From a teenage YouTube sensation to a global pop phenomenon, Justin Bieber has cemented his place in music history as one of the most influential artists of the 21st century. Over the years, Bieber has blessed fans with songs that make us dance, cry, and feel every emotion in between. His evolution from the fresh-faced boy behind “Baby” to the matured artist who brought us heartfelt tracks like “Peaches” and “Ghost” is nothing short of extraordinary.
This article takes you on a nostalgic journey through Bieber’s unparalleled music career, revisiting the hits that dominated charts, broke streaming records, and became the anthems of entire generations. Whether you’re a Belieber who’s been there since the beginning or a casual fan who just can’t get enough of his catchy hooks, this list is guaranteed to spark excitement.
So, get ready to sing along and relive the magic as we count down the top 10 most popular Justin Bieber songs of all time. From infectious pop tunes to soulful ballads, these tracks showcase why Bieber remains a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Let’s dive into the beats, the lyrics, and the moments that made these hits unforgettable!
1. Baby (2010)
“Baby,” released in 2010, was the song that catapulted Justin Bieber into international superstardom. With its infectious hook and youthful charm, the track quickly became a global sensation. Featuring a guest verse from rapper Ludacris, the song combined pop and R&B elements into a catchy anthem that spoke directly to the hearts of teens experiencing the ups and downs of first love. Bieber’s smooth vocals and boy-next-door appeal helped turn “Baby” into a defining track of the early 2010s. The lyrics, though simple, captured the raw emotion of heartbreak and longing in a way that felt genuine and universal. Its accompanying music video became a viral hit and was one of the most viewed videos on YouTube for years, turning Bieber into a household name virtually overnight. More than just a pop song, “Baby” became a cultural moment—a track that introduced a young Canadian teen to the world and laid the groundwork for a career that would evolve significantly in the years to come. Even now, “Baby” is often remembered as the quintessential Bieber song, marking the beginning of his journey from YouTube discovery to global pop icon.
2. Sorry (2015)
Released in 2015 as part of Justin Bieber’s Purpose album, “Sorry” marked a major turning point in his career. Gone was the boyish teen idol—this track showcased a more mature, introspective artist grappling with personal growth and accountability. Musically, “Sorry” stood out with its breezy tropical house influence, produced by Skrillex and BloodPop, giving it a rhythmic and danceable feel that was fresh for pop radio at the time. Lyrically, the song is an open-hearted apology, with Bieber reflecting on a failed relationship and asking for a second chance. What made it even more powerful was how sincere it felt—there was vulnerability behind the upbeat melody that struck a chord with listeners. The accompanying dance video, featuring the ReQuest Dance Crew from New Zealand, became just as iconic as the song itself, praised for its vibrant energy and diverse cast of performers. “Sorry” didn’t just top charts—it reshaped public perception of Bieber, earning him critical acclaim and solidifying his comeback after a few tumultuous years in the spotlight. It remains one of his most successful and beloved tracks, blending infectious production with emotional honesty in a way that redefined his artistry.
3. Love Yourself (2015)
“Love Yourself,” released in 2015 from Justin Bieber’s Purpose album, was a departure from his typical pop sound, offering a more stripped-down and introspective track. Co-written by Ed Sheeran and Benny Blanco, the song is built around a minimal acoustic guitar and understated production, allowing Bieber’s voice and the song’s pointed lyrics to take center stage. What makes “Love Yourself” so compelling is its raw honesty—it’s a breakup anthem, but not one filled with bitterness or heartbreak. Instead, it’s about reclaiming self-worth and moving on from a toxic relationship. With biting lines like “My mama don’t like you, and she likes everyone,” Bieber manages to keep the tone conversational, almost casual, while delivering a powerful message about setting boundaries. The song resonated with listeners for its emotional clarity and relatability, especially among those who’ve dealt with manipulative or one-sided love. It dominated the charts for weeks and became one of Bieber’s biggest hits, further proving his ability to evolve as an artist. “Love Yourself” isn’t just a pop song—it’s a personal statement wrapped in a deceptively simple melody, and it helped redefine Bieber’s image during a crucial stage in his career.
4. What Do You Mean? (2015)
“What Do You Mean?” kicked off a new era for Justin Bieber when it dropped in 2015 as the lead single from Purpose. With its sleek, tropical house-inspired sound, the track signaled a major shift from his earlier bubblegum pop into a more mature, genre-blending style. The song’s smooth beats and subtle synths, produced by MdL and Skrillex, created a chill yet danceable vibe that was both modern and radio-friendly. Lyrically, the song tackles the confusing dynamics of communication in relationships, especially when mixed signals arise. Bieber’s repeated question—“What do you mean?”—captures the frustration of trying to understand someone’s emotions when their words and actions don’t align. It’s a clever concept that many listeners found highly relatable. The song also showcased Bieber’s evolving vocal tone—more confident, nuanced, and emotionally aware. “What Do You Mean?” quickly soared to number one on the Billboard Hot 100, marking his first chart-topping single in the U.S. It was a crucial part of his comeback story, helping to reshape public perception and proving that Bieber could not only survive the transition from teen star to adult artist, but thrive creatively in the process.
5. Peaches (2021)
Released in 2021 as part of Justin Bieber’s Justice album, “Peaches” marked a smooth fusion of pop, R&B, and soul that instantly captivated listeners. Featuring standout collaborations with Daniel Caesar and Giveon, the track showcases Bieber’s comfort with genre-blending and his continued evolution as an artist. Built around a laid-back groove and rich harmonies, “Peaches” feels like a warm summer breeze—effortless, cool, and full of joy. The song’s catchy chorus, “I got my peaches out in Georgia,” became a cultural moment, repeated and remixed across social media platforms. Lyrically, it’s a celebration of love, stability, and the simple pleasures of life, with verses that highlight devotion and appreciation for a significant other. The chemistry between Bieber, Caesar, and Giveon is undeniable, with each artist bringing a unique vocal texture that adds depth to the song. It’s no surprise that “Peaches” quickly climbed the charts and became a global hit, earning critical praise and commercial success. The track solidified Bieber’s ability to stay relevant and versatile in an ever-changing music landscape, offering a feel-good anthem that feels both personal and universally relatable.
6. One Time (2009)
“One Time” was the world’s first real introduction to Justin Bieber when it was released in 2009. As his debut single, the song captured the attention of a generation with its infectious pop hook and heartfelt lyrics about young love. At just 15 years old, Bieber brought a level of vocal maturity and emotional sincerity that was rare for someone his age. Produced by Tricky Stewart and The-Dream, the song carries a breezy, upbeat vibe that’s both radio-friendly and charmingly innocent. The chorus—“I’m gonna tell you one time, girl I love, girl I love you”—was simple yet memorable, echoing the butterflies of a first crush. The accompanying music video, featuring a house party and Bieber’s signature swoop haircut, played a massive role in his rise to fame. “One Time” became a viral sensation, especially on YouTube, and quickly charted in multiple countries, laying the foundation for Bieber’s career. It also hinted at the global phenomenon he was about to become. For fans, “One Time” is more than just a song—it’s a nostalgic reminder of the beginning of a pop star’s journey and the spark that started it all.
7. Yummy (2020)
“Yummy,” released in early 2020, marked Justin Bieber’s return to solo music after a brief hiatus. The track introduced his Changes album and set the tone for a new chapter in his career—more personal, romantic, and confident. Built around a bouncy R&B beat and a minimalist production style, “Yummy” is a playful ode to love and physical affection. The song’s chorus, with its repeated “yummy-yum,” became an instant earworm, polarizing listeners but undeniably catchy. While some critics debated the lyrical depth, others appreciated its light-hearted nature and Bieber’s ability to have fun with his music. The accompanying music video, filled with pastel colors, decadent foods, and quirky visuals, amplified the song’s whimsical vibe. Beyond the surface, “Yummy” reflects Bieber’s real-life relationship with his wife, Hailey, celebrating the intimacy and joy he finds in their marriage. It might not be his most lyrically complex song, but it delivers exactly what it intends: a sweet, infectious jam that invites listeners to dance and smile. As the opening single of a new era, “Yummy” signaled that Bieber was back—with a renewed sense of self and a desire to share his happiness with the world.
8. Never Say Never (2010)
Released in 2010 as part of The Karate Kid soundtrack, “Never Say Never” became a powerful anthem of perseverance and determination. Featuring a young Jaden Smith, the song quickly gained momentum, not just as a movie tie-in, but as a motivational pop hit in its own right. It carries an uplifting message aimed at young people, encouraging them to chase their dreams no matter the odds. Bieber’s vocals are filled with passion and energy, perfectly matching the song’s themes of resilience and courage. Jaden’s rap verse adds a confident flair, reinforcing the song’s youthful empowerment. The blend of pop and hip-hop elements made it appealing to a wide audience, and its connection to the popular film only boosted its visibility. More than just a soundtrack single, “Never Say Never” became a staple in Bieber’s early career, performed at concerts and used as a mantra by fans facing their own challenges. It marked a moment where Bieber stepped beyond love songs to embrace messages with deeper meaning. To this day, it remains one of his most inspirational tracks—reminding listeners that no dream is too big, and no obstacle too great to overcome.
9. Boyfriend (2012)
Released in 2012, “Boyfriend” marked a bold shift in Justin Bieber’s musical direction. Moving away from the bubblegum pop of his early days, this track introduced fans to a more mature, sultry side of the young artist. With its blend of whispery vocals, R&B beats, and a touch of hip-hop swagger, “Boyfriend” showcased Bieber’s evolving artistry and growing confidence. The song opens with a whisper-like rap verse, setting a flirtatious and mysterious tone, before launching into a smooth chorus that lingers in the listener’s mind. Its production—handled by Mike Posner and Mason Levy—is slick and minimal, allowing Bieber’s vocals to take center stage. Lyrically, the song is a fantasy pitch to a potential love interest, promising a life of romance, protection, and fun. It was clear Bieber was no longer just singing about puppy love—he was stepping into the shoes of a confident, young adult pop star. The music video mirrored this transition, featuring sleek visuals and a more fashion-forward image. “Boyfriend” not only topped charts worldwide but also redefined Bieber’s place in pop music, signaling that he was ready to grow with his fans and take risks in his sound and image.
10. Intentions (2020)
“Intentions,” featuring rapper Quavo, became one of the most well-received tracks from Justin Bieber’s 2020 album Changes. The song stands out for its warm, upbeat tone and genuine message of love and appreciation. Lyrically, “Intentions” is a heartfelt tribute to strong, independent women—especially Bieber’s wife, Hailey. Lines like “Picture-perfect, you don’t need no filter” celebrate natural beauty and authenticity, themes that resonated deeply with fans. The track’s production, featuring smooth acoustic guitar riffs and a mid-tempo R&B groove, allows Bieber’s vocals to shine in a relaxed, melodic way. Quavo’s guest verse adds depth and variety, complementing Bieber’s sincerity with his own reflections on loyalty and love. The music video took the song’s message further, spotlighting real women overcoming adversity and making a difference in their communities. This gave the track a socially conscious layer, elevating it beyond just another love song. “Intentions” quickly climbed the charts and earned praise for its positive energy and meaningful content. It highlighted Bieber’s growth not only as a musician but as a man with a greater sense of purpose and compassion. In many ways, it’s a testament to where he is in life—grounded, grateful, and fully embracing the power of love.
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.
