sway along.
Moreover, the song has broken many records throughout the years and has become a massive hit on various digital platforms such as YouTube and Spotify. It has also won several prestigious awards globally, including seven Latin Grammy awards.
So if you're looking for a song that will make you want to dance all night long or lift your mood, then “Despacito” By Luis Fonsi Ft. Daddy Yankee is undoubtedly a perfect choice.
To enjoy this fantastic track fully, it is essential to have excellent audio equipment that can provide high-quality sound output while listening to this musical masterpiece. Hence investing in top-notch earphones or headphones with noise-cancelling technology can help you focus more on enjoying the music.
In summary, “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee remains one of the best pop music songs of all time due to its catchy tunes, captivating lyrics, sensual vibes and incredible reggaeton beats that will get anyone moving. Get ready to enter a state of ecstasy by listening to this fantastic tune!
Listening to 'Shape of You' makes me feel like both dancing and eating pizza at the same time – and let's be real, that's a feeling we could all use more of.
2. “Shape Of You” By Ed Sheeran
Renowned British singer, Ed Sheeran, graced us with his masterpiece “Shape Of You”. A hit from his third studio album titled ÷ (pronounced “Divide”), the song became an instant fan favorite and has since reached the status of a classic pop music anthem. Accompanied by an upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics, Ed’s breathtaking vocals make the song perfect for listeners of all ages.
The infectious tune features a blend of dancehall-inspired beats, smooth rhythms, and pop melodies that are sure to keep you hooked. The cleverly crafted lyrics describe the attraction between two people in a club setting and captivate listeners. The song’s well-crafted beats, rhythm, and melody create an irresistible musical composition that has become a staple in many playlists worldwide. Released in 2017, “Shape Of You” continued Ed Sheeran’s streak of delivering chart-topping hits. It earned various awards over time that include 'Song of the Year' at Grammy Awards 2018 and 'Best Single' at BRIT Awards 2018.
Interestingly, while composing "Shape Of You," he initially did not have plans to sing it himself but to sell it to Rihanna. But upon completing the tune, he knew it was too good not to keep for himself and recorded it himself!
Even your grandma can't resist shaking her hips to 'Uptown Funk' – it's a certified party starter.
3. “Uptown Funk” By Mark Ronson Ft. Bruno Mars
This hit song by Mark Ronson, featuring the electrifying voice of Bruno Mars is the epitome of funky pop music. Its irresistible sound and upbeat rhythm get people dancing no matter where they are. The song was released in 2014 and since then has continued to be a popular choice for parties, weddings, and events.
“Uptown Funk” blends old-school funk with modern pop music elements, creating a unique sound that reflects both artists' styles. The catchy lyrics and dynamic instrumentation make it an instant crowd-pleaser. Moreover, the music video is equally impressive with its vibrant colors, dance moves, and overall entertainment value.
Interestingly, the song's success wasn't without controversy as it faced multiple lawsuits over copyright infringement claims for allegedly copying elements from earlier songs from the 1980s and 70s.
A true fact is that “Uptown Funk” won two Grammy Awards in 2016: one for Record of the Year and another for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.
Counting Stars may have you counting your regrets for not putting it on repeat sooner.
4. “Counting Stars” By OneRepublic
This hit pop song by OneRepublic, with its catchy and upbeat melody, has captured the hearts of many music lovers. “Counting Stars” By OneRepublic is a masterpiece in the pop music industry and is considered one of the best pop songs of all time. With lyrics that are both inspiring and relatable, this track has earned critical acclaim from listeners worldwide.
The lead vocals by Ryan Tedder are exceptionally powerful and emotional, complemented with a mesmerizing harmony. The melody is accompanied by an upbeat tempo, providing an infectious energy throughout the track. It's impossible to ignore the electrifying instrumentals excellently synchronized in this song.
“Counting Stars” By OneRepublic is not only lyrically engaging but also musically captivating. The song's unique blend of pop and indie-rock elements makes it stand out from other conventional pop tracks.
It's fascinating to note that the song was initially written for Beyoncé; however, it eventually became one of OneRepublic's most significant hits. This track proves why Ryan Tedder is considered one of the greatest singer-songwriters of the modern era.
To enjoy “Counting Stars” By OneRepublic fully, listen to its acoustic versions or live performances. This will allow you to appreciate its exceptional performance quality and grasp the full depth behind these lyrics.
Katy Perry proves that even the darkest of horses can have a catchy beat and Juicy J's lyrical flow seals the deal.
5. “Dark Horse” By Katy Perry Ft. Juicy J
Grammy nominated song “Dark Horse” propelled Katy Perry's popularity even further. Featuring Juicy J, it portrays the theme of choosing the right partner and trusting them rather than focusing on money. The music video with Egyptian themes reached over 3 billion views on YouTube.
A catchy beat with a fusion of pop and trap genres, this song was written by Perry, Juicy J and others. It topped charts in several countries and received various certifications due to its commercial success.
The iconic phrase "Are you ready for, ready for / A perfect storm, a perfect storm" sets the mood of the song that leaves an impact on the listener.
Penske Media Corporation reported that this song became one of Perry's highest-grossing ones bringing in over $41 million from revenue streams.
If you haven't argued with your significant other over who gets to be Eminem and who gets to be Rihanna in 'Love The Way You Lie,' are you even in a relationship?
6. “Love The Way You Lie” By Eminem Ft. Rihanna
This classic pop song features an explosive collaboration between Eminem and Rihanna. "Love The Way You Lie" is a powerful anthem about a turbulent and abusive relationship, with lyrics that are both raw and cathartic. This song's controversial themes have sparked many conversations over the years, making it one of the most impactful tracks in pop music history.
The honesty that Eminem brings to his rap verses is balanced perfectly by Rihanna's soaring chorus vocals, creating a dynamic interplay that pulls at listeners' heartstrings. Their delivery captures the intensity of conflicting emotions that come with abusive relationships, such as bitterness, anger, love, and regret.
Listeners have been drawn to this song since its release for its emotional depth and relatability. Eminem's autobiographical elements add a layer of authenticity to the performance, giving listeners a glimpse into the rapper's personal life.
Despite its dark subject matter, "Love The Way You Lie" remains an unforgettable track in pop music history. Its raw power has inspired countless cover versions and remixes over the years, cementing its place as one of the top pop songs ever released.
This song's popular appeal can be attributed not just to its catchy melody or powerful performances but also to how it tackles an important social issue. "Love The Way You Lie" highlights domestic abuse from an angle rarely seen in mainstream pop culture before. It provides inspiration for those who have experienced this kind of trauma to seek help and reminds others not to ignore signs of violence in their own relationships.
Let's be honest, Bruno Mars' 'Just The Way You Are' is the ultimate lazy compliment.
7. “Just The Way You Are” By Bruno Mars
This iconic track by Bruno Mars resonates with listeners for its uplifting message of unconditional love. "Just The Way You Are" is a timeless masterpiece that celebrates individuality and promotes self-love through its catchy beats and heartening lyrics. Its success lies in how it connects with diverse audiences, inspiring them to embrace their flaws and insecurities. Its ability to strike an emotional chord has made it one of the best pop music songs of all time.
What sets "Just The Way You Are" apart from other love songs is its authenticity and simplicity. Bruno Mars' soulful vocals blend perfectly with the song's upbeat melody, making it an instant classic. Additionally, the song's relatable message makes it easy for people to connect with on a deeper level. It has been covered numerous times by artists around the world, but no rendition can match the original version's vibrancy.
The song's undeniable impact on pop culture transcends generations, continuously resonating with new listeners worldwide. Its timeless appeal is evident through its continued popularity on streaming platforms and radio stations even years after its initial release. It embodies everything that makes pop music universally appealing- a catchy tune, meaningful lyrics, and an irreplaceable feeling of nostalgia.
Listening to "Just The Way You Are" serves as a reminder that we are all unique in our ways, deserving of love and acceptance regardless of societal norms or expectations. So next time this classic tune comes up on your playlist, bask in its uplifting aura and celebrate your individuality alongside millions worldwide.
Do not miss out on experiencing the magic of "Just The Way You Are" by giving it a well-deserved listen today!
Who needs expensive thrills when you can jam out to Sia and Sean Paul's wallet-friendly anthem?
8. “Cheap Thrills” By Sia Ft. Sean Paul
This iconic pop hit by Sia featuring Sean Paul, "Cheap Thrills", has stirred up the music industry ever since its release. The song has an infectious beat that is impossible not to dance along with. Sia's impressive vocals and Sean Paul's smooth delivery definitely make this track a fan-favorite.
Not only does this song have a catchy melody, but it also has a meaningful message about enjoying life without having to splurge on expensive things. This resonates well with audiences, making it one of the best pop songs of all time.
It's worth noting that the production quality of "Cheap Thrills" is phenomenal, which adds to its appeal. Despite being released several years ago, this song still remains popular today and continues to be played at parties and other events worldwide.
If you haven't listened to "Cheap Thrills" yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest pop songs of all time. Give it a listen and find yourself singing along in no time!
Love, lies, and a killer chorus – Lady Gaga serves up a 'Bad Romance' that we can't help but keep hitting replay on.
9. “Bad Romance” By Lady Gaga
This pop classic by Lady Gaga titled “Bad Romance” has become a timeless hit among music lovers. With a unique blend of electro-pop and dance, this track is all about facing the complexities of emotional entanglement. Gaga's mesmerizing vocals with catchy lyrics and an unforgettable chorus make this song undeniably irresistible.
The lyrics speak of fear, desire, and passion beautifully, as the singer tells a story of being in love despite knowing it is not a good idea. The chorus provides an infectious hook that gets stuck in your head for hours. “Bad Romance” was a commercial success worldwide and reached the top position on various music charts.
An interesting fact about the making of this music video is that it features Alexander McQueen outfits exclusively designed for Lady Gaga. Released in 2009, this song became a turning point for not only Lady Gaga but also for pop music.
For those looking to expand their musical tastes, “Bad Romance” would be an excellent starting point due to its unique style and captivating melody. Crank up the volume on your devices or stereo, close your eyes and get lost in its enthralling rhythm because this song guarantees an unforgettable experience.
Even if you don't want to admit it, you know you secretly jam out to 'Call Me Maybe' in your car alone.
10. “Call Me Maybe” By Carly Rae Jepsen
This track by Carly Rae Jepsen is undoubtedly one of the most iconic pop songs of all time, with its catchy hooks and upbeat melody becoming instant crowd-pleasers. The song has achieved platinum status in multiple countries and was nominated for numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards. Its addictive "Call Me Maybe" chorus has become a part of modern pop culture, making it a must-have on any party playlist.
Jepsen's "Call Me Maybe" is not just a top-ranking hit but also has a relatable story behind its lyrics. The song narrates the tale of longing to connect with someone special and hoping to take things further while battling the fear of rejection typical of new relationships. Its lyrics embody those butterflies in the stomach moments that everyone feels when they are trying to put themselves out there.
Despite being released in 2012, "Call Me Maybe" remains well-loved among music lovers worldwide, establishing it as an evergreen classic that will live on for decades to come.
Whitney Houston's heart-wrenching rendition of 'I Will Always Love You' proves that she's not just the Queen of Pop, but also the Queen of Tissue Sales.
11. “I Will Always Love You” By Whitney Houston
This iconic ballad by the late Whitney Houston is one of the greatest pop songs to ever exist. With its soulful style and heartfelt lyrics, it has touched many hearts since its release in 1992. Its popularity rose even higher after being featured on the soundtrack of the hit movie, The Bodyguard. "I Will Always Love You" is an emotional tribute to an unyielding love that will never fade away no matter what happens.
Houston's powerful vocals combined with the song's captivating instrumental make for a magical listening experience you won't forget anytime soon. It was written by Dolly Parton, who originally sang it as a country song before Houston elevated it to another level through her version.
What sets this song apart from others is how it manages to stay relevant despite the passing of time. People still use it as a declaration of love or play it at weddings, making it a timeless classic. It also won several awards including two Grammys and became one of Houston's most celebrated recordings.
According to Rolling Stone magazine, "I Will Always Love You" was ranked #5 on their list of 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Even after all these years, we still don't know if Billie Jean was indeed not his lover.
12. “Billie Jean” By Michael Jackson
The upbeat tempo with its catchy tune and lyrics make it an unforgettable hit that captivates music enthusiasts worldwide.
The song was released back in 1983 and still enjoys a massive listenership to date, attesting to its timeless appeal. Its success can be attributed to various aspects such as its production, rhythm, and lyrics. The opening bassline is unforgettable, while the energetic beat that follows keeps listeners engaged all through the track.
It's worth noting how Michael's vocal range elevates this song entirely from its competitors, enhancing his innate talent and charisma. Besides this, Billie Jean has a unique story behind it that fascinates many fans; the song tells a personal experience concerning a woman claiming MJ fathered her child.
Music enthusiasts appreciate different things about Billie Jean – some may marvel at the various instruments used, others at the overall mix that makes it sound so great or even MJ's dance moves in music videos.
If you're looking for inspiration from Billie Jean for your music production, one suggestion is studying MJ's vocal range and how he deployed it effortlessly singing in different styles throughout his career. Another thought would be exploring mixing techniques applied in Billie Jean to understand how different parts come together cohesively.
Shakira's hips don't lie, but they sure know how to make an unforgettable pop hit.
13. “Hips Don’t Lie” By Shakira Ft. Wyclef Jean
This iconic song by Shakira featuring Wyclef Jean is a timeless pop music classic that made history since its release. With its infectious Latin rhythms and passionate belly dancing, it embodies Shakira's signature style. The song reflects the joy of expressing oneself through dance and celebrates the unique movements of every woman's hips. Its upbeat melody and unforgettable lyrics have made it one of the best pop songs of all time, loved by fans around the world.
Not only did “Hips Don’t Lie” reach number one on several charts globally, including the Billboard Hot 100 chart, but its music video also was an instant hit. It features Shakira gracefully shaking her hips while singing in a colorful carnival-inspired cityscape, capturing viewers' hearts from all over the world. With Wyclef Jean's rap verse adding an extra layer of flavor to this masterpiece, this track remains cherished till today.
Interestingly, beyond its catchy tune and rousing tempo, "Hips Don't Lie" carries a deeper social message about self-acceptance and cultural diversity. In her lyrics and performance, Shakira celebrates her Colombian roots while embracing the broader appeal of global music and dance styles.
Many performers have tried to replicate or pay tribute to this iconic song through covers or performances at concerts worldwide, which stands as testimony to its timeless appeal. Ultimately, "Hips Don't Lie" is proof that great music can transcend language barriers.
7 rings is what happens when you mix high-end luxury with a low-end attention span.
14. “7 rings” By Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande's hit song "7 Rings" revolutionized pop music with its catchy beats and empowering lyrics.
The song radiates confidence and glamour, as Grande flaunts her wealth through extravagant visuals, lavish outfits, and luxurious references. "7 Rings" emerged as a tribute to female independence and the spirit of friendship through its chorus, where Grande proclaims "I see it, I like it, I want it, I got it." This track has not only become a global sensation but also established Grande as one of the biggest pop stars of our time.
The success of "7 Rings" can be attributed to the impressive production techniques that fuse multiple genres into a cohesive and energetic sound. The song features elements of trap music with hints of R&B and soulful harmonies while incorporating quotes from Richard Rodgers' classic tune "My Favorite Things." Moreover, Ariana Grande's powerful voice adds to the irresistible energy that makes listeners want to dance along.
Interestingly enough, the title of the music video- "7 Rings" – refers to the custom diamond rings that Ariana bought for herself and six other close friends following a tumultuous breakup. Through this luxurious display, Grande transforms her heartbreak into an opportunity to celebrate personal growth, independence, and female friendships.
According to Billboard magazine published on February 9th, 2019 in their video feature called Billboard News segment – “Ariana Grande's '7 Rings' Spends Second Week at No.1 on Hot 100 Chart”.
Looks like there's finally a road longer than the line at the DMV – and it's paved with catchy pop beats and a country twang!
15. “Old Town Road” By Lil Nas X Ft. Billy Ray Cyrus
This chart-topping hit 'Old Town Road' featuring Lil Nas X and Billy Ray Cyrus has proven to be one of the most memorable pop songs of all time. Its fusion of country, rap, and electronic beats has set it apart from other mainstream tunes. The track's infectious melody and lyrics have resonated with a wide range of audiences worldwide.
Not only has this song been praised for breaking barriers in the music industry, but it has also become an anthem for those embracing their unique identities. It empowers individuals to confidently express themselves through music while challenging societal norms. Its success is attributed to its ability to relate to people on different levels, transcending age, race, and culture.
Pro Tip: 'Old Town Road' was initially released independently before gaining popularity on TikTok. It's a reminder that perseverance and hard work can pay off in the end for any aspiring artist.
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.
