Ariana Grande—an unstoppable force in modern pop music—has captivated millions with her powerful voice, stunning range, and heartfelt lyrics. From her humble beginnings as a Nickelodeon star to becoming one of the world’s most celebrated artists, Ariana has built a legacy filled with chart-topping hits and unforgettable anthems. With her unique blend of soulful ballads, infectious pop melodies, and R&B influences, she’s created a discography that resonates with fans across the globe.
But which songs truly define Ariana’s career? In this article, we’re diving into the ultimate ranking of her top 10 most popular songs of all time. These tracks aren’t just radio hits—they’re cultural moments, soundtracks to our memories, and proof of Ariana’s unmatched ability to connect with listeners. Whether you’re a longtime Arianator or a casual fan, this list showcases the very best of her artistry, from groundbreaking singles like “Thank U, Next” to emotional ballads like “No Tears Left to Cry.”
Get ready to sing along, reminisce, and rediscover the magic of Ariana Grande as we count down her most iconic tracks. These songs have defined a generation—and they’re about to take you on a journey through her incredible career.
1. Problem (2014)
“Problem” was a game-changer for Ariana Grande, propelling her from rising pop star to full-fledged music powerhouse. Released in 2014 as the lead single from My Everything, the track blends sultry vocals with an irresistible saxophone hook that makes it impossible to ignore. Teaming up with rapper Iggy Azalea, Ariana delivers a song that captures the tension of wanting to leave a toxic relationship but still feeling its pull. The whispery chorus—“I got one less problem without ya”—became instantly iconic, reinforcing the song’s empowering message.
The production, driven by a brassy, throwback-style beat, gives “Problem” a unique energy that fuses pop, R&B, and dance influences. Ariana’s powerhouse vocals soar effortlessly over the instrumentation, contrasting with Iggy Azalea’s slick, confident rap verse, which adds an extra edge to the track. The song’s infectious melody and undeniable swagger made it a commercial smash, peaking at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominating international charts.
Beyond its chart success, “Problem” solidified Ariana’s status as a major player in the pop world. It was a defining moment in her evolution as an artist, proving that she could blend powerhouse vocals with sleek, modern production to create a hit that resonated across generations.
2. No Tears Left to Cry (2018)
Released in 2018 as the lead single from Sweetener, “No Tears Left to Cry” was more than just another hit—it was Ariana Grande’s triumphant return to music following the tragic events of the Manchester Arena bombing. Rather than focusing on sorrow, the song radiates hope, resilience, and the determination to keep moving forward. It starts off with a slow, melancholic intro before seamlessly shifting into an upbeat, dance-infused anthem, mirroring the emotional highs and lows of healing.
Lyrically, “No Tears Left to Cry” is a declaration of strength. Ariana sings about rising above pain and choosing joy, encouraging listeners to do the same. The production is dreamy yet uplifting, blending elements of house, R&B, and pop to create a sound that feels both nostalgic and futuristic. Her ethereal vocals float over the beat, effortlessly transitioning between soft falsettos and soaring high notes.
Critically acclaimed for its message and sonic innovation, “No Tears Left to Cry” became an instant favorite among fans and critics alike. It peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of the defining songs of Ariana’s career, proving that music could be a source of healing and empowerment.
3. Thank U, Next (2018)
“Thank U, Next” isn’t just a song—it’s a cultural moment. Released in 2018, this empowering breakup anthem took the world by storm, with Ariana Grande turning past relationships into lessons of self-growth rather than sources of regret. With its breezy pop production and candid lyrics, the song quickly became an anthem of gratitude, self-love, and moving forward.
In the verses, Ariana name-drops her exes—including Big Sean, Ricky Alvarez, Pete Davidson, and the late Mac Miller—but instead of dwelling on heartbreak, she thanks them for what they taught her. The chorus flips the usual breakup song narrative, celebrating independence and personal growth instead of sadness. This refreshing take on love and loss resonated deeply with listeners, making “Thank U, Next” one of the most relatable and universally praised breakup songs of its time.
The song’s impact was amplified by its iconic music video, which paid tribute to early 2000s teen movies like Mean Girls and Legally Blonde. It quickly became the fastest music video to reach 100 million views on YouTube at the time. With its catchy melody, heartfelt message, and cultural significance, “Thank U, Next” remains one of Ariana’s most defining hits.
4. 7 Rings (2019)
“7 Rings” is Ariana Grande at her most confident, flaunting success, self-love, and sisterhood in a track dripping with luxury and attitude. Released in 2019, the song reimagines The Sound of Music’s “My Favorite Things” as a trap-inspired anthem about independence and material success. Inspired by a real-life shopping spree Ariana had with her closest friends, “7 Rings” celebrates financial freedom and the power of treating yourself.
The song’s production is sleek and modern, with deep bass and hip-hop influences that give it a bold, commanding presence. Ariana’s delivery is more rap-like than her usual soaring vocals, adding to the track’s braggadocious vibe. The lyrics boast about diamonds, private jets, and designer shopping, but at its core, “7 Rings” is about the strength found in friendship and self-sufficiency.
Despite some controversy over cultural appropriation, the song was a massive commercial success, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominating streaming charts worldwide. “7 Rings” remains one of Ariana’s most iconic and confident tracks, proving that she can effortlessly switch between sultry ballads and swaggering anthems.
5. Side to Side (2016)
“Side to Side” is the definition of a sultry summer anthem. Released in 2016 as a single from Dangerous Woman, this reggae-infused banger features a sizzling collaboration between Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj. With flirtatious lyrics and a hypnotic beat, the song oozes sensual energy, making it one of Ariana’s most addictive hits.
The track’s theme revolves around a romance so passionate that it leaves a physical impact—hence the infamous “walking side to side” lyric. Ariana’s vocals are playful yet seductive, gliding effortlessly over the reggae-inspired production. Nicki Minaj’s fiery verse adds an extra layer of attitude, making the song even more unforgettable.
The accompanying music video, featuring Ariana cycling in a steamy gym setting, only added to the song’s allure. “Side to Side” quickly became a fan-favorite and a commercial success, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. It remains one of Ariana’s most memorable collaborations and an essential track in her catalog of hits.
6. Break Free (2014)
“Break Free” is a euphoric anthem of liberation, marking one of Ariana Grande’s boldest forays into the world of electronic dance music. Released in 2014 as a single from My Everything, the song saw Ariana teaming up with producer Zedd to create a high-energy, synth-heavy banger that exudes empowerment. With pulsating beats, explosive drops, and Ariana’s soaring vocals, “Break Free” became an instant fan favorite, solidifying her ability to dominate multiple genres.
Lyrically, the song is about breaking free from limitations—whether in love, life, or self-doubt. Ariana’s confident delivery, coupled with the song’s uplifting production, makes it feel like an anthem for anyone seeking to reclaim their independence. Lines like “I can’t resist it no more” encapsulate the rush of finally letting go of toxic situations and embracing freedom.
Upon its release, “Break Free” climbed the charts, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a club and festival staple. The futuristic, sci-fi-inspired music video added to the song’s appeal, featuring Ariana as a space warrior battling evil forces. Even years later, “Break Free” remains a go-to anthem for moments of empowerment and celebration.
7. Into You (2016)
“Into You” is one of Ariana Grande’s most seductive and electrifying tracks, seamlessly blending dance, pop, and R&B into a hypnotic masterpiece. Released in 2016 as part of Dangerous Woman, the song exudes passion and intensity, capturing the overwhelming rush of desire and attraction. Its dark, pulsating beats and sultry lyrics make it one of Ariana’s most captivating releases.
The song’s production builds in layers, starting with a restrained, mysterious energy before exploding into a full-blown dance-pop anthem. Ariana’s vocal performance is mesmerizing—soft and breathy in the verses, then soaring with raw emotion in the chorus. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of longing and anticipation, making it an intoxicating listening experience.
Critically acclaimed for its boldness and polished production, “Into You” became a fan-favorite and a staple in Ariana’s live performances. Despite not reaching No. 1 on the charts, its influence remains strong, often cited as one of the best pop songs of the 2010s. With its blend of sensuality and urgency, “Into You” continues to be one of Ariana’s most unforgettable tracks.
8. Positions (2020)
“Positions,” released in 2020 as the lead single from Ariana Grande’s album of the same name, showcases a softer, more intimate side of the singer. With its dreamy production and subtle R&B influences, the song is a smooth, effortless exploration of love, devotion, and adaptability in relationships. Unlike the grand, belted-out choruses of some of her previous hits, “Positions” relies on a more understated approach, making it feel fresh and elegant.
Lyrically, the song speaks about shifting roles and making sacrifices in a relationship, emphasizing commitment and flexibility. Ariana’s vocals are light and airy, floating over the beat with an effortless charm. The song’s mellow, flirtatious energy makes it perfect for late-night playlists and intimate moments.
The music video, in which Ariana reimagines herself as a powerful yet graceful president, added a unique twist to the song’s theme. “Positions” topped the Billboard Hot 100, proving that Ariana’s ability to evolve and experiment with her sound continues to resonate with audiences. Its laid-back yet sophisticated vibe cements it as one of her standout tracks.
9. Dangerous Woman (2016)
“Dangerous Woman” is a sultry, blues-infused anthem that redefined Ariana Grande’s image and sound. Released in 2016 as the lead single from her album of the same name, the song embraced a more mature, confident persona, moving away from the bubblegum pop of her early career. With its smoky guitar riffs and sultry vocals, “Dangerous Woman” is the epitome of empowerment and sensuality.
Ariana’s vocal performance is a masterclass in control and emotion, transitioning effortlessly from soft, breathy whispers to powerhouse belting. The song’s message is all about embracing one’s strength and sexuality without shame, making it a bold statement of self-assurance. Its slow-burning, seductive energy sets it apart from her more upbeat hits, proving that she can captivate audiences with pure vocal prowess and emotional depth.
Critically and commercially successful, “Dangerous Woman” became a defining track in Ariana’s career, proving that she could seamlessly blend pop, R&B, and blues influences while maintaining her signature vocal brilliance. It remains one of her most iconic songs, embodying confidence, passion, and unapologetic self-expression.
10. One Last Time (2014)
“One Last Time” is one of Ariana Grande’s most emotionally resonant songs, carrying a deep sense of longing and regret wrapped in an anthemic pop melody. Released in 2014 as part of My Everything, the song tells the story of a person seeking one final chance to be with someone they love, even if they know it won’t last. The bittersweet lyrics and soaring chorus make it a deeply relatable track for anyone who has experienced love and loss.
Musically, “One Last Time” blends melancholic verses with an explosive chorus, creating a powerful emotional contrast. Ariana’s delivery is heartfelt and raw, capturing the desperation and sadness of the lyrics while still maintaining a hopeful, uplifting energy. The song’s dynamic production, featuring pulsing beats and atmospheric synths, adds to its anthemic quality.
Tragically, “One Last Time” took on a new meaning following the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, becoming a symbol of unity and healing for fans and survivors. Ariana later performed it at the One Love Manchester benefit concert, solidifying its place as a song of resilience and remembrance. Even years later, it remains one of the most beloved songs in her 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.
