Dua Lipa, the global pop sensation, has taken the music world by storm with her powerhouse vocals, magnetic stage presence, and genre-defying hits. From her early days as a rising star to her reign as one of the most iconic artists of the decade, Dua has crafted a playlist of unforgettable anthems that have captivated millions worldwide. With her signature blend of disco-infused beats, sultry melodies, and empowering lyrics, she has become a voice for a new generation of music lovers.
Whether you’re dancing under the neon lights, singing your heart out in the car, or finding solace in her soulful ballads, Dua Lipa’s songs have a way of connecting with listeners on every level. From chart-topping global smashes to fan-favorite deep cuts, her discography boasts a treasure trove of musical masterpieces that have defined moments, sparked trends, and left an indelible mark on pop culture.
In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Dua Lipa songs of all time. Get ready to dive into the ultimate playlist of hits that have dominated airwaves, broken records, and earned their place as timeless classics. Which of your favorites made the list? Let’s find out!
1. “Don’t Start Now” (2019)
Dua Lipa’s “Don’t Start Now” is more than just a breakup song—it’s an anthem of self-empowerment wrapped in a shimmering disco beat. Released in 2019 as the lead single from her Future Nostalgia album, the song introduced a bold, confident new era for the singer. With its pulsating bassline, glossy synths, and an irresistible dancefloor groove, “Don’t Start Now” channels the best of retro disco while keeping its sound fresh and modern.
Lyrically, the song is a triumphant declaration of moving on. Dua’s cool yet commanding vocals deliver lines like “If you don’t wanna see me dancing with somebody, if you wanna believe that anything could stop me” with unwavering self-assurance. The track is all about reclaiming power after a heartbreak, turning pain into strength, and letting go of the past without a second thought.
Produced by Ian Kirkpatrick, the song’s dynamic production perfectly complements Dua’s vocal delivery, creating a track that feels timeless. The song’s explosive success saw it top the charts worldwide, earning critical acclaim and multiple award nominations. It became a defining track of the late 2010s, proving that Dua Lipa wasn’t just another pop star—she was here to dominate. Whether blasting through club speakers or fueling a solo dance session, “Don’t Start Now” is the ultimate soundtrack for anyone ready to leave the past behind.
2. “Levitating” (2020)
“Levitating” is one of the most infectious pop songs of the 2020s, combining funk, disco, and futuristic vibes into a euphoric musical experience. Released in 2020 as part of Dua Lipa’s Future Nostalgia album, the song transports listeners to a world of love, excitement, and weightless joy.
From the moment the funky bassline kicks in, “Levitating” pulls you into its cosmic energy. The lyrics are playful and dreamy, with Dua likening love to an interstellar journey. “I got you, moonlight, you’re my starlight,” she sings, capturing the exhilaration of being swept off your feet by romance. Her vocals are confident and flirtatious, effortlessly gliding over the track’s groovy beat.
The song’s production, infused with a retro-futuristic flair, feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Its irresistible chorus and energetic rhythm make it impossible not to dance along. The track gained even more traction with a remix featuring rapper DaBaby, which brought a new dimension to its already magnetic appeal.
“Levitating” quickly became one of Dua’s most successful singles, dominating the charts and solidifying her place as a pop powerhouse. With its feel-good energy and timeless groove, it remains a fan favorite, proving that sometimes, love really can make you feel like you’re floating among the stars.
3. “New Rules” (2017)
“New Rules” wasn’t just a hit song—it became a cultural moment. Released in 2017 as part of Dua Lipa’s self-titled debut album, this tropical house-infused track gave listeners a no-nonsense guide to getting over a toxic ex. With its empowering lyrics and infectious beat, the song quickly became an anthem for self-respect and emotional independence.
At its core, “New Rules” is a breakup survival manual, laying out clear-cut instructions for anyone struggling to move on. “One, don’t pick up the phone. Two, don’t let him in. Three, don’t be his friend.” These simple yet effective rules resonated with fans worldwide, making the song a go-to for anyone needing the strength to walk away from a bad relationship.
Musically, the track blends a cool, tropical beat with a hypnotic melody that feels both laid-back and urgent. Dua’s vocals balance vulnerability with unwavering confidence, making her delivery feel personal yet universal. The song’s impact was amplified by its striking music video, which features synchronized choreography and a visually stunning display of female solidarity.
“New Rules” wasn’t just another breakup song—it was a declaration of self-worth, a reminder that sometimes the best thing you can do is follow your own rules. It became Dua Lipa’s first major global hit, propelling her into pop superstardom and cementing her reputation as an artist who creates music that empowers and inspires.
4. “Physical” (2020)
Dua Lipa’s “Physical” is a high-energy explosion of ’80s nostalgia, blending pulsating beats with an electrifying vocal performance. Released in 2020 as part of her Future Nostalgia album, the song draws inspiration from classic synth-pop while adding a modern edge that makes it feel fresh and exciting.
From the very first beat, “Physical” is designed to get your heart racing. The song’s driving rhythm and bold, anthemic chorus—”Let’s get physical!”—create an adrenaline-fueled listening experience. The track is all about passion and intensity, capturing the unstoppable force of a love so strong it consumes you.
The production, led by Jason Evigan, features a perfect blend of retro-inspired synths, deep bass, and high-energy percussion. Dua’s powerful vocals soar over the track, giving it an almost cinematic quality. The song’s relentless momentum never lets up, making it one of the most exhilarating tracks on Future Nostalgia.
The accompanying music video, with its neon lights and high-impact choreography, further amplifies the song’s electrifying energy. “Physical” was met with widespread acclaim for its bold throwback sound, proving that Dua Lipa could masterfully blend past and present influences. It became one of her signature tracks, a song that demands to be played loud and danced to with abandon.
5. “IDGAF” (2018)
Dua Lipa’s “IDGAF” is a fiery breakup anthem packed with attitude, self-respect, and a no-nonsense message. Released in 2018 as the follow-up to “New Rules,” the track showcases Dua’s ability to deliver empowering messages with a mix of emotional depth and confidence.
The song’s title—short for “I Don’t Give A F**”*—sets the tone immediately. Over a minimalist yet striking beat, Dua directly addresses an ex who wants back in her life, making it crystal clear that she’s moved on. Lines like “You say you’re sorry, but it’s too late now” and “I see you trying, but I just don’t care” perfectly capture the feeling of emotional detachment after being wronged one too many times.
Musically, “IDGAF” is built on a sharp, rhythmic guitar loop and a steady drumbeat that keeps the track driving forward. The song’s layered harmonies add depth, while Dua’s vocal delivery remains cool, controlled, and effortlessly powerful.
The music video, which visually represents the battle between vulnerability and strength, adds another layer of depth to the song’s message. “IDGAF” became an instant fan favorite, resonating with anyone who’s ever had to put their foot down and walk away from a toxic situation. With its sharp lyrics and commanding presence, it remains one of the standout tracks in Dua’s discography.
6. “One Kiss” with Calvin Harris (2018)
When Dua Lipa teamed up with Calvin Harris for “One Kiss”, they created one of the biggest dance anthems of 2018. This deep house track, built on hypnotic beats and minimalistic production, became a global sensation, dominating clubs and festival stages alike.
Unlike Dua’s more upbeat pop tracks, “One Kiss” leans into a darker, more entrancing sound. The song’s pulsing bassline and atmospheric synths create a dreamlike quality, pulling listeners into a trance-like groove. Dua’s sultry, almost detached vocal delivery adds to the song’s allure, making it feel both mysterious and intoxicating.
Lyrically, the song captures the idea of instant attraction, with lines like “One kiss is all it takes, falling in love with me” repeating like a hypnotic mantra. The simplicity of the lyrics makes them even more effective, reinforcing the song’s hypnotic and seductive nature.
The track became a massive success, topping the charts in multiple countries and solidifying Dua’s ability to shine across different genres. “One Kiss” proved that she wasn’t just a pop star—she could dominate the electronic music scene as well. With its sleek production and magnetic energy, the song remains one of the defining dance hits of the decade.
7. “Break My Heart” (2020)
Dua Lipa’s “Break My Heart” is a dazzling fusion of disco, funk, and modern pop, blending heartbreak with an irresistible groove. Released in 2020 as part of her Future Nostalgia album, the song explores the tension between falling in love and the fear of getting hurt.
Right from the start, the track sets the mood with a slick bassline that borrows inspiration from INXS’s “Need You Tonight.” This clever interpolation gives the song a nostalgic flair while maintaining a fresh, contemporary edge. The melody glides effortlessly over funky guitar riffs, pulsating synths, and an infectious beat that keeps the energy high.
Lyrically, “Break My Heart” captures the moment of uncertainty in a relationship—when everything feels too good to be true. Dua sings about finding someone she believes could be the one, but she can’t shake the fear that it might all come crashing down. Lines like “Am I falling in love with the one that could break my heart?” showcase this inner turmoil, making the song incredibly relatable.
The accompanying music video complements the song’s theme perfectly, featuring surreal, ever-changing scenes that mirror the emotional rollercoaster of love. “Break My Heart” became another smash hit for Dua, proving her ability to craft songs that blend emotional depth with undeniable dance-floor appeal.
8. “Be the One” (2015)
Before she became a global superstar, “Be the One” helped introduce the world to Dua Lipa’s unique voice and style. Released in 2015, this dreamy synth-pop track was an early glimpse into the artist she would become, showcasing her ability to blend vulnerability with anthemic melodies.
The song is a heartfelt plea for love and redemption. Dua’s voice glides over shimmering synths and a pulsing beat, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. The lyrics express a mix of desperation and hope as she sings about wanting to be the one for someone who seems hesitant to let love in. Lines like “I could be the one to make you feel that way, I could be the one to set you free” are both confident and vulnerable, making the song deeply emotive.
“Be the One” wasn’t an instant hit, but it gradually gained traction across Europe, eventually becoming one of Dua’s breakthrough songs. Its success helped establish her as a rising star, paving the way for her self-titled debut album. Even years later, the song remains a fan favorite, standing as a testament to her early talent and emotional storytelling.
9. “Hotter Than Hell” (2016)
With “Hotter Than Hell,” Dua Lipa proved she was more than just another rising pop singer—she was a force to be reckoned with. Released in 2016, this fiery track blends dark pop with tropical house elements, creating an intoxicating mix of sultry confidence and danceable energy.
The song is built around a pulsating beat, layered with hypnotic synths and a driving rhythm that makes it impossible to sit still. Dua’s commanding vocals take center stage as she delivers lyrics that exude power and allure. She flips the script on a failed relationship, turning the tables on an ex by asserting that he was the one left burning after losing her. Lines like “When you look at me, tell me what do you see? / A fire burning inside me” add to the song’s fierce, self-assured tone.
“Hotter Than Hell” was a defining moment in Dua’s early career, showcasing her ability to blend dark, moody vibes with infectious pop hooks. The song gained traction on dance charts and solidified her reputation as an artist unafraid to bring attitude and edge to her music.
10. “Love Again” (2021)
Few songs capture the thrill of rediscovering love quite like “Love Again.” Released in 2021 as part of Future Nostalgia, this track is a masterful blend of orchestral drama, disco grooves, and deep emotion.
From the opening moments, “Love Again” grabs your attention with its striking use of a sample from White Town’s “Your Woman,” instantly adding a layer of nostalgia. The song’s lush production—complete with sweeping strings, a funky bassline, and crisp beats—creates an almost cinematic feel, perfectly complementing Dua’s heartfelt vocals.
Lyrically, the song tells the story of someone who had given up on love, only to be surprised by a new romance. Lines like “I never thought that I would find a way out” and “I can’t believe, I can’t believe I finally found someone” express both hesitation and joy, making the track feel deeply personal yet universally relatable.
“Love Again” stands out not just for its rich instrumentation, but for Dua’s vocal delivery—soulful, controlled, and brimming with emotion. The track was widely praised for its sophisticated production and mature songwriting, proving that Future Nostalgia wasn’t just an album of dance hits, but a true pop masterpiece.
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.
