Ariana Grande is one of the most iconic pop powerhouses of her generation. With her soaring vocals, magnetic stage presence, and an uncanny ability to create hits that resonate across the globe, Ariana has cemented herself as a true icon in the music industry. From her early days as a Nickelodeon star to becoming a Grammy-winning artist with a string of record-breaking albums, Ariana’s musical journey is as inspiring as her chart-topping hits. But which of her tracks stand out as the most popular, the most unforgettable, and the most universally loved?
In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Ariana Grande songs of all time, based on their cultural impact, streaming numbers, and fan-favorite status. These are the tracks that have defined her career, dominated playlists, and become anthems for millions worldwide. Whether it’s a heart-wrenching ballad, an empowering anthem, or a flirtatious bop, these songs showcase Ariana’s versatility and brilliance as a performer.
So, grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to revisit the hits that made us laugh, cry, and dance like nobody’s watching. Let’s dive into the ultimate Ariana Grande playlist you won’t want to miss!
1. “Thank U, Next” (2018)
When Ariana Grande released “Thank U, Next” in 2018, it wasn’t just a song—it was a cultural reset. Coming off the heels of highly publicized breakups and personal hardships, this track flipped the script on what a breakup anthem could be. Instead of wallowing in heartbreak, Ariana expressed gratitude for her past relationships, acknowledging the pain while focusing on the growth they brought her. With lines like “One taught me love, one taught me patience, one taught me pain,” she turned her love life into a self-love manifesto. The track’s breezy, melodic production gives it an upbeat feel, even though its message runs deep. It’s a celebration of healing, self-discovery, and emotional maturity. The accompanying music video took it a step further, paying homage to early-2000s cult classics like Mean Girls, Bring It On, and Legally Blonde, which added a fun and nostalgic layer to the empowering message. “Thank U, Next” isn’t just one of Grande’s biggest hits—it’s become an anthem for anyone who’s turned heartbreak into personal power. It’s honest, it’s catchy, and most importantly, it gave listeners permission to grow, move on, and be unapologetically grateful for their own journey.
2. “7 Rings” (2019)
“7 Rings” is Ariana Grande at her most confident, playful, and indulgent. Dropped in early 2019, the song was inspired by a real-life event—after a tough day, Ariana took her close friends on a spontaneous shopping spree at Tiffany & Co., and bought them each matching rings. That experience became the foundation for this glamorously rebellious track. Sampling the iconic The Sound of Music tune “My Favorite Things,” Ariana flips the classic melody into a trap-pop banger dripping in luxury, independence, and feminine swagger. Lyrically, she makes no apologies for her success, wealth, or desire to treat herself and those she loves: “I see it, I like it, I want it, I got it.” The music video matched the vibe perfectly—think pink-hued dreamworlds, diamonds, and power poses. But beneath the bling and bravado lies a deeper sense of reclaiming control, especially during a time when Grande was navigating loss and heartbreak. “7 Rings” became a symbol of female empowerment and friendship, blending materialism with emotional resilience. It topped the charts with ease, proving that Ariana could flex her creative muscles while still keeping it 100% real.
3. “No Tears Left to Cry” (2018)
“No Tears Left to Cry” marked a major turning point in Ariana Grande’s career. Released in 2018 following the tragic Manchester Arena bombing at her concert the year prior, the song was her first statement to the world that she was healing—and choosing hope over despair. The track opens with a soft, introspective melody that quickly evolves into an uplifting, dance-driven beat, mirroring the emotional shift from sorrow to joy. Lyrically, Ariana sings about resilience, inner peace, and the choice to rise above pain: “Right now I’m in a state of mind, I wanna be in like all the time.” Her voice floats effortlessly over the production, blending vulnerability with strength. The accompanying music video, filled with mind-bending visuals and architectural illusions, captured the surreal feeling of rediscovering one’s footing after emotional chaos. It showed her literally walking on walls and dancing in a world turned upside down—a metaphor for how disorienting trauma can feel, and how triumph can still emerge from it. “No Tears Left to Cry” wasn’t just a comeback—it was a rebirth. It reminded fans of the healing power of music, and Ariana’s unshakable spirit.
4. “Into You” (2016)
“Into You,” released in 2016, is the definition of a slow-burn pop banger. It’s sultry, sleek, and charged with the kind of tension that makes your heart race. The song opens with a pulse—subtle yet seductive—and gradually builds into an electrifying chorus that practically demands you to move. Lyrically, Ariana dives headfirst into the thrill of lust and late-night desire, with lines like “So, baby, come light me up, and maybe I’ll let you on it.” It’s a confident expression of female sexuality and vulnerability, wrapped in a synth-heavy production that’s pure pop perfection. Her vocals here are among her most expressive—breathy, powerful, and full of longing. Critics hailed the track for its masterful structure and magnetic energy, and it quickly became a fan favorite. The music video, with its desert landscapes and secret rendezvous, adds even more intrigue to the story. “Into You” proves that a great pop song can be more than catchy—it can feel cinematic. It’s the kind of track that turns a late-night drive into a music video and a quiet moment into something charged with anticipation. Ariana’s allure is undeniable, and this song captures her at her most daring and dynamic.
5. “Problem” ft. Iggy Azalea (2014)
“Problem” was the moment Ariana Grande truly exploded onto the pop scene with her boldest sound yet. Released in 2014, the track was a game-changer—not just for Grande, but for pop music in general. From its iconic opening whisper, “It’s Iggy Azalea,” to the bombastic saxophone hook that powers the entire song, “Problem” is pure adrenaline. The lyrics capture the complicated freedom that comes with letting go of a toxic relationship. Ariana belts out, “I got one less problem without ya,” with equal parts sass and relief, signaling the kind of breakup that feels like a personal triumph. Iggy’s verse brings an extra edge, reinforcing the song’s theme of female empowerment and emotional clarity. Sonically, it’s a unique fusion of retro brass and modern pop/R&B that made it stand out from everything else on the charts. The track dominated radio waves and dance floors alike, helping cement Ariana’s image as a powerhouse with range and confidence. It wasn’t just a hit—it was an anthem for anyone who’s ever had to walk away from love to find themselves. “Problem” proved Ariana could deliver hooks, harmonies, and heat—and do it all with fearless attitude.
6. “Side to Side” ft. Nicki Minaj (2016)
“Side to Side” is pure swagger with a reggae-pop twist, and it shows Ariana Grande flexing her vocal and stylistic versatility like never before. Released in 2016 as part of her Dangerous Woman album, this track is a slow, sensual burn that turned heads from the moment it dropped. Featuring a powerhouse guest verse from Nicki Minaj, the song is laced with flirtation, double entendre, and a beat that makes it impossible not to sway along. Ariana’s vocals are smooth and sultry, weaving effortlessly between the rhythmic beat and Nicki’s fierce energy. Lyrically, it’s cheeky and playful, using gym metaphors to allude to a night of passion—”I’m talkin’ to ya, see you standing over there with your body.” The music video, set in a gym with pastel lighting and plenty of suggestive workout moves, adds a layer of fun and boldness that fans loved. It quickly became a club favorite and a pop culture staple, particularly for its confidence and no-holds-barred sexuality. “Side to Side” proved that Ariana wasn’t afraid to take risks, explore new sounds, or own her femininity unapologetically. It’s empowering, catchy, and endlessly replayable.
7. “Break Free” ft. Zedd (2014)
“Break Free” is the sonic equivalent of a liberation anthem—loud, explosive, and full of emotional release. Released in 2014, this electrifying collaboration between Ariana Grande and EDM producer Zedd took her into bold, futuristic territory. It’s a song about reclaiming your power after feeling trapped, whether in a relationship, mindset, or phase of life. The lyrics—“This is the part when I say I don’t want ya, I’m stronger than I’ve been before”—are delivered with the kind of vocal fire that only Ariana can bring. Her voice soars over Zedd’s pulsating synths and beat drops, creating a feeling of emotional catharsis that made it a massive hit in clubs and on the radio. What sets “Break Free” apart is its balance of vulnerability and strength—Ariana doesn’t just walk away, she flies. The accompanying space-themed music video leaned into the sci-fi aesthetic, showcasing her in full pop star command mode. The track became a defining moment of her early career, proving she could transcend genres while staying true to her message of empowerment. It’s a dance anthem with depth—a song that makes you want to move and, more importantly, move on.
8. “God Is a Woman” (2018)
“God Is a Woman” isn’t just a song—it’s a bold, sensual statement wrapped in divine pop production. Released in 2018, the track finds Ariana Grande at her most empowered, blending themes of femininity, spirituality, and sensuality into one hypnotic experience. Her vocal performance is nothing short of mesmerizing—she doesn’t just sing, she seduces. The production is smooth, layered, and atmospheric, giving the song an ethereal feel that perfectly matches its title. Lyrically, Ariana flips traditional notions of divinity, asserting the strength and power of women not only in love but in every aspect of life. “You love it how I move you, you love it how I touch you,” she coos, unapologetically placing feminine energy at the center of creation and desire. The music video took things even further, featuring stunning visual metaphors—from galaxies to Michelangelo’s The Creation of Adam—all celebrating female power and mysticism. Critics and fans praised it for its artistry and ambition. “God Is a Woman” is more than a song—it’s an experience, a movement, and a celebration of identity. With this track, Ariana didn’t just push boundaries—she redefined them.
9. “Dangerous Woman” (2016)
“Dangerous Woman” marked a turning point in Ariana Grande’s career—gone was the bubblegum pop princess, and in her place stood a woman fully in control of her identity, voice, and sensuality. Released in 2016 as the title track of her third studio album, the song is a sultry, slow-burning ballad that simmers with confidence. Its bluesy guitar riffs and subtle trap beats provide a moody backdrop for Ariana’s vocals, which build from a smoky whisper to a commanding crescendo. Lyrically, “Dangerous Woman” is all about owning your power, especially in the context of love and desire. Lines like “Somethin’ ’bout you makes me feel like a dangerous woman” explore how vulnerability and strength can exist side by side. The track is elegant, fierce, and undeniably sexy. The black-and-white music video adds to the mystique, showing Ariana in lingerie and lace masks, embracing her grown-up image without losing an ounce of authenticity. This song helped Ariana shed any remnants of her Nickelodeon past and step confidently into her womanhood. With “Dangerous Woman,” she proved that vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s where true power lives.
10. “One Last Time” (2014)
“One Last Time” is a beautifully vulnerable pop ballad that captures the ache of regret and the desperate longing for closure. Released in 2014 as part of Ariana Grande’s My Everything album, the song resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever wished for just one more moment with someone they’ve lost—whether due to love, mistakes, or time. Unlike many of her more upbeat hits, this track leans heavily into emotional honesty. Ariana’s voice is at its most heartfelt here, soaring over the electro-pop production with a sense of urgency and sorrow that feels raw and real.
The lyrics tell the story of a girl who knows she’s done wrong in a relationship but pleads for one final night to make things right. “I know I should’ve fought it, at least I’m being honest,” she sings, her tone aching with sincerity. The song’s production, with its subtle build and euphoric drop, mirrors the emotional climax of trying to hold onto something that’s already slipping away.
“One Last Time” took on even more significance after the Manchester Arena tragedy in 2017, becoming an anthem of remembrance and unity. What began as a love song transformed into a powerful tribute to resilience, healing, and connection. It’s one of Ariana’s most poignant and universally loved tracks—an emotional powerhouse that continues to comfort and inspire.
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.
