Ariana Grande has become a household name, captivating audiences with her powerhouse vocals and infectious pop melodies. Since her debut, she has effortlessly blended genres, from R&B to pop, creating a rich tapestry of music that resonates with fans worldwide. As a multi-talented artist, Grande has not only topped charts but also broken records, solidifying her place as one of the leading figures in contemporary music.
In this article, we delve into the top 10 most popular Ariana Grande songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that have defined her career and left an indelible mark on the music industry. From the anthemic “Thank U, Next,” which became a cultural phenomenon, to the sultry vibes of “Into You,” each song showcases her versatility and emotional depth. With her signature high notes and poignant lyrics, Grande has a unique ability to connect with listeners on a personal level.
Join us as we explore these iconic hits, uncovering the stories behind the songs and the magic that makes Ariana Grande a true pop sensation. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, this countdown promises to bring back memories and ignite your love for her music!
1. “The Way” (2013)
Ariana Grande burst onto the pop scene with “The Way” in 2013, a bubbly, romantic track that captured hearts and marked the beginning of her music career in a major way. Featuring the late Mac Miller, the song is a smooth blend of pop and R&B with a nostalgic vibe that feels like a throwback to the late ’90s and early 2000s. Ariana’s vocals shine brightly—effortless, rich, and full of personality—immediately drawing comparisons to Mariah Carey. Lyrically, the song captures the euphoria of falling in love, and Ariana sings with an infectious joy that’s hard to resist. Mac Miller’s verse adds a layer of charm and playfulness that perfectly complements Ariana’s sweet tone. Their on-mic chemistry only deepened fans’ emotional connection to the track. With its catchy piano riff, crisp production, and heartfelt energy, “The Way” didn’t just become a radio staple—it became a defining moment that set the stage for Ariana’s ascent into pop superstardom. For many fans, this was their first real glimpse into the kind of artist Ariana would become: one who could mix vulnerability with vocal acrobatics and create something irresistibly memorable.
2. “Problem” (2014)
“Problem” was the song that took Ariana Grande’s stardom to a new level. Released in 2014 and featuring rapper Iggy Azalea, the track kicks off with a brassy saxophone riff that became instantly iconic. It’s the kind of attention-grabbing hook that gets stuck in your head from the first listen. With its danceable beat and snappy rhythm, the song became a staple on radio stations and playlists everywhere. Lyrically, “Problem” deals with the push and pull of trying to let go of someone toxic, even when your heart isn’t ready to. Ariana’s powerhouse vocals perfectly convey that inner struggle—one minute soaring high with confidence, the next dipping into sultry hesitation. The whispering hook, “I got one less problem without ya,” adds a clever twist, emphasizing emotional release. Iggy’s verse adds a boost of boldness and attitude, rounding out the track with flair. “Problem” was not only a commercial smash but also a turning point that established Ariana as a dominant force in pop. It was a fresh, fierce statement that she could do more than just sing—she could own a moment, set trends, and dominate the airwaves with ease.
3. “Bang Bang” (2014)
“Bang Bang” is an electrifying collaboration between Ariana Grande, Jessie J, and Nicki Minaj that lit up the charts in 2014. From the very first explosive notes, the track pulses with energy and attitude. Jessie J opens the song with an incredible vocal punch, setting the tone for a track that’s all about power and presence. Ariana takes over with her signature high notes and smooth delivery, showing off her vocal range in a way that’s both commanding and effortless. Then Nicki Minaj storms in with a high-octane verse, delivering clever lines and unmatched charisma. The production is bold and brassy, with a beat that drives the song forward like a rollercoaster. Lyrically, “Bang Bang” is all about confidence, attraction, and unapologetic self-expression—making it a perfect anthem for anyone looking to feel empowered. It’s not just a pop song; it’s a vocal showdown that celebrates the individuality and strength of each artist. The chemistry between the three is palpable, and their combined star power makes “Bang Bang” an unforgettable hit. Whether blasting through speakers at a party or turning up in a workout playlist, it’s a track that demands to be heard loud.
4. “One Last Time” (2014)
“One Last Time” is a bittersweet dance-pop ballad that reveals a softer, more vulnerable side of Ariana Grande. Released in 2014, the song captures the heartache of wanting one more chance with someone you’ve hurt—just one night to hold onto what’s already slipping away. The lyrics are full of longing and regret, but the production, with its upbeat EDM influence, adds a sense of urgency and emotional movement. Ariana’s vocals carry the emotional weight of the song beautifully, moving between delicate verses and an anthemic chorus that stays with you long after the song ends. The balance between the emotional subject matter and the dance-ready sound creates a unique tension that makes the track so compelling. It’s a standout moment in her discography that showcases not only her vocal skill but her ability to connect deeply with listeners. “One Last Time” became especially poignant following the Manchester Arena bombing in 2017, as fans embraced it as a symbol of love and remembrance. Whether heard in the context of heartbreak or healing, it remains one of Ariana’s most emotionally resonant and universally beloved tracks.
5. “Dangerous Woman” (2016)
“Dangerous Woman” marked a turning point in Ariana Grande’s career. Released in 2016 as the title track of her third studio album, it signaled a bold shift from the bubblegum pop of her earlier years to a more sultry, mature sound. The slow-burning track oozes confidence and sensuality, with a moody, bluesy guitar riff and a restrained but powerful vocal performance. Ariana doesn’t belt every note—instead, she uses control and subtlety to draw you in, creating an atmosphere of allure and strength. Lyrically, the song is a declaration of self-empowerment, suggesting that embracing your desires and independence doesn’t make you dangerous in a bad way, but in a thrilling, unapologetic way. The production is sleek and modern, with echoes of classic R&B and a cinematic feel that builds tension and drama. “Dangerous Woman” became a signature song for Ariana, both in sound and persona, cementing her image as a confident woman in control of her artistry and identity. It wasn’t just a song—it was a statement. With this track, Ariana proved she wasn’t afraid to take risks, push boundaries, and redefine what a pop star could be.
6. “Into You” (2016)
“Into You,” released in 2016, is one of Ariana Grande’s most exhilarating and seductive songs to date. From the opening beats, it pulls listeners into a pulsing, nocturnal world of desire and urgency. The production is sleek and shimmering, driven by electronic synths and a thumping beat that builds steadily toward explosive choruses. It’s pure dance-pop at its finest—intense, emotional, and completely infectious. Lyrically, the song is all about craving intimacy and connection, with Ariana pleading for her lover to stop holding back and give in completely. Her vocal delivery matches the intensity of the lyrics—sultry in the verses, soaring in the chorus, and never lacking emotion. What makes “Into You” stand out is how it perfectly captures the electricity of infatuation and physical chemistry, all while remaining polished and radio-ready. It quickly became a club favorite and fan favorite alike, earning praise for both its sound and Ariana’s commanding performance. The song is a reminder of her versatility, seamlessly blending vulnerability and sensuality into one of her most memorable hits. Whether you’re dancing or daydreaming, “Into You” delivers a high-voltage rush of passion.
7. “Thank U, Next” (2018)
When Ariana Grande released “Thank U, Next” in 2018, she flipped the typical breakup song on its head. Instead of focusing on heartache or revenge, the track offers gratitude, growth, and a whole lot of self-love. It was a cultural reset—a refreshing, empowering anthem that arrived at exactly the right time. The song references some of Ariana’s high-profile past relationships, but instead of dwelling on them, she thanks each ex for what they taught her. It’s mature, honest, and surprisingly uplifting. The production is laid-back but catchy, giving her lyrics plenty of space to shine. Ariana’s vocals are smooth and relaxed, matching the song’s conversational tone. “Thank U, Next” resonated deeply with fans, becoming more than just a hit—it became a motto for self-empowerment and emotional resilience. It debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominated social media, with countless memes and tributes celebrating its message. The accompanying music video, filled with pop culture references, only amplified its impact. With this track, Ariana showed the world that healing and moving on can be a celebration, not a setback. It’s one of her most defining and beloved songs to date.
8. “7 Rings” (2019)
“7 Rings,” released in 2019, is Ariana Grande’s shimmering ode to friendship, luxury, and self-indulgence. Inspired by a real-life shopping spree at Tiffany’s with her best friends, the song reimagines “My Favorite Things” from *The Sound of Music* as a trap-pop anthem dripping in confidence. With a beat that’s slick and heavy, Ariana steps into a rap-inspired vocal flow, flexing her wealth, independence, and loyalty to her inner circle. It’s a song about spoiling yourself and your friends, turning heartbreak into empowerment, and celebrating the joys of female friendship and financial freedom. Lyrically, “7 Rings” is braggadocious, but also tongue-in-cheek and playful—Ariana isn’t just flaunting, she’s reclaiming power. The track sparked plenty of conversation, from its lyrical content to cultural commentary, but it was undeniably a massive hit. It topped charts worldwide and became a pop culture moment, complete with a glam-packed music video. “7 Rings” showcased a different side of Ariana—more assertive, experimental, and daring. It’s a testament to her ability to reinvent her sound while staying true to her identity. Bold, catchy, and unapologetic, “7 Rings” remains one of the most distinctive songs in her catalog.
9. “No Tears Left to Cry” (2018)
“No Tears Left to Cry” marked a triumphant and emotional comeback for Ariana Grande in 2018. Released in the wake of the devastating Manchester Arena bombing, the song served as both a tribute to resilience and a personal statement of healing. The opening chords are gentle and melancholy, but the beat quickly shifts into a bright, uplifting tempo—symbolizing the transition from grief to hope. Ariana’s vocals are rich and layered, gliding effortlessly over the song’s dynamic production. Lyrically, it’s about reaching a point where you’ve cried all you can and are now ready to rise, dance, and live again. The track’s message is clear: even after heartbreak and tragedy, joy is still possible. “No Tears Left to Cry” was met with widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and genre-blending style, combining elements of house, pop, and soul. The music video, with its surreal, gravity-defying visuals, only added to the song’s powerful impact. It quickly climbed the charts and reaffirmed Ariana’s strength—not just as a performer, but as a person. This track is more than just a pop hit; it’s an anthem for anyone choosing light in the aftermath of darkness.
10. “Positions” (2020)
Released in 2020, “Positions” finds Ariana Grande stepping into a more refined, romantic, and R&B-driven phase of her musical journey. With a silky beat and mellow production, the song is a smooth groove that explores the complexities of love, devotion, and commitment. Ariana sings about adapting to different “positions” in a relationship—being both the nurturing partner and the boss who holds it all together. It’s a clever play on words that mixes domestic metaphors with sensual undertones, creating a layered and intimate narrative. Her vocals are buttery soft yet precise, perfectly matched with the track’s understated elegance. Unlike her more explosive pop anthems, “Positions” doesn’t need to shout to be heard—it’s confident in its subtlety. The music video, where Ariana portrays a female president balancing work and love, reinforces the song’s themes of empowerment and versatility. “Positions” is a testament to her evolution as both a singer and a songwriter. It shows that Ariana can thrive in any musical lane she chooses, effortlessly blending pop, R&B, and emotional storytelling. The track became a chart-topping hit and further solidified her reputation as one of the most dynamic and genre-fluid artists of her generation.
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.
